Until 2013, the 1958 cohort rarely had reunions. No doubt, banquets were held in 1983 (25th Anniversary) and 1998 (40th Anniversary). In 2013, however, Eric Pakiry and Tan Joo San jointly decided to organise regular lunch gatherings. What prompted this was the latter’s inability to recognise an old classmate and close friend from school days. Hence, the simple objective of the regular gatherings is to prevent old acquaintances from being forgotten and never being brought to mind.

Lunches (on even months) and chit-chats over coffee (odd months) are held on the last Wednesday of each month. As the primary purpose of the gatherings is fellowship rather than the partaking of gastronomic delights, the main venue is the food court (often the Plaza Singapura Kopitiam). On occasion, the group would go for a buffet or restaurant meal as it is planning to do for its 60th Anniversary this year.

ACSians from other cohorts are welcome to join the monthly gatherings. This would be particularly meaningful for those wishing to rekindle past relationships with members of the 1958 cohort. As illustration, take the recent February lunch at the Orchard YMCA’s Y Cafe. Laurence Lim, Donald Ng, Norman Wee, David Tai, R. Rajasenaran and Ivor Thevathasan from the 1957cohort were present. Interestingly, Norman and Donald used to pick cherries with Vincent Tan (of 1958) during their past sojourn in Australia, and David used to play golf with Vincent.

Meanwhile, Rajasenaran had been concerned whether he would be able to get suitable vegetarian fare but Ivor, who had headed the Orchard YMCA in the past and knew the Y Cafe’s caterer very well, resolved the matter in no time. And so, the camaraderie and bonhomie that day were almost palpable!

When all is said and done, ACSians form part of one big happy family. We are truly blest to have been endowed with the ACS heritage, which the 1958 cohort helps to preserve every time it meets.