A Report on the 2015 DRGS Toronto Reunion

The Golf Tournament

Clive Ferrao: King of the Greens by Norman DaCosta

As one would expect the Dr. Ribeiro Goan School golf tournament was a huge success yet again. What was unexpected though was that Remy Diniz’s long reign as undisputed champion of the links came to an abrupt end.

On a day filled with brilliant sunshine 28 golfers teed off for the Seby Gomes Trophy at Piper’s Heath Golf Club in Milton, a challenging course that offers fast and tough greens and fescue that’s almost impossible to chip your way out.

But Clive Ferrao, showing glimpses of a Jason Day, conquered what Piper’s threw at him to take home the trophy with a brilliant 84. Ferrao could not stop smiling after his victory over none other than Diniz who finished on 87 for the runner’s-up award.

Young Terry Pinto better known as a musician, won his first-ever sports trophy for handing in a card that would make most golfers blush. Pinto won the award for the “Most Honest” golfer and he fully deserved it.

This year the trophy for the longest drive was honorably retired since Vince Pereira had won it for several years in a row. It wasn't for the distance achieved with his driver but for his 65-kilometre journey from Newmarket.

The tournament was organized by Trevor Remedios who received tremendous help from Norman Da Costa, Remy Diniz and Louis Gomes. Louis helped promote the event on the popular Monday Golfers' website.

And Denis Pereira did an outstanding job in coordinating the event and getting us a special deal with Piper’s. Denis deserves a huge thank you from all those who competed for making sure everything went off smoothly.

The players were treated to boxed lunches and jugs of beer at the 19th hole and all are looking forward to returning three years from now hoping to relieve Clive of his crown. But he isn't going to give it away without a fight.

Reunion Meet & Greet, Sept. 10, 2015

The success of the morning’s Golf Tournament seemed to segue into the success of the Reunion Meet and Greet on the evening of September 10, 2015. Ex-students started to show up at the St. James Gate Irish Pub at around 7:00 pm and a lively get-together ensued with old friends reacquainting with each other or meeting forgotten classmates for the first time. Of special note was the appearance of Fr. Ayres Fernandes from Bangalore, India, who happily caught up with his old, but not forgotten class of 67 mates. Also of note was the presence of Melba Quiterio nee Fernandes and Dr. Alex Fernandes from Goa. Many others included Alivira & Donald Almeida and Eulog Braganza from England, Michael Fernandes from Australia, Caz Joanes, Matilda & John Fernandes and Feliz & Loretta Fernandes, Merwin DeSouza from the United States, Edda & Richard Calderia, Maria & Austin DeSouza, Newton DeSouza, Antoinette Myles, all from various out-of-town Canadian Provinces, were all on hand. It was truly amazing that so many alumni made the journey to join us at this Reunion.

The St. James Gate Pub management had set aside a private room with adjoining balcony for the overflow. Two very hospitable and obliging wait-staff were assigned to our area and drinks flowed freely and with much efficiency. Delicious platters of finger foods were set out, compliments of the Reunion Committee, and a pleasurable evening of familiar banter and bonhomie was had by all.

The joyous meeting and reacquainting of old friends and classmates went on until closing time with folks continuing to arrive well into the evening.

A special thanks to all who came out to make the night’s festivities memorable. We take this opportunity to thank all the photographers, who have so capably recorded the evening for us.

Niagara Falls Wine-Tasting & Bus Trip, Sept. 11, 2015

The dampness in the air and a light drizzle in the early morning hours didn’t bode well for the Niagara Falls & Wine Tasting bus trip on September 11th, 2015, part of the 13th Reunion festivities. Undaunted by the uncertain weather, however, participants started to turn up at the Tim Horton’s pick up point in Mississauga. Fermina Remedios, Committee member and Trip Coordinator was kept busy checking off attendance and handing out lanyards complete with the DRGS logo and participant names. This small attention to detail certainly kicked-off what turned out to be a spectacular outing. By the time the bus arrived in the West End, after picking up 6 ex-students from the Scarborough Town Centre location, all attendees were in a very jolly mood and looking forward to a day of fun.

As the bus took off towards Niagara Falls, Fermina led a short prayer for a safe and successful journey. Bus driver Jason proved to be very accommodating and informative and surrounded by much laughter and levity, we arrived at our first stop, The Magnotta Winery, in short time. There were miniature glasses of their signature white and red wines available for tasting which appeared to be very pleasing, judging by the number of bottles purchased by some very knowing palettes.

Next stop Niagara-on-the-Lake where Fermina distributed very delicious and ample boxed lunches. Ex-students browsed through the quaint village enjoying and sampling the wares offered in the stores. Soon it was time to get back on the bus and make our way to the Niagara Casino situated at the escarpment of the Falls on the Canadian side. A $10.00 complimentary voucher was handed out to each ex-student for use in the Casino and while many enjoyed the excitement of the Casino, others took in the mighty, surging cascade of the world famous Niagara Falls.

Soon it was time to re-board the bus and head home. The return journey was accomplished in relatively short time due to the bingo session and sing-along that ensued. Kudos to Fermina, for organizing a superb and memorable trip.

The Memorial Mass and Reunion Gala, Sept. 13, 2015

.....an afternoon to remember by Raymond DeMello

We did it our way.....and in a way that would strike awe in most! The success of the main event at the Renaissance Hall in Mississauga, Ontario spoke to the outstanding dedication and organization skills of the Reunion Committee. Our predecessors who were instrumental in handing this legacy to us must surely be smiling down on us with favour as we collectively continue to perpetuate their tremendous vision.

The celebration commenced with Holy Mass, dedicated to all our deceased Brothers and Sisters of the school, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Ayres Fernandes, Class of '67, who graciously made time for us and travelled from Goa/Delhi to be with us, despite his rigorous schedule as National Secretary, CCBI. Our grateful thanks to Fr. Ayres.

The precursor to the Mass impressively showcased our four “Houses” as Roque Barreto, Tony Fernandes, Vivien Fernandes and Norman Da Costa proudly served as House Flag Bearers, followed by Joan DoRosario who solemnly carried the statue of St. Joseph, our patron saint, and Merwin D’Souza followed, bearing an artistically designed portfolio containing a list of our beloved deceased. In the background the fabulous choir complemented this joyous beginning with the opening hymn, “City of God.”

The Readings were effectively carried out by Alvira Almeida (U.K.), Arthur Braganza (Canada), Melba Quiterio (Goa) and Delfine da Costa (Canada). Clive Ferrao served as the Eucharistic Minister and Fermina Remedios and Raymond Ferrao carried the offertory gifts. The theme of the homily centered around our ability to keep the faith and also perform good deeds. It is my opinion that we as a community have strived very hard indeed to live up to these goals and do a little bit more, our own peccadilloes notwithstanding. If there is one element in our lives that we truly cherish and are fiercely proud of, it is our Catholicism which has always served as the bedrock of our very being.

Fr. Ayres ended his thought provoking and insightful sermon with an interesting anecdote about a man who was prematurely summoned by the Lord, and met him with only a suitcase. The man was eager to find out what lay in the suitcase: His worldly possessions? His Family? His Friends? To his surprise, an empty suitcase! The Lord explained to the man : “You came with nothing and you leave with nothing!” Fr. Ayres very clearly made the point that we must always be prepared and most of all, follow the Golden Rule by being good and doing good, but above all, Fr. Ayres exhorted us to love life and live in the moment. Truly practical spirituality.

There are almost no words that can adequately describe the absolutely superb renditions of the choir. The masterful choral combinations and the distinct Goan flavour of the finished product must in no small way be attributed to the soulful strains of Pedro Nazare’s Mandolin, and the other musicians. Special mention of the Choir’s unique interpretation of Bwana U Sehemu Yangu is certainly in order; despite the challenge of some choir members unfamiliarity with Swahili and the hymn itself, the listener was nonetheless left in a trance like state..... such was quality of the enunciation, singing and musical accompaniment. Similarly, the Konkani hymn Jezu Mhojea Deva was simultaneously hypnotic and mesmerizing, all the while pulling at the Goan heart strings! None of this could have happened without the skillful tutelage and direction of brilliantly talented Dr. Lucina Pinto. Congratulations on a job well done.

A poignant moment at the end of the spiritual celebration was the special blessing conferred on Rosalia and Arthur Da Costa. What is special is that Rosalia is the daughter of our community’s benefactor, Dr. Ribeiro, and equally special was the presence of her daughter Cathy Pereira and her husband Ken. I hope I am not speaking out of turn when I confide that their silent global altruism is not generally known. We could not have hoped for more!

As the Mass drew to a close, it almost seemed, for the men at any rate, that their newfound spirituality proved to be somewhat overwhelming, as they hastily found their way to the bar for a ‘cold one!’ “Heineken” seemed to be the beer of choice! This was the moment that saw a great deal of affection between friends, interspersed with wild laughter and banter. This struck me as being the “Goan School” at its best. No boundaries whatsoever, as several groups took shape, comprising ex students from different classes/grades, interfacing quite easily.

Soon it was time for the committee spokesperson to address and welcome the alumni. Joan, looking trim and beautiful outlined very eloquently the various facets of the committee’s tenure, and went on to praise the commitment, dedication and team effort of the reunion cadre. As she so rightly pointed out, she was very privileged to have worked with such a wonderful group of individuals. There can be no doubt that they exemplified teamwork as it should be, and for this they deserve our unreserved recognition and praise. Let us now resolve to assist Errol Ferrao, Class of '68, in every way possible as he assumes the role of the new President.

Roque Barreto then recited the Grace, and without much delay lunch was served, which was just as well, because, as even most seasoned drinkers will attest to, an empty stomach and alcohol can sometimes be an uncomfortable mix! The buffet style meal was elegantly laid out and clearly the management spared no effort with respect to the quality or quantity of food and desserts. From my perspective my vote goes to the succulent and well ‘gravied’ beef slices and the stuffed chicken. The salad selection was quite spectacular as were the pastries and cakes. The fruit table spread was dazzling and indisputably delectable! One was almost unable to decide where to start first! Kudos to the organizing committee for their choice of venue.

Our culinary requirements well and truly met, and of course not to mention (and I won’t !??) our well lubricated system, it was time to party.....and the band played on ! “Bigfoot’ did not disappoint! Churning out our favourite songs as they did, created a festive mood that was animated and alive! Some of their memorable renditions that come to mind are their instrumental version of “Never on a Sunday” and The Shadows “Guitar Tango” to which Bernard and his lovely Juliana were able to showcase their Tango prowess. And yes....how could we possibly forget Roland and his beautiful Ella jiving! Roland Almeida and his lovely wife Cathy were clearly not going to be outdone, as they danced the evening away with graceful elegance and fancy footwork! “Bigfoot” was a real crowd pleaser : their repertoire was wide ranging and matched the moment. What stands out in my mind was their female crooner Barbara’s rendition of the famous jazz standard “At Last” and the band’s medley of Beatle hits. Their Konkani songs were superb and certainly brought out ‘The Goan’ in all of us.....especially “Claudia” and the always popular folk song “Ya Ya Maya Ya.”

Besides providing unequalled entertainment, the band encouraged some of our musicians to get on stage and strut their stuff! Henry Braganza enraptured the crowd with his “Jim Reeves style” as he ‘baritoned’ his way through “He’ll have to go.” Well applauded as he took the stage, this song earned him another round of applause as he began the opening lines! His version of “Spanish Eyes” was just as enthusiastically received. Our very own Terry Pinto accompanied Henry on the keyboards, and also had the opportunity to ‘do his thing’ as the band belted out “Flip Flop and Fly.” Our thanks to “Bigfoot” for their outstanding entertainment and their generosity of spirit.

As the afternoon approached evening several very nice gifts were raffled off, with Dr. Lucina taking charge, very ably I might add. In between all this activity, the various classes took time to have group pictures taken in the lobby. Thank you Romeo De Souza.

I would like to, on behalf of our entire fraternity, thank Melba Quiterio for coming all the way from Goa with her dear brother, Rev. Fr. Ayres Fernandes to be with us. Most of all beautiful Melba, our grateful thanks for being our ‘go to’ person in Goa, and for orchestrating the 2013 Goa DRGS Alumni Memorial Mass and again leading the effort with Mervyn Ticlo to organize another Alumni Memorial Mass scheduled for January 26, 2016, at the Basilica de Bom Jesus, Old Goa. Melba. we are in your debt. (Alumni please note: if you are travelling to Goa during this time and plan on attending the Mass, kindly let Melba know via the Goa Memorial Mass webpage).

Finally, a massive and humble word of thanks to our unsung hero Merwin D’Souza who without any expectation or fanfare has electronically connected us all...and made it happen. His valued input and innovative and forward thinking has always kept us one step ahead...and well connected. Also thank you lovely Carol for sharing your Merwin with us.

May God bless you, your wonderful family and the entire “Goan School” family.

Message from the Organizing Committee

Reunion 2015, Toronto

This message comes on the heels of a very successful reunion celebration. From the Golf Tournament to the Memorial Mass and Gala, we are pleased to announce that every event was very well received and enjoyed by all. It is an indisputable fact, however, that the success of any event lies mainly with its participants and to that end, we would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to join us at any and/or all of our 4-day events.

We would like to express our very special thanks to talented and hardworking photographer, Romeo D’Souza, class-of-61, who went over and above to ensure that all facets of our events were duly recorded, most especially our Memorial Mass/Gala event. As you can see in the appropriate “photo” section of this website, the pictorial log of our events is outstanding.

A special commendation goes to the Choir par excellence! Not a single attendee was untouched by the beautiful voices of our singers directed by Dr. Pinto and accompanied by very talented musicians. A big shout-out goes to all the choir members/musicians who gave up their time to attend practices and produce such a wonderful accompaniment to the Mass. Also, in order is much gratitude to Fr. Ayres Fernandes who made the long journey from Bangalore, India, to officiate and make our Mass truly memorable.

We take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to our sponsors for enabling a most successful event. Of special mention for their monetary contributions are: The Joanes Family & Cicely & Jonas Noronha for their sponsorship of the Mass booklets. Towards the facilitation of the main event are Edgar DeSouza of DeSouza Financial, Emano Moniz of the Investors Group, Clair Gardens Pharmacy, Lewis/Antoinette DeSouza of Visit Africa Safaris, Table #5 including T. Walker, The Costa Birs from Sydney Australia, B. Carvalho and Dr. Joe Braganza for his donation towards the Dr. Ribeiro Parklands School.

In addition, a very special mention to all our raffle donors who made it possible for us to achieve an optimum raffle draw with an abundance of attractive prizes. The raffle tables, a work of art artistically designed and set out to great advantage by Hema Pereira, were laden with exciting and lavish gifts.

We are indebted to all who assisted us by investing their time and talent, and to the donors and the sponsors for their kind generosity, towards making our Reunion a success.

Sincerely,

The 2015 Reunion Committee:

Joan & Clement doRosario,

Godfrey & Lucina Pinto, Raymond & Sara Ferrao, Trevor & Fermina Remedios and Merwin & Carol D'Souza

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