CSA Fitness Training Center - Community Services Association

Transcription

CSA Contents
The Community Services Association (CSA) is
dedicated to providing the international expatriate
community with support to ease the transition and
adaptation to Egypt.
EVERY MONTH
9
CSA Community Center
11 CSA Information and
Referral Desk
This month: A Brand New Start
14 Village Gift Shop
15 La Boutique
16 CSA Library
23 CSA Events
25 CSA Showroom
103
27 Fundamentals of
Living in Egypt
59
35 Arts and Lifestyle, Cooking,
Trips and Tours
39 CSA Fitness Training Center
42 News from the CSA Fitness
Training Center
43 CSA Fitness Training Center
Schedule
45 BodyFit Cairo Program
54 CSA Activities Calendar
100 Community Announcements
32
FEATURES
47
68
71
31 Mindfulness Meditation
73
32 Every New Beginning Starts at 75
Some Other Beginning’s End
18 Choosing Your Egypt
Mindset
38 Biggest Gym Mistakes
47 How to Select a Weight Loss
Diet
59 Top Tips for Settling into
Your New Life in Cairo
61 A Woman in Cairo
The articles and views expressed in this publication are entirely those of the authors and are not endorsed by CSA.
63 My Egypt
Not Another Brick in the Wall
A Cognitive Adventure
Indian Chicken Stew Recipe
There’s a New Latin Star in
Town
85 Kid’s Giving Back to the
Community
86Trivia
87 Mum & Baby
92 The Nilometer
98 Starting Anew
103 Home at Last
July / August 14 CSA 3
CSA to the Readers
EDITOR’S NOTE
The place to be.
Executive Director:
Flavia Makram-Ebeid
General Manager:
Denden Alcantara
On-Site Services:
On-Site Service Manager
Heba Azzam
Information Referral Specialist
Kim Hampton, Lynne Lewis,
Tanya Allahham
Gift Shop Supervisor
Michaela Nemethova
Gift Shop Coordinator
Cecil Reyes
La Boutique Supervisor
Lisa Gonzales
La Boutique Coordinators
Maya Messin, Natalia Zadaionia
Librarian
Renate Shehab El Din
Program Department:
Program Coordinator
Therese El Din, Katrina Mitchell-Kouttab
Program Development Coordinator
Deliah Adham
Fitness Training Center:
Fitness Center Manager
Sherif El Deib
Fitness Center Coordinators
Krishanthi Ekanayake, Maud Luc,
Perihan Ahmed
Fitness Training Expert
Ahmed Agamy
Fundraising Department:
Events Manager
Lama Al Hammuri
Communication Department:
Media and Communications
Coordinator
Marcus O’Neill
Magazine/Website Advertising
Coordinator
Mary Maher Michael
Digital Strategy Consultant
Riham R.El-Mograby
Information Designer
Claudia Dencker
IT Support and Maintenance
Nader Naguib
Social Media Coordinator
Noah Lichtenthaler
Finance Department:
Finance Manager
Verna Pinto
Finance Administrator
Svetlana Kirnasova
Volunteers:
Awatef Idris; Carmen Urquiaga; Carmen
Varley; Chandrika Naidu; Cristina Wheish;
Dominique Krayenbuhl; Hala Shady; Jayne
Kimmet; Johanna Boessenkool; John Newsome;
Marsha Sullivan; Mayssa Hourani; Mona El
Emary; Nisha Patwari; Pat Canfield; Phoebe
David; Samia Wadman; Sherry Saroufeem;
Terumi Mascarenhas; Tina Cleverton; Ulrike
v. Rucker; Violetta Salama
Oasis Magazine:
Printing by Interpress
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: LE 500
½ page horizontal 19cm x 12,5cm: LE 850
½ page vertical 9cm x 26cm: LE 850
Full page (A4)
21cm x 29,7cm + 3mm bleed: LE 1600
Full page Advertorial (A4)
21cm x 29,7cm + 3mm bleed: LE 2000
Acceptance of Advertorials is entirely the
discretion of the Magazine and Website
Advertising Coordinator.
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 Mary Maher at CSA:
Tel.: 2358 5284
Mobile: 010 688 28 537
e-mail: mary@livinginegypt.org
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.
Our summer edition of Oasis is all
about making a brand new start.
With that in mind, I can’t help but
think back to last summer when
my wife and I were putting the
finishing touches on closing out
our lives in Canada to move here.
In the span of a few weeks we’d
rented our condo, sold our car and
gotten rid of all of our furniture
and most of our possessions.
I remember the whole process
bringing forth a myriad of
emotions. Of course, there was
excitement. We’d always wanted to
visit the “Land of the Pharaohs”,
so when my wife was offered
a position to teach here, the
opportunity seemed too good to
pass up. But at the same time there
was also the fear of the unknown.
Were we making the right decision
to uproot our relatively idyllic
lives and good careers? Would it
be worth essentially turning our
backs on everything we’d built for
ourselves over the past decade –
especially for a country in the midst
of its second revolution in as many
years? How would the stress of it
all affect our relationship? It was
complicated time emotionally to
say the least.
Fortunately in retrospect, our move
to Egypt has absolutely been a net
positive. Sure there have been some
frustrating moments, but we’ve
already had countless enriching
experiences that wouldn’t have
been possible back home, made
great friends, travelled throughout
the country (and beyond), and
maybe most importantly, grown in
our relationship with each other. I
think that had we continued to stay
where we were at, our life, which
we already felt was getting a little
stale, would’ve continued to do so.
It’s all been an eye-opener. This
experience has made me realize
that change, for changes sake, is
sometimes necessary because it
keeps life fresh. And really, how can
that be a bad thing?
Marcus O’Neill
Editor, Oasis Magazine
CSA Sponsors and Supporters
CSA offers a heartfelt “Thank you” to all our supporters. Your continued support 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
sponsors@livinginegypt.org
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 Center 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 Market Place
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”
We’ve upgraded our WIFI
In June CSA upgraded its
WIFI service. Users will now
experience more reliable
internet service and faster
speeds. Please note that there
will be a charge associated with this. For more details on
costs or to purchase WIFI service please stop by the CSA
reception desk.
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.
Visit Caffé Greco today, your community coffee
house in Maadi. Caffé Greco specializes in the
highest quality Arabica coffees. Known for their
full-bodied taste, Arabica beans are considered
the finest in the world. Caffé Greco also serves a
variety of frozen drinks, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. With
free wireless internet, you can enjoy an iced latte or frappe in
our comfortable lounge or garden while you surf the net.
Caffé Greco Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday: 7.00am-9.00pm
Friday and Saturdays: 9.00am-5.00pm
Opening Hours:
Sunday-Wednesday 9.00am-9.00pm
Thursday 9.00am-6.00pm
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
CSA Summer Hours
June 29 until August 14
Sunday-Thursday 9.00am-1.00pm AND
Sunday & Wednesday 6.00pm-9.00pm
Closed Friday and Saturday
CSA will be closed July 13-August 2
FTC, Bodyfit, Berlitz, and Caffe Greco will remain open
Directions to CSA in arabic from the autostrade, the corniche:
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 Center, Berlitz).
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. The boxes are located by the stairs just before you enter the
main CSA reception area. 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 Cook’s Day Off
returns to CSA the week of
August 3 and can be now
found in The Corner?
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 you can book
a private full- or halfday tour to any tourist
site in the Cairo area
with our Programs
Department?
…that if you purchase/renew a 1 year
membership to the Fitness Training
Centre during July or August, you get
an extra month for free?
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: info@livinginegypt.org
Opening Hours:
CSA Village Gift Shop
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; it is your one-stop away from a perfect and unique gift.
Ramadan
Summer Time
The time of the 9th month of the Islamic
calendar is upon us, which means it is the
time for the gathering of family and friends.
Whether you are invited or are the host, you
might need a few presents to give. Our Village
Gift Shop can help you with this, sometime
difficult task. We have a big selection of
Ramadan related items such as, trays,
tablecloths, coaster and napkins. You can
impress the host by bringing an original and unique tea box, lantern,
candleholder or sugar container. If you are cooking you should probably
arm yourself with a cooking apron and oven mitts to stay safe.
Our Village Gift
Shop has a lovely
selection of beach
bags, water-proof
toiletry
bags,
cache
maillots
and beach towels.
Come and check
them out.
Support
CSA supports local charities
The Village Gift Shop is proud to support
local charitable organizations and NGO’s
throughout Egypt. By purchasing items
here you are helping build and develop a
better future for children and adults with
various needs. If you or your friends are
involved in charity work, let us know how
we can help. By working together, we can
achieve so much more.
Welcome to newcomers
The gift shop is a great resource center for newcomers. We offer
a collection of books and maps that are sure to help the settlingin process a lot smoother. The Family Guide is a must have book
when you relocate to this controversial country. It is conveniently
organized by city area and contains detailed guide to activities
and places of interest, essential information on how to get there,
opening hours and what to take with you. Another important book
you should own is Cairo Practical Maps, which has an easy-to-use
format and clear, uncluttered style. It contains indexes for streets
names, cultural centers, embassies, hotels, and places of interest.
Come by the Village Gift shop and check our selection of other
books that can help you or entertain you.
Once you settle in and arrange your schedule, you may realize
that you have some free time on your hands. Come and volunteer
in CSA! We are a team of relaxed, friendly people who work
hard for the expatriate community. Volunteering will not only
help you meet new people, but by involving yourself in volunteer
work, you get the satisfaction of making a difference.
We are always looking for new
and unique items, please ask
our Gift Shop Coordinator
for more information.
14 July / August 14 CSA
Summer Hours: June 29-July 12 and August 3-14
Regular Gift Shop Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday-Wednesday
9.00am-7.00pm
CLOSED July 13-August 2
Regular Hours resuming August 17
www.livinginegypt.org
CSA La Boutique
La Boutique - The CSA Consignment Shop is an expatriate “members
only” shop where you can buy and sell pre-owned 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!
Announcements
• Summer Hours:
Beginning June 29 – Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday 9.00am until 1.00pm
• Closed: July 13 to August 2. Re-opens August 3 to summer hours.
Support
Maadi TNR Initiative - A group of Maadi residents/animal advocates who
try to raise awareness against animal cruelty and solve the stray animal problem
in Maadi through TNR (Trap- Neuter – Return). This is neither a political nor
religious group.
Summer maxi dresses
Summer maxi dresses are the fashion craze this summer. They come in different styles
and prints to suit all tastes. You can chose from a relaxed and casual dress to an elegant
evening dress.
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.
Woman’s Section:
You will find all you need at La
Boutique, from skirts, tops, dresses
and gowns to sportswear. We also
have various styles in plus sizes. It
is your one stop to find great buys
for less.
Kids:
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.
Menswear:
La Boutique also accepts menswear.
Suits, dress shirts, polo shirts and
shorts are amongst the many items.
Come by and check this section the
next time you visit the shop.
Combine dresses with a denim jacket or a light weight cardigan and a pair of wedge
sandals to create a casual and comfy look. For an elegant evening look, slip into a pair
of elegant stilettos.
Volunteers:
Need something to do? Why don’t
you try our volunteering at La
Boutique? It’s a 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.
Opening Hours:
Sunday, Tuesday and Thursdays
9.00am-1.00pm
Drop Offs:
Sunday, Tuesday and Thursdays
9.30am-1.00pm
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. Come visit the Library in
its location next to La Boutique!
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
Books
A few books…
one for each
member of the
family!
A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick (Adults)
Rural Wisconsin, 1909. In the bitter cold, Ralph Truitt, a successful businessman,
stands alone on a train platform waiting for the woman who answered his newspaper
advertisement for “a reliable wife.” But when Catherine Land steps off the train from
Chicago, she’s not the “simple, honest woman” that Ralph is expecting.
Just Listen by Sarah Dessen (Teens)
Last year, Annabel was “the girl who has everything” — at least that’s the part she played
in the television commercial for Kopf ’s Department Store. This year, she’s the girl who
has nothing. That is until she meets Owen Armstrong…
The Secret Garden by Frances H. Burnett (Children)
This timeless classic is a poignant tale of Mary, a lonely orphaned girl sent to a Yorkshire
mansion at the edge of a vast lonely moor. At first, she is frightened by this gloomy place
until she meets a local boy, Dickon, who’s earned the trust of the moor’s wild animals, the
invalid Colin, an unhappy boy terrified of life, and a mysterious, abandoned garden...
Movies
And here are a few
movie selections
about people making
a new start…
Julie and Julia - Based on two true stories, Julie & Julia intertwines the lives of two
women (Julie Powell & Julia Child) who, though separated by time and space, are both
at loose ends…until they discover that with the right combination of passion, fearlessness
and butter, anything is possible.
Les Miserables - In 19th-century France, Jean Valjean, who for decades has been hunted
by the ruthless policeman Javert after breaking parole, agrees to care for a factory worker’s
daughter. The decision changes their lives forever.
Under the Tuscan Sun - Frances is a writer in her mid-’30s who feels emotionally derailed
after her divorce. Unhappy and unable to write, she takes a two-week tour of Tuscany.
While there, she impulsively decides to buy a dilapidated old villa. At first this seemed like
a mistake but as she gains her bearings Frances begins to live…and love again.
We feature a new movie (or two) every week - check the posters in the library for the
current week’s movie.
@ CSA Library
• Award-winning authors
• Health and wellbeing section
• Reference books on Egypt,
Membership
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 videos 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.
Summer Hours
June 29-July 12 and
August 3-August 14
Regular Hours resuming August 17
Regular Library Opening Hours:
Lifestyle
Choosing
Your Egypt
By Heather Ramsey, MA CPCC
Welcome to Egypt! As you begin to
settle in here, I invite you to design the
life you want to experience. To truly
design it you will need to start with
choosing your Egypt mindset. There is
no way to control everything but you
do have choice over how you approach
a situation/challenge. I chose to love
Maadi, to love my life there and despite
the sometimes roller coaster of overseas
life I found myself truly blessed for the
experience. Here is one tool that was
incredibly handy for me. I share it in
the hopes that you can implement it
into your experience so that it can be as
fulfilling as mine.
The process is from The Coaches
Training Institute’s Balance Formula.
The steps are as follows:
1.Define the problem, issue or situation
2.Determine your current mindset
3.Explore other possible mindsets you
could use
4.Select the one(s) that resonate most
5.Identify what is possible if you are
coming from that mindset
6.Identify what you need to do to come
from that mindset
Here is my personalized example of
how to use the Balance Formula:
Step 2:
Determine Current Mindset
Step 1:
Define the problem, issue or situation
My initial mindset was important to
define. Had I not stopped to think
about it I might have stayed here the
whole time we lived in Egypt. I would
define the mindset at that time as bitter
and frazzled. It felt heavy, the color red
comes to mind and physically like my
teeth were clenched tight. Obviously
this is not where I wanted to be.
To set the stage, my husband came to
me in our lovely condo in Washington
DC and said, “I’d like to put in for this
position in Egypt, I won’t get it, but
want to try.” I thought, “Sure, why not?
He says he won’t get it and of course
I want to be supportive.” Next thing
I know we are moving in 2 months.
He leaves 1 month early and I am left
with the move, our 10 month old, the
English Bulldog who isn’t supposed
to fly and having to figure out how to
step into Egypt while keeping smooth
services for my clients. Upon my first
day there my husband has to leave for
work and is gone for my first week. I
was not happy!
The problem for me, was determining
how I wanted to settle in to Egypt.
Step 3:
Brainstorm other mindsets
I explored other possible mindsets
including the following:
Grateful and Put Together
Although it was hard to do I tried to
imagine myself in the place of grateful
and put together. If I could get there
I would be more relaxed about the
move. I would clearly think through all
that needs to be done and I would be
physically calm. Feeling grateful would
add a bit of happiness to the move.
Although this mindset felt okay for me
I kept on exploring (as I have learned
only having two choices isn’t really a
choice so it is important to come up
with at a minimum three mindsets).
Curious Cat
From here everything would be from
a place of wonder. This feels lighter,
playful and smooth. No worries about
what will get done, just what is there
in the moment. Things would be light
rather than irritating. My mind would
move to “I wonder what this could
be…”, “oooo, shinny”, “What are all of
the options?” or “How fascinating…”
Drama Lady
From here everything would be blown
out of proportion. All little issues would
be like the world is ending. My blood
pressure would rise and my energy
would be sporadic.
The Adventurer
If I approach the relocation and settling
in process from here I would be ready to
get out there just as I am – maybe with
a backpack but no worries. Whatever
comes my way will roll off me with
ease, as a matter of fact struggles would
actually be fun. Physically, I would be
on the edge of my seat!
The Author
This would almost remove me from the
situation, allowing me to objectively
handle anything that came my way.
I would feel more like an observer of
the situation. Focused on what I was
going to share to help others’ overseas
experience flow as smoothly as possible.
Physically I would be relaxed, sitting up
straight and breathing naturally.
Step 4:
Pick a Mindset
The idea with trying on different
mindsets is you get to see which one(s)
resonate most for you. In this example,
there were two that resonated for me,
both of which I would use at different
times. The ones I chose to center myself
with were Curious Cat and The Author.
Step 5:
Explore the Possibilities
After selecting the mindset you wish
to use, seek to create a vision of what
will happen if you come from those
mindsets. For example: If I approached
settling into Egypt from Curious Cat
and The Author the following things
would be possible: 1) I could move
into my new Egypt home without
comparing everything to how things
were here in the US. 2) I would ask
questions instead of getting angry and
shutting others around me down. 3)
My energy would be steady. Not over
the top excited but more flowing. The
author part would allow me to record
my feelings so I can get them out and
let them pass. I would not only be in
the moment I would be recording it and
would remember the highs and the lows
from my time in Egypt.
Step 6:
What will you do?
From Curious Cat and the Author I
started by letting go of being perfect
and having control. I had to say yes to
enjoying the gifts of Egypt and being in
them not judging them. I had to buy
a cool notebook and pen to write with
and I had to make sure I had a place to
share my experience (thank you Oasis
Magazine for being my outlet).
Define the problem,
issue or situation.
Determine your
current mindset.
Explore other possible
mindsets you could use.
Select the one(s) that
resonate most.
As you enter your life here I encourage
you to use the Balance Formula to help
bring yourself to choice in how you are
“being” here.
My best to you and to your journey!
Heather Ramsey is from Sojourn Partners
(www.sojournpartners.com) an executive
coaching and leadership development
firm. She and her team work with
individuals and companies all over the
world to strengthen their leadership
skills by setting a clear vision, enhancing
communications, managing conflict and
increasing negotiation skills through
coaching and team development.
Identify what is possible
if you are coming from
that mindset.
Identify what you need
to do to come from
that mindset.
CSA Events
CSA Events July/August 2014
The Place
Cook’s Day Off
July 1-10 AND Beginning the week of August 3
Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
9.00am-2.00pm
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.
Beginning August 17: Sunday-Thursday 9.00am-5.00pm
Heba Arteen
Heba Arteen is a Cairo based
jewelry designer who has been
creating exquisite hand crafted
jewelry since 2000. Her designs
are reminiscent of the old times
and yet contemporary and stylish.
Liz Cardenas
Liz Cardenas, fashion designer
extraordinaire, is back with her
summer collection of unique clothes
and accessories.
Coming up in September...
Farmer’s Market
Every Thursday
9.00am-2.00pm
Take your pick from our wide range of organic vegetables
fresh crunchy greens, organic fruits, chutneys, preserves
and much more.
Welcome Party
Tuesday, September 9
6.00pm-9.00pm
Come discover all that CSA is and has to offer. Also a great
opportunity to meet our dedicated staff. Dine, Drink,
Dance! Featuring the music of DJ Tamer.
Garden Bazaar
Sunday, September 14 and
Monday, September 15, 2014
9.00am-2.00pm
Calling all ladies! Shop ‘till you
drop at CSA’s Garden Bazaar.
Lots of vendors await you with a
great selection of items to choose
from including clothes, accessories,
arts and crafts.
For any queries or questions on events, please contact events@livinginegypt.org
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.
Unfortunately, the CSA Showroom will be closed for the summer,
but take a look at what we have planned for September!
August 31-September 6
H’Art Gallery (Halla El Sokkari)
“Art for art lovers.”
H’Art is a dynamic online
gallery for promoting and
exhibiting contemporary
works by renowned and up-and-coming Egyptian
artists. The idea for H’Art was born through a long
time appreciation for art. A great channel to promote
and enjoy Egyptian art. H’Art holds numerous
exhibitions throughout the year at various venues.
www.hartgalleryegypt.com
Art Exhibition
Featuring the works of
Conja Youssef
September 7 -November 6, 2014
Preview and Reception:
Sunday, September 7, 2014
6.00pm-8.00pm
Meet the artist and enjoy
complementary wine and cheese
Hosted by CSA
…and also in September!
September 7-September 13
Khazana: A Collection of Indian Handcrafts
CSA is proud to host an Exhibition of the work of the
artist, Conja youssef, Conja has lived in Egypt & Canada
and with that comes her love for diverse subject matter
in different mediums, whether charcoal, watercolours,
acrylic or oil, with a bold stroke here and there & vibrant
colours her paintings come to life. Her mother was her first
inspiration as she too painted & always encouraged her.
Conja usually has favorite
paintings and hopes they get
happy homes when sold!
Hani Houssain Paintings
El Patio: Furniture and Home Accessories
September 28-October 4
African Store (Amr Gabr)
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, August 31, 2014
8.00am-4.00pm
Cost $140
(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
Ahlan wi Sahlan
Welcome to Egypt, or welcome back if you were away for the summer. For everyone, the
month after the summer holidays are a period of recalibration. For the newcomers, they need
to adapt to a new country. For the returnees it is a month of catching up with old friends, but
also finding new ones as some friends will have moved on.
CSA is one of the best places to meet other expatriates in Cairo. For newcomers, we offer the
Fundamentals of Living in Egypt Seminar. It not only provides you with a lot of practical
information to ease your transition to Egypt, it also is an opportunity to start building a social
network of like-minded people who are also looking for support and friendship.
For all expats, CSA has many opportunities to meet new people. For many of us, going
to events where you don’t know anyone is daunting. Yet building a social support network
of friends is crucial to the success of an expat posting. You need to make meeting people a
priority. This might be more difficult than ‘at home’. You might find that you have less in
common with Egyptians or expatriates of other nationalities, which makes it harder for you to
connect. Additionally, expat communities often suffer from a constant flux of people coming
and going, so establishing long-term friendships can be more challenging.
To be successful at finding friends, you might need to change your expectations of friendship.
By changing your view on whom or what an ideal friend should look like or believe in, you
can allow more people into your life who could potentially be a friend to you. Finally, do
not ‘suffer in silence’. If you are feeling lonely, isolated or are experiencing difficulty making
friends, find support. We at CSA are here to help you!
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.
Lifestyle
Mi ndful ness Meditat ion
An Aid to Stress Reduction and Concentration
By Maureen Fitzgerald
Students are often taught revision
techniques to help them to prepare
for exams. However, other equally
important aspects of examination
preparation are those of concentration
skills and the ability to calm oneself
under pressure. Mindfulness meditation
can help with these aspects, as well as a
number of other personal challenges.
Sometimes students can be very well
prepared academically for exams and
can be very effective at revision, but
then can lose marks in the exam due
to the difficulties with concentration
associated with anxiety. The teaching
and practice of practical mindfulness
meditation exercises can give students
tangible skills to use during an exam and
to aid in concentration during revision.
Mindfulness is a secular form of
meditation, which helps to train
the mind to concentrate on the
present moment. Those who practice
mindfulness meditation do so through
a variety of exercises, which emphasise
concentration on the breath and/or the
physical sensations of the body. As well
as assisting in the areas of concentration
and calmness, it has also been proven
scientifically to alleviate the symptoms
of difficulties such as depression,
anxiety, management of the emotions
and chronic pain. It is increasingly
being prescribed by doctors for these
conditions and is recommended to
doctors for their patients by the National
Institute of Clinical Excellence (in the
UK).
It is important that students who have
learned mindfulness practices make use
of them regularly, ideally once per day.
This will mean that they will develop
the skills associated with being in the
present moment, and thus will be more
able to call upon these skills during
a challenge such as an exam. These
practices can be an effective preparation
for revision sessions, so that this
revision becomes more productive, due
to the increased level of concentration.
Students often report that they find
these exercises difficult to start with, but
that they become easier with practice
(as their concentration skills improve).
They also report improvements in their
sense of well being and their ability to
manage their difficult emotions.
If parents or individuals are interested
in finding out more about mindfulness
meditation, there are a number of
online sources and it is possible to
purchase CDs and sound files on some
websites with guided meditations.
Some potential sources of information
about mindfulness can be found on the
following websites:
Mindfulness in Schools Programme
(UK based):
What
is
Mindfulness?
http://
mindfulnessinschools.org/mindfulness/
Research studies about the positive
effects of mindfulness on young
people: http://mindfulnessinschools.
o r g / re s e a r c h / re s e a r c h - e v i d e n c e mindfulness-young-people-general/
Course schedule for teachers interested
in teaching mindfulness to young
people: http://mindfulnessinschools.
org/register/teach/
Some examples of mindfulness
practices include:
Other sources:
• Breathing in for 7 seconds and
breathing out for 11 seconds
http://smilingmind.com.au/
• Focusing their attention on the
lower half of their body, whilst
following the breaths into and
out of the body with their mind
• Concentrating on every aspect of
a bite of a meal or snack (smell,
taste, physical sensations in the
mouth, etc.)
http://www.mindfulnet.org/index.htm
http://www.abc.net.au/health/thepulse/
stories/2013/04/04/3729866.htm
Maureen Fitzgerald is the Head of English
and teaches mindfulness meditation
as part of the “Mindfulness in Schools
Programme” at New Cairo British
International School (NCBIS).
• Imagining a ‘searchlight’ or torch
focusing on different parts of the
body, one at a time
Lifestyle
starts at some other beginning’s
By Natascha Lammerts van Bueren
It’s time. We will have to leave our home
in Cairo. Because Mahmoud wants to
live in the house himself. Sorry, I didn’t
tell you: he is the owner. At first, we
had to leave as per the end of May, but
we’re allowed to stay until the 23rd of
June. El Hamdullelah, as the Egyptians
would say. Thank god. I’ve got six
whole weeks, to look for a new house.
To perform and execute my house hunt,
make appointments, decide, get packed
and move out. Leave. It’s as simple as
that. 611. Our house number. Our
existence, our safe heaven in this crazy
city. Where we have put our belongings.
Our beds, sofa, desks, tables and chairs.
There’s nothing more to it.
I wish it could be that simple. If only I
would not get so horribly attached to
“things”. At home, when I was a little
girl, we had a white sofa in our living
room. It was the most beautiful, the
softest and the best sofa that had ever
existed. At least, in my imagination. In
reality, it had, over the years, become a
dirty, yellow sofa, made out of a horrible
fabric and with some long-gone shabby
tassels. Time for something completely
different, my parents must have
thought. So they bought a new sofa.
A dark-brown one made of leather.
That would nicely fit the cosy orange32 July / August 14 CSA
brown pattern in the curtains. For you
younger readers: it was the seventies, of
the last millennium, and these colours
were hot back then. It doesn’t matter if
you don’t get it. I didn’t understand it
either. My parents had put an ad in a
local newspaper. A man and a woman
came to pick it up. Never ever have I
cried that many tears. A river of tears.
I could not support the idea that our
dearest sofa would actually leave. Leave
us, leave our home. That I would
never ever see it again. The look on
the couple’s face, extremely happy with
their new purchase, is something I will
never forget. It has been printed like
a screen shot on both of my eyes, in a
time no one had ever heard about these
things. “That girl is completely crazy”.
No doubt, it must have been on their
minds.
town Groningen. It could, however,
not survive the harsh student reality
(“if someone steels my bike, I just
steel back someone else’s in return”). I
immediately called my mum, at 7 in the
morning. Again, I cried a river of tears.
By then, she had got used to it.
In life, everything comes to an end.
Eventually. I know. “It’s just things”.
Also true. But a house, a home, is so
much more. It tells you stories. About
how your life used to be. When your
children were much younger, and so
were you. Ouch. It brings you back,
to good old memories. The sweetest of
memories. Because the bad ones never
make it to the end. We have been an
expat family for eight years now. In each
The theft of my mother’s bike, in the
Dutch city of Groningen, was another
trauma. As a fresh student I only got
to benefit from it for two weeks. To be
honest, it wasn’t even that great a bike,
but it had a cute little basket in the front.
Most important, it had belonged to my
mother. Sweet nostalgia. Within two
weeks time, it was gone. Stolen. On Fish
Square, in Groningen. Courageously
it had survived the journey from my
hometown, Maastricht, to my student
country
we started
our
journey
in a temporary
house, excited about
the new adventure that was
lying ahead. In these houses, we
would already practise for our new life.
A life that would soon be starting, in
the “real” house. But here, in Cairo,
we already live in our real house. We
have been living in it
for three years. How
are the Egyptian
movers going to
pack our soul? In
the bubbly plastic,
that my kids get
all wild about, or
in an empty
cardboard
box? Of all
the things
we
have
collected
over the
years,
that is
the
only thing that really needs to go.
Except for the chief-plushies Itty, Flut
and Laïna. Of course.
Our house. It has welcomed us. It has
embraced us, helped us in this wonderful
yet difficult country with its numerous
layers, colours and nuances. It has been a
place where we kept pushing each other
into the pool, played the piano, greeted
and said goodbye to dear Smoozie, our
stray cat. Where busy birds are working
on their nest even today. Where we
survived two Oktoberfest parties in our
backyard. So did our neighbours by the
way. Where our Egyptian friends have
been smoking the shisha-pipe. It is a
place that I can truly call home. Not
only for our family, but also for our
parents and many friends who have
visited from the Netherlands over these
years. But no longer. Not anymore.
Bye bye, 611. I am going to miss you.
Take good care of yourself.
And hey, welcome new house! We are
ready for a brand new start in good
old, familiar Cairo. Although, honestly,
unpacking boxes in Cairo was not
something I had on my bucket list. Still,
I look forward to making this house our
new home. I am sure it will work out.
You just have to help me a little bit. Do
you think you can do that?
Short Bio
Natascha Lammerts van Bueren has been
living in Cairo with her family since
April 2011. She writes for her blog www.
natascha.familielvb.nl and writes for
several Dutch online websites.
CSA Activities
Welcome to july/August in 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
Book your private tour with CSA
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 2 days in advance either
in dollars or equivalent in EGP.
Book your private tour with CSA
CSA will not be scheduling tours in July/August, but if you have guests visiting this
summer 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.
Coming Up in September
Mokattam Church and
Garbage Collectors
9.00am-2.00pm
Nilometer, Om Kulthoum and
Souk el Fustat
9.00am-2.00pm
The Marriott and The Old Palace
9.00am-2.00pm
Walls of Cairo
9.00am-2.00pm
All activities are subject to
changes and cancellation.
note: We provide transportation and guides for all our tours to historical sites and
landmarks. For other tours, please check with Programs.
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.
TIP OF THE MONTH
This Month’s Featured
Treatments at Bliss
Hot stones massage: Heated stones are placed
at key points on the body.
Hot compress massage: Specially designed
herbal Thai compresses are used in this relaxing
massage.
Bliss
massage
mind • body • soul
Facial harmony balancing: A treatment
designed for the face, head and neck, to bring
about a state of relaxation and improve skin
tone and appearance.
Please check with programs desk for session
duration and cost.
Please note that all courses have to be paid at least 2 days in advance either in dollars
or equivalent in EGP.
Arts And LIFESTYLE
Mum & Baby Group
Wednesdays
10.00am–12.00pm
Cost: 20LE
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.
Mixed Try Golf at Katemeya Heights
Friday and Saturday
September 12 and 13
11.00am-12.00pm OR 12.00pm-1.00pm
Juniors Try Golf at Katemeya Heights
Friday and Saturday
September 12 and 13
2.30pm-3.00pm OR 3.00pm-3.30pm
KIDS CORNER
WHAT’S COOKING
Kids Movie Madness
Wednesday, July 3
2.00pm-3.30pm
Cost: $5
Come and have some summer holiday fun at
CSA! Join us for a very special screening of
“Treasure Planet” and let your mums and dads
have a rest while you spend some cool time
with us! Snacks provided.
Movie Making Workshop for
8-12 year olds
(5 week course)
Friday, August 29 and
Friday September 5, 12, 19
Shooting Sept 26 and 27
3.00pm-5.00pm
Cost: $160
Give creative children the chance to
make their own film! Using modern
technology this course teaches children
the process involved in writing,
producing and shooting a short film over a period of 5 weeks. Screening and dinner
will be held at the Marriott Hotel. The workshop will be taught by Fanny Frassen a
French filmmaker who has directed several international films.
Superhero and Princess Party
Saturday, September 6
10.00am-12.00pm
Ladies Try Golf at Katemeya Heights
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
September 15, 17 and 18
10:00am-11.00am
CSA History Club – NEW!
An Introduction to Egyptology
Wednesday, September 17
7.00pm–9.00pm
Saturday, September 20
2.00-2.00pm
Scrapbooking 101
Thursdays
September 18 to October 2
10.00am–12.30pm
Drawing and Watercolor
Mondays
September 22 to November 3
10:00am-12.30pm
The Divine Feminine
Tuesday, September 30,
7.00pm-9.00pm
CSA Music Club – NEW!
Mondays
7.00pm-9.00pm
Family Festive Feast
Thursday, September 11
7.00pm-9.00pm
Forum
The Truth about Menopause
Tuesday, September 2 & 9
7.00pm-9.00pm
Preventing Sports Injuries
12.00pm-2.00pm
Strength Training and Nutrition
12.00-2.00 pm
Raising Breast Cancer Awareness:
The more you know the less you fear
12.00-2.00 pm
Find out more about food with CSA.
We offer a wide range of cooking classes
in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Our classes are designed for anybody
who loves trying out new flavors in good
company. Cooking classes are usually held
on-site with instructors demonstrating
preparation of authentic dishes. During
each class you can sample the prepared
dishes. Additionally CSA offers cooking
classes at special venues with professional
chefs: so brush up on basic cooking
skills, experience new cuisines and learn
advanced culinary techniques.
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.
Please note that all courses have to be
paid at least 2 days in advance either
in dollars or equivalent in EGP. For
all those of you who love our cooking
classes but live in Katemeya, we could
also organize it for you in NCBIS, New
Cairo for your convenience. Do contact
Programs for more information.
Cooking for Charity
Monday, September 8
10.00am-1.00pm
Chinese Cooking
Monday, September 15
10.00am–1.00pm
Lebanese Cooking at The Platform Maadi
10.00pm-1.00pm
Sushi (Evening)
7.00pm-9.30pm
Safety and Security
Tabibi First Aid Course
Saturday September 20
2.00pm-6.00pm 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: programs@livinginegypt.org
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.
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.
membership
Fitness+
SingleFamily
1 year Membership (includes a 60 day freeze option)
$460 $800
6 Month Membership (includes a 30 day freeze option) $315 $550
3 Months, 1 Month and Walk in prices also available.
These memberships give you full accessibility 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 we are making available to you a Pass Card with a
cost of $90.00 which allows you access to 12 Group Fitness Classes. See
FTC front desk for more details.
Fitness & Nutrition Tips for Traveling
Written By Kim Hampton, ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer & Specialist in Performance Nutrition, Certified Spinning® Instructor
The heat of the summer has arrived and you are bound to be traveling
to a far away place. While traveling, your fitness and nutrition routine
is inevitably going to go astray. Here are a few helpful tips to keep
you on track until we see you back in the CSA Fitness Center again.
When buying a flight ticket, make sure to reserve a low fat & calorie
meal and an aisle seat. Aisle seats will allow you room to stand-up and
stretch, plus get you to the bathroom quicker and more conveniently,
as you will need to drink plenty of water when traveling.
Once you have touched down at your destination, try to fit in
morning workouts throughout your stay. If jet lagged, channel this
extra energy into a 20-30 minute workout, which might help you to
fall asleep and adjust to your new time zone. Make sure to never skip
breakfast. Be active and sign-up for local sporting excursions. Eating
in moderation is important and reserve one of your daily meals as
the meal to indulge in the local cuisine. Try choosing an alcoholic
beverage or sweet treat as a snack, but never both. Finally, always
stretch and have a great summer vacation!
Points to Note
Gym
No outdoor shoes can be worn inside
the gym; you must bring a clean pair of
training shoes to wear in the gym. You
must sign in and present yourself to our
Front Desk before entering the gym with
your membership card.
Cardiovascular Users
Please maximize your time on the Cardio
Machines, especially the Treadmills to
45min. Thank you for your cooperation.
Classes
Clients must sign in before entering the
studio for classes and present themselves
to a member of the front desk to confirm
that they are eligible to enter the class.
Group Fitness Classes
These are available to all members of the CSA
Fitness Center as part of their membership.
Group Fitness Pass Cards are available for
purchase at a cost of $90 for 12 sessions. You
can also pay a walk in fee of $11.
For more information drop by the CSA Fitness Training Center front desk 2nd Floor,
#4, Road 21, Maadi - or call 010 0382 9368
Pre-Paid: Adults and Kids
Payments for these classes must be
received in advance of the class starting
and paid in blocks of sessions. Please
contact a member of staff for more
information on individual classes and
prices.
Pre-Booked: Adults and Kids
These are Private classes. You can get
information from our Front Desk on how
to contact the individual instructors.
Opening Hours - FTC opens early!
Friday & Saturday: 8.00am-9.00pm
Health & Wellness
By Kim Hampton
No doubt, a gym is a very complicated
place to navigate through for both
professional and amateur trainees. It is
also very interesting to sit and study
the trainees while they are working
out. Some know what they are
doing and others seem to make
the same mistakes over and over
again, in spite of repetitive
injury and/or no results.
The career of personal
fitness training was actually
developed to help regulate a gym
setting and to ensure that trainee’s
exercises are effective and safe. Backed
by science, there is a right way and
wrong way to exercise. This feature will
help shed light on some big mistakes
trainees make while at the gym.
No Warm-Up or Stretch. A car does
not normally operate without a warmup. Nor, should your body! A brisk
walk on the treadmill to sweating point
or a few minutes of jumping rope is all it
takes to get those muscles warmed-up,
limber, and ready to go. Warming-up is
an important injury preventer and will
help to ensure that you are working at
your optimal best. After your workout,
engage in a 10-12 minute static stretch
routine that allows you to stretch your
body in all directions. This is vital time
to improve your range of motion for
future workout sessions. Remember
- the body which has a good rangeof-motion will also be more effective
strength wise.
Building Chest, Shoulders, & Arms,
But Ignoring Your Legs. I am sure you
have seen plenty of body-builders with
that sexy upper body physic, but no
bum or leg muscles. Muscles need to be
built with a good foundation in mind.
Good strong legs will help to support
a strong upper body. I always say “you
are as strong as your weakest link.” Plan
a balanced program that incorporates
exercises that target opposing muscle
groups; such as quadriceps with
hamstrings, abdominals with back, and
triceps with biceps.
Improper Technique. Position and
implementation is just as important as
the
exercise
you choose. If
you are not implementing
the exercise correctly you can
recruit non-targeted muscle groups
and possibly injure yourself. Do your
research before entering the gym. Look
at videos of the exercises and how to
correctly perform them and/or recruit
help from a qualified fitness trainer
before attempting. You should always
know what your goal is and choose
exercises to meet that goal. Work with
a good foundation by paying attention
to your leg stance and pelvic, core,
and shoulder stability throughout the
exercise. To help you get started on your
technique, I have listed a few trainer
tips to enhance your workout:
•Avoid
tucking your feet when
performing a sit-up.
•While performing a lunge, make sure
knee is behind your toe line.
•Adjust your weight machine seat
setting according to YOUR body and
not the person who used the machine
before you.
•Choose adequate weight for lifting
(not too heavy; not too light).
•Look at yourself in the mirror to
always double check your form.
Form is compromised when body
tires out.
Avoiding Meals. Your food is your fuel
for exercising. Without it, we are not
able to function adequately, nor are the
muscles able to recover without proper
nutrition. Make sure to always eat a meal
approximately 60-90 minutes prior to
workingout and take
along water and/or
rehydration drink to replenish
lost fluids and electrolytes. Starving
yourself will only set you up for over
eating after your workout. In addition,
it will signal that the body isn’t getting
enough calories; therefore it holds onto
stored fat as a fuel reserve.
Holding Your Breath. It is vital to
breathe deeply during exercising,
preferably in through the nose and
out through the mouth. This is the
best means to send oxygenated blood
to the muscles, to assist with muscle
contraction. In addition, breathing in
helps to accentuate an erect posture,
while breathing out is matching with a
flexed posture. So, choose your breath
patterns wisely and at the proper time
of the exercise. Normally, we breathe in
to prepare and exhale on the lift. But,
to challenge the body reverse breath
patterns can be utilized.
Too Much Sweat. Did you ever see that
“gym rat” coming to the gym with a lot
of layered clothing and sweating buckets?
Well, I have news for you. Extra sweat
will not make you lose extra weight.
Your heart rate is directly related to what
fuel you will burn in the gym. Trade
your extra long sleeve sweat shirt for a
heart rate monitor and let that motivate
you, while you monitor your heart rate
and observe your training zone. Most gyms will
have charts explaining the heart rate zones and
whether you are burning fat or working within your
cardiovascular range. In addition, get rid of those
old t-shirts and opt for a fashionable dry
fit athletic wear that will keep you
cool and absorb the sweat better.
This is what is “vogue” now!
Bad Ethics & Hygiene. Grunting,
swearing, talking on your mobile,
texting during fitness classes, wearing
dirty training shoes, coming to the
gym smelly, not wiping down your
equipment after usage, not re-racking your
dumbbells, and not sharing equipment
with other gym members are all rude
behaviors and unethical. Not to mention
dangerous, unhygienic, and interruptive to
other gym members workouts.
Pay attention to your body odor. If you can smell
yourself, others can also. Shower before and after
your workout will help to relax your body and keep
you smelling fresh and clean. Always be considerate
of others around you. You are not the only one in
the gym looking good!
If you are at lost as to how to progress with your
workout and meet your goals, why not recruit a
certified fitness trainer to help you get organized,
teach you the correct way, and get you on a
periodized program so that you have something safe
and effective to follow. Whether it is only one session
you may need or 3 to 4 sessions per week, these 1
hour sessions are one on one and an investment in
your “bank of health.” Make sure to find someone
you feel comfortable with, ask about the type of
certifications they have and if they are up-to-date,
plus inquire about the amount of time they feel it
will take to meet your goal. Trainers are required to
update their certifications via continuing education
units on an annual basis. This is vital for them to
stay current on the new trends and improvements
in the fitness industry, thus to be able to pass a safe
and effective workout onto their clients. In addition,
trainers should train you to exercise effectively so
you can become independent with your exercising
in the future. Feel free to come visit us at CSA
Fitness Training Center for an assessment of your
fitness level and advice on helping you to meet your
goals. We are happy to meet you and look forward
to seeing you soon!
Kim’s Hampton is a Certified Fitness Trainer whose
goal is to help you to find a balance between a safe and
effective fitness regimen and nutritional support.
Kim is currently available for private
personal training sessions at CSA Fitness
Center.
CSA Fitness Training Center
July / August News
Summer special
Pay for 1 year during July and
August get 1 month extra
added to your membership.
If you pay for a 6 month
membership, you’ll get an extra
2 weeks.
New Season for Kids
Our new season of kids programming begins the week of
September 7th. Please make sure to come in and pay for
your child’s spot as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
For more information on what programs will be available
please contact Fitness Training Center.
Summer Renovations
After all the new equipment that’s been installed in the
gym, we need to finish up our renovations by changing
the murals and re-doing the weight room floor. To
accommodate this the gym will be closed for the last
2 weeks of July.
Floor Trainer
Our Floor Trainer will be available during the summer
months to help you with any queries that you have
regarding the machines or your workout program. Please
feel free to take advantage and ask for help.
Personal Trainers
If you feel you need more than the occasional advice from
our Floor Trainer then contact one of our Personal Trainers
to schedule a one-on-one session and really improve your
body shape!
Group Fitness Classes
As many of our instructors will be away for the summer our Group Fitness Classes schedule shall be reduced during the July
and August. However, we are still able to offer a Group Fitness Class most mornings beginning at 9.00am.
• In July and August Summer • Kim will be running her Body • Jun will be here in • Susan will be doing
August for her Zumba
Shape will be running on
Action class on Sundays
her amazing Intense
class.
Monday and Thursday with
Interval class on
Agamy.
Wednesdays.
Please call the Fitness Training Center or visit the FTC page on CSA’s website for more information on any of our summer
group fitness classes.
Meet the CSA Trainers!
Name: Ahmed Mohamed Agamy
Describe your ideal workout.
Circuit training. This is form of body conditioning or
resistance training using high intensity aerobics. It’s great
because it targets strength building and muscular endurance.
Age: 42
How long have you been
personal training?
15 years
Credentials/Qualifications:
NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association)
specialist in sports conditioning. Also certified with ACE
(American Council on Exercise), ISSA (International Sports
Sciences Association) and AFFA (Aerobics and Fitness
Association of America).
What is your fitness philosophy?
My fitness philosophy is to train the safest way possible that
will challenge my clients physically as well as mentally. I want
my clients to discover that they are far stronger and more
capable than they originally thought. I want this for them so
that not only do they realize their fitness goals but also realize
that it positively affects the rest of their life.
What is the most common workout mistake you see
people do?
When people do the same exercises day after day. If you
always do the same workout for any amount of time, you will
eventually hit a plateau. One way of overcoming this plateau
is to modify workouts every few weeks or months by changing
the type of exercises you do, their duration, the amount of
weight lifted or number of reps.
What is best advice you can give to someone just starting
out in the gym?
Invest in one personal training session every 6 weeks. A
personal trainer can really keep you on track and help you to
meet your fitness goals.
FTC Schedule July / August 2014
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Friday
Saturday
9.00am-10.00am 9.00am-10.00am 9.00am-10.00am
9.00am-10.00am 9.00am-10.00am
Summer
Shape
Zumba
Summer Shape
Equilibrium
Intense Interval (Circuit
(Circuit Training) (August only)
Training)
Kim
Sue
Agamy
Jun
Agamy
10.30pm-11.30pm
Belly Dance
Souhair
10.30am-11.30pm
Belly Dance
Souhair
7.00pm-8.00pm
Zumba
Denise
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.
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
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
CSA Class
Bookings and Payments to
Fitness Center Reception
Pre-Booked Kids - Private Class
Please Contact Instructors for
Bookings and Payments
Pre-Paid Kids
Pre-Paid Adults
NEW Pre-Paid Kids
NEW Pre-Paid Adults
Healthy Living
BodyFit Egypt will be open this summer!
We are offering a variety of classes to suit you and your fitness needs. We welcome you to
join us for STOTT Pilates® Mat, Reformer, and Spinning® Classes.
Please feel free to inquire about our summer schedule and more.
Also, we look forward to providing you a wide range of classes in the fall, with a few new
surprises that will help to put some excitement into your daily workout routine.
The BodyFit Egypt Team wishes you a very fit, relaxing, and fun summer vacation!
Tel: 0100 343 3111
www.pilatesegypt.com
BODYFITCAIRO
The Serenity Centre at CSA
4 Road 21
Maadi, Cairo
Health & Wellness
How to
Select a Weight
Loss Diet
By Marcus O’Neill, MSc RD
What is the pace of weight loss?
Regular readers of my articles will
probably note that typically I’m not a
big fan of diets. This is largely because
most weight loss diets on the market
today are little more than passing fads
that spread misinformation by overpromising their results. That said, not
all weight loss diets are bad. And the
reality is that some people find the
structure of a diet more useful than
simply trying to follow general healthy
eating recommendations. The question
is, how do you select a good one?
Things to consider
Impressive claims like “you can lose 10
lbs in 10 days on diet X!” should be a
red flag. A good weight loss diet should
provide at least 1200 calories/day for
women and 1500 calories/day for men,
which will result in up to 1 kg (2 lbs) of
weight loss per week for most people.
Diets promoting weight loss of more
than 1kg/wk are too low in calories
and may cause you to metabolize lean
tissue (ie. muscle) rather than fat. They
can also lead to other health problems
including, headaches, fatigue, nutrient
deficiencies and, in extreme cases,
death.
Is the diet balanced?
Is the diet right for you?
A healthy diet is based on eating variety
of foods. You should be suspicious of
any diet that advocates for eliminating
or severely restricting any particular food
group (for example “carbs”). Restrictive
weight loss diets are often unsustainable
and can even sometimes lead to nutrient
deficiencies. Good weight loss diets also
promote regular physical activity, so
any program claiming that you can lose
weight “without stepping foot in a gym”
probably isn’t worth your time.
In order to be successful
in your weight loss it’s
important to think about
whether or not the diet will fit
your lifestyle. Consider things
like: Does the diet provide the
flexibility to eat foods that are
important to you? What are the
financial costs associated with the
diet? Does the diet come with any
health risks? Will you enjoy being on
the diet or will it make you miserable?
Will you be able to sustain it?
Who endorses/created it?
Who is promoting the diet and what are
their credentials? Are they a qualified
health professional with specialized
training in obesity and/or nutrition?
Unfortunately even this doesn’t always
guarantee the validity of a diet (I’m
looking at you Dr. Oz!), but if your
weight loss program was created by
someone without the letters MD, RD,
or some equivalent title behind their
name, it almost certainly means that
they’re more concerned with selling
products than helping you lose weight
in a healthy manner.
The Bottom Line
You can lose weight on any literally
diet that restricts calories. The tricky
part comes in trying to lose weight in
a healthy way and making sure that
you’re able to stick with your diet long
enough to see results (and sustain it
over the long term). It’s also important
to speak with your doctor before going
on any weight loss diet so that he/
she can review any medical problems
that you might have and help you set
appropriate weight loss goals.
Marcus
O’Neill
is
a
Registered
Dietitian from
Canada
and
Editor of Oasis
Magazine.
You can reach
him by email
at
marcus@
livingineg ypt.
org or follow him
via Twitter (@
marcusoneillrd)
or his blog (www.
dietitianabroad.
com).
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
SUNDAY
July 2014
7
14
21
28
6
13
20
27
MONDAY
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
xx
9.00am-2.00pm
TUESDAY
29
CSA Events
CSA Closed
22
CSA Closed
15
30
23
16
9
2
Trips/Tours
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
CSA Closed
8
1
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
WEDNESDAY
Arts/Lifestyle
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
31
24
17
10
3
xx
xx
25
xx
18
11
Kid’s Corner
5
Cooking
26
19
12
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Friday / Saturday
4
Safety & Security
Kids Movie Madness
2.00pm-3.30pm
THURSDAY
CSA Calendar July 14 / Aug 14
3
24
17
10
31
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Fundamentals of Living in
Egypt Seminar
8.00am-4.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
SUNDAY
August 2014
MONDAY
25
18
11
4
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
TUESDAY
26
19
12
5
CSA Events
27
20
13
6
Trips/Tours
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.00am-12.00pm
WEDNESDAY
Arts/Lifestyle
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
28
21
14
7
23
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
30
Cooking
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Kid’s Corner
9
2
16
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
CSA CLOSED
Movie Making for
Children
Cook’s
3.00pm-5.00pm
Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
29
22
15
8
CSA CLOSED
Friday / Saturday
1
Safety & Security
THURSDAY
More information on www.livinginegypt.org
Lifestyle
Top Tips
for Settling
into Your
New Life in
Cairo
By Jennifer Cole
Welcome to Cairo! Moving to a new
country always will have its highs and
lows no matter where you are in the
world or where you are from. Moving
to Egypt can be an extremely rewarding
experience. On your doorstep is a
marvelous country with a great people
who have a rich tapestry of culture and
history. From sun, sea and snorkeling
to Pyramids, tombs and temples,
you are spoilt for choice in terms of
entertainment.
Whether this is your first move
abroad, or even if you are a seasoned
international expat, these five top tips
will put you on track for making the
most of the first few months.
Keep your sense of
humour
A sense of humour is essential in dealing
with the daily encounters with moving
into a new apartment, maneuvering
yourself
around
an
unfamiliar
supermarket and finding your way
around the city. When things are not
going exactly as you planned, take a
deep breath and try to see the lighter
side of the situation. This will help you
gain perspective and realize that things
will all work out in the end!
Take your time
It’s important to remember
that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Be good
to yourself in the first few months and
ensure you don’t expect too much too
soon. It takes time to build friendships,
to understand the inner workings
of your new workplace or for your
apartment to look like home. A good
tip is to mark 100 days from your move
into your diary and calendar. When you
reach 100 days of living in Egypt, plan
a celebration or reward for making it
through those first three months and
reflect on how far you have come and
how much you have learned!
Get out and about
Make an extra effort
to accept invitations and to explore
some of the city. Ask around for some
recommendations for a local guide and
book yourself on a tour of a part of the
city for at least of your weekend, even
if you are tempted to spend the day in
the supermarket tracking down a new
ironing board! Seeing Islamic Cairo or
Coptic Cairo, or sailing on a felucca on
the Nile is going to remind you of why
you are so lucky to live in this incredible
city. Avoid the temptation to lock
yourself away and get out, meet people
and enjoy the excitement of your move.
Learn some of the
language
Directions, numbers and greetings
will see you a long way in Egypt! Ask
someone to write down your address for
you in Arabic so that you can show taxi
drivers, but learn a few key words such
as ‘straight ahead’, ‘left’ and ‘right’ so
that you can find yourself home. Learn
to say ‘good morning’ and ‘goodbye’
and you will find the world a friendlier
place. Knowing the numbers will help
you haggle when you visit the Khan el
Khalili for some Egyptian souvenirs to
decorate your new home with.
Stay in touch
Staying in touch with
home is much easier nowadays than
ten years ago! With Skype, Facetime,
Facebook, blogging, emails…it’s easier
than ever to remain in touch with your
loved ones. Let them know you are well
and happy in your new home and write
about your experiences to help you
stay connected. This will help you with
the transition of the move. However,
remember to make sure you have lots
to write home about by getting out and
about and exploring the city too. You
may even encourage some visitors to
come and see you so that they can have
their share in the Cairo action!
Good luck with your first few months
and welcome to Cairo!
Lifestyle
A Woman in Cairo
Ramadan for Expats
By LeAnne Graves
I first arrived to Cairo in July 2008, right
before Ramadan. It was very difficult to
meet people in the beginning and the
holy month didn’t really afford many
opportunities to mingle. Costa Coffee
had just opened on Road 9, and I spent
my evenings sitting outside reading and
people watching. It was lonely, but as
time passed I learned that there are some
great things that you can take advantage
of during this month.
For me, I actually really enjoy grocery
shopping. It’s cathartic. And believe it
or not, you can enjoy Carrefour during
Ramadan. It sounds like an oxymoron,
I know. Who enjoys Carrefour? During
iftar (meal breaking fast), the store is
nearly empty allowing you to peruse
the aisles at your leisure without feeling
the usual chaos. However, a word of
warning: do not go before iftar or on
Thursday nights as many families are
preparing for Friday feasts.
You’re also going to notice how peaceful
the streets are during this time as
families are inside having dinner with
one another (particularly at the start of
the month).Go for a jog, walk or biking;
however, especially women, please do
not go out alone during this time. Many
incidents occur during iftar because
there are fewer people to come to your
rescue should something happen. It is
crucial that you remain diligent and
implement the buddy system.
Get some friends together and hold
a potluck on a felucca on the Nile,
available near TGI Fridays on the Maadi
Corniche. The felucca costs around LE
50 per hour (tips are separate), and
make sure to tip the person prior to
arriving back to the dock.
If you want an even nicer party, arrange
to book the Yacht Christina for 25
people. And yes, you can bring alcohol.
For more information on the Yacht
Christina bookings, please visit http://
mychristina.net.
A lot expats ask the burning question:
“Can I still get alcohol?” Many places
will stop serving for the holy month,
but some places continue as long as you
are foreign. Just make sure to carry your
passport at all times.
Carrefour before (top) and during Iftar (bottom)
Hotels will still serve alcohol as well as
other places like the British Community
Association (BCA). Many restaurants
also continue to serve, but I suggest
calling prior to make sure. For those of
you that like going to nightclubs, well,
those are mostly closed. However, the
newly opened El Mojito’s in the Conrad
Hotel said that there would be a small
section open to foreigners where you
could still eat, drink and dance the
night away.
There are a couple of things that you
should prepare for during Ramadan. For
instance, you will find that some shops
(e.g. Seoudi Market) and even take-out
are closed during iftar. If you order from
Otlob.com, you may find that the order
was placed, but a significant delay in
receipt can occur. Make sure that you
get everything that you need prior to
iftar.
Lastly, please dress conservatively.
Over the years, I’ve heard many
complain about the restrictions during
this month, but it doesn’t have to be
miserable. Keep an open mind. Try to
learn about the culture and take part
in something that you may not have
been introduced otherwise. And just
remember, there are things that you can
do. You just need to actively look, and
you never know, you may be surprised
at just how much you enjoy it.
I moved to Cairo
in July 2008 for a
job in journalism
covering the oil
and gas industry. I
started a blog to keep
friends and family in
the loop as to my travels and stories.
However, that blog turned into more
as I began receiving messages from
other expats that had just moved to
Egypt or were considering relocating.
For more information, please see:
www.simplyleanne.blogspot.com
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: Carmen Varley
Nationality: American
Age: 67
Living in: Maadi
About: My husband moved to Egypt in June 2011 to work as a contractor on the USAID Trade Facilitation Project. I joined him
a few months later, and have been “commuting” between Egypt and the US over the last three years. When we enjoyed our first
frappachino from Café Greco in the CSA garden, I knew I would be just fine living in Maadi. I think CSA is the best social services
organization for aiding ex-pats in their transition to overseas life that I have seen in 39 years of life abroad.
I am sad to say that we pack out of our flat soon, but fortunately, my husband’s work will bring us back to Egypt. He will return on
short-term assignments, and I hope to come with him. We look forward to returning to this remarkable country.
My typical week
Loves
My favorite thing to do is to tour
Cairo and Egypt with professional
tours, women’s groups or on my own.
Since my eighth grade Ancient History
class, when I memorized the names
of the Pharaohs and the dynasties of
Ancient Egypt, I dreamed of coming to
Egypt. While you are here, take every
opportunity to visit the Cairo Museum,
Coptic Cairo, Ibn Tulum, the Citadel,
and a Nile Cruise to Luxor, Karnak and
Abu Simbel. See as much as you can
during your stay.
Every week I volunteer at the CSA
library on Thursdays, and take
advantage of shopping the stalls at
Cook’s Day Off and the Farmer’s
Market as well as browsing the Gift
Shop, La Boutique and the Showroom
for must-have items. I have time to
volunteer because I am not working. I
am a retired teacher, and our children
are grown and living in the US. Each
week I enjoy meeting with friends,
eating out, reading, shopping and
staying in touch with our children and
grandchild by email and Skype. I stay
busy managing our double lives here
and in the US.
Food Heaven
Our favorite restaurants are Sequoia,
Left Bank and Aubergine in Zamalek
and Zentro on Road 206 and Zooba’s
on Road 9 in Maadi. And I frequently
supplement my own cooking with
dishes from Cook’s Day Off.
Currently
I
am
undergoing
physiotherapy for a torn ACL with Dr.
Noaman Sideek at the CSA Serenity
Center. Noaman promises that I will
be able to walk all over Paris in two
weeks when we leave Cairo!
DRIVING TIPS
Driving is the biggest headache about
living in Egypt. I find the Ring Road
death-defying. I would not choose to
drive in Cairo, and we do not have a
car. I travel by taxi.
I hope the Nile Water Taxi becomes
move available and reliable as an
alternative to driving into Zamalek and
downtown Cairo.
FITNESS FANATIC
Before I injured my knee, I enjoyed the
gym at CSA, fitness classes with Kim
and Pilates at BodyFit. My husband
enjoys the CSA gym and spinning
classes.
If you are interested in contributing to the My Egypt page contact Marcus O’Neill: marcus@livinginegypt.org
Family
Not Another
Brick in the Wall
By Gunjan Pant Pande
IB or British Curriculum? French
or Spanish? Voice lessons or piano?
School in Maadi or 6th October?
Home transport or school bus? Packed
lunch or canteen food? As if the queries
we needed to wrestle with weren’t
overwhelming enough, the evertravelling expat community these days
is on the horns of yet another dilemma:
To home school or not to home school?
That is THE question.
The correct answer? Well, there’s no
option a, b, c or d here to simply tick.
Only good parenting instinct to guide
you and the kids along in the hope that
whatever you choose is the best option
for your circumstances. For those who
have always wondered about the concept
of home schooling, how to go about it,
what course to choose, pros and cons,
time management, kids’ perspective etc,
OASIS spoke to two Cairo families who
decided to think out of the box.
An Expat Experience
Moira moved to Cairo a few years
ago with her two young children; a
girl and a boy, now in grades 4 and
7. For this expat mom from Canada,
“homeschooling has been a journey and
the family has grown with each step of
the experience.” Throwing light on the
crucial 5Ws & H (who, what, when,
where, why & how) of home schooling
she tells us all about her struggles and
achievements.
WHAT is home schooling?
Homeschooling is a journey of lifelong learning. Education is interwoven
through all facets of daily life. The
toughest part? Making good decisions
on behalf of your children and raising
them with as few mistakes on your part
as possible.
WHY home school?
In our case, homeschooling has allowed
us to create a close-knit and loving
environment for all members of the
family. My children are study mates and
friends as well as siblings. The children
learn at their own pace. They don’t
move forward until they actually know
something and they aren’t held back
because someone else needs more time.
WHEN did you start?
By the time my son was of kindergarten
age he was beyond the K curriculum as
outlined by our provincial education
department. I, therefore, decided to
homeschool him just for that first year
and enroll him into Grade 1. Well, as
you can imagine we not only loved being
together but he continued to flourish.
I also realize that this way, learning
continued throughout the day. Right
now, my children spend approximately
4 hours a day just reading books!
WHO is the teacher?
I am the primary teacher but we also
have a certified teacher-facilitator who
is assigned to us by our Canadian
school board. She monitors our work
and advises us of our progress. Unlike
a traditional school, I am allowed
to choose my curriculum to suit my
child’s learning style. We have used
the following resources for the grade 4
and 7 year that we’ve just completed:
Our math program included “The
Art of Problem Solving: Pre-Algebra;”
“The Life of Fred Pre-Algebra 1 and
Biology;” “The Life of Fred Pre-Algebra
2 and Chemistry;” “McGraw Hill SRA
Real Math level 4,” and Khan Academy
online. Science was taught using
Apologia Press’s Botany and Anatomy
textbooks and my son also worked
through The Life of Fred Physics. Our
complete Language Arts curriculum
came from Michael Clay Thompson’s
program which is published by Royal
Fireworks Press. History is based on The
Story of the World by Susan Bauer. The
McGraw Hill Art curriculum combined
with the CSA photography course, and
private piano and guitar lessons make up
the fine arts program. I am still on the
hunt for an excellent Arabic class and
we are beginning French in September.
The extra-curriculars include soccer,
tennis, swimming, ballet, tae kwon do
and golf.
WHERE has your journey taken you?
From an animal orphanage in Sri Lanka
to a farmer in Canada explaining grain
farming to the old Roman fort in Syria,
the Sakkara pyramids and the Red Sea our field trips have been a great learning
experience.
In fact, our History program this year
has been modified to learn about the
places we visit. It is unconventional
but our school board (in Canada) has
approved my written request for this
approach for the year. I am registered
with a school board in our home
country and I am accountable to them
for our yearly work and progress. They
monitor us through email and Skype.
There are a few families in Cairo that
home school and we also get together
for local field trips, play dates or
presentations but it’s not as huge as in
the US or Canada. We are also involved
with internet groups and stay in touch
with groups from our home country.
HOW has the experience been?
Well begun is half done. So, for anyone
interested in homeschooling it is very
necessary to read as much as you can
about it. Join some groups online and
ask questions. If you are motivated,
you can do it. There are numerous
examples of parents with high school
educations homeschooling their kids
into extraordinary colleges. In fact the
success of previous homeschooled kids
has resulted in most North American
colleges setting up programs specifically
to attract homeschoolers. A motivated
student can complete 8 college courses
while still in homeschooled high school.
Homeschooled students are also eligible
for scholarships.
As their mother I feel I truly know
my children because I spend so much
of their life with them. I love the fact
that we can give our children a safe and
loving haven to enjoy their childhood.
So from my experience I can say that I
began homeschooling because it seemed
the most natural continuation of our life
at the time my son was “school-ready.”
I continue to homeschool because it
is deeply satisfying to truly know my
children.
So is home schooling fun? Well, when
my children hear me say that I will
send them to regular school if we can’t
achieve as much as a brick and mortar
school, they immediately work harder
so that they can keep homeschooling –
does that answer your question?
When asked about homeschooling, one
of Moria’s children responded, “I think
the advantage with homeschooling
is that we get through more work. If
something happens and we miss a day
it’s okay because we can just catch up.
The disadvantage is that it is hard to
meet nice families with kids. But we still
have lots of friends. Either way, I love
homeschooling and think it’s great.”
There you are then, an expat family
talking about their homeschooling
experience so far. Others add that it’s
a good one-on-one solution when you
are based in countries in turmoil. Flexi-
schooling also nurtures a child’s interests
beyond the school curriculum which is
often focused on literacy and numeracy.
However, a few also believe that
parents and teachers have different
roles which need to be kept separate.
Still others argue against the Sponge
Theory of education or the “cramming”
philosophy. What then is the magic
formula? With more than a million
kids all across the globe being educated
at home currently, it is interesting
to go back to “Homeschooling For
Excellence” (1988) - David and
Micki Colfax’s revolutionary book on
homeschooling and google whatever
happened to the Colfax boys? An
interesting revelation I promise!
In the meantime, here’s a list of some
other very successful homeschoolers:
Condoleezza Rice, Venus & Serena
Williams, Andrew Carnegie, Julian
Assange, Thomas Edison, Robert Frost
and Margaret Mead. Drives the point
home, eh?
Gunjan Pant Pande is a former journalist
with The Hindustan Times and The Times
of India (New Delhi)
The Elize Experiment
The Schultz’ are a typical South African family - Hein,
Elize and their kids: Jenna (11) and Jack (8). Born in
the wild, used to the rough and tumble of farm life
and very close to nature, they lived two years in Cairo
before Hein’s job in the pharmaceutical industry
took him on a journey to Nasik, a small town in
India this summer. Thus began the Schultz’ very first
experience of home schooling as well.
“As no one in my family or close circuit of friends had homeschooled, I had no
anecdote or advice coming from those quarters,” reminisces Elize, “however,
once I started learning more and more about home schooling via the Internet
at first and then through conversations with other parents and teachers I felt
much more confident of handling it.”
“The decision to homeschool, was mostly based on the fact that
we were moving to a smaller city in India and not sure if we
would find a suitable school (IB curriculum) and the possibility
of moving back to South Africa in 2 years time. The system we
have chosen would prepare my kids for the curriculum back
home and once we complete our tenure in India, they would
easily fit into any school in SA without any problems,” says Elize.
They started early this year as an experiment in Cairo and though it’s still early
days, they are quite satisfied with the results. “It’s a fabulous opportunity to
get to know your child very well and to be able to comprehend what they are
capable of. Yes, we do miss friends and interaction sometimes, but once you
are settled, you can address this by enrolling into various activities (sport, art,
dance, horse riding etc) and of course organize play dates.”
Culture
A Cognitive
Adventure…
Spirituality in the Far East
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
in Egypt for over 4 years. This
interracial 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 some insight into your
own lives. Let’s go on a cognitive
adventure together!
good and evil deeds end in appropriate
rewards or punishments in this life or
in a progression of rebirths on a path to
Nirvana. There are two main traditions
to Buddhism: Theravada, which
strictly follows the early teachings of
the Buddhist writings, and Mahayana
which is more liberal and teaches that
salvation is easier to achieve.
What is Shinto?
Shinto, or the way of the spirits, rose as a
form of nature worship within the forests
of Japan. Shinto ceremonies often are
Buddhism is a very interesting world
religion. It began in southern Nepal
with a prince named Siddhartha
Gautama. Siddhartha congregated a
community of monks to carry on his
teachings, which included concepts
like the four noble truths and the law
of Karma. The law of Karma states that
What is Confucianism?
Confucianism is more of a philosophy
that is comprised of the teachings of
Confucius. Unfortunately none of
Confucius’s own written works have
survived. His followers are the ones
credited with gathering his teachings in
a book called the Analects. The Analects
describe what Confucius taught, which
was situated on important beliefs for
the Chinese ruler as well as Chinese
Judaism, Christianity and Islam are
easily the most prevalent religions in
the Western world, however, they have
much less of a following in the Far East.
For my first column I wanted to explore
the major religions and/or spiritual
practices found in the Far East. Let’s
take a look at a few and bring them to
the forefront!
What is Buddhism?
1700 to 1500 BCE. The Hindus believe
in reincarnation; they believe that the
form you take in the next life is linked to
your positive or negative actions in this
life, also known as Karma. The greatest
Hindu scriptures are the Vedas which
contain chants, hymns, and monastic
doctrines. Hinduism is polytheistic,
which means they support the notion of
many Gods, however foremost among
them is the trinity of Brahma the
creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva
the destroyer.
requests for generosity and protection
from nature spirits called Kami. Thus,
Shintoists honor the Kami at shrines
and hold festivals in their honor. In the
18th century Japan became a Shintoism
state and embraced the belief that the
imperial family had divine origins.
Therefore, it became a religious duty
for the people to be obedient to the
emperor. After Japan Surrendered to
the Allies in 1945, Shinto lost its official
status, yet its worshippers still persevere.
What is Hinduism?
The religious practices that became
the origins of Hinduism started from
the nomads that lived in the Iranian
plateau that flows into India around
society in general. The concept usually
associated with the Confucius thought
is that of filial piety. Filial piety is the
notion that sons should respect and be
faithful to their fathers.
The 5 main virtues of Confucianism
are Humaneness, Righteousness, Ritual
Propriety, Knowledge and Integrity.
Recipe
Indian Chicken Stew
By Verna Pinto
• 2 tbsp ginger - finely chopped
Chicken stew is one of the most
versatile dishes one can prepare as it
has unlimited variations. It can be
consumed at breakfast, lunch or dinner.
In South India it is most commonly
eaten with rice and lentil pancakes. It
can be kept light and healthy by adding
vegetables, like carrots, potatoes, peas
and beans. Or a richer gravy can be
made by adding coconut milk or cream.
I promise whichever way you make it,
you’ll be sure to love it!
• 2 tbsp garlic - finely chopped
Servings: 5-6 persons
Ingredients (all can be found in stores
around Maadi and Carrefour):
• 1 whole chicken - cut into 16 to 20
pieces.
• 2 large onions - finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes - finely chopped
• 4 tbsp fresh coriander - finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• green chilies – finely chopped
(optional)
• 3 cups water
• 3-4 tbsp oil
• salt - to taste
Preparation
1.Pour the oil into a deep pot. Heat on
medium flame for one minute. Add
the onions and fry until light brown.
2.Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 2
minutes. Then add coriander and
green chilies (optional) and cook for
2 minutes. Add turmeric and pepper
and cook for another minute.
3. Add tomatoes and salt and let it cook
for 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
4.Add the chicken to the pot and let it
cook for around 10 minutes on medium
to low heat occasionally stirring. Add
water and cook for 5 minutes.
5.When the chicken is cooked remove
from heat and serve with a garnish
of freshly chopped coriander leaves
with rice or bread.
Variations
1.Substitute 1 kg of lamb meat (with
bones) instead of chicken.
2.For a thicker gravy, put 1 tbsp of
cornstarch into water, stir and add
to the simmering mixture about 1
minute before removing from heat.
3.For a richer taste add ½ cup of
coconut milk or fresh cream
4.Make it vegetarian by using chick
peas and vegetables, like carrots, peas,
bell peppers, green beans, cauliflower
and/or potatoes instead of meat.
Verna enjoys organizing programs that
share knowledge, art and culture with the
CSA community. She also works as the
Manager of the Finance Department at
CSA.
Entertainment & Recreation
There’s a New
Latin Star in Town
By Marcus O’Neill
Good authentic Latin American cuisine
is something that’s been conspicuously
absent on the Cairo food scene, so if you
haven’t yet had the opportunity to check
out Tabla LUNA, a new Latin eatery on
Road 218 in Maadi, do yourself a favor
and plan a visit soon.
Upon first entering the restaurant,
you’re struck by the playful and inviting
bright yellow, red and green color
scheme and large blackboard menu on
the back wall. That, and the fact that
that every table is full – a rarity in Maadi
these days. That’s got to be a good sign,
right? Actually I’ve been making my
way through Tabla LUNA’s unique and
varied menu in my several visits since
it’s opening a little over two months
ago. I’ve yet to leave disappointed.
For entrees, Bishoy chose the special,
Lomo Saltado; a beef stir fry, with
tomatoes, peppers, and onions, served
with rice and fried potatoes. Now you’re
probably saying to yourself that stir fry
doesn’t sound particularly Latin. As
Fabian described on his visit to our table,
this dish is an example of original “fusion
cuisine”. Due to the high Asian immigrant
population in Peru many of the Far East’s
culinary traditions have made their way
into the local cuisine. Who knew?!
For my most recent meal, I was joined
by my good friend Bishoy, who had
never tried Latin cuisine before. Boy
was he in for a treat!
For my selection I went with their new
entry on the regular menu – the Tilapia
Tabla LUNA. And honestly it may
be the best dish I’ve eaten there yet.
The fish, which also was accompanied
by rice and yucca fries, was cooked
perfectly and topped with a delicate
tomato and caper vinaigrette that would
probably work well on almost anything.
To finish off the meal I went with the
Torte de Tres Leches. This sweet, moist
and spongy milk cake was a perfect end
to a fantastic meal.
We started the evening off with a
couple of appetizers. I opted for the
Spicy Cantaloupe Shrimp Ceviche, a
delicious mix of shrimp marinated in a
lime juice, with onion, chilies, tomatoes
Tabla LUNA is the venture of Fabian
Maldonado & Hedi Tawfik-Maldonado
and Tawfik El Kheshen & Dalia
Toulan. The good friends and couples
had talked about opening a restaurant
off and on for some time, but decided
to take the plunge earlier this year.
Fabian, who grew up in Ecuador and
moved to Egypt 10 years ago, created
the restaurant’s menu with partner
and co-executive chef, Dalia, which
features a selection of dishes from
Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Mexico and
Bolivia. If you’re wondering where the
name for the restaurant came from it is
a combination of the Spanish word for
‘table’ and the names of each couple’s
children, Lucas (LU) and Nadia (NA).
and melon. The restaurant also offers
more traditional fish and shrimp
versions of the popular South American
dish, if you’re so inclined. My friend
decided to play it a little safer with the
Camote; sweet potato croquettes and
chips served with a cilantro aioli, which
got a resounding thumbs up.
Tabla LUNA really hits it out of the
park with everything that they do.
If you’re planning a visit, which you
absolutely should, it’s a good idea to
make sure you reserve your table by
either stopping in at the restaurant at
least a day in advance or sending them
a message through their Facebook page.
Buen provecho!
Tabla LUNA is located at 41 Road 218
(right on the corner of Road 231), Maadi.
Reservations recommended. Phone: 02
25198403 Facebook: TablaLUNA.Cairo
Twitter: @tabla_LUNA
Lifestyle
Kids Giving Back to the Community:
CSA visits the Awladi Orphanage
By Lynne Lewis
The aims for the day were to teach our
young volunteers how and why we
should be active participants in our
surrounding community, to appreciate
what they have and to give to those in
need.
Our small group of volunteers (12
in total) met in room 201 for a brief
overview of what we would be doing that
afternoon. Quick introductions were
made, before we had a lively discussion
on the role of an orphanage and why
the children live there. Misconceptions
were hopefully put to rest as some were
not quite sure about the role of an
orphanage.
Next challenge was for the 8 boys and
4 girls to prepare and pack 60 meals to
take to the orphanage. It wasn’t as easy
as it sounds, but with a bit of teamwork
and effort (and cajoling) all 60 boxes
were filled with a beef burger, cup cake
and a drink. Hopefully not too many
cakes were squashed!
On arrival we drove through the gates
and headed towards the canteen area
at the back of the compound. On a
personal note, I have passed this place
so many times without realizing how
big it was. The orphanage is home to
approximately 350 children ranging
from infants to late-teens. Some of the
adult women even live at the orphanage
after they have finished their education,
until they find a husband. The children
live in 3 blocks according to age. Once
the boys reach the age of 12 they are
moved to a separate boys-only facility.
entertained with a song. I don’t think
any record deals will be forthcoming
but it was lovely to see the interaction
between the children.
Before returning to the CSA we had a
group photo with some of the children
and said our goodbyes, with a promise
that the CSA would return after the
summer to visit again.
We were met by Fady, one of the
social workers, who showed us the
dining room and the tables we would
be serving. The volunteers then had a
chance to chat with the children before
distributing the lunches. Both groups
were a bit wary to begin but soon were
chatting about what foods they like.
While the children were eating we
were taken to the administration office,
where we were introduced to the CEO
Fatma Hegazy. We then waited in the
common room for a bit for some of
the children to join us, where we were
All participants were given a certificate of
appreciation for the day and we hope that
they will share this experience with their
school colleagues and friends to impart a
little bit of what they learned on the day.
The group then ate their lunch before
loading the boxes onto the bus ready for
their trip to the orphanage. It was no
mean feat that the boxes all got there in
one piece, considering the bumps and
holes we drove over.
Family
Summer Brain Teasers
Now that we’re into the dog days of summer, how about a few brain teasers to keep your mind sharp!
1. Johnny’s mother had three children. The first child was
named April. The second child was named May. What was the
third child’s name?
2. A clerk at a butcher shop stands five feet ten inches tall and
wears size 13 sneakers. What does he weigh?
3. Before Mt. Everest was discovered, what was the highest
mountain in the world?
4. How much dirt is there in a hole that measures two feet by
three feet by four feet?
5. What word in the English language is always spelled
incorrectly?
6. Billie was born on December 28th, yet her birthday always
falls in the summer. How is this possible?
7. In British Columbia you cannot take a picture of a man with
a wooden leg. Why not?
8. If you were running a race and you passed the person in 2nd
place, what place would you be in now?
9. Which is correct to say, “The yolk of the egg is white” or “The
yolk of the egg are white?”
10. A farmer has five haystacks in one field and four haystacks
in another. How many haystacks would he have if he combined
them all in one field?
Place numbers from 1-9 in each empty box so each column, row, and bold box contain numbers 1-9
Challenging
Intermediate
3
4
8
2
5
9
6
7
1
7
6
5
9
4
3
2
1
8
9
1
6
4
7
8
2
3
5
2
4
9
7
8
1
3
5
6
5
4
7
2
5
1
8
7
8
1
1
1
2
3
2
8
4
9
3
9
9
7
6
5
3
6
6
3
9
6
5
4
7
8
1
4
6
7
7
1
4
3
5
8
3
8
9
4
6
5
9
2
2
1
3
1
9
3
8
4
5
2
9
8
7
6
5
4
6
Answers from June Sudoku
3
9
2
4
7
5
6
8
4
8
3
9
7
5
1
2
6
7
6
2
5
9
8
4
1
3
9
6
2
8
1
3
4
7
5
9
3
8
5
2
6
5
7
1
2
4
9
8
8
6
4
5
3
1
7
3
4
6
7
1
8
9
6
1
8
3
7
5
2
1
2
5
9
6
4
3
7
8
9
6
2
3
1
9
3
2
4
8
7
5
2
5
7
1
9
6
4
5
2
3
7
6
8
1
7
9
1
4
2
5
3
1
5
6
8
4
7
9
6
1
7
2
3
4
5
7
2
5
3
9
1
1
6
3
8
7
2
4
5
3
6
4
1
8
2
6
9
1
2
5
7
3
2
8
5
7
6
4
9
4
5
7
6
9
1
8
9
2
8
3
4
6
7
7
1
4
9
2
3
5
Answer to Brain Teasers:
1
4
8
4
3
8
5
9
2
6
2
4
9
6
8
1
7
9
7
2
3
5
6
8
8
6
5
9
1
3
4
3
8
4
1
7
9
2
1. Johnny.
2. Meat.
3. Mt. Everest. It just wasn’t discovered yet.
4. There is no dirt in a hole.
5. Incorrectly (except when it is spelled incorrecktly).
6. Billie lives in the southern hemisphere.
7. You can’t take a picture with a wooden leg. You need a
camera (or iPad or cell phone) to take a picture.
8. You would be in 2nd place. You passed the person in
second place, not first.
9. Neither. Egg yolks are yellow.
10. One. If he combines all his haystacks, they all become
one big stack.
2
Family
‘Welcome to Egypt’ - one of the first things you will have heard several times
already upon arrival in your new host country. If you are either an expectant, new
or experienced mother, here is a small FAQ that may be helpful:
What kind of pregnancy sport can I do in Cairo?
You can do prenatal pilates classes offered
at BodyFit Egypt (in CSA) or
prenatal yoga at The Breathing
Room (Road 216) or the Nun
Center in Zamalek
How can I choose a doctor or hospital for myself or my newborn?
This is not a simple decision, but may be helped if you come along on a Wednesday
morning to the Mum & Baby Group where you can meet mums who have delivered
in Cairo. We can share our experiences with OBGYNs, pediatricians, hospitals and
postnatal issues with you. Also educate yourself on what to expect, based on your
home country’s practices. For example, I knew that I wanted my baby to receive
vitamin K orally, instead of as an injection as is the practice in Egypt.
Can I purchase baby things in Cairo?
Yes. You can get a lot of things here although
likely at a higher cost than back home. You
can stock up on baby items from stores such
as Mothercare, Zero2Five, Our Kids, Lovely,
Carrefour, or Ikea to name just a few. Some
of those places also sell baby clothes, and you
could also try Concrete for Kids, the organic store under Zero2Five, or second
hand clothing. Moudys on Road 9 also stock a range of interesting toys for toddlers.
Mum &
Baby
Aimee gave birth to her son
last summer in Cairo. As with
any new mum she is enjoying
the challenges of raising a
baby abroad and has gained
valuable advice from other
expat parents’ experiences.
She helps to run the weekly
Mum & Baby Group at CSA.
Where can I buy books for my baby or pregnancy books?
Alef bookstore on Road 9 has a range of children’s books in Arabic, English or
German, Diwan on Road 213 stock mostly English and Arabic children’s books or
Adam’s Bookshop in the Maadi Grand Mall have a variety of children’s books in
many languages, including quite a few in German. You might also find some useful
books at the CSA library.
What kinds of activities can I undertake with my children in Maadi?
A group of mums get together on
Thursday mornings and sing nursery
rhymes at ‘Bounce and Rhyme’, there is
a Wednesday music class at the Art Café
on Street 13. For letting your toddler
work off some steam, check out places
like Sugar Spell (corner of Roads 18 &
86), Coffee Shop Kid’s Area (Road 9),
The Little Gym or Kidzania (both at
Festival City Mall).
Good luck settling in!
The Mum & Baby group usually meets on Wednesdays. Please check
their facebook group for updates and information: maadimumandbaby.
Cheers!
Culture
The
Nilometer
By Supriya Chawla
Anyone living any length of time in Cairo knows that it
never rains - well, almost never. The rains this past winter
and spring were an exception. Rainfall has never been factor
when planning the watering of crops. The life force of the
whole country, as everyone knows, is the river Nile.
The ancient Egyptians waited very anxiously each year to
see how much the Nile would rise - would it be too much,
too little or just about right. To measure the height of
the Nile each year ancient Egyptians
constructed Nilometers. Taxes were
calculated according to the height of
the water. There are two Nilometers
on Elephantine Island near Aswan, one
dating to the 26th dynasty. There is also
a Nilometer at the Ptolemaic temple at
Edfu built between 237-57 BC.
The level of the Nile was no less important to the Arabs,
after their conquest of Egypt in 641 AD. Amr Ibn As,
the Muslim general who conquered the Roman forces at
Babylon built three Nilometers; at Aswan, Dendera and
Helwan. When the Nilometer at Helwan fell into ruin a
new one was built on Rhoda Island in 715 AD. The present
Nilometer, at the southern tip of the Island was built by
Caliph Mutawakkil in 861 AD, although it has been repaired
many times since then. It was first repaired by Ibn Tulun
in 879. More building followed in 1092, 1481, 1721, and
1766. The French rebuilt it in 1800. This was repaired and
the top added during Mohamed Ali’s reign. The Ministry of
Public Works renovated it again in 1897. The latest major
reconstruction was made between 1934 and 1939. During
this restoration an inscribed stele from the 26th dynasty from
Heliopolis was discovered as well as many finely sculptured
blocks from the Christian era.
Anyone can visit the Nilometer which is no longer used to
measure the height of the Nile waters, but has been turned
into a museum. Once you have arrived, you will find it a
tranquil spot. Stand at the southern tip of the island and
contemplate the Nile. Imagine what it must have been
like before the building of the dam, not knowing whether
there would be enough water to feed the fields and man
or whether there would be flood or famine, which was
inevitably followed by plague.
The top of the building is made of
wood with a roof covered with metal
sheets. This portion, above ground, is
a modern reconstruction copied from
an engraving from the early Turkish
period. Inside you find a stone-lined
pit with a column in the centre, topped
with a Corinthian capital and a wooden
crossbeam with Kufic inscriptions. To
go down one must take care as the stairs
are well worn and there is nothing that
the hands can grasp. Formerly there
were three conduits which let the Nile
water into the pit, but these are now
sealed off. The pointed arches in the
recesses are apparently from the original
structure and, therefore, predate by
some three hundred years. The column
is graduated into sixteen cubits (the
length of the forearm from the elbow
to the end of the middle finger, about
18-22 inches). The upper ten cubits are
divided into twenty-four parts called
fingers which are marked on alternating
sides of the column. These marks can
still be seen. The top cubit mark is
labeled 17 in Kufic numerals so the first
cubit is measured at the base.
When the water reached 16 cubits
this point was called “plentitude.” It
was announced throughout the city
by specially appointed town criers and
two ceremonies took place. The first
ceremony took place at the Nilometer
and was attended by the Caliph who
mixed saffron and musk in a container
which he then handed to the guardian
of the Nilometer who jumped into the
water, fully clothed, and swam to the
column, anointed or “perfumed” it with
the mixture.
The second ceremony, the cutting of
the dam to the main canal, took place a
few days later. The Khalig il Misr, which
was at that time the main water source
for the city, left the bank of the Nile
about where the aqueduct now meets
the river. The canal turned north and
ran along the outside of the western
wall of the Fatimid city. It was filled
in 1899 and was called “Canal Street”
until 1956 when it was renamed to Port
Said Street.
At the mouth of the Khalig there was an
earthen dam which was nine feet thick
at the top and much thicker below. It
ran abut 60 feet from bank to bank. This
dam was kept in place most of the year
until the Nile reached Plentitude, then
it was broken and the water rushed to
fill it. During the time of the Fatimids
a very elaborate ceremony called the
“Cutting of the Khalig” was instituted.
It continued into Turkish times.
The Tourism Industry divided the must
see monuments and items into three
categories: Islamic, Pharaonic and
Coptic. The Nilometer is considered
Islamic although it originally comes
from the Pharaonic periods.
Notice the Quranic inscriptions in
Kufic script that run around the pit.
“We send down rain as a blessing from
heaven whereby we cause gardens to
spring forth and the grain to harvest.”
(50.9) “Has thou not seen that God has
sent down out of heaven water, and in
the morning the earth becomes green”
(22:62). Originally this frieze ended
with a short dedicatory inscription
saying that the structure was built in
861 but this was removed and replaced
by more verses from the Quran.
Lifestyle
Starting Anew
By Kay Reyes
Airports and hotel rooms now
characterize my children’s summer
vacation. I spend mine frantically buying
what my family will need when we head
back to post. I get funny looks from sales
people when I say, “I want that shirt in
all colors in 2 sizes”. My kids leave the
store with two pairs of tennis shoes, one
a size bigger. I go to the grocery and
buy vitamins by the box. My children
scan the grocery aisles looking for their
favorite cereal and once back at the
hotel, transfer them all in ziplock bags
for packing. We spend days trying to
pack and repack only to end up buying
additional bags for excess luggage.
This scenario is repeated for many
expats who will be on their summer
exodus to parts “everywhere but here”.
Then in August, they are part of that
same wave that finds itself back to the
streets of Cairo. But there will be many
who will not be on that wave back. They
will have jumped off to stay back home
or to another assignment. I call that a
leap of faith, a leap to the unfamiliar. It
may be just another move for some, or
a totally nerve wracking adventure for
others. Yet one thing is common, you
must say your goodbyes to the past and
bravely say hello to the future.
Leaving is always hard. We each have
a different way of dealing with getting
our lives packed up, boxed and shipped.
But the good thing is, once that
container door is locked or you’re on
that plane, you’re done! The harder part
is settling into the new place. That is
more intimidating and stressful. Many
are pros at moving, like pre-packaged,
genetically modified seeds. Plant
anywhere and you grow. But there will
also be others who, never having done
the constant uprooting and planting
ever or often, will find it hard to put
down new roots and thrive.
I am no expert at managing the stress
and insanity that comes with moving. I
don’t have the proper university degree
to evaluate and prescribe antidotes for
the heartache, the confusion and all
other fun stuff that comes with having
to strap your home on your back and
move it somewhere else. But I have
done this many times to know that no
matter how impossible the tasks at hand
seem to be, they all sort themselves out
eventually. The trick is in not losing
your mind until you get to that point.
Over the years, I have taken note of
what works for me, and what doesn’t.
I have tucked away some guidelines to
make the transition easier for me and
for my family (especially for the kids).
They are not fool proof. You need to
adjust them to fit your personality and
culture. But I have found out that it is
always easy to get where you want to be,
if you have a map to show you the way.
1. I always bring at least one familiar
or beloved item per family member
in our suitcases. I avoid items, which
remind us of the country we just left
behind. I prefer ones that we have had
for many years and have moved with
us from place to place. My son brings
a favorite Spiderman blanket. My
daughters bring a doll each that they
have had since they were babies. My
husband always has his grandfather’s
pocketknife and I have a plaque that
has hung in all our bathroom walls,
given to me by my husband when we
were just in high school. These treasures
remind us that we are the same people
wherever we go. Our home is
wherever
we
all are. It
is always
a balm to a homesick heart, after day
after day of house-hunting, when you
return to your hotel, my son’s blanket
is on his bed, my daughters’ dolls are
leaning on their pillows and my plaque
is sitting on the bathroom cabinet.
Although my husband’s pocketknife
normally disappears once we arrive in
a new post and we only find it once it’s
time to leave. Funny.
2. I try not to take the first gorgeous
house I see, or the one that’s closest to
the school. I take my time (as long as I
am allowed to, at least). I go back and
forth and spend some time just sitting
or looking out the window (the agent
hates this!). I have always known where
I will be happy. I enter a house and
even before seeing the kitchen and the
bedrooms, I know if I have found our
home. I can’t force myself to like a house
(unless I have no choice and am given
corporate housing). Chances are, living
in it for months will only increase my
dislike for it. If you love it the first time,
even if you find imperfections later on,
you will be a happy homemaker trying
to “make it work”. Make sure that your
home is your sanctuary. It should give
you the privacy, the serenity and the
freedom that you and your family needs.
It should be a place where, when you
close your doors, you can recharge and
leave all the cares of the world behind.
3. Make a huge effort to integrate
your kids right away. Support them in
finding friends that they can bond with.
Help them by being friendly with their
classmates’ parents. When children are
h a p p y,
that’s half of
the battle
won.
New friends are the best medicine to
missing old friends. And if you are lucky
enough to get along with their friends’
parents, that’s a bonus. Even if you
are still living in a hotel or temporary
housing, invite the kids and parents for
a playdate. Never just the kids for the
first time. Would you trust your own
children with a stranger? It is easier to
invite kids over for the first time, if a
parent is also invited. For families with
school age kids, it is inevitable that
your life will revolve around the school.
Don’t fight it. This makes life so much
easier at the beginning. Concentrate on
your immediate community and the
familiar. There will be plenty of time to
explore and get to know other people.
4. Companies provide new employee
briefings, wherein they remind them
of etiquette in the workplace. We,
as trailing spouses, need something
similar. We have our housing agents
and company liaison to guide us
during the first few days, but nobody
is there to help us make friends and
fit in. Trailing spouses are all trying to
make a life for themselves in a country
where their identity is attached to their
partner’s. That is not a bad thing. When
you signed up for this life, you knew
that you would always be known as
“dependent of ___”. But it is always
nice to make friends based on who you
are and not who your spouse is or works
for. So when you meet other nomads,
like yourself, try to avoid asking,
“What company/embassy are you (your
spouse) with?” Maybe “What brings
you to Egypt?” will give you the answer
you want. But if the person still does
not say why and with whom, drop the
issue. And never ask nor compare your
moving benefits and how much housing
or moving allowance you get. Reserve
those questions for closer friends or
if they initiate the conversation,
and you don’t mind sharing.
5. The unfamiliar can be
difficult. But give your
host country a chance.
Stop complaining. It is
easy to be depressed when
one is without friends and
family to lend support.
You repeat your complaint
often enough, you will not
have room to recognize what
is good. Be gracious as well
as appreciative. Focus on the
positives. It is very easy to find fault,
in any country. But if you verbalize
the good that you see, think and talk
positive, it will be easier to settle down
and adjust to your new life.
It is a wonderful opportunity to see
the world. So we need to minimize
the downtime of moving, whether out
or in. This will give us more time to
explore, enjoy and live. The faster you
settle down, the more you can start
appreciating your new surroundings.
Relax, breathe and go. Pretty soon, you
will find yourself packing and moving
again. But for now, appreciate the
newness of things and take challenges in
stride. Enjoy the start of a new chapter
in your life. Have faith that things will
work out. You’ve done the leaping, now
it’s time for living. Good luck.
Kay Reyes has been living in Cairo with
her husband and three children for two
years now. You may email her at kay.
reyes.oasis@gmail.com
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 newly renovated children’s playground, food and beverages are available
evenings and Fridays. For more information please contact: Women’s
Commissioner: Julie Alfred caslcommishwomen@hotmail.com. Men’s
Commissioner: Ahmed Gad falconroben@hotmail.com. Chairman: Rodney
Stephens Rodney.stephens@bp.com.
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 cairohash@yahoo.com 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 every Friday morning in front of CAC’s main
gate at 7.00am or earlier. All ages and abilities are welcome. For exact time and
details contact Mohsen Alashmoni at mohsen.maadirunners@gmail.com
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
jeklingler@hotmail.com or check the website, www.racegypt.org
Bekara (Hymen) – El Central (Telephone Station) – Ahmar Bahet (Pale Red).
Free entrance. Visit: http://institutes.leiden.edu/nvic/
FINNS IN EGYPT ASSOCIATION (SEFE)
Open to all Finnish-speaking expatriates in Egypt. For more information,
please go to www.finnsinegypt.org
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
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 /
ufe.egypte@gmail.com or website: www.ufe.org
HELIOPOLIS WOMEN’S COFFEE MORNING
Meets every Wednesday. Contact Ans ‘Noordermeer’ langeans@hotmail.com
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
jjeong@cacegypt.org or Judy Tansca at judithvivian2@gmail.com
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, call Rosemarie 01009282625.
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 sarah.n@ladyegypt.com
MUM & BABY GROUP
Wednesdays 10.00am-12.00pm (0-11 months) Cost: 20LE 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.
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
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 OACairo@hotmail.co.uk 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).
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.
SOUTH AFRICANS IN EGYPT
email: sainegypt@gmail.com, tel: Tania: 01277701756
SOCIAL AND INTERNATIONAL GROUPS
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 rima_miro@hotmail.com
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: caireaccueil@hotmail.com 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:2549709148@qq.com
CINECLUB: FILMS AT THE NVIC
Cineclub of Egyptian films with English subtitles on Sunday evenings at the
Netherlands-Flemish Institute in Cairo (NVIC), Zamalek. 4/12: Ein Shams
(Eye of the Sun/Ein Shams), 11/12: Short films Irtigaal (Improvisation) –
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
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
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: zeitouns@mac.com
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 / zamzam_mohamed@hotmail.com
TURKISH SPEAKING LADIES COFFEE MORNING
Meets every month, open to all Nationalities. (Turkish Speaking). For details
please call: Sevgi - 01224546655, Isil - 01063189126, Sinem - 01274624082
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 WAC@intouch.com
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
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 womensgroupforhealth@yahoo.com
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 wowcairo@yahoo.com.
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
antaki@link.net. Or Mo Tycoon at 01004884902, email safinamohamed@
hotmail.com, www.aaegypt.com
ADVANCE
The Egyptian Society for Developing Skills of Children with Special Needs, 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. Advance, 34, Al Nadi Al Gadeed Strreet, New
Maadi, Cairo, 11434, Egypt. Ph 25193721 or 23, email: contactus@advancesociety.org, www.advance-society.org
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 info@bwngo.org
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 info@caritasegypt.org
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 - info@emaurescue.org
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.
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
luver56@hotmail.com
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
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.
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 hccCairo@gmail.com 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
reception@maadichurch.net.
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 pastor@standrewschurchcairo.com, 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: morgantour@hotmail.com
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
info@maadichurch.org, 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 marcus@livinginegypt.org
Lifestyle
Home
At Last
By Charleen Haynes
His name is Chester. He seems like
your average lovable Labrador. He has
a “brother” named Panda who is the
grumpiest, bossiest little dog you have
ever met. In spite of this Chester loves him
completely. In fact, he loves everyone and
everything (except the birds that torment
him relentlessly!) Chester has a family
who loves him unconditionally too - even
when he digs a hole in the backyard for
the hundredth time or knocks everything
off the coffee table with his tail when he
is happy to see someone.
His life didn’t begin so easily though.
Chester is the product of over-breeding
for profit, a huge problem in Egypt. Pure
breeds are looked at as status symbols
here. And just like an expensive car, they
are meant to impress. Breeders know
people will pay thousands to acquire
the perfect dog. These “breeders” are
nothing more than miniature puppy
mills causing increased strain on the few
reputable shelters we have.
Chester’s original owner surrendered
him after claiming that she needed to
leave Egypt. He was then fostered for
a time and eventually found his way to
the animal shelter at S.P.A.R.E. (Society
for Protection of Animal Rights in
Egypt), where he could let out some
energy, socialize with the other dogs and
hopefully find a permanent home. The
staff knew that he needed a special home
that could be trusted to never breed
him or sell him in the Friday Market.
Being familiar with S.P.A.R.E., I knew
Chester’s story. After two months of
discussions with my family we decided
we wanted Chester and found out he
was still available. It was like Christmas
when we went to pick him up!
Chester is easily the most sensitive dog
I have ever had. If I shout at him for
being naughty he makes a funny face as
if to say, “Sorry, don’t be mad. Please let
me stay.” It breaks my heart to see this
face. We would never get rid of him and
yet he always seems worried. Every 5
minutes he will come to you and smile,
yes smile, and want a real actual hug. He
is always checking if we still love him.
I encourage you to help out animals in
need like Chester. The shelters in Cairo
are full of strays, abandoned animals and
abuse cases. There are numerous dogs,
cats and other animals that need homes.
Many have waited years to be adopted.
The three main shelters in Cairo are
S.P.A.R.E., ESMA (Egyptian Society for
Mercy to Animals) and TOL (Touch of
Life Organization). All the animals in
the shelters need permanent homes but
foster homes are great too as the animals
can learn to socialize with a family and
other pets. The shelters also love it when
people come and just help out. Animals
need grooming and kennels need
cleaning. Even taking the time to sit with
the animals is good as it makes them feel
loved and can lift their depression.
Fortunately, Chester is now happy and
safe. He’s found the home he’s always
wanted. Yet, for so many other animals
out there this is not the case. Until pets
are looked at differently, the vicious
cycle of over-breeding and dumping
of unwanted pets will continue. If you
cannot adopt then think about fostering
short-term. If you cannot foster then
volunteer your time at a local shelter
to help these wonderful animals find
happiness.
For more information:
Society for the Protection of Animal
Rights in Egypt
http://www.sparelives.org/
phone: 0233813855
Egyptian Society for Mercy to Animals
http://www.esmaegypt.org/
phone: 01222188823 / 01003333004
Touch of Life Organization
http://toutchoflifeorganization.webs.com
phone: 01063566224 / 01001963712
Charleen Haynes is an American that has
been living in Egypt for 13 years. She is
married and has two children. Along with
raising her kids she helps find homes for
animals in Egypt.
Donations are another way to help.
The shelters will take any items you
don’t need and use them either for the
animals or for the workers that do many
jobs a day. Every donation is accepted
and appreciated.

CSA Fitness Training Center - Community Services Association

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