Dear Friends,
In mid-August Anglo-Indians from all over the world began congregating in England for the first-ever organised International reunion of the community. A conservative estimate would be that 3000 to 4000 members participated in the celebrations, the main events being held in the Harrow Leisure Centre in Middlesex. The events were hosted by the Anglo- Indian Social Club of London, England and are covered in detail in this issue. Delegates from Australia, New Zealands India, Pakistan, Switzerland, West Germany, France, Canada, the U.S.A. and the host country were in attendance. On the eve of this historic occasion the following cablegrams were received in recognition :

" NAME ANGLO-INDIAN GIVES BASIC SENSE OF UNITY AND DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM CONSTITUTIONAL RECOGNITION IN INDIA AS THE ONLY RACIAL MINORITY WITH ENGLISH AS ITS MOTHER TONGUE AND ASSOCIATE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF THE COUNTRY. ALL INDIA A-I ASSOCIATION STILL LIFELINE OF THE COMMUNITY. WITH ALL GOD'S BLESSINGS AND WARMEST GOOD WISHES FOR A HAPPY REUNION." FRANK ANTHONY, PRESIDENT, ALL INDIA ANGLO-INDIAN ASSOCIATION, NEW DELHI INDIA.)

" REGRET AM UNABLE TO BE PERSONALLY PRESENT FOR THIS UNIQUE OCCASION. AT THIS TIME OF THE ANGLO-INDIAN MEET IN LONDON, IT WOULD BE GOOD FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO REMEMBER THEIR BROTHERS AND SISTERS STILL IN INDIA. MANY OF THESE HAVE NOW BECOME SOCIALLY AND ECONOMICALLY DEPRESSED. EFFORTS FOR THE EDUCATION AND UPLIFT OF THE WEAKER SECTIONS OF THE COMMUNITUY ARE BEING MADE BY MANY DEDICATED PERSONS, INCLUDING SISTER MARISA, WHO I UNDERSTAND WILL BE PRESENT FOR THE MEETING. MY GREETINGS FOR A FRUITFUL GET-TOGETHER AND I PRAY THAT GOD'S BLESSINGS MAY REMAIN UPON THE PARTICIPANTS AND THE MEMBERS OF THEIR FAMILIES. CARDINAL PICACHY JOINS ME IN SENDING THIS GREETING." (ARCHBISHOP HENRY D'SOUZA, ARCHBISHOP OF CALCUTTA.)

Time marches on and we continue to plan for the future. However, August took us all back many years to good times we, as growing Anglo-Indians in India, experienced, The bad news is that those times will never come back. The good news is that the community remains a vibrant one all over the world. Our people have that unique characteristic of being able to assimilate in any part of the universe. The bonds of Anglo-Indian friendship have certainly been strengthened by this reunion. Let's continue the good work by stretching our hands further across Canada and across the seas.

Many of our delegates began heading for the U.K. in the early summer months. Their visits had to coincide with family christenings, marriages and other gatherings. The main party of 48 left on Aug.17 from Pearson International airport. If you haven't flown out of this airport recently we have just three words of advice for you - DON'T DO IT ! The chaotic conditions that prevail there are almost indescribable. It's like being mugged in New York city. If you thought boarding a train at Howrah station was an exercise in futility, try this airport out for laughs. We guarantee you'll laugh till you cry. How our party ever got on board on time was a miracle. One of our members who was obliged to use a wheel chair confided she has never before prayed so hard as she watched the departure time draw nearer and nearer while waiting for an airline helper to get her aboard. It seems all our well-meant plans just fell apart. We were not seated together in one section, as we had been promised. In fact just obtaining a seat proved a bonus. There was an unscheduled stop at Prestwick, resulting in a 45 minute delayed landing at Stanstead. We never did get to know why this occured. However, the flight itself was tolerable. They fed us all the way. Supper, followed by a movie, followed by a snack, followed by a wash- up with hot towels, followed by breakfast and 'voila' - "This is your captain speaking. We are now approaching Stanstead airport." Some do recall being able to snatch forty winks. Apparently deciding to land at Stanstead was a smart move on our part. Many of our U.K. friends told us we would have had more frustrating moments had we landed at Heathrow. Whilst some were met by family and friends at Stanstead, others headed for Victoria by coach and now the scene was set for the celebrations

The weather was perfect. The organizers had advised 'doors open at 7 p.m.' Knowing how Anglo-Indians love to 'beat the gun' many of us got there at 6 p.m. only to find two long queues of happy folk lined up and rarin' to go. Actually the celebrations started right there. There were curious and anxious stares exchanged as old friends eyed each other, hesitant to approach in case they were wrong, but as the years fell away the joy of recognition could be heard all over Harrow that lovely summer evening. The nostalgia continued in the cavernous Leisure Centre as 1800 of the faithful jostled for seats and kept meeting old friends. Then the music got under way and all hell broke loose as the floor filled with dancing Anglo- Indian dervishes, dipping and skipping, lunging and prancing. It could have been any of our numerous Railway Institutes back home when fun, laughter and camaraderie was a way of life for us. The music was non-stop, except for the presentation, from the stage, of the Anglo-Indian Social Club of London and the 'Passage from India' Canadian committees. The ladies were presented with bouquets; a lovely gesture. Two of Calcutta's top saxophonists, Percy Mann and Lionel Kingham showed they had not lost their skills as they entertained us with their group, 'Breakaway'. Trevor Taylor, England's answer to Elvis Presley, did his turn with 'The Thunderbirds'. Later the international cabaret duo of Dave Meadows and Jayne Sullivan, with their own dynamic support group, brought the house down. Filling in the breaks was the club's own resident and London's top disco deejay 'Dark Star'. There were raffle draws, the bar was kept busy through the night and the souvenir counter maintained a roaring business. But it was the aura of friendliness that, somehow, provided the over-riding quality of this function. It was not uncommon to witness old friends hugging each other with tears in their eyes. we caroused till the wee hours, leaving reluctantly, but gaining consolation from the fact that we were going to do this again.

This day was reserved for the family. Proceedings got under way with an Ecumenical Service. Fr. John Turner (ex Calcutta) was the celebrant. It was a simple service of thanksgiving, heightened by a message of hope received from the Archbishop of Calcutta. Eric Peters of Toronto, Canada (First Reading), Don Stiffle, England (Second Reading), Deacon Merv Gaynor, Canada (Gospel), Sister Sybil D'Souza, England (Prayers of the Faithful) and a most capable organist and choir, which provided the inspirational music, helped in providing a most meaningful hour of prayer.

The Symposium followed. In keeping with the theme, "The Anglo-Indian Reality - Aspirations and Inspirations" the following speakers formed the panel :- Tony Reghelini of Alberta, Canada (History of the Community), Tom Thurley, England (The way it is), Chairman Dudley Francis, Canada (Help from overseas), Errol D'Rozario, Australia, Vice- President, Australian Anglo-Indian Association (Progress Down Under), Joss Fernandez, MLA Bangalore, India (Reaching Out), Merv Gaynor, Canada, Editor 'Anglo-Indians in Touch' (Hands across the seas), Dawn Fernandez, Australia (The roots of Anglo-India) and Sister Marisa of Calcutta, India (Where there is love). Following the Symposium a cheque of $700 was presented by Sheila Williams, Co-ordinator of the 'Passage from Indiat sub- committee of Canada to Sister Marisa on behalf of the Canadian continqent.

The social which followed clearly indicated the enthusiasm of the previous nights function had indeed spilled over. The presence of the young children and young adults and the staging of some amusing (not to mention wild and wacky) competitions maintained the warm and relaxed atmosphere. There was a waltz competition, a rock 'n roll competition, a disco dance competition, a 'knobbly knees' competition for gents and the selections for 'The Most Glamorous Granny and 'Miss World A-I 1989'. Music was provided by the Mann-Kingham Quintette and Disco Deejay 'Dark Star' backing up contestants in a highly competitive talent contest. Books by Anglo-Indian authors were on sale and the rather limited supply disappeared quickly. But all good things must come to an end and soon the crowd was tearfully singing Auld Lang Syne to conclude the Harrow celebrations. There was hardly a dry eye in the house.

A week prior to this event the disastrous collision between a cargo vessel and a pleasure cruise boat on the Thames heightened the possibility of cancellation of the trip. However, bearing the traditional 'stiff upper lip' concept, the English authorities decided on 'business as usual'. The event was a sell-out. The Canadian party, once they got the food situation straightened out, had an enjoyable time. A bonus for all passengers was the grand fireworks display at sundown in celebration of the English National holiday.

Following the celebrations, A-I Canadians fanned out across the country visiting relations and friends. Some visited Ireland-, Scotland and Wales. Others ventured overseas on guided tours to the Holy Land and Lourdes, France. Return flights to Canada were staggered, some staying for two weeks, others for three or more. We have since received many phone calls from subscribers thanking us for an enjoyable occasion. In fairness we did receive the odd complaints about the flight, the food, the loud music, which, whilst we may even agree with, has to be expected in a venture of such magnitude. It merely proves that old adage 'you can't win 'em all'. We gratefully accept the efforts of our hosts, the Anglo-Indian Social Club of London, England for the hard work put in on the occasion of our first-ever A-I reunion. During our stay we were blessed with the most fantastic weather - at least in the Southern regions. There were absolutely no complaints in this regard. Reunion 1 is now history. It was a unique experience and we hope to repeat it soon - in Canada, no less.

A small boy, sitting on his grandfather's knee, noticed that Grandpa had a red mark on each side of his nose. After observing it for some time, he asked, "what gave you those red marks on your nose, Gramps?" "Glasses", was the reply. After further reflection the little boy said, "glasses of what?".

As expected, this week-end was a huge success and beyond expectations. Visitors from Australia, India, many from Canada (approx. 200), Switzerland, Canaries, Scotland, from all corners of England and Wales came together and we were sold out weeks in advance for all three days of festivities.

Saturday night was a typical A-I dance we all remember from sunset to early hours, a truly nostalgic night with our ever-popular Jayne Sullivan and Dave Meadows and to complete the musical round-up our resident and favourite disco deejay - Dark Star. The night wasn't long enough for emotional meeting of old pals, making new ones from around the world and a hair-raising time was had by all. Two top A-I personalities we had among us, all the way from Calcutta, Sister Marisa who came to make her appeal on behalf of the less well-off A-I's to whom she has devoted her life to help educate old and young and guide them into a new way of life. Her appeal was not in vain as she was presented with cheques of $700 and 8580 from the Canadian contingent and our own A-I London Social Club respectively. She was overwhelmed with our generosity.

Sunday 27th was our Family Day Show and we started with a lovely Ecumenical Service conducted by our own Fr. John Turner and a beautiful choir from the audience led by Avril Dique and organist Carmen Wilkinson.

This was followed by a seminar with an international panel chaired by Dudley Francis of Canada. Eight speakers - Merv Gaynor and Anthony Reghelini (Canada), Dawn Fernandez and Errol D'Rozario (Australia), Joss Fernandez and Sister Marisa (India) and Tom Thurley (U.K.). The topics were superbly put across by the speakers but unfortunately some of them were drowned out due to the noise level of chatting as well as the poor acoustics and sound system. The seminar was followed by a social.

Non-stop music and competitions for old and young, with winners and runners-up receiving magnificent trophies added to another most enjoyable function, concluding with 'Auld Lang Syne' and 'We'll meet again' around 11 p.m. The object of the reunion was the getting together and meeting of old friends, school mates and neighbours and we feel this was acomplished by the numerous phone calls and letters we received thanking and congratulating us on a very successful week-end. We apologise if any of your friends or relations were unable to obtain tickets but numbers for these functions are controlled by law.

We do need to apologise though for catering running short, but the caterers, on Saturday especially, were overcome by sheer volume of demand. They had three separate consignments of food delivered from their shop in Southall and still ran out. More time to prepare a fourth consignment was still not sufficient to meet the demand. It has never happened with this supplier before but this event was exceptional and it was extremely difficult to anticipate such a demand.

The boat trip on Monday was also a sell-out and turned out to be a very interesting cruise after sorting out an initial food problem. The highlight of the trip undoubtedly was a superb fireworks display at Tower Bridge on the return journey. The occasion was the Mayor's 800th Anniversary and it was enjoyed by overseas visitors and home crowd alike. We sincerely hope our overseas visitors took home treasured memories of the August we-ek-end 1989. We would finally like to thank all concerned who helped in any way to make the week-end sc enjoyable and a most unique occasion.

(Courtesy Anglo-Indian Social Club, London, England - Christmas brochure)

A doctor called his patient to give him the results of his tests. "I have some bad news for you and some worse news," said the doctor. "The bad news is that you only have twenty four hours to live."
"Oh, no" said the patient, "what could possibly be worse than that?"
The doctor answered, "I've been trying to reach you since yesterday".

The Australian Anglo-Indian Association continues to bring the community together in a spirit of friendship and goodwill. Apart from the excellent efforts to help the less-fortunate members of the community' left behind, they stand out as a rallying body for all A-I's in that country. Their recently-adopted motto "Persistently Positive and Constantly Alive" tells it all. Denzil Bruce, their President is ably backed by Stan Gibbs (Sr. Vice-President), Errol D'Rozario (Vice-President), Monica Snell (Secretary), Michael Andrews (Asst. Secy.), John Gaspar (Asst. Treasurer) and Noel Daniel, Derek D'Cruz, Pam Earthy, Hardy Nobel, Cornel White and Joy Gaspar (members).

(A report by Vice-President Errol D'Rozario on "The International A-I & friends reunion 1989" 26/27 Auqust, Harrow, Middlesex. Enqland).

They came from all over the world, from Europe, Asia, America and Australia. Anglo- Indians in throngs, excited, animated and full of enthusiasm at the prospect of a major reunion. It was a momentous and historic occasion when on Saturday, August 26, 1989 about 2000 people jammed the Harrow Leisure Centre, each and everyone of them proud to say that he or she was an Anqlo-Indian.

More than four decades of immigration from India had not cast adrift the tremendous spirit of bon-homie and goodwill which once "trademarked" the Anglo-Indian's love and respect for one of his kind. It was as if this multitude of 2000 were hungry to reflect on their roots, savour the familiarity of their own particular culture and to re-affirm their identity as a race proud of its history and heritage.

To me it was a heart-warming experience to see so many of my own congregated at the Harrow Leisure Centre. Under huge signposts that read 'Calcutta', 'Delhi', 'Bombay', 'Madras', Jabalpore' etc. gathered big groups of excited people hugging and embracing others, many of whom they had not seen for decades.

There was a Canadian contingent, a group from the States, people who had travelled all the way from India and of course, a few of us 'Aussies'.

The reunion featured an impressive programme which commenced with a traditional Anglo-Indian dance on Saturday, August 26. To the rhythm and beat of Anglo-Indian bands, the huge audience either danced or reminisced or drank to one another's health. Throughout the night regular announcements were made such as "Robert so-and-so was in St. Vincent's, Asansol in 1954. He now lives in Canada and would like to meet other St. Vincent students who might be here." Such announcements were often followed by loud salutations and hurrahs and you knew that someone had been sucessful in his or her quest.

Any non-Anglo-Indian who might have visited the Harrow Leisure Centre that night would surely have said, "here are people who know the true meaning of enjoyment."

It was noteworthy that at the dance several literary documents on Anglo- Indians and their history were on display; also on hand were newsletters of the different Anglo-Indian Associations and groups from all over the world. It made me proud to see our own Association newsletter hold a position of prominence among the literature on display. Many questions were asked about the well-being of our community in Australia; about our quality of life; about our future and what it held for us. Be assured that we are the envy of people residing elsewhere in the world.

The next day, Sunday, August 27, saw the crowds again return to fill the Centre and celebrate. The interest was a Symposium titled "The Anglo-Indian Reality - Aspirations and Inspirations." Although proceedings were somewhat muted by the noise and camaraderie of people enjoying themselves, some interesting papers and observations were made by the speakers. The common thread throughout the discussions was a cause of concern at the plight of some of our less-fortunate brothers and sisters in India. Several of the overseas Anglo-Indian groups and organisations have identified with particular projects and are contributing generously but it was obvious that much more needs to be done.

One important speaker was Sister Marisa from Calcutta who outlined the tremendous work she is doing for young Anglo-Indians by educating them and teaching them the fundamentals of self-determination and self-pride. Another interesting, and no less important, speaker was Joss Fernandez an MLA from Karnataka State. Joss has been instrumental, through a special Act of Parliament, in getting the Karnataka State Government to recognise Anglo-Indians as a minority group and to accord Anglo- Indian students fully rebated tertiary education in that state. The Symposium reached some important conclusions :

: that we should set-up a process to exchange information between organisations throughout the world;

: that we should highlight the achievements of those of our community who receive citations and accolades for outstanding efforts in any field of endeavour:

: that we should teach our children Anglo-Indian history (when one considers the fact that our fathers and fore-fathers were the prime executors of the British administration, law and order and civilian life in India. we have a lot to be proud about;

:that-another reunion should be held, this time preferably in India.

To me, having the opportunity to be in the U.K. at the time of the reunion was a bonus. It was a tremendous experience that I would not have missed. Linda Daniels of Canada and her committee deserve much praise for putting together and implementing such an ambitious programme. The Anglo-Indian (London) Social Club, especially George Hillier who worked tirelessly, deserve plaudits and congratulations. It was a major event for us as a community and a people. On an international scale we have started a movement; we must now make sure that it gains momentum and attains success

(Courtesy: Australian Anglo-Indian newsletter: Oct.'89. Vol.I, Issue #4).

A worm comes up from a hole in the ground and sees another worm sticking out of a hole in the ground nearby. The worm says, "Hey cutie, how about a date?"
The other worm says "wassa matter with you? You crazy or somethin'? I'm your other end."

Nature goes berserk at this time of the year in Canada. The countryside comes alive in a riot of colours as the maple leaves take on subtle shades of green, orange, yellow and purple. The late Walt Disney whilst on a flight over the areas filming scenes for one of his famous documentaries, exclaimed reverently, "This, my friends, is Rainbow Country."

Christmas festivities are now being planned. Details on the 'Children's Christmas Tree and Treatt on December 17 and our annual New Year's eve dance have already been advised to subscribers. Some tickets for the latter function may be available yet. Like our counterparts in the U.K. we too are restricted by law and cannot sell more than the hall capacity determined under the Fire Prevention Act of Ontario. In short, it's first come, first served and once they're gone - they're qone.

ALTHEA, daughter of Mrs. Anne Harris and GEORGE MANNOOCH, who tied the knot on May 20, '89 at the Church of the Annunciation, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada.

CORRINE, daughter of Brian & Phyllis Locker (Toronto and Vepery, Madras) and VINCENT LEROUX on Sept. 23, '89 at St. Benedict's Church, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada.

SERENA SOARES and RANDY RAY RUSSELL, on Oct. 14, '89 at Mt. Zion Church, Redwood City, California. U.S A.

Love and God's blessings go out to :- LIONEL & CYNTHIA GOUGH of Toronto, Canada, who celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary on April 29, '89 with friends and relations at the Canorient Christian Association hall in Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada.

To NEVILLE & VIDA WELSH of Toronto who celebrated their 45th Wedding Anniversary on January 14, '89.

To SENNEN & MAUDE HICKMAN of Toronto - a Golden Wedding Anniversary celebration on June 28, '89. This lovely couple took the familiar walk up the aisle at St. Basil's Church and then whooped it up at a surprise party thrown by the children at Fantasy Farm.

To DEBRA HUGHES of Toronto, for winning the "Rate the Greats" AM 1430 radio contest. Debra gets an all-paid VIP trip for two to Dunedin, Florida in March '90 to watch the Jays in pre-season action.

DENZIL & AUDREY WRIGHT wish to trace their cousins JOHNNY & HENZA PHILLIPS (nee Rozario) formerly of Calcutta and Shalimar, West Bengal. The couple settled in Scotland in the 60's. Information on their whereabouts may please be directed to Denzil at 324 Eldorado Ave., Pointe Claire, Quebec, Canada, H9R 3H2.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of ROBERT DAMERUM (ex Calcutta) please intimate the Editor, AIIT, 113 John Street, Weston, Ont., M9N lJ9, Canada.

Can you help 86 year old ELSIE MAY CHATER of England who has been trying, for many years, to locate her son BRENTON WARBECK CHATER? Born in Agra, Brenton was a Flying Officer in the I.A.F. (IND.23482). He saw service in Delhi, Kashmir and Burma. AHQ, New Delhi confirm he was released from the Air Force in June 1946 but cannot provide further information as his files have since been destroyed. Please write ROSE NYE, 38 Sidewood Road, New Eltham, London, SE9 2HA, England.

AIIT would also appreciate any information on the whereabouts of BILL (WILLIAM) FRANKS or FRANCISCO, born in Calcutta (ex army during the war). Father's name was ROMAN FRANCISCO. Also MERVYS FRANCISCO, son of ELINO FRANCISCO & GIRLIE (nee EVANGELISTA). Mervyn was a top drummer in calcutta.

"THE ANGLO-INDIAN VISION" by Gloria Jean Moore of Australia. Available from the Editor, AIIT. $ 15 per copy, plus postage where applicable.

"THE ANGLO-INDIAN COMMUNITY - SURVIVAL IN INDIA" by Dr. Evelyn Abel of Montreal Canada. Consignment on its way from U.S.A. Details from Editor.

"THE LOTUS & THE ROSE" by Gloria Jean Moore. Write River Seine Publications, 5/35 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.

"THE ANGLO-INDIANS IN BRITAIN" by Ann Lobo. Write c/o 8 Rodcot Close, Woodley, Reading, Berkshire - RG5 3BG, England.

REUNION REFLECTIONS - Raw emotions. Hugs and tears of joy as two brothers meet after an absence of 45 years. A special reunion for Kathleen Francis (nee Tinley) who met, after 40 years, several school friends from Coonoor Convent. These Anglo-Indian nuns, of the Order of St. Joseph of Tarbes, immigrated to Wolverhampton in 1957 and have established a Convent and Primary School. Echoe6 of the reunion filtered through the convent walls of this retreat tucked away in the Midlands.

Wishing you all Happy Holidays.

ANGLO-INDIANS IN TOUCH

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