The Magazine for Retired Aramcons ISSUE 09 AUTUMN/WINTER 2014
OUR LAST REUNION!
At long last the fifth Ukaramcons Reunion is here
ASHEVILLE REUNION PLANNING ALL THE FUN OF A NATURALIST'S CONTINUES FOR THE THE FAIR DIARY Nearly 360 retirees and family members turned out for the 29th 2015 REUNION Our thriving community As winter bites, Colin Knight biannual Saudi Aramco Annuitants The Reunion Organizing has threads which link us likes to look back and remind Reunion. Committee has been making to its past through unique himself what fun he has had preparations... traditions... in the natural world. IN THIS ISSUE: Cover photo Intro | Message from the MD 5th UKaramcons Reunion, September 11, 2014 Message from the MD
So far, so good...
Fellow Aramcons,
After more than seven months in my role here at AOC, I now feel like I have my feet well and truly under the table. As Managing Director, I can appreciate just how important a role our offices play outside of the Kingdom and how relations are maintained with former Aramco colleagues.
I know that 2014 has proved a busy one on the reunion front, on both sides of the Atlantic. This year’s Ukaramcons reunion was particularly special, as it was the fifth and final occasion that Tom Henderson and his wife Eileen acted as hosts.
I would like to personally thank them for their efforts over the years; these past reunions would not have been as successful without their valuable time and input. Also, a warm welcome to our new hosts Jim and Veronica Anderson and Michael and Sue Higgins, who I would like to thank in advance for the support they will be providing.
It is particularly heartwarming to have such dedicated former employees who continue contributing to Aramco and underline why we describe employees as part of our ‘family’. Your efforts will always be acknowledged and appreciated.
2014 has been a unique year in many ways, though similar to many others, as the Aramco Alaela (Family) is produced for annuitants, families and business continues on its quest to being the biggest and brightest energy company globally. friends of Saudi Aramco and Aramco Overseas Company Reaching this target has been the result of years of hard work and endevour by employees (AOC) as well as its associated companies by AOC B.V. past, present and future. Indeed, your time working for Aramco remains a valuable component of this journey. Managing Director Fahad Al Abdulkareem Head of Public Relations Fahad Toryf I hope that you enjoyed yourselves over the festive period and I wish you the best Editor Kimberly Groat of luck for 2015… Assistant Editor Edward White Design Dhub Fahad Al Abdulkareem Contributors Muazzin Mehrban, Adil A. Al-Sadiq, Managing Director, AOC Martin Wingrove, Eileen & Tom Henderson, Donna Morris, Arthur Clark, Julianne Eveland, Alison Hooker, Colin Knight, Jessica Weirmier
For those who prefer a digital format, Alaela can be read online at our corporate website: www.aramcooverseas.com. Meanwhile,your comments and suggestions are welcome, which should be sent to [email protected]
Address correspondence to: The Editor, Alaela Aramco Overseas Company UK Ltd. 10 Portman Square London W1H 6AZ
NB: Autumn/Winter 2014 ISSN 2044-4982ISSN 2044-4982
2 1 Intro | Japan - the Gateway to Asia
Contents Japan - the Gateway to Asia Intro 1. Message from the MD Fahad Al Abdulkareem An eye on Saudi Aramco’s projects in “the Land of the Rising Sun” 3. Japan - the Gateway to Asia An eye on Saudi Aramco’s projects in “the Land of the Rising Sun.” Words Adil A. Al-Sadiq
8. Saudi Aramco's Architectural Innovation in Saudi Arabia Maybe not so many people realise that the company’s company’s vision of becoming a key source of energy and chemicals in achievements aren’t limited to facilities for the production 1 and processing of oil and gas. 10 the Far East, helping to achieve its strategic intent of becoming a leading global and integrated energy and chemicals company by 2020 — the goal of the Accelerated Transformation Program (ATP). Features 10. Our Last Reunion! At long last the fifth Ukaramcons Reunion is here… York Currently, the Kingdom exports 1 million barrels per day of crude oil here we come! Every reunion has been slightly different – will this one be as good as the last? to Japan, or 30 percent of Japan’s total crude oil imports — and Saudi 15. Friendships Revisited Aramco’s business in Japan is growing enormously. Since December Donna Morris reminisces about attending her first UK 2010, the company has used a site for commercial crude oil storage in the Aramco reunion in York. island of Okinawa. The total capacity of the leased crude oil tanks is 16. Annuitants Celebrate ‘Wonderful Years’ in 6.3 million barrels. Mountain Reunion Nearly 360 retirees and family members turned out for 22 Aramco Asia-Japan: a lever for energy projects the 29th biannual Saudi Aramco Annuitants Reunion, in Asheville, N.C., Sept. 5-8, refreshing memories and rekindling friendships at the classic 101-year-old Omni Asia is a major market for Saudi Aramco’s crude oil and petroleum Park Grove Hotel. products and is also one of the main destinations of Saudi Aramco’s 22. Planning Continues for the "Welcome Home!" for sales, establishing another important role for the AAJ office: making it a 2015 Expats Reunion in Saudi Arabia lever for Saudi Aramco projects in the country. Dhahran – In the spring edition of Alaela we announced that planning was well under way for the highly In recent years, steady growth has made East Asian markets the main anticipated 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion to be held in marketing outlet for Saudi Aramco’s petroleum products. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia March 9th– 20th, 2015. East Asia is one of the most important suppliers of operational materials 26. All the Fun of the Fair! and services to Saudi Aramco, contributing to the development of the Any thriving community has threads which inextricably link its past to its present through the development of 26 Saudi economy and supporting economic growth throughout the Asian particular and unique traditions, and Saudi Aramco is no region. exception. 32. A Naturalist's Diary Previously, two Saudi Aramco subsidiaries, AOC and Saudi Petroleum As winter starts to bite Colin Knight likes to look back Ltd., did business in Japan. The establishment of Aramco Asia over the year and remind himself what fun he has had in merged these subsidiaries into AAJ, a step that came with a variety of the natural world. challenges. 37. Happy New Year A new year's greeting from Fahad Al Abdulkareem. Though it may be new, AAJ has achieved a number of breakthroughs in 38. Welcome to Salalah! growth and expansion. Regional partners welcomed the launch of AAJ,
Located on the Southwestern-most tip of Oman in the with the launch decision described as "timely and crucial" to provide Dhofar region, Salalah welcomes visitors with Hawaii- like breezes blowing through coconut and banana 32 more opportunities for the Kingdom and the Far East, as well as for Saudi plantations. TOKYO — The value of work is deeply rooted in Aramco and local companies. 40. In Memorium Japanese culture. Whatever difficulties they face, it is a Remembering Ian MacLeod and Rosemary Nelson. dedication to hard work that has pointed to success for On July 13, 2012, Khalid Al-Buainain, senior vice president of Technical 41. Capture the Moment centuries in the island nation. Services (who was then Saudi Aramco’s senior vice president of Aramco's trailblazers delivering supplies. Downstream), opened the offices of AAJ at a gathering of 300 guests in That work ethic has paved the way for an economic cooperation between Tokyo. Saudi Arabia and Japan, but the relationship between the two countries has gone beyond mere trade; it is a bond between a developing country “The establishment of this company is a testimony to Saudi Aramco’s and an industrial giant in search of markets and sources of energy. firm commitment to the Japanese market,” said Al-Buainain.
38 Saudi Aramco has played a key role in providing Japan with the energy “The newly established company is based on the long term and strong it has needed to become one of the world’s major industrialized nations. relationship between the two countries. The scope and focus of the The partnership between the company and Japan goes back more than company will go beyond oil trading and procurement to include other three decades. areas, such as research and development, and taking advantage of mutual investments in new technology and the Capital Power Initiative, Recently, that partnership has grown. In 2012, Saudi Aramco’s launched which was recently launched to support the energy industry.” Aramco Asia-Japan (AAJ) as part of a new phase in the realisation of the
2 3 Intro | Japan - the Gateway to Asia Intro | Japan - the Gateway to Asia
Deepening Saudi Aramco’s presence The Kingdom exports a total of 1.2 million barrels of crude oil per day to constructive meetings with the competent authorities,” says Al- Japan and Taiwan, which also falls within the responsibilities of AAJ. Khunaini. “We are always searching for new “As part of expanding our business on a global scale, Saudi Aramco’s Although Saudi Aramco’s initial presence in Japan was mainly for the subsidiaries all over the world are offering a wide range of services, sale of crude oil, the company’s portfolio is expanding, especially at a “There is no doubt that Eastern Asia has a promising economic future, advanced technologies that serve Saudi including marketing of crude oil, natural gas liquids and chemicals, as time when Saudi Aramco is moving toward development and change and we are betting on our students who are getting their degrees there Aramco’s operations, and we then find well as coordination of joint ventures, procurement, inspection, research through the application of the ATP initiatives. and who will take over leadership positions in the company and its and development, project management, development of human resources, subsidiaries worldwide. Current numbers support our vision and views ways to transfer such technologies to public and government relations, and communications,” Ahmed Al- “We are always searching for new advanced technologies that serve on East Asian countries and India, where there is an economic boom.” the Kingdom to support the company’s Subaey, executive director of Marketing, Supply and Joint Venture Saudi Aramco’s operations, and we then find ways to transfer such Coordination, said in a recent interview. technologies to the Kingdom to support the company’s existing Emerging markets existing businesses or mega-projects” businesses or the mega-projects that are carried out from time to time,” “Through Aramco Asia’s regional offices, we continue to deepen says Al-Khunaini. Yuya Katsumata, manager of the Marketing Services Department, our presence in one of the fastest rising regions of the world. These recently completed 10 years of service with Aramco Asia-Japan. other offices in Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, London and New York. Then, the international projects will continue to play an important role in Saudi The relationship between the Kingdom and Japan supports the department staff consolidates these reports into one comprehensive Aramco’s transformation into a world leader in the field of energy and company’s marketing plans for Japan and the Pacific Rim countries in Katsumata says that when he started working at Saudi Petroleum report for submittal to the pricing committee, which in turn, announces chemicals by 2020.” a direct translation of the objectives of the ATP, which emphasizes the Ltd. in Tokyo in 2004, he was only responsible for crude oil sales, but the prices,” he explains. importance of developing and driving the marketing of the company’s since the merger and the birth of Aramco Asia-Japan, he has assumed Regarding Saudi Aramco’s operations in Japan, Al-Subaey said: “Saudi petroleum products globally. responsibility for the marketing of other products as well. “As for me, I constantly monitor market activities, and I conduct face-to- Aramco owns, through one of its subsidiaries, a 14.96 percent interest face interviews with marketing staff and customers. in Showa Shell, one of Japan’s largest refining companies. Showa Shell’s “There are three primary reasons for our presence in Japan and the The department now deals directly with some departments in Dhahran, share price increased by 115 percent in 2013, which substantiates the formation of these three companies in the Far East on the coast of the such as the Crude Oil Marketing and Sales Department and the “Pricing is my daily work, and the nature of this work is especially prevailing optimism in the market about the future of Showa Shell Pacific Ocean,” says Al-Khunaini. Joint Venture Coordination Department. Katsumata coordinates the dynamic to cope with the circumstances of the markets. The process business. Showa Shell has also outperformed its counterparts in the field agreements and contracts for commercial crude oil storage tanks in strives to satisfy customers, fulfill their needs, maintain and increase our of solar energy.” “The first reason is our customers. They are the basis for our presence Okinawa. profits, and strengthen our presence in the market.” in Japan, and we drive our attention to them,” he says. “We regularly It was Solar Frontier, a subsidiary of Showa Shell, that succeeded in 2012 communicate with the heads of companies to emphasize the importance “This is just the beginning,” he predicts. “I am sure that the company An eye on the market in installing a 10.5 MW solar power system in Saudi Aramco’s Al-Midra of joint action and to strengthen our relationships with them. Our will grow bigger and expand its business in the Far East. Crude oil office complex in Dhahran. More than 120,000 solar panels were installed relationship with companies in particular does not take the form of a marketing and sales will reach all markets. Athena Huna, an assistant in the Marketing Services Department, is above the sunshades in the parking area for the production of clean relationship between a supplier and a customer; rather, it is partnership named after the Greek capital where she was born and lived until she energy for the building. and simultaneous communication at an individual level. “Despite the differences in cultural backgrounds and regimes between was 3 years old. Her father was a pilot stationed in Athens.
Her work is focused on marketing crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) products. She also updates all the data and information on LNG 2 on a daily basis and contributes to the preparation of specific reports and tables on markets and price comparisons. She makes daily comparisons between prices and movement of products.
One of her duties is the preparation of a weekly report on LNG, participation in the preparation of reports on Asian market conditions, customer registration and collection of relevant information, as well as the creation of infographics for such reports to help make them more informative and helpful.
Huna, who speaks fluent English after attending high school for a year in Rhode Island where she lived with an American family, also coordinates the visits of business delegations to her department.
She recalls the learning curve involved when she joined Saudi Petroleum Challenges “The second reason is the suppliers and contractors from whom we three years ago. import materials and equipment. We communicate with them through some Asian countries, they all agree on the vision and strategic goals “The creation of Aramco Asia-Japan was not easy, in fact, we had many the Strategic Procurement and Logistics Department. We are always of building economic systems, opening new markets, and developing “When I first started, I had not experienced working with Arabs challenges,” said Ahmed Al-Khunaini, representative director of AAJ. working to strengthen our relationship with those suppliers to ensure new technologies that can be employed to serve the prosperity of the and Saudis, and I had no knowledge of their customs and traditions. continued support for the company’s operations in the Kingdom,” he says. peoples.” However, in time, I began to adapt and explore the Saudi culture to “We have been in Japan for nearly 35 years, which brought the company better understand my work colleagues. I came to know that they are to a high level of professional and business maturity in the performance The third reason is centred on proposed or independent partners. Al- Marketing of petroleum products educated and knowledgeable about the world and work, and that they are of its basic mission: the sale and marketing of crude oil and petroleum Khunaini notes the company always encourages Japanese investors to professionals. In short, I can say that Saudis are positive and wonderful.” products in Japan and other Asian countries. However, other aspects invest in various fields in the Kingdom, from infrastructure to the transfer The Marketing Services Department assumes, among other things, the of the business are as important as — and complementary to — the of advanced technologies from the development of robust and effective responsibility for marketing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Takuro Abe, History of cooperation sale of oil. Our business in Japan has grown into the best professional communication channels with Japanese business sectors. head of the Product Marketing Services Division, describes the current experience in terms of import and export during the past three decades, energy markets as “dynamic and complex". Consultant Koike Hideki is retiring after 32 years of continuous service. and Saudi Aramco and Aramco Asia-Japan are very proud of their “Our role is not limited to encouragement; we also bridge the gaps in He has two daughters; the first is in Santa Monica, California, in the U.S. reputation for reliability, which bolstered their presence in Japan as an viewpoints and give a detailed explanation of the nature of business “As part of my job in LPG marketing, I send reports to the Department working toward a master’s degree, and the second daughter works for important and essential source of energy.” in the Kingdom. In addition, we help Japanese investors by arranging of Crude Oil Marketing and Sales in Dhahran, and so do officials in Apple, Inc. in Tokyo.
4 5 Intro | Japan - the Gateway to Asia Intro | Japan - the Gateway to Asia
Koike Hideki is known, loved and respected by the employees of AAJ. His responsibility of AOC in the Netherlands, and so was the management of employees,” says Komatsu, who holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy in ensuring quality assurance in Projects, Inspection, Support Services colleagues turn to him for advice in work-related matters. He retains in logistics contracts. Now, all these tasks are our responsibility. We have from the Japanese University of Sofia. and Strategic Studies. Also, we will highlight the activities of the his memory the history of cooperation between the Kingdom and Japan. also become responsible for the search for new suppliers to cover all of Industrial Management Department, amongst others. Southeast Asia. This family atmosphere was no more apparent than the day of the “The first economic relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia dates earthquake and ensuing tsunami that hit Japan on March 11, 2011. back to 1958 when the Arabian-Japanese Oil Company was founded in Regarding working with Japanese employees, Al-Hilal says: “Japanese Al-Khafji (in the neutral zone between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait). I was a employees never cease to amaze me: their performance is characterised “It was a disaster for the Japanese people,” says Komatsu. “Many member of a delegation that visited the Kingdom in 1973. The goal of the by accuracy and loyalty. They have a great sense of responsibility toward foreigners decided to return to their countries. We felt that the world visit was to study the conditions for the establishment of a joint venture their work, to which they devote all their effort and time.” had forsaken us and left us to face that devastating disaster on our own. between Japan and the Kingdom in the field of petroleum.” However, the one thing that I will never forget is that at a time when so Images on previous pages ‘Saudi Aramco’s family’ many people were leaving Japan that the airports were jammed, Khalid A. Al-Falih, Saudi Aramco’s president and CEO, came to Japan to offer 1. Japan has some of the biggest cities in the world Yoshiko Komatsu joined the Procurement Department at the Saudi his consolation to each and every one of us in our offices. We were all 2. The 100-year-old Tokyo Train Station has been recently “Our role is not limited to Petroleum Overseas Company in 1992 as a purchasing assistant and has touched by that visit that made us feel very proud to be members of Saudi renovated. The main station in Tokyo handles more than 3,000 trains daily encouragement; we also bridge the since seen the number of employees increase almost seven-fold. Aramco’s larger family. It even made a strong positive impression on our families, as well as the contractors and suppliers with whom we deal.” Image on this page “Faces and names change around here, but one thing remains gaps in viewpoints and give a detailed 3. The Golden Pavilion, near Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most unchanged, and that is the fact that I have always been, and will always In the next installment of our Far East series, we will highlight the famous touristic attractions. The pavilion is the most explanation of the nature of business in be, proud of my work in this company, which I consider a family for all operations of the Quality Management Department in Japan and its role representative of all of Japan's historical buildings the Kingdom."
In 1984, an office was established for Petronal (Petromin International) in Tokyo, covering all business in Japan, China, South Korea, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore. The company’s head office was located in London, with branches in several cities such as New York, Houston, Singapore and Tokyo.
The year 1990, Hideki says, was a turning point in Japanese-Saudi economic relations. The Kingdom offered to sell crude oil directly to 3 Japanese oil companies instead of those companies having to buy oil from major companies such as Shell, Mobil and Chevron. As a result, Japanese companies were able to cancel their contracts with those companies.
In the same year, Saudi Petroleum Overseas, a subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, opened a new office in Tokyo. The office was headed by several managing directors from Saudi Aramco, and in 1993, the company’s name was changed to Saudi Petroleum Ltd.
Hideki noted other examples of the cooperation between Japanese institutions and Saudi Aramco.
“There are some academic centres and institutions that have long- standing relations of cooperation with the Kingdom and Saudi Aramco, such as the Japan Center for Cooperation with the Middle East, and the Japanese-Saudi Friendship Association.”
The mechanism of action
Nasser Al-Hilal, who works in the Strategic Procurement and Logistics Department, says there have been significant changes in the nature of the work.
“Since we became Aramco Asia-Japan, the pace of work quickened and its scope expanded. Our responsibilities, as a result, increased. For example, our purchases in the region increased by 350 percent in 2013 compared to 2012. In the past, we used to look for and buy the materials, and Aramco Overseas Comoany (AOC) in the Netherlands would pay the bills. Now, the situation is completely different; we are responsible for everything — contracts and payments, among others things. Also, management of travel services and their related contracts were the
6 7 Intro | Saudi Aramco’s Architectural Innovation in Saudi Arabia Intro | Saudi Aramco’s Architectural Innovation in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Aramco’s Architectural 3 Innovation in Saudi Arabia
Words Martin Wingrove
The sight of Saudi Aramco’s impressive mega oilfield I’m sure most of you will have heard of KAUST, The King Abdullah plants and communities are of course familiar to all University for Science and Technology in Jeddah. It was built by Saudi of us who have lived and worked in Saudi Arabia. Aramco in just 1000 days - from groundbreaking in October 2007 to However, maybe not so many realise that the inauguration by King Abdullah in September 2009 and no mention of company’s achievements aren’t limited to facilities for Saudi Aramco’s architectural achievements would be complete without the production and processing of oil and gas. Saudi a photo of the beacon. Lit up at night it is a truly impressive feature Aramco has, over recent years, embarked upon many overlooking the sea. I took these pictures myself on a visit last year and major projects on behalf of the Government of the they are now the screensaver on my mobile phone. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and these have been just as impressive. 2 So I thought for this edition, rather than boring you with a lot of words, With a very different look, the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre I would share with you some pictures of the innovative and beautiful (KAPSARC) is already an iconic landmark in Riyadh. It was designed by Zaha Hadid 5 architecture which, courtesy of Saudi Aramco, has changed the skyline (who to those in the know is a world renowned architect). KAPSARC was a vision of King of the Kingdom. Abdullah ‘to create an independent centre to conduct objective and scientific research in the field of energy’. Charged in 2008 with developing KAPSARC from an idea into a reality, the first phase of the facilities opened for business in 2012 and the entire complex was 1 completed earlier this year. .
If you drive the road North from Jeddah airport (towards KAUST in fact) and look to the right you will see the King Abdullah stadium located 60 kilometers north of the city. Built by Saudi Aramco the facility opened officially on May 1, 2014 and the main stadium houses 62,000 spectators with smaller sports venues hosting athletics and indoor sporting events. Nicknamed The Shining Jewel it is indeed impressive.
However, based on this success, Saudi Aramco has now been charged with the challenge of constructing 11 more sports stadiums by 2017. These will be built right across the country in Madinah; Eastern Province; Northern Border Province; Hail; Tabuk; Al-Jouf; Baha; Najran;
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Jazan; Asir; and Qassim. Design is just beginning, but if you search for ‘Saudi Stadiums’ on the web you will be able to keep track of progress.
Drive into Saudi Aramco Dhahran through the Al Rabia gate and the Pretty impressive I think! Next edition I will be skyline has certainly changed. Although not scheduled for completion looking back at some of the Company’s oilfield until 2016, The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture is already taking achievements of 2014. But hope you enjoyed these shape! Designed by a Norwegian architect, the components below images as a change from my usual contribution. ground – including the museum – focus on the past. Components at ground level, such as the performing arts spaces, represent the present Images on these pages 4. King Abdullah Petroleum and the Knowledge Tower, which includes the Lifelong Learning Center, Studies and Research 1,2. the future. The King Abdullah Centre (KAPSARC) University for Science and Technology (KAUST) 5. King Abdullah Stadium The façade uses stainless steel tubes that are individually formed and then wrapped around the building, while the rammed earth foundation 3. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture creates a fireproof, soundproof, well-insulated space.
8 9 Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion
1
Last night the car was packed with everything from ‘The Caravan Goes On’ by Frank Jungers, a welcome letter from Tom and Pritt Stick to the printer in typical Henderson (T) I and numerous leaflets of what to see and do in York! fashion to cover all eventualities! The lounge now resembled what it should be instead of a storage unit! A quick break in the middle of the day for some lunch – delicious Our Last Reunion! homemade soup and sandwich platter. No I didn’t have both! Tom had Breakfast at McDonalds, then on our way just gone 8.00am. Not the sandwich and I had the soup. Words Eileen Henderson surprisingly the car was noticeably heavy to drive and I had first leg. Thankfully it was a lovely morning and the traffic was steady on the M1, Around the middle of the day Ruby Halabi, from AOC, arrived. She M18 on to the A1, changing over with Tom about half way. looked after the putting up of photos and posters plus the displays of Saudi Aramco. Darrin (Henderson – our son) arrived with his partner Arriving at the Holiday Inn on Tadcaster Road, York, just after 10.00am, Claire Ellis, and joined the production line getting the packages ready Thursday, September 11, 2014 - At long last the fifth Ukaramcons we knew our room would not be ready but much to our surprise Anna, for Friday. By the time we finished that day we had Saturday’s packages the manager, had delegated a downstairs room for our use from Thursday virtually finished too! Reunion is here… York here we come! Every reunion has been until Sunday. Perfect! Everything had already arrived from AOC plus some of our load was decanted into the room so we could begin putting About 1.00pm Ukaramcons began to arrive and that distinct hum of slightly different – will this one be as good as the last? Will it at together the welcome packages for registration starting later that day. conversation pervaded along the corridors! Yes, the familiar atmosphere This consisted of an I.D. badge, T-shirt, the cookbook, ‘Cooking up a started to build! Within an hour they were being booked in and least stay dry? Storm’ compiled by Alison Hooker for the ladies, and for the men the book registration was started by Tom, to be relieved by Janet Scott and Allan Martin.
10 11 Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion
Image on the previous page the shop was very much deeper and had plenty of 2 1. The obligatory group photo! cute Christmas things which I regret not buying more 6 Images on these pages of. Although York is very well sign posted, we could find everything except the main drag – we had to ask 2. Michael & Sue Higgins (far left) and Jim & Veronica Anderson (far directions while in a shop. It wasn’t a problem though, right) flank hosts Eileen and Tom as the assistant came out onto the street to show us Henderson where to go – we were on a parallel street. 3. Murray Welsh, Jim Anderson, Tom Henderson & Andrew Mullen We then returned to the hotel early afternoon to set up for registration. More of the troops arrived 4. Dorothy Grant, Helen Paterson, Ruth Yates, Jenny Bayton, Patrcia and the atmosphere continued to build! Pam Evans Thielhelm, Mary Wilson & Margaret duly arrived on the dot to do the registration and Williams Claire decided to stay and help. Claire had accepted 5. Richard & Vicky Carter Ukaramcons and they were very much accepting her! For once I had a little spare time to catch up with 6. Tom and Eileen Henderson on the dance floor! my friend, Carmel, who had arrived a day later than initially arranged.
The afternoon just seemed to vanish – quick showers and back down to the reception area for 6.00pm - the luxury coach had arrived to transport 57 Ukaramcons to the Toby Carvery on the outskirts of the city. It was rather like a school outing – Tom had his list and checked us onto the bus to ensure no-one who had signed up had been left behind. Our lovely coach
3 4 driver took us on a bit of a sightseeing route which we all appreciated.
Once at the Toby we were all seated in no time in the area set aside for the group and informed that we were being treated to a complimentary ice cream desert! And who wouldn’t want that? The carvery service was swift and courteous – a delicious selection of meats and vegetables. Just as we commenced eating we were joined by yet more Ukaramcons who had driven cross country to join in on the weekend! One, a gentleman who, only months ago, had been at death’s door! He reckoned that part of his recovery was due to his determination to make it to the reunion!
Once the food had been demolished and the ‘table hopping’ completed, trying to briefly catch up with everyone, it was time to return to the hotel. Again we checked back onto the bus like good children. Once back at the hotel the evening continued at the bar… no-one seemed to have a bed to go to! Saturday morning and it was back into ‘the room’ to complete the filling of the goodie bags. Having this room had made this side of the reunion so much easier. Carmel and I started off the production line and was later joined by Donna. The goodie bag for the ladies contained a leather wallet and a shawl/scarf; the gents received a leather wallet and a powerful LED flashlight in a presentation case. The choice of the gifts had been more than difficult and had been deliberated long and hard over many weeks. Would they be well received? While having a break in the afternoon the ‘icing on my cake’ arrived were up early as they had a tee off time at 9.00am. As for the women? We 5 in the shape of Donna Morris, an Honorary Brit, from South Carolina. went into town where some went sightseeing, some shopped and some Lunchtime came faster than could be believed but the bags had been done – mission Donna had always socialised with the Brits and even married one who did both! Claire and I managed 2 ½ hours in town, having been let off the accomplished! Only the odds and ends needed to be tidied up. alas passed away a year ago. Donna had asked that her arrival be kept a bus by a kindly lady driver who asked secret and the surprise worked but it was the most difficult secret I had The table and floor floral decorations had arrived – quite stunning – the most glorious ever had to keep as many people wanted to know who was coming to “Where are the two ladies who wanted to go into the city?” blues with white. The hotel staff set up the evening reception and dining area – the whole the reunion. There were tears and laughter as she met up with people she "Here.” area was beautiful, complete with the flowers and an arch of balloons over the entrance. had not seen for many years. “Do you want to sightsee or go shopping?” Everything looked perfect but thankfully the sharp eyes of one of the staff noticed that the “Shopping.” place settings for two tables were identical! Out came the laptop and the printer from the car The afternoon rolled on with people arriving, registering, checking in and “Then come with me.” boot and Tom was able to print off the correct one – problem solved! The usual last minute heading for the lounge and bar as good Ukaramcons do! check, quick showers and change and we were good to go at 6.00pm. She got off the bus with us and gave us precise directions as to where the Nothing was arranged for that evening so some ate in; some visited the shops were. Wonderful! So kind – as the bus driver had been the night As they all arrived the ladies received a beautifully wrapped red rose. Everyone received a pub over the road while Claire, Tom, Darrin and I went into town on the before! welcome drink of Buck’s Fizz or orange juice and then we were ushered outside for a group bus to the Slug and Lettuce for a meal. photo in front of the massive ancient cedar tree! The maze of ultra-old shops was quite enchanting. We even found one Friday, September 12 – All those playing golf at Heworth Golf Course that looked like an old fashioned toy shop but on looking into the window, The evening proceeded at 7.00pm with a welcome from Tom thanking everyone for coming
12 13 Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion Feature Story | Friendships Revisited
and making the reunion such a Then the dancing began with warmly welcomed and the flowers graciously received. Photos were success. Naturally it was a bit Darrin as DJ. Retirees we may be taken with some of the Hospice staff. They asked if the photos may be emotional when remembering but we are not afraid to get up and used in their press promotions and we were happy to oblige. those who were no longer with boogie! us. Abdulrahman Al Mesned from After many echoes of ‘goodbye’ and ‘safe journey’ we made our way AOC, and Ali Baluchi, Chairman of Giving the DJ a break was the home! the KSA 2015 Reunion, addressed ideal time to make the draw for the the guests. table centres for the ladies and the Friendships Holiday Inn vouchers for the men The buffet dinner was now plus hand out the commemorative 8 ready and the food was delicious gifts. During the evening there including, of course, Yorkshire were another couple of breaks pudding and roast beef! when the ladies who helped behind the scenes were given lovely Next was the presentation of the bouquets of flowers. gifts to Abdulrahman Al Nesmed Revisited and Ali Baluchi followed by the golf The evening drew to an almost Words Donna Morris prizes for the tournament played close at 12.45am and the stalwarts on Friday morning. Then much to retired to the bar! our astonishment we received a Since the inception of the UKAramcon reunion Eventually I received a message from Tom that if I wanted to crash the gift from AOC in the form of a John Sunday morning and everyone approximately 8 years ago by Tom and Eileen party I'd better do it this year as it would be the last time he and Eileen Lewis gift card. To crown that was commenting on what a Henderson, I have wanted to attend. That didn't seem would be organising it. With such willing conspirators, how could I not Judy and Brian Snowdon stepped great evening it had been and like a major expectation, but time and circumstances commit to it! From that moment on, my anticipation grew. forward with a prettily decorated how pleased they were with the always seemed to make it impossible. It's also worth tissue box containing a generous commemorative gifts. There was noting that I'm not British - I went to Saudi as a single The event itself did not disappoint and was everything I hoped it would donation from all the attending also a big compliment from one of female American hire. Most Americans were on Family be. It was held in the very scenic town of York and the weather was Aramcons. For once in my life I was the hotel staff speaking on behalf 9 Status, which included spouses and children, so it just perfect. Of the more than 100 attending, I knew a full third. There were totally speechless! To cap even of them all – that Ukaramcons seemed more natural to socialise with the singles. It friends with whom I'd always been in touch (who still did not know I was that, Tom told me that we had been had been by far the best crowd was only my friendship with Eileen and Tom that made attending!) There were friends whom I'd only kept in touch with through invited, flights and hotel paid, to they had ever had in the hotel! me feel I could invite myself to the reunion! others. There were spouses whom I'd never met. There were even people the 2015 Reunion in Saudi Arabia! He was also informed that all the of longstanding lore, whose names I knew but had never met! People staff had been very pleasant and As the years passed and it began to seem less probable that I would filtered in over several days before the Saturday night dinner sponsored Darrin (Henderson) surprised us all accommodating to all of us and be able to do it, my fantasies grew. I imagined not letting anyone know by AOC, and with each new arrival the party started all over again! by making a very touching speech that we had enjoyed being there. that I was coming and just "crashing" the party. I anticipated everyone's There were lingering lunches and dinners, late nights at the Lounge, lots – thanking us for the support we surprise. Would I recognise everyone? Would they remember me? How of laughter and even a few tears. It was grand, surpassing my greatest have given him over the past few It had previously been arranged had the years treated us? expectations! years and pointing out that it had that the huge displays of flowers been Tom’s 70th birthday in July were to be given to a local Hospice, And, yes, the years had treated us well. Most of us but there had been no party, so so later in the morning, Tom and were a bit more "seasoned" with age (except a few this was his birthday party, before I, complete with cameraman, took who had obviously made pacts with the devil and proceeding to present us with them to the nearby St. Leonard’s not changed at all!), but the same camaraderie, spirit thoughtful gifts. Children’s Hospice where we were and joie de vivre were present. When it came to an end too quickly and I returned home, friends wanted to know all about it and I told them what I've always 7 As they all arrived the said about Saudi friends - they are a special breed; the type of people, if planted on the moon, that would ladies received a beautifully throw a party to get to know everyone and then go wrapped red rose. Everyone about making life as livable and enjoyable as possible! The reunion renewed my fondness for each one and received a welcome drink of reaffirmed my appreciation for being the recipient, Buck’s Fizz those many years ago, of their friendship, generosity of spirit, optimism, quick wit and easy humour. It was a reunion I shall long remember. Images on this page
7. (Left to right) Richard Carter, Vicky Carter, Janet Scott, Lyn Thomas, Jacquie Thomas, Eileen Henderson, Alan Martin, Donna Morris, David Howlett, Sandy Weller & Rita Howlett Image 8. Abdulrahman Al Mesned, who attended in the absence of the MD, shared his appreciation with the attendees 1. (Left to right) Donna Morris, Tom & Eileen Henderson
9. Tom and Eileen delivered the evening's bouquets of flowers to the local hospice
More images on p.42
14 15 Feature Story | Saudi Aramco Annuitants Reunion Feature Story | Saudi Aramco Annuitants Reunion
Annuitants Celebrate 2 "Wonderful Years" in Mountain Reunion Words Arthur Clark
Nearly 360 retirees and dignitaries went smoothly. Echoing Kevin, stood in for his dad, who is He called the term hafla “the family members turned the sentiments of many fellow ill, supported by his sister, Lisa. perfect theme for this much- out for the 29th biannual retirees, she said she would have anticipated biannual event.” Saudi Aramco Annuitants worked there “even if they hadn’t Mike and Judy Butler co-hosted Reunion, in Asheville, paid me.” the event, with the help of John "I’m proud that your common N.C., Sept. 5-8, refreshing and Violeta Powell, Kristin Hudson, ground began with Saudi memories and rekindling The Asheville “Hafla” was one of Judy Walker, Tom Swepston and Aramco—and that our company friendships at the classic several functions at the Blue Ridge Hal Barham. remains influential in your lives,” 101-year-old Omni Park Mountain resort the first weekend he said. Grove Hotel. in September, but it got more Linda Shearon thanked guests for notice than any of the others. coming to Asheville to celebrate Al-Falih also lauded retirees and A number of retirees came with “our very special family” at a family members for their efforts to their children and grandchildren “What’s a hafla?” a hotel guest Middle Eastern and Mediterranean describe and explain Saudi Aramco to celebrate what Vera Fick, asked a reunion attendee. When buffet on September 5. and Saudi Arabia to those who whose late husband William was a told it was Arabic for “a warm haven’t experienced the kingdom petroleum engineer, called “those family gathering—special “We will always share fond first-hand. “There is no better wonderful years.” celebration,” she replied: “That’s memories of the life-changing goodwill ambassador than a Saudi what I’m going to name my experiences of working together Aramco annuitant,” he said. She handled activities at the daughter!” and living together in Saudi Hamilton House in Dhahran from Arabia,” she said in her reunion An enduring feature of the 1981-1990, ensuring that visits by Jim and Linda Shearon hosted message. biannual reunions is the Gala heads of oil companies and other the 29th reunion. The couple’s son, Banquet sponsored by Aramco A critical part of that was Services Company (ASC). “the personal growth and 1 understanding we gained from our “The role you played in building friends and hosts, the people of this company is significant and Saudi Arabia. We are thankful for appreciated,” Ali Al-Mutairi, those people who started out as director of ASC Public Affairs, told strangers and who become close retirees in his keynote address, friends that you now can’t imagine life without…. Images on these pages
1. “The role you played in building “The friendships we gained while this company is significant and living overseas, the strong ties that appreciated,” Ali Al-Mutairi told were firmed, and the trust that was guests at the ASC-sponsored Gala built, will always be with us. To all Banquet on September. 6 (Photo by Bert Seal) of you, Shukrun Jazeelan!” 2. A happy contingent of retirees poses Saudi Aramco President and CEO on the steps of the central Blue Ridge Mountains reunion venue Khalid Al-Falih relayed similar in Asheville, N.C. (Photo by Laurie thoughts in his welcome message. Johnson)
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3 “and your current role in sharing That certainly proved true in your Aramco experiences with Asheville, where guests hailed others helps reinforce a positive from 34 states, as well as Saudi image of a company and country Arabia, Canada, the Netherlands that are unfamiliar to many.” and Pakistan.
Al-Mutairi highlighted several “In Aramco, major projects under way at the company, noting that Saudi ‘family’ is a bond Aramco is “more than halfway that crosses through a massive transformation programme that will make us a oceans, crosses global player in chemicals and nationalities and research.” He also said that the company had begun exploring crosses cultures.” for unconventional gas reserves and is “reaching new frontiers in ASC provided a surprise guest deepwater development in the Red speaker at the banquet: Bob Sea.” Morgan, a TWA pilot who flew for Aramco in 1946-47. He regaled In addition, he noted that the guests with stories of flying King company’s newest U.S. research- Abdulaziz and Chief Geologist and-development centre would Steineke in those “barnstorming” open in September in Houston— days in the kingdom. Images on these pages
ASC also gave each family a copy 3. Several generations celebrated at of The Caravan Goes On, the new the Annuitants Reunion. From left memoir by former CEO Frank are retirees Glyn and Trish Jenkins and Violeta and John Powell, the Jungers about his life at Aramco. Powell’s daughter Leslie Wickham, Al-Mutairi called it a “special gift and her daughters Marisol, six, Cora, in honour of our tradition of sharing eight, and Amelie, 10 (photo by stories” among the larger company Arthur Clark) family. 4. Edna Catchings of ASC Public Affairs passed out gift copies of The As Al-Mutairi put it, “In Aramco, Caravan Goes On, the memoir by retired President and CEO Frank ‘family’ is a bond that crosses Jungers about his four decades with oceans, crosses nationalities and Aramco (photo by Arthur Clark) crosses cultures.” 4
18 19 Feature Story | Saudi Aramco Annuitants Reunion Feature Story | Saudi Aramco Annuitants Reunion
Images on these pages the third in the past 18 months 5 6 after centres in Cambridge, 5. Linda and Mike Shearon hosted 7. Attendees got out their dancing boots for some lively twirling Mass., and Detroit. the reunion in their home state of North Carolina (photo by to music by the Whitewater Arthur Clark ) Bluegrass Company on Al-Mutairi closed by urging the reunion’s last evening, 6. Vera Fick, who handled attendees to celebrate with September 7 (photo by Arthur activities at Hamilton House Clark) long-time friends, among from 1981-1990, reunited with them Ali Baluchi, a longtime her old boss, Ali Baluchi, at employee who retired in the reunion. She said she was 1990 as head of Community grateful for “those wonderful years” in Dhahran with her late Services and is spearheading husband William, a petroleum the third Expatriates Reunion engineer (photo by Arthur in Saudi Arabia from March Clark) 9-18.
In his remarks to guests, Baluchi noted that he joined the Jabal School in Dhahran in "The friendships we gained while 1947 with 10 other students, including Saif Al-Hussaini, living overseas, the strong ties that who also attended the reunion. were firmed, and the trust that was
He said his interest in reunions built, will always be with us. To all had been awakened through of you, Shukrun Jazeelan!" community affairs, and that he has attended every reunion but one in the United States since 1958. 7 “Reunions are a nice way to cement the friendship with people who physically and mentally helped us build our country…and that’s you,” he said.
Linda Shearon highlighted the special bonds among Aramcons in her remarks, too.
“Wherever we are in the world, there’s an immediate kinship, a kind of connection that no one else can understand,” she said. “Let’s enjoy this time of celebration of our common past, rejoice in the present and look forward to our days yet to come.”
Color Photos DWG members
20 21 Feature Story | 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion Feature Story | 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion
Also, it's possible that some of our returning UK retirees may remember that 1123 Eleventh Street was once 1 home to Les and Flora Flintham.
It's clear the location of the Reunion House brings with it its own historical aspect and importance. Consequently, the House is receiving some tender loving care. Ali says, "In preparation for your visit in March, we are re-decorating the Reunion House, both inside and out. The landscaping around the house will be beautiful. We hope our guests from overseas will appreciate all the goodies being prepared by the Hospitality Committee."
To further enhance the experience for our visitors, Reunion House has been beautifully adorned inside with wall murals by artist Tamara Tahir. Tamara is herself an Aramco "Brat", and now works as a pre- school teacher in the community. As you can see her connectedness is aptly demonstrated in her use of rich colors in the house, with depictions of artifacts that Planning Continues for the reflect the Arabic heritage and history of Saudi Arabia. "Welcome Home!" 2015 2 3 Expats Reunion in Saudi Arabia Words Julianne Eveland
DHAHRAN – In the spring/summer edition of Alaela it communities of Ras Tanura, Abqaiq and Udhailiyah, and of course camp was announced that planning was well under way for tours of Dhahran. This time we will feature special walking tours for those the highly anticipated 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion to who wish to keep fit! The Committee, with the support of Saudi Aramco, be held in Saudi Arabia March 9 – 20, 2015. will offer trips to Shaybah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Madain Saleh and Abha. Kathy Owen, events coordinator, states, "We are in the process of locking-in the It is time now to update you further on the advances the Reunion final arrangements for the events, and are very excited by the programme Organizing Committee has made in the preparations for this momentous we have to offer. I would encourage attendees to the reunion to act swiftly event. First though, let's revisit some of the history and the driving force to identify their first choice of where they wish to visit, and we will do behind the inception of the reunion. our utmost to accommodate that choice, bearing in mind that due to popularity we will need to limit each participant to one in-Kingdom trip. 2015 Organizing Committee Chairman, Ali Baluchi, is founder of the KSA The entire KSA team is continuing to work towards the goal of providing Reunion. After retiring in 1990 with 40 years of service to Saudi Aramco, everyone the best experience possible." The Gardening Unit has drawn up a special plan for Ali travelled to many of the reunions taking place in the US, and elsewhere. 4 the proposed landscaping around the House. The As he travelled, he repeatedly heard the same request from retirees, "Ali, Also on the programme are activities with self-directed groups which will layout is carefully crafted to give the maximum outdoor When can we come back to Saudi?" He understood the depth and strength allow participants to see how the groups have evolved and changed over enjoyment to guests, and allow for ease of access of the connection expatriates and their families felt towards the Kingdom. time. Many other events are on the calendar enabling attendees to take a during larger gatherings. Also, consideration has been With that in mind, he organised the first reunion in 2000, and the second in trip down memory lane, reminisce, and to once again enjoy the community given to water conservation, and consequently there 2009. which was, and still remains, so much a part of their lives. will be a xeriscape theme to some of the plantings.
With this third reunion, Ali is able once again to realise his long held dream Saudi Aramco has generously provided a house, which is known as the The desire of the Organizing Committee is to ensure of bringing retirees from around the world back to the Kingdom of Saudi Reunion House, especially for the occasion. House 1123 is somewhat that everyone feels truly welcomed, and to express the Arabia, back to their second home. appropriately located on Eleventh Street, one of the oldest streets in the warmest of greetings to all. community which housed a veritable "Who's Who" of Aramco senior "The Steering Committee, the Organizing Committee and myself are personnel in the 1940's and 50's. House 1123 was notably home to Les Of course with the return of the annuitants and their anxiously looking forward to your historic visit to the Kingdom." Ali says. Snyder, who went on to become a Saudi Aramco Vice President. Les's wife, children, and in some cases their grandchildren, also Louise, was responsible for starting the first Girl/Boy Scouts. Their son, comes bonuses and benefits to the wider community The programme of events for the reunion promises to be outstanding. Miles was the first Boy Scout, and first student to graduate from a Saudi of Saudi Aramco. For sure the stories, experiences, and There will be day trips to Al Hasa, Jubail and the Saudi Aramco Aramco school. anecdotes visitors relate hold great promise of opening
22 23 Feature Story | 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion Feature Story | 2015 KSA Expatriate Reunion
5 8
6 7
Images
The Organizing Committee can be 1. Reunion House, November 2014
contacted at: 2. Artist Tamara Tahir, an Aramcon “brat” who now works as a preschool teacher in the community, is using rich colors to make depictions of Reunion House artifacts that reflect the Arabic 1123 11th Street, Dhahran heritage and history of Saudi Arabia. 3. A great place to meet friends and (close to the library gate or behind the share memories heritage gallery) 4. A landscape artist's impression of up a fresh and new understanding for those who carry on that work. annuitants who register to return to attending the 2015 KSA Reunion. what the front garden will look like of the community for those who It's a very special occasion for all the Kingdom, and those who attend This is in recognition of their hard 5. A landscape artist's impression of live there. It's been said of past those involved. reunions around the world. The work and dedication to organising Open 9 am – 5 pm what the back garden will look like reunions that the tales that were organisers of these reunions need to five reunions of Saudi Aramcons 6. The entry into the kitchen shared during the time together Therefore it's immensely gratifying be applauded. over the years at various locations 013.878.8682 deepened and broadened the that attending reunions has taken throughout the UK, the first being [email protected] 7. A cosy corner in one of the meeting perspectives of those who heard on particular significance in the It's in that light, and with great in 2007. rooms them. Understanding the enormous lives of Saudi Aramcons, This is pleasure, that the Organizing 8. The Volunteers 'Magic Carpet' efforts and contributions past further reinforced by the obvious Committee wishes to announce Perhaps you will also be one of where volunteers can post personal employees gave to Saudi Aramco in enthusiasm and special effort two special guests, Eileen and those greeted with the emotive KSA Reunion Volunteers information about themselves their time there, helps to give clarity made by the growing numbers of Tom Henderson, who will be words, "Welcome Home!" www.ksa-reunion.com
24 25 Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair
1 All the Fun of the Fair
Words Alison Hooker
Any thriving community has threads many fun activities, and hours of sewing and baking which inextricably link its past to its by the ladies of sale and consumable items. It was present through the development of also extremely well-attended by visitors from the other particular and unique traditions, and camps. Saudi Aramco is no exception. As the Saudi Aramco Employees’ Association Following on from the popularity of its increasingly celebrated more than 70 years of serving successful July 4 picnics, the Aramco Employee’s fun to Aramco’s communities through Association (AEA) launched its first County Fair in its 2014 November 7 Fun Festival, this Dhahran on Thursday, 17th October 1957. From the article examines the history of this onset, the intention was to involve and showcase the signature annual event and how it community’s growing number of self- directed groups, has contributed to the development of provide food and entertainment suitable for all ages, community and company life today. and offer a platform for outside companies such as airlines to promote their services. The first mention of a ‘fair’ being held in an Aramco community appears in the Arabian Sun and Flare By 1957, a parade was a firmly established Aramco of September 21, 1949 – in the section for Abqaiq tradition for the opening of big community events, news, we have the announcement that “On Thursday and the first County Fair was no exception! Starting evening, starting at 7pm, the Abqaiq Patio will be a outside the Administration Building at 2.00 pm, this beehive of activity marking an old tradition, summer parade proceeded along King’s Road, past the Dining leaving, fall cometh, with a real old-fashioned County Hall, and finished in the Theater car park. It was led Fair.” Under the auspices of the Abqaiq Women’s by the “largest group of European cars ever gathered Club, this was a truly family-oriented event, and in Saudi Arabia” (source: Sun and Flare, October was the culmination of weeks of hard work by the 1957). Assembled by the AAA, these 34 cars included community’s men in building booths to house the Mercedes, Fiats, VWs, Landrovers, Hillmans, M.G.s,
To help us cope with living so far from home, we Fairs also have a strong Arabian tradition, Images on this page Singers, BMWs and a Jaguar. decorations from the Brownies, expats have a tendency to ‘re-invent’ our own dating back to pre-Islamic times, when seasonal 1. Aramco parade float 1970s (D. Miller Following the cars were the embroidered linens and stuffed 2 cultural traditions within our new environment. bazaars were held in order to exchange home- collection) Brownie, Cub, Girl and Boy Scout toys from the APAR ladies, The Aramco Employees’ Association County made products and livestock for foreign goods troops, and the Horse Association sketches from the Art Group and 2. Girl Scouts were in charge of the Fair quite clearly originated from the American brought in by traders. Great commercial fairs balloons, 2007 Festival riders brought up the rear. Once on-the-spot photos courtesy of the tradition of County Fairs. Started in the early later coincided with the pilgrimage cycle –the at the fairground, customers Camera group. 1800s by agricultural reformers to promote ‘Dhil Majaz Fair’ was the last to be held as the discovered 25 gaily decorated modern farming methods, these grew into merchants made their way finally to Mecca, to Aramco Employee’s booths dispensing merchandise, Building on the success of its important entertainment events for local return to their homes after performing the Hajj food and games of skill, and other first Fair event, the AEA was populations. The word ‘fair’ itself developed ceremonies. These important commercial events Association (AEA) activities which included Turtle able to draw on the help of 36 from “fayre”, used popularly from the 15th to the also featured colourful ceremonies, musical launched its first Races, donkey rides and golf pitch. community groups for the second 17th century in England to describe a gathering of shows, poetry competitions and exhibitions of the The fair also provided an important County Fair, held on November stalls and amusements for public entertainment, arts and literary works, making them attractive County Fair in community retail opportunity, and 13, 1958. This opening parade many of these events originating from medieval places for a wide range of people to visit. Dhahran on Thursday, visitors could start their Christmas additionally featured the school festivals or ‘fetes’ held to celebrate saints’ days shopping by purchasing calendars band, the fire truck and floats and other important religious occasions. 17th October 1957. from the Girl Scouts, greetings representing the Yacht Association cards from the Women’s Group, and Women’s Bowling. After
26 27 Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair
the parade, the fair booths were open until 6 pm, followed by 3 6 special gala entertainment and a barn dance provided jointly by the Golf Association, the DWG and the AEA. The fair booths provided an opportunity for self- directed groups to reach out to the community, both raising awareness of their existence, and serving the community through the service or fun they provided. Thus, in 1958, amongst a plethora of activities, the Communications group sponsored voice recording; hamburgers were served by Dramaramcons dressed as Hamlet; the Tennis Association organised a tennis hit; the Art Group offered portrait sketches; the Yacht Association hosted a boat exhibit; the Women’s Group ran a Junque Shoppe and Bake shop; the Medical Department organised a First Aid station; the Outings Group supervised donkey rides, and the Golf Association ran the golf pitch.
By 1960, the Dhahran Fair was attracting over 3000 visitors with the community activity organizations running 50 booths and attractions, including donkey racing, boat displays, and a Bavarian Bake Shop. The parade was as big as ever, still featuring the Arabian horses, a 31 piece clown for entertainment. Similarly, the Dhahran Fair school band, seven troops of 4 5 of 1979 reflected the organisational involvement of By 1960, the Dhahran Brownies and Girl Scouts, and the Rugby Club with its British ‘Village Fete’ theme numerous Cub and Boy Scouts. The which featured an actual double-decker London bus, Fair was attracting AEA also sponsored a Hallowe’en a British bobby on his bicycle, a ‘pearly king’, an over 3000 visitors Dance on the Patio later in the “It’s a Knockout” contest and a “Wellie Whanging evening, a holiday theme which Championship”. The evening dinner-dance on the with the community recurred in many of the subsequent patio even offered a traditional English menu of roast activity organizations events. beef and Yorkshire pud! running 50 booths The growing size of these events The fairs went from strength to strength as the and attractions meant the AEA often worked communities continued to support this form of jointly in the planning with other entertainment, and by 1991, there were 86 booths at community groups, both to the Dhahran Fair providing food, games and crafts. capitalise on creative input and Events of this size required hundreds of volunteers manpower. In 1962, for example, from the self-directed groups – 400 for the 2009 the Ras Tanura County Fair in Festival, which drew 5000 visitors! The food was November was a joint effort of always a draw card – as early as 1963, the hungry the AEA and the R. T. Women’s Dhahran fair-goers consumed 3806 bottles of soft Group. Whilst the Women’s Group drinks and 2 597 hot dogs and beef sandwiches! Over Images on these pages had 14 booths including hot dogs, time, the festival menus have expanded from hot dogs 3. Virtually all of Dhahran turned out games, baked goods, fish pond, and steak sandwiches to include tacos, shish kabobs, to make the 1958 aea county fair the a weight guessing booth and shwarmas, pizza and curries, with cotton candy still biggest and best ever Dhahran ring toss, the AEA contributed a maintaining popularity, and the ‘home-made’ stalls 4. 1979 British bobby merry-go-round, miniature golf being replaced by concessions. 5. Time to try Chinese calligraphy at course, ring-the-bell, bottle throw, 2006 Fun Festival, Dhahran shooting gallery, hotshoe pitching, As the 1980s progressed, the fairs began to provide 6. Ras Tanura fair booth 'Spill the Milk' donkey rides, cotton candy and a a forum for community education on salient social 1960
28 29 Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair Looking Back | All the Fun of the Fair
Images on these pages themes. Educational elements were introduced alongside the fun with activities reflecting themes 7 7. "It’s a Knockout"' contest at the such as the environment (“We Must Act to save our The Saudi Aramco community events of British-themed 1979 Dhahran Fair Environment”, “Earth Day”), the oil industry (“Fest’v 8. 1970s, a parade participant sends a Oil”), and culture (“A Walk through History”). At the recent years have come to provide a very safety message to the community "Earth Day" event, the theme even extended to the unique cross-over and meeting point of 9,10. 2005: The ‘Zain Train’, originally music chosen by Kay Siebold’s youngest toe-tappers built by community volunteers in as they performed to "You are my Sunshine" and "Let cultures and opportunities for sharing of 1964 for the County Fair of that year, is a long-standing icon of Saudi the earth move under my Feet". The 2009 Festival values and knowledge Aramco community festivals also had an Environmental theme, with volunteers from SAVE hosting a “Plant a Seedling’ feature and a "Build-a-Periscope" project sponsored by the EXPEC Advanced Research Center encouraging parents to 9 work together with their children on the task.
Increasing cultural diversity within the communities meant the County Fairs became re-badged as Fun Festivals, and their annual timing sometimes had to change to accommodate the ‘Id celebrations. The 2010 Dhahran SAEA Festival was held under the banner “Unity Through Diversity" and featured the first SAEA parade for 17 years, showcasing the growing number of nationalities within the residential communities parading in their national costumes. Recycling and support for literacy for underprivileged children were causes championed at this event. The diversity theme was celebrated again in 2013 at the "It’s a Small World" event in Dhahran, jointly sponsored by the SAEA and Dhahran Cricket Association, where the 8 cultural traditions of many nations were proudly on display.
The skills and knowledge gained from staging these colourful community affairs has created a strong platform for the ongoing development of socially responsible “info-entertainment” events at which 10 Saudi Aramco has come to excel. The expertise gained over so many years both by the SAEA, Community Services and the self-directed groups has allowed for community-based events themselves to cater both for the enjoyment of ever-growing audiences and to meet the changing interests and needs of the employees and their families (55,000 attended the ‘Id events through the Aramco communities in 2008; 16,800 alone at the King’s Road area for the ‘Id Al-Adha celebrations in 2010).
Indeed, the Saudi Aramco community events of recent years have come to provide a very unique cross- over and meeting point of cultures, opportunities for sharing of values and knowledge, and an exciting forum for witnessing the development and maturation of the company’s kingdom-wide social responsibility remit. Now held annually as part of the outreach remit of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, company-initiated educational and cultural programmes have become hugely successful, drawing on the skills of hundreds of local volunteers and The ‘Zain Train’ has been an icon of AEA/SAEA parades and festivals since the Dhahran County Fair of attracting more than half a million visitors in Dhahran, October 1964, built specially for the events by a group of volunteers. Saudi Aramcon Robert Hatcher was Riyadh and Jiddah. They owe at least a small part a child when the train was being fabricated in his backyard, and remembers that construction would be of their legacy to the community-spirited volunteers halted at 9.00pm sharp by his mother so everyone could go home to bed and be fresh for work the next from across the globe who invested in the social fabric day. Apparently, the original train carriage cars were about the size of a single bed due to there being an and traditions of their own Aramco communities. abundance of single bed frames available in Reclamation – these were, of course, heavily reinforced.
30 31 Feature Story | A Naturalist's Diary Feature Story | A Naturalist's Diary
March 10, 2014 A Naturalist’s Diary February 22, 2014 At Ferring Rife I Words Colin Knight saw over 40 Small I visited Brooklands Tortoiseshells, Park to see the two many of which As winter bites I like to look back over the year and My blog, www.seapic.com, is a personal illustrated diary, and writing Little Gulls. Their habit were courting. remind myself what fun I have had in the natural it has become a prime objective since retirement. After a day out with of performing acrobatics world. my cameras I post selected photos on my blog to share with others. The while picking up insects following is an extract from the first six months of 2014. and food from the water surface made it a challenge to photograph.
January 2, 2014
At Arundel Wildfowl & Wetlands March 17, 2014 Trust (WWT) I watched the Kingfisher fishing by the boating At Arundel WWT I was area. fortunate to see a Great Spotted Woodpecker high in the tree beside the woodland bird feeder.
March 18, 2014
There were few butterflies at Angmering Woods March 22, 2014 but I heard a Firecrest which came close enough for photos. January 21, 2014 I joined Mark at Arundel WWT and we had an enjoyable I took advantage of blue skies this morning ambling round morning to visit the beach. The January 11, 2014 the reserve, finishing with Turnstones and Ringed Plovers were cappuccino and bread & butter feeding along the surf line as the tide I visited Hove Lagoon where the Grey Phalarope pudding cake. It was lovely to see came in. A Sanderling had four rings was continuing to entertain everyone in the kid’s two cootlings being fed by their on its feet and I submitted a report to paddling pool. The recent storms have blown it off parents. the bird ringing site. course from its Arctic breeding grounds. This must be the most photographed bird in Sussex judging by the number of lenses pointed at it.
April 4, 2014
January 22, 2014 At Angmering Woods I February 3, 2014 photographed my first I met Mark at RHS Wisley to Orange-tip of the year. view the annual exhibition of I visited Warnham Nature tropical butterflies. When the Reserve to see a Mealy April 3, 2014 sun came out later they started Redpoll, Lesser Redpolls flying as the temperature in (pictured), Greenfinches, I completed my first butterfly transect of the year the Glasshouse rose. An Owl Goldfinches and a Great at Mill Hill and recorded Brimstones, Commas, butterfly rested on a twig and Spotted Woodpecker. Peacocks and Small Tortoiseshells. I then watched I saw two new species: Black The water level was very the European Wall Lizards basking and fighting in and White Helen and Green- high following the heavy the sun at Shoreham beach. banded Swallowtail. rain.
32 33 Feature Story | A Naturalist's Diary Feature Story | A Naturalist's Diary
April 24, 2014 May 24, 2014 April 18, 2014 I was alerted by At Woods Mill I found three Neil that a female reserve I found Green Hairstreaks Emperor moth had Azure Damselflies fighting on the appeared at Kithurst (pictured) and edge of a clump of Meadow. By the time Large Red privet at Chantry I arrived a male had Damselflies in a Hill. been attracted by her meadow. pheromones.
May 7, 2014 May 28, 2014
April 25, 2014 I visited Rewell Wood where I found Grizzled At a local beach I found Skippers and an an Orange-tip laying an Ringed Plovers with two I found 17 Pearl-bordered Fritillaries at Rewell egg on Garlic Mustard (egg pictured). The chicks. This is excellent Wood, some nectaring on Bugle. I spotted a Cuckoo Goldcrest was singing again and I found news as last year three Flower and my first Heath Milkwort. my first Brown Argus of the year at Kithurst clutches failed. Meadow. Finally I visited Lord’s Piece where the heath has been managed for the endangered June 5, 2014 Field Crickets May 29, 2014 which were I joined Neil at Steyning singing loudly. I have been continuing my Downland where he had search for new microfauna in spotted a newly emerged Rewell Wood where I found European Swallowtail. These Blue Shieldbugs, a Common butterflies are rarely seen in Drill moth, Garden Chafers, Britain, but last August we Drinker moth larvae, a Jumping had an influx of continental Spider, a Lacehopper, two butterflies and some Leafhoppers, a Noon Fly, a Swallowtails found carrot Raspberry Beetle, Triple- plants to lay their eggs on. blotched Bell, Small Purple and These hatched and successfully May 15, 2014 Gold moths (pictured), Vetch overwintered and a few adults May 19, 2014 Piercer micromoths and mating have already emerged from their My Mill Hill transect yielded my first Wall of the year Bloody-nosed Beetles. Fly Orchids pupae this spring. and a pristine Adonis Blue. At Rewell Wood a Roe Deer crossed were in pristine condition (pictured). the path ahead of me and joined its mate. Then I joined some butterfly enthusiasts at Harting Down for a successful Duke of Burgundy count. This butterfly is spreading out at this location showing that June 11, 2014 the conservation work is being done well. We I had a short walk heard a cuckoo close by. in Rewell Wood and found a Large Skipper, a Red Piercer moth, a stunning red Hazel Leaf-roller Weevil, a Hemp-agrimony Conch and two Buff-tip moths June 19, 2014 (pictured). I returned to Rewell Wood to photograph the Bee Orchids and found a Speckled Bush cricket nymph.
34 35 Feature Story | A Naturalist's Diary Feature Story | Season's Greetings
June 20, 2014
I visited Ashdown Forest to see the Short-toed Snake Eagle which has been in residence and could move on when the local supply of snakes dries up. While in this part of Sussex I called in at the Butterfly Conservation reserve at Rowland Wood where I found Ringlets, Large Skippers, a beautiful female Broad-bodied Chaser (pictured) plus Clouded Border and Brown Silver-line moths. The swathe of Foxgloves and Yorkshire Fog in the large cleared area provided an impressive view.
June 22, 2014
This evening I found Brindled Plume and Common Yellow Conch moths (pictured) at Rewell Wood.
June 24, 2014
The two Ringed Plover chicks have survived and can fly as fledglings. They are still attended by their parents, but are teenagers now and will soon make their own way in the world.
June 28, 2014
I led a Butterfly Conservation walk at Iping and Stedham Commons to see the Silver-studded Blues and Common Heath moths. I found two June 26, 2014 new moths: Inlaid Grass-veneer and Golden Pearl plus some red fruiting In Houghton Forest I heard a Turtle lichens. Dove call and plunged into the woods to find it. As I entered a clearing a Tawny Owl flew off and perched in a nearby tree.
36 37 Feature Story | Welcome to Salalah! Feature Story | Welcome to Salalah!
Welcome to 3 Salalah!
Words Jessica Weirmier Photography Julz Hall
Located on the Southwestern-most tip rainy season, the days started out mostly overcast, but of Oman in the Dhofar region, Salalah stayed dry and ended in beautiful sunshine. 1 mountainous region bordering Yemen. A spectacular welcomes visitors with Hawaii-like cliff side view of the Arabian Sea awaited the group breezes blowing through coconut and Salalah’s tourism industry is growing in leaps and Salalah’s tourism industry is after an impressive switchback drive up and over banana plantations. bounds. A large shopping centre recently opened, Jabal Al Qamar. complete with a Carrefour grocery and popular growing in leaps and bounds. Hawaii-like breezes? Coconut palms? fashion outlets. Salalah is a popular port stop as A large shopping center recently The return drive included a stop at a frankincense Banana plants? cruise ships travel between India and the Suez tree. Canal. To accommodate Salalah’s growing tourist opened, complete with a In the Middle East?!? trade, a number of airlines are including the region Carrefour grocery and popular After seeing a live tree, the tour stopped at the in their offerings. For example, Qatar Airways has a Museum of Frankincense Land at the Al Baleed It comes down to geography. Salalah has three direct Salalah flight from Doha that took flight over fashion outlets. Salalah is a historical port ruins. This was the place where in mountain ranges – meeting in a bowl shape near the the summer, and an increasing number of European popular port stop as cruise ships ancient times sacks filled with the spicy incense Arabian Sea – that capture five months of monsoon airlines are including Salalah in their flight itineraries, were loaded onto ships for trade with far off lands. rains which skirt across the Arabian Sea from its too. Oman Air flies to Salalah via Muscat Airport, travel between India and the Following the museum visit, we loaded onto our tour Indian origins. This rainy season is called the Khareef, connecting from both Dammam and Bahrain. Suez Canal. bus and headed for the hills where Job’s Tomb is and it’s a time of festivals and celebration in Salalah. located. The ANHA tour group explored the grounds of the This is the only place you’ll find camel herds grazing Sultan’s Palace, the towering heights of Taqah Cliff, in lush, green valleys and grasslands. the stunning greenery in Wadi Darbat, and the 2 archeological ruins of Sumhuram. The Arabian Natural History Association is a It is because of this geographical location that Oman self-directed group. It is nearing 50 years in Dhahran. thrived as a civilization through the centuries from With so much rain, natural springs abound throughout Meetings are held monthly in the Ad-Diwan Building. the cultivation of frankincense. To look at it, the small, Salalah. One such spring, Ayn Razat, provides local ANHA trips occur approximately twice a year. gnarled, bush-like tree doesn’t seem like something plantations with much-needed water through the dry For information about ANHA, email: that caused empires to rise and fall over the millennia. months when the monsoon season is over. The tour [email protected] But it did. The tree thrives because it grows included a visit to Taqah Castle. The 200 year old very well where Oman’s rainy season mists 5 fortress was originally built for Sheikh Ali bin Timman meet the vast desert landscape. Salalah Al-Ma’ashani to protect the region’s frankincense produces some of the world’s best quality product. trade. By the mid-1900s, the castle became the official residence of whoever was the current Walis To harvest frankincense, the bark is scrapped off, (governor). Taqah Castle was where the Walis would allowing the tree’s sap to flow from the trunk. After meet diplomats, dignitaries, settle local disputes and a few days, the sap hardens and is ready for harvest. generally govern the Dhofar Region. Oman’s frankincense was traded throughout the world; it travelled to the Mediterranean, the Arab From the Taqah Castle, our tour continued east to Peninsula, Madagascar, the Horn of Africa, south- Mirbat for a tour of Bin Ali’s tomb (he was a scholar), eastern African, India, southern Asia, and into China. and a fantastic al fresco seafood lunch on the beach within earshot of the local fishermen off-loading fresh Images on these pages The final days of Khareef fell during the Saudi Long caught tuna and sharks down on the docks. Weekend in September, and a group of Arabian 1. A coconut palm tree grows on the beach in Salalah, Oman Natural History Association (ANHA) members The tour took us to Al Mughsayl Beach, which is 2. A spectacular view of the misty cliffs outside Salalah, travelled to Salalah to explore the region’s rich history renowned for its rugged coastline, complete with a Oman, near the Yemen border and lush spectacular scenery. Being the tail end of the blowhole. From there the tour continued west, into the 3. Camels grazing in Wadi Darbat, Salalah, Oman
38 39 In Memorium Capture the Moment | Supplies
In Memoriam
Ian (John) MacLeod 29 April 1938 – 23 May 2014
Born on 29 April 1938 in Cardross, Ian was involved with various wrote the club newsletters until his Scotland where he attended local self-direct groups, darts and one of passing. schools and was known as 'kilty' as his loves, golf. He was also a well- he always wore a kilt. He served his respected gentleman who worked The thoughts and good wishes of apprenticeship at a local engineering tirelessly with many charities. He was many Ukaramcons are with Pat and firm before joining the merchant navy. transferred to Ras Tanura Job Skills family at this sad time. After leaving the Service he worked Training where he continued his at a local distillery where he met and work in Mechanical Engineering as a If anyone would like to make a married Pat. They had 3 daughters, trainer and then as quality assurance donation in Ian's memory, please make a son (who died 12 years ago) and 5 inspector, finally retiring in 1999 from it to the British Heart Foundation, grandchildren. When the children the company after 20 years’ service. registered charity No. SC039426. were older he joined Saudi Aramco in 1979 and was assigned to Abqaiq On his return home to Scotland, Ian Pat and the family would like to thank Job Skills Training Department as a became actively involved with his everyone for their kind thoughts and Mechanical Training instructor. local golf club, Cardross, where he support. was club captain for two years and
Rosemary Nelson 6 August 1949 - 6 September 2014
It is with much regret we announce again on promotion, to work as the especially for her by her golfing Aramco Convoy the death of Rosemary who died very succession planning coordinator for buddies. It was taken just before suddenly in hospital on Saturday, the Operations Services business setting out to play. She, of course, Aramco's trailblazers, the able, pluckish men 6 September. line, the position she retired from went on to win - par for the course’... who ferry the supplies needed to nourish a seed after more than 34 years of service of industry planned in an area once so void of Rosemary joined Aramco in 1976 as with Aramco. For whatever part Rosemary played life it means 'empty'. Extracted from "Convoy to a secretary in the Word Processing in your life, be it work or play, she will Nowhere" published in Aramco World magazine & Admin Support Center and then Away from the workplace, Rosemary be remembered as a good and loyal May/June 1969. went on to work in Community & was a keen sportswoman and in friend, a cheerful companion whose Industrial Projects Department then her early years played in a softball laughter and smile were ever present part of the PM&C Organisation. team which she loved and was also and a very helpful and diligent Rosemary worked her way up an active member of the local darts colleague. the secretarial ladder to become league. She then found golf which executive secretary to the vice she enjoyed immensely and this You will be missed... president of engineering services in is evidenced by the happy photo 1989. In 2002 she was promoted to which is how Rosemary would like Rosemary is survived by her sisters the position of planning & programs to be remembered. This picture was Margaret and Ann, her two nieces analyst in the Engineering Services taken and I quote, ‘On the occasion Emma and Amy, her great nephew Planning Staff Group and latterly, of her last golf tournament arranged Ben and her great niece Holly.
40 41 Feature Story | 5th UKaramcons Reunion continued
Our Last Reunion! continued...
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