Her gentle exhortation: “Eyes have you and you see not. Ears have you and you hear not.”
Ancestors
Thanks to my philanthropic ancestors
Donated in cash and kind for building and/or restoring pagodas, schools, hospitals & monasteries
Offered food, e.g Sa Tu Ditha at Shwe Dagon Tabaung Festival
Provided medicine, e.g for burns)
Gave stipend, e.g to bright but needy students
I am following their footsteps by giving back to my beloved land, mentors, benefactors & alma mater
Family Members
My spouse
Thanks to my family members
They supported my volunteer work for several decades.
My beloved spouse wrote articles for Dhammanda Newsletter with the pen name “Neikban Zaw”.
My niece Dr. Khine Zin Oo gave me a surprise gift: tripod with remote control.
Poets & Artists
Thanks to the contributors of “Poetic Art”.
Tekkatho Moe War : Saya U Moe Aung
Saya Moe
Okpo Maung Yin Maung : Saya U Aung Myaing
Okpo & Bagyee
Maung Nyunt Htay (Ah Htet Min Hla) : Saya U Nyunt Htay
Nyunt Htay
Win Myint (M72) : U Win Myint
Bagyee Myat Myo Myint : U Myo Myint
Miscellaneous
Thanks to Dr. Khin Maung U, Dr. Nyunt Wai, Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint, several sayas, colleagues, friends and literary lovers for contributing and/or reviewing my posts.
Saya U Htun Aung Kyaw (ChE67, SPHS61) posted the list of videos with the links. He also commented on optimization of the talks.
U Tin Aung Win (Oscar, M69, Sacred Heart63) gave me rides to the Golden Jubilee celebrations — Saya Pu Zaw Pwe in the morning and Reuinion Dinner in the evening — in 2019. See my posts for a more comprehensive list of those who provided me transportation,
U Htun Aung (EP70) and spouse Daw Pwint Than (EP71, High school Luyechun in 1964 and 1965) gave me a dhamma book at SPZP-2016.
Saya Dr. Kyaw Tint (Physics, Author) was a Science Scholar, Past President of BADA, and is an entrepreneur. He provided info on Science Scholars and selected topics.
U Ye Sint taught Physics in Myanmar before moving to USA. He was Vice President, Board of Director, Contributing Editor of “Dhammananda Newsletter” and “Paying Homage to Sayadaw U Silandabhivsmsa” book at TBSA. He gave book presents to me.
Eddie Shein (U Aung Kyaw Myint) matriculated from SPHS and graduated from RIT. His hobbies include Palmistry & Astrology. He invited us to the wedding reception of his daughter (specialist medical doctor in Australia). It was a mini-reunion of alumni from SPHS and RIT.
U Maung Maung Kyi (my classmate at SPHS & Leik Khone, my crew mate at RUBC and Best Man at my wedding) and his spouse Daw Khin May Than (ChE72) hosted us at Ogmore-by-the-sea in Wales, UK.
U Win Latt authored WinHoro at UCC under my supervision. He has a Master in Computer Science. He runs a software company named SysMagic. He worked in Myanmar, Singapore & Thailand. He hosted me during my first visit to Singapore and treated us during my visit to Bangkok in 2024.
Saya U Aung Zaw (UCC, CSO, Author) gave me two of his books : “Bawa and Dhamma”, and “Cetana Thi Thar Kan”. He studied M.Sc. (Computer Science) at Southampton University, UK. He taught CS at UCC, Assumption University in Bangkok and at a college in Sydney, Australia.
U Aung Myint (UCC, SPHS64, Physics) transferred from RIT EE Lab to UCC Systems Division. He was Maintenance Engineer and a victim of the 33 question survey following 8-8-88. He taught Courses (e.g Programmable Logic Controllers). He and his son took us to Tanyin / Syriac to visit the Yay Le Phaya and Thabawa Dhamma Yeik Tha. His hobbies include Palmistry and Astrology. He wrote Bedin programs on the ICL 1902S computer at UCC.
U Ngwe Soe (Silver, UCC, AGTI, Japanese Diploma, Physics) was among the young UCC employees. He did sea faring briefly before working for projects around the world. He showed us around Singapore. He and his spouse Daw Nu Nu Yee hosted us for two nights at their home in Jahore, Malaysia. Ma Nu is the sister of U Khin Maung Thwe (RIT69er, GBNF).
U Hlaing Myint (UCC, CS) is the nephew of Saya Dr. San Tint (retired Professor of EC / Electronics, YTU). He helped with the maintenance of my car in the early days at UCC. He gave me rides in his newest car during my previous trip to Yangon. He was an eligible bachelor for a long time. He is now a proud father.
Saya U Aung Myaing (ChE72, Poet) is contributor and coordinator of “Poetic Art”. He recorded several songs (including “Till the end of the world”). His son gave him software for video editing. He and his spouse Daw Gyn Yu (ChE72) hosted sayas and alumni visiting Bangkok (especially for medical checkup).
Sayar Khin Maung Oo (Master Mariner) taught in Myanmar and Malaysia. He and his spouse Daw Tin Tin Win provide volunteer service (e.g shopping, cooking) for Myanmar crew members (notably those who do not have visas to get off their ships at the Port of Houston, Texas).
U Win Thein (Padamyar Winhtein) stood first in his Mathematics Major class in 1966. He wrote for magazines and journals (pen name : Maung Nyo). He is a Moderator for “Fun with Learning” FB Group.
U Sann Tun Ni (Las Vegas) owns a sushi business. He worked for Heavy Industries, and as a Tourist Guide (for Japanese) before moving to USA. He is a Gawpaka at the Las Vegas monastery.
Dr. Myint Tun (Henry Cho Tun, SPHS60) scored the highest marks in I.Sc(A) and I.Sc(B) Combined. He urged me to “Carry On”.
Saya U Min Wun (GBNF) was Professor and Head of Civil Engineering at RIT and Member of the Myanmar Pyetkadein Ah Kyan Pay Ah Phwe. Saya retired from Caltans at the tender age of 80 to have time for meditation. He was interviewed by the newspaper and Internet TV in Southern California. Saya wrote several articles for RIT Alumni International Newsletter.
U Khin Maung Myint (M71) rowed for RIT. He stays active by running and mountaineering.
SMART Group of Companies (U Kyaw Kyaw Hlaing and team) for hosting me twice during my visit to Myanmar from November 2019 to January 2020.
Admin and Moderator
Sagar Pariye Dr. Nyunt Wai (SPHS63, Fourth in Burma)
MARB U Kyaw Myint, Dr. Aung Myin Bo
Team Old School IT U Kyaw Zeya
YUBC Old Members U Zeyar Linn
Swel Daw Yeik U Khin Maung Lwin
Gangaw Taw Yar Pyie (RU Centennial) Dr. Nyi Thet Lwin, U Aung Mon
P.B.R.S Group U Aye Maung Than, U Mya Hlaing
Friends of Sayar Khin Maung Oo U Khin Maung Oo
SF Bay Area Myanmar Community and Cultural Center U Cho Oo, U Kyaw Kyaw Soe
Fun with Learning Padamyar Winhtein, U Khin Maung Zaw
Father’s Day is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday in June.
Three Generation of Fathers
My beloved fatherMy beloved parents
First Generation
My beloved father
He had NDE (Near Death Experience) in his teens. The doctors said that he had three months to live, but thanks to Kadok Sayagyi (ကတုတ်ဆရာကြီး၊ Indigenous Medicine Expert) he lived to be a father of seven and grandfather of eleven.
He was a Jack of all Trades and Master of Some. He was not an Architect, but he built pagodas and houses (for him and his younger brothers).
He passed away in his 80s.
He would be 109 in July 2025.
Three Generations
Second Generation
Yours truly
I am a Lifelong Learner.
I am a former academic and Software Engineer.
I have two sons and two grandchildren.
My family 1
Third Generation
My elder son
He is an Industrial Engineer.
He has a daughter & a son. Both are excellent in studies and extra-curricular activities.
My family 2
Old Poem
Be kind to your father For when you were young Who loved you as fondly as he He caught the first accent that fell from your tongue And joined in the heavenly glee
Be kind to your father For now he is old His hair intermingled with grey His footsteps are feeble — Once fearless and bold Your father is passing away
Morals & Manners
We had to study “Morals & Manners” at St. Paul’s High School. Brother Austin rewarded those who could recite poems in the book.
“Taw Hlan Yay Nay” (တော်လှန်ရေးနေ့ Resistance Day) is celebrated in March. The resistance officially started on March 27, 1945. Bohmu Ba Htoo had started the resistance earlier, but it was made to look like a random sporadic act of defiance. The town which housed the early military training school was named “Ba Htoo Myo ဗထူးမြို့”
“Lut Latt Yay Nay” (လွတ်လပ်ရေးနေ့ Independence Day) is celebrated in January. The Union Jack was lowered and the Union Flag was flown on January 4, 1948. The time 4:20 AM may have been suggested by an astrologer.
Many civilians and armed personnel put their lives on the line in their support for a Democratic and Independent Union of Burma.
Saying “The pen is mightier than the sword.”
Forward Magazine
My poem “To the fallen warrior” was published in Forward Magazine.
Bohmu Ba Thaw (Maung Thaw Ka) was Chief Editor.
U Sein Hla was Assistant Editor.
I received Fifteen Kyats for my poem.
The artist who illustrated my poem received Fifty Kyats.
The Phaundaw-u Festival
Phaungdaw-u Festival
I wrote a poem “The Phaungdaw-u Festival” for the Thadinkyut Supplement of Working People’s Daily (WPD).
I visited Inlay Lake four times.
My first visit was in the summer of 1965 as Tekkatho Luyechun for the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp.
My second visit was in October, 1965. I accompanied Ko Aung Kyaw (Peter Pe, SPHS, Movie Star) and Ko MaungMaung Aye (SPHS, IM1, GBNF) to Inlay and Taunggyi. Peter’s cousins (including a medical doctor) live in In Paw Khone in Inlay. Peter’s uncle U Maung Maung Latt was Ah Mat Choke (အမတ်ချုပ်) in Taunggyi. We saw first hand the famous Phaungdaw-u Festival.
My third visit was in the mid 2010s. We took a tour package (air travel, hotel, car & boat) to Inlay. We stayed at a hotel in Inlay and then visited selected places in a chartered boat. We were sad to see the declining state of Inlay (e.g. water level). We spent some time in Taunggyi and the nearby cave in Ho Pone.
My fourth visit was in January 2020 as the final leg of the Professional Speakers Association’s tour.
The Ngapali Beach
The Ngapali Beach
My poem “The Ngapali Beach” was published in the Forward Magazine on March 2, 1970.
I received fifteen kyats for my poem.
The illustrator received fifty kyats.
Bohmu Ba Thaw (Maung Thaw Kha) was Chief Editor.
U Sein Hla was Assistant Editor.
Visits
My first visit was during my student days. My cousin and friends stayed at the Bungalow owned by U Tha Gyaw Wai and managed by my uncle. At a nearby bungalow was a movie crew by Amyotha Yoke Shin အမျိုးသားရုပ်ရှင် with U San Maung (Gerald, RUBC Gold and Coach). Ko Gerald asked me if I would be interested to join them on the way back via Taung Goke. We were hosted by a cinema owner. He offered the movie audience a free show if they could translate the Burmese titles into English. One submission was “Fly away bitter bird” (Pyan Lay dei Nget Khar ပျံလေတဲ့ငှက်ခါး)
My second visit was with my beloved spouse and two young sons. We stayed at the Bungalow owned by Amyotha Yoke Shin and managed by U Mya Maung (elder brother of Saya U Tin Htut).
My third visit was as Guest Lecturer for the Ngapali Luyechun Camp. I spent some time chatting with other Guest Lecturers including Saya U Kyaw Myint (Director of Higher Education, former Professor of Physics at Mandalay).
Hantha Aye Nylon — the parents of Than Than Yee (T71) and Sann Aung (M74) — also owned a Bungalow.
The Hotel and Tourist Corporation built the first hotel in Ngapali.
I know a few people who have taken almost yearly trips to Ngapali.
Our Unity
Our Unity
My poem “Our Unity” was published in WPD (Working People’s Daily) for Pyidaung Su Nay (Union Day). It was written as a dream.
Hlaing Phyo is one of my pen names.
I received fifteen kyats for my poem.
G Ko Lay (RUBC Gold) was Chief Editor of WPD. His spouse : Daw Nyunt Nyunt Win (Physics, RASU Registrar)
Former Chief Editors of WPD include U Khin Maung Latt (father of Saya Dr. Khin Maung Win, grand father of Maung Yit and Junior Win) and U Than Saw (grand father of KMZ’s spouse).
Tekkatho Moe War wrote : This is really an amazing verse to read, especially for a poetry lover, be it in any language, so to speak.
Updates
Several are GBNF. They include Bohmu Ba Thaw, U Ko Lay, U Mya Maung, U San Maung, U Khin Maung Latt, U Than Saw, Than Than Yi & Sann Aung
Maurice Chee (M75) organized a Birthday Soon Kyway at Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay on August 20, 2016.
He prepared electronic & hard copy of the birthday wishes.
Awards & Birthday Cards
Another set was for attendees, who had not sent wishes by e-mail.
Thanks to the sayas, colleagues and friends for a memorable gathering.
Appreciation from Alumni in US & Canada
Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi could not attend the soonkyway, but he requested Maurice to donate a food dish for him & his family. Sayagyi’s message was read by Maurice.
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68) presented the appreciation award at Half Moon Bay soonkwyay and gathering.
Appreciation Award
From NorCal RITAA Dinner in Dec 2016
Alumni Appreciation Award was signed by Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, Chair, BOD), Gordon Kaung (M83, President) and U Thaung Nyunt (M87, Secretary).
Award 2
Saya U Myat Htoo presented the award to me at the NorCal RITAA Annual Dinner, 2016.
From SPHS in 1963
There were five Paulians in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten, and ten in the Top Twenty. They received Collegiate Scholarship.
SPHS63
Dr. Khin Maung U (Retired from FDA, USA) – 1st
Dr. Min Oo (Retired Maths Professor in Canada) – 2nd
Dr. Myo San (Freddie, Surgeon, GBNF) – 3rd
Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor, Professor in IM & Malaysia) – 4th
Dr. Thein Wai (Migrated to USA after graduation) – 5th
U Hla Min (Retired Software Engineer) – 7th
7th place
Dr. Aung Kyaw Zaw (Cardiologist) – 9th
U Maung Maung Kyi (Dip Ing, GBNF) – 11th
U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, EC69, GBNF) – 13th
Dr. Khin Maung Zaw (Frank, Retired Doctor in UK) – 17th
From Toastmasters International
DTM 1DTM 2Hall of Fame
Awards
CC (Competent Communicator)
ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze)
ACS (Advanced Communicator Silver)
ACG (Advanced Communicator Gold)
CL (Competent Leader)
ALB (Advanced Leader Bronze)
ALS (Advanced Leader Silver)
DTM (Distinguished Toastmaster)
I served as
Club Officer
Area Governor
Club Coach
Contest Chair
Ambassador
Guest Speaker
Test Speaker
Team Builder (for Excellent Leadership)
MP3 players
Mug & CD Player
Dhamma Talks & Lectures
Received MP3 player with dhamma talks from U Khin Maung Tun, SDYF President at 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles
Also received MP3 players from
Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt
My sisters
Dhamma friends
Each player has Paritta Pali (protective verses) and dhamma talks by different sayadaws.
From my Life Savers
Coffee mug with photos
My beloved grandchildren gave it as present for Grand Father’s Day
Books
Dhamma & Bawa
For writing,translating, editing or proof-reading
I edited or proof-read books written by
Sayadaws (U Silananda, U Jotalankara)
Sayas (Des Rodgers)
Friends (U Aung Zaw).
They provided me copies of their books.
Book Presents
I received books from others. They include
“Life Journey of Maths Professor U Ba Toke” : autographed copy
U Ba Toke
“Myanmar in my life-time” by BBS U Khin Zaw — air mailed from Australia by U Wint Khin Zaw
Book by U Khin Zaw
Book honoring Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint — air mailed from Australia by Dr. TOKM
TOKM
Centennial for U Khin Maung Latt & Daw Khin Myo Chit — Two books by Junior Win
Books by U Ye Sint (former Editor of Dhammananda Newsletter) : His works; Pathan Dethana (Dhamma Dana by his siblings)
U Kesala (Chief Resident monk, Alodaw Pyie Monastery in Arizona) : Dhamma Q&A; Several other books
“Nga Doh Khit Ka Tekkatho” by Shwe Ky May Hnin — Given to me at San Francisco Bay Area Talk
Book by Shwe Ku May Hnin
Books by Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) —Collection of Poems; Collection of Articles
Saya Moe
Book by Saya U Nyunt Htay — Collection of Swel Daw Poems
RIT Poets
Books by Nyan Oo Maung (aka Mudita Shwe Kyaung Sayadaw U Nyanika)
Books by various sayadaws in Bay Area & beyond : Beelin Sayadaw, U Dhammapiya, U Gosita, Dhamma Bheri Sayadaw, Aung San Tat Oo Sayadaw, Thamanay Kyaw
Books by Dr. San Oo, Daw Than Yi and family
“Yahandar and Poke Ko Htoo Myar” by Dhammacariya U Htay Hlaing — in the 80’s for translating several of his “Dhamma Duta” articles
Books by Sayawun Tin Shwe — Given by his daughter Tyn Tyn Aye during her UCC studies
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ) mailed me two books that he bought in Myanmar : U Thant Ah Yay Ah Khin, Collection Bagan poems (by Zawgyi, translated by Ah May Thar).
Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt believes in a revolving library. Gave me several books that he enjoyed reading.
8-8-88 by Dat Pone Htein Win — Received at 5th ILF
Books by Members of Professional Spakers Association (PSA) : Kyaw Kyaw Hlaing, Kaythri Kyaw …
Publications
Contributing Editor for “90th Anniversary Issue of the Founding of RUBC” (2013)
Wrote articles and/ or poems for
Guardian
Working People’s Daily
Forward Magazine
Veda Magazine
Pan Magazine
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife
Encyclopedia
BAPS Newsletter
RIT Alumni Newsletter (Special issue for SPZP-2000)
Newsletter
“Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 & SPZP-2010
SDY Sar Saung
“Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” for Shwe YaDu
SDY Magazine
U Ohn Khine (M70) and I compiled the CD supplement for HMEE-2012.
CDs
Received raw and formal CDs and DVDs for the various RIT Gatherings.
Sayagyi hosted us for two days during our trip to Canada in July 2015.
He enjoys talking about the RIT days. His account “Coconut Episode” was published in the Swel Daw Yeik Sar saung for SPZP-2002.
Due to schedule conflicts, he could not make it to the soon kyway on August 20, 2016, but he asked Maurice to order Tohu Thoke. He sent a message to Maurice to be read at the gathering.
Ko Hla Min & family, & Friends,
First of all I would like to mention that I am sorry I was not able to be there for Happy Birthday celebration for Ko Hla Min with all of you. I miss the opportunity of sharing the good time, laughter and the good food with my friends. Although I am not there in person for this joyful occasion, I want you to know that my heart and thoughts are with all of you.
Having said all of the above, I would like to express my deep appreciation and thanks to Ko Hla Min for his years of dedicated and selfless service to keep us informed and connected; and at the same time for keeping the “RIT SPIRIT” alive. I am quite sure all of the RIT Alumni also appreciate and are grateful for this excellent service like me. In recognition of this outstanding community service, I understand that Northern California RIT Alumni is giving Ko Hla Min some kind of an award for which he deserves. I hope that Ko Hla Min will be able to continue this service for years to come, as I feel that no other person may be able to carry out this task better than he does.
I really do not know how old Ko Hla Min is now. The number is irrelevant; what’s important is that he is still healthy and active and he still looks young. With this happy thought my wife and I wish Ko Hla Min “Happy Birthday”.
May you all be happy, healthy, prosperous and free from all harm. Please enjoy your joyful get-together.
With abundant Metta Aung Gyi
From Saya Dr. San Hla Aung (C58)
Dear Ko Hla Min,
Here’s wishing you all the happiness and the best of everything on your Birthday and praying for many many more returns of the Day.
Thanks also for your tireless effort and devotion towards keeping the website alive and flourishing, and letting all of us alumni stay connected. Kudos for a great job so well done!
With boundless metta, San Hla Aung
From Saya U San Tun (Sain Fone Wong, M59)
Dear U Hla Min,
We regret that we will not be able to join the celebration of your birthday at the Theravada Buddhist Society of America on August 20, 2016.
There is no doubt that the attendance will be large and all the Burmese foods will be mouth-watering and delicious. We are sure all the attendees will have a good time and leave the celebration venue with a fond memory.
We admire you for all the good deeds and sacrifices you have been doing over the past decade for the benefits to oversea Burmese immigrants not only in the bay area, Southern California, the United States and over various parts of the world. Keep up the good work!
We expect to meet you at the annual Nor Cal RITAA dinner on September 17,2016. We wish you a happy birthday and our best regards to your beloved Daw Sein Yee.
Sain Fone & Sylvia
From Saya Dr. Chris Lee (L Tin Htun, EE59)
Dear Ko Hla Min:
From reading the recent emails in your “Update”, tomorrow will be a great “Happy Birthday Bonanza Party” for you. It will surely be a fun, exciting and memorable event for all attendees.
We wish you a wonderful Happy Birthday and many many more returns.
Best regards, Chris and Pam Lee
From Saya U Tin Htut (M60)
Founder & Past President of BASES
Organizer for SPZP-2000
Saya will attend the soon kyway on August 20, 2016 and the Annual Dinner of Northern California RIT Alumni Association on September 17, 2016. Thanks.
Yes, I will be glad to join you all in the celebration. Tin Htut
From Saya U Soe Paing (my mentor at RIT and UCC)
Happy 70th Birthday and best wishes for many more birthdays to come.
SP
From Saya Dr. Tin Win (M62) and Daw Lily Win (T72)
Dear Ko Hla Min,
We wish you a very happy Birthday and many more years with good health, prosperity and contentment.
Best regards, Tin Win and Lily
From Saya KC Chiu (Dr. Tin Aung, ChE63)
Ko Hla Min,
Happy birthday to you. Your voluntary service in keeping RIT alumni connected is unprecedented and commendable. You deserve the honorable commendation party to be held on 8/20/2016 at Half Moon Bay. If I didn’t move to Southern California last year, I would not miss it for the world. Happy birthday again and many more to come.
Regards, KC Chiu
From Saya Dr. Nyo Win (M65)
Past President of BAPS
Founding member of RIT Alumni International
Founding member & BOD for NorCal RIT AA
Saya Allen Htay’s article, “Brother, can you afford US $500?” refers to “U Nyo Win Act” for SPZP-2000. The Act did not need to be implemented thanks to the Golden Sponsors : U Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, EC70), U Yu Beng (Benny Tan, M70), U Khin Maung oo (Ivan Lee, M69), U Tin Myint (David Ko, M67) and U Maung Maung Than (M79) and the numerous sponsors.
Hello Ko Hla Min,
We all are expecting and waiting for the up coming celebration of your birthday at Half Moon Bay Monastery this Saturday [August 20, 2016]. It’s going to be one of its kind in our RIT alumni community, and surely on the day of the celebration you will be overwhelmed by all the alums, sayas, sayamas, friends and well wishers. I’d like to wish you beforehand a very happy birthday and looking forward to seeing you at the celebration party.
Warmest regards, [Saya Dr.] Nyo Win (ME 65)
From Saya Dr. Kyaw Sein (M65)
Dear U Hla Min,
Best wishes for your Birthday and many happy returns of the day from this day onwards and far beyond.May good health, happiness, prosperity and success be always with your whole family.
With warm and sincere regards Kyaw Sein. Prof. Dr. University of Malaysia Mechatronics
From Saya U Maung Maung (George, ChE66) & spouse
Dear Ko Hla Min,
See you at the Half Moon Bay Monastery this Saturday.
Thanks for your dedication and untiring effort in keeping us all in touch with alumni all around the world.
Also wishing you the very best on your Birthday and many more to come.
Best regards. George & Eng Eng Chan
From King Wong (Victor, C66)
Dear Ko Hla Min,
All good and kind words are spoken by others.
My tongue is tied and twisted. All I can say ” Happy Birthday to You “
BTW, also Happy Birthday to adorable Grace.
Best Regards King Wong (Victor)
From Daw Khin Khin Kyu (Ann, A67)
Dear Ko Hla Min,
Thank you so much for keeping RIT spirit well and healthy all the time.
Appreciate all your hard work and time well spent. I regret that I can’t come to your BD celebration since I will be out of town that day.
Wishing you many many more returns. Enjoy yourself and be healthy every day.
Best regards Ann K K Kyu
Editor’s Note: Daw KKK sent a birthday gift with Maurice.
From U Saim Mayet (M67)
Dear U Hla Min,
Wish you a very happy birthday. I admire you for all the hard work you have been doing for more than a decade to keep us informed about RIT sayagyis, sayamas and other members. Thank you.
Salim Mayet (M 67)
From Saya U Myat Htoo (C 68)
Dear U Hla Min,
I would like to thank you for your dedication towards our alma mater by sacrificing your precious time and your tireless work over a decade and a half to connect all alumni around the world. Your work is unbelievably amazing and you are the inspiration for all of us.
I am very happy that I will be joining you to celebrate your birthday at Half Moon Bay Monastery where you and I among other Board of Directors helped Sayadaw U Silananda successfully develop TBSA Meditation Center to propagate Theravada Buddhism in the western world and beyond.
With ananda metta, [Saya U] Myat Htoo
Editor’s notes: Saya served for a decade or so as President of TBSA. He supervised the Last Journey for Sayadaw U Silananda. He scattered Sayadaw’s ashes into the San Francisco Bay near the Golden Gate Bridge. He plays the ukelele well. He enjoys golf & tennis. He is a Past President of BADA.
Sayadaw U Okkantha (C69)
Happy happy birthday.
Ashin Oakkantha (Victor Aung Chaw).
Editor’s notes: Sayadaw was my classmate at SPHS and RIT.
From Benny Tan (Yu Beng, M70) and Angelina
Dear Ko Hla Min,
You’ve spent years sharing your amazing memories and wonderful writing ability with all of us from RIT, YIT, etc.
I like to thank you for sharing your wonderful RIT spirit and making a positive difference for so many people. Time is the most precious thing and you have generously shared your time and talents with all of us year after amazing year.
Congratulations and all the best to you on your milestone birthday. May you live long, happy and healthy and may all your dreams and wishes come true.
All the best, Benny and Angelina Tan
From Daw Mai Khin Nyunt (Rosie, ChE71)
Dear Ko Hla Min,
(a) May I wish to your beloved grand daughter “Grace”. HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY AND MANY MORE TO COME
No doubt that she will become a smart little adorable girl. My grandson will be two years in coming Sept. He gives us hope and happiness. Each and every movement is interesting and adorable for us. I’m sure you and Ma Sein feel the same.
(b) Many Happy Returns of the Day. Wish you could spend your life per your wish with Dhamma, family and friends.
Have a nice and memorable gathering.
With Metta, Rosie
From U San Lin (Robert, EC73, Texas)
Grace is brilliant.
I can imagine how proud and happy you are.
Wishing you a happy birthday too.
Robert [San Lin]
FromMaurice Chee (M75)
Past President of BAPS
Founding member & Treasurer of RIT Alumni International
Chaired Working Committee (with Benny) for SPZP-2000
Financial Controller & Publisher of RIT Alumni Newsletter for SPZP-2000
Great organizer.
The following is an update [as of August 12, 2016] on alumni members attending and bringing yummy authentic Burmese cuisines:
Ko Hla Min and family of 5
Dhamma friends of Ko Hla Min 10 to 15
Dr Aung Gyi – Tohu Toke (Sayegyi cannot make it but he will send me his speech to be read on his behalf).
Saya U Tin Htut & Mrs
U Myo Min & Daw Khin Khin Chit Maung
U Tin Maung Nyunt
Saya Myat Htoo & spouse – Ohn-no Kyauk Chau
Benny & Angelina Tan – Monhinga
Saya Nyo Win & spouse – Si Tha min
Saya Maung Maung & Eng Eng- samosa
Sayalay U Thein Aung & 3 – mango pickle to compliment the Dan Pauk plus curry dishes
Maurice & Mary Chee – Dan Pauk
Gordon & Lillian Kaung – Dessert
Ko Myint Swe & Daw San San Swe – Chin Baung Gyaw to compliment the Dan Pauk
Walter Tan & Angela – Naan-Gyi-Toke
Charlie & Diana Tseng – Birthday Cake
Edward Saw – Chinese egg custard
Alex Khoo – Sa-nwin-ma-kin and “Mont-Kywe-thee
Ko Kyaw Myint & 1 – falooda
Daw Khin Mya Yee – Pe Pyoke (Salad or Fry TBD and maybe Thee Song Hin)
Ko Hla Kyi & 3 – Nga Pyaw Baung (Banana dessert) ;
Ko Hla Kyi & company is kind enough to sponsor forks, spoons, napkins, plates and bowls as well as volunteering for erecting the tents, tables, chairs and cleanup.
Ko Thaung Nyunt
Daw Mu Mu Kin Htay – Let Phet Toke
Patrick Naing & Mimi
Ko Mya Thwin & spouse – fried small dried shrimp sesame noodle
Ma Thandar Aye & spouse
Dr Myint Thein aka Maung Ba Thein, nickname: Insein Zay Kaung
Daw Khin Khin Win & spouse
Ko Myint Soe
U Yu Ket (Edward Saw)
Stan & Lu Lu Liou
Ko Soe Thu & spouse
Ko San Lin & family
Daw Kyu Kyu Lin (T75)
Her nickname is “Baw Lone”. She represented RIT in volleyball. She will bring Si Kyet (may be Kyee Oh Si Kyet). Thanks.
From U Myint Soe (M79)
Three photos
From Gordon Kaung (M83) and Lillian Kaung (EC83)
Hello Saya Hla Min:
We wish you the happiest of B-days, and many many more to come!
We will bring a bottle of premium iNapaWine for you and ama to enjoy at your B-day (we know ama will definitely enjoy our premium wine to stay healthy, and take good care of you).
With lots of metta, Gordon and Lillian Kaung Wine Maker
From Saya U Khin (Lucien Chen, RIT English, Taipei)
Dear Hla Min,
I have been an ardent “fan” of your RIT Newsletter updates ever since you included me in your mailing list at the suggestion of Des Rodgers many many years ago.
You have made a great contribution to the RIT community by bringing the RIT alumni, sayas and sayamas together through your reports, messages, photos, etc. in the RIT Newsletter and also through your persistent efforts in carrying on the good work against all odds. Who is going to fill your shoes after you retire?
I spent the best years of my life (1964 ~ 1968) at the RIT and I cherish the good old days I had at the RIT with my former colleagues at the English Department such as Saya Desmond Rodgers, Saya U Win Mra, Saya U Joe Ba Maung, Saya Sao Kangyi (deceased), Saya U Kyaw Lwin Hla, Sayama Daw Yin Yin Mya (Terry), Sayama Daw Charity Sein U, Sayama Daw Khin May Lwin (Muriel), Sayama Daw Tin Tin Oo (Toni), Sayama Daw Khin Saw Tint (Anne), among others; my former colleagues at other engineering departments and non-engineering departments such as Saya U Tin Maung (Civil), Saya U Christopher Maung (Civil), Saya Allen Htay (civil), Saya Dr K.C. Khoo (Chemical), among others; and my former students Tin Tin Myint (Emma), Khin Phyu Latt (Christine), Tin Tin Hla (Su Tin), Sai Kham Sang, Pamela Myo Min, George Lim, among others.
I hope you will have a great time at the birthday party that will be hosted in your honor on August 20th at Half Moon Bay, California, by your former classmates, colleagues, sayas and sayamas.
I shall also be wishing you a happy birthday in absentia from this part of the world, and hope you will have many happy and healthy returns of the day in the years to come.
Maurice Chee (M75) organized a Birthday Soon Kyway at Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay in August 2016.
He prepared electronic & hard copy of the birthday wishes.
Another set was for attendees, who had not sent wishes by e-mail.
Thanks to the sayas, colleagues and friends for a memorable gathering.
Appreciation from Sayas and Alumni in US and Canada
Award 2
Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi could not attend the soonkyway, but he requested Ko Maurice to donate a food dish for him & his family. Sayagyi’s message was read by Ko Maurice.
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68) presented the appreciation award at Half Moon Bay soonkwyay and gathering (August 2016).
September 2016
Alumni Appreciation Award from NorCalRITAA
Award 3
The award was signed by
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, Chair, BOD)
Gordon Kaung (M83, President)
U Thaung Nyunt (M87, Secretary)
Award 4
Saya U Myat Htoo presented the award to me at the NorCal RITAA Annual Dinner, 2016.
From SPHS in 1963
Collegiate Scholarship winners from SPHS in 1963
There were five Paulians in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten, and ten in the Top Twenty.
SPHS637th in Burma
Khin Maung U (Retired from FDA, USA) – 1st
Min Oo (Retired Maths Professor from McMasters University, Canada) – 2nd
Myo San (Freddie, Surgeon, GBNF) – 3rd
Nyunt Wai (Victor, Professor, IM & Malaysia) – 4th
Thein Wai (Migrated to USA after graduation) – 5th
Hla Min (Lifelong Learner, Retired Software Engineer) – 7th
Khin Maung Zaw (Frank, Retired Doctor in UK) – 17th
Three are GBNF
Luyechun
Summer of 1965
Attended Inlay Khaung Daing Camp
LYCLYC 1LYC 2
From Toastmasters International
Awards
ToastmastersDTM 1
CC (Competent Communicator)
ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze)
ACS (Advanced Communicator Silver)
ACG (Advanced Communicator Gold)
CL (Competent Leader)
ALB (Advanced Leader Bronze)
ALS (Advanced Leader Silver)
DTM (Distinguished Toastmaster)
Triple Crown
DTM 2
I served as
Club Officer
Area Governor
Club Coach
Contest Chair
Ambassador
Guest Speaker
Test Speaker
Team Builder (for Excellent Leadership)
From my Life Savers
Coffee mug with photos
Coffee Mug
My beloved grandchildren gave me a present for Grand Father’s Day.
Drawings
On several occasions
Book Presents
For editing and proof reading
I edited or proof-read books by
Sayadaws (U Silananda, U Jotalankara)
U Jotalankara
Sayas (Saya Des Rodgers)
Friends (Saya U Aung Zaw)
Dhamma & Bawa
They provided me copies of their books.
From colleagues and friends
I also received copies from others. They include
“Myanmar in my life-time” Book by BBS U Khin Zaw air mailed from Australia by U Wint Khin Zaw
Book by K
Book honoring Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint air mailed from Australia by Dr. TOKM
Book by TOKMDhamma Q&A
Centennial for U Khin Maung Latt & Daw Khin Myo Chit Two books given by Junior Win, twin sister of Maung Yit
Books by U Ye Sint (former Editor of Dhammanda Newsletter) His works Pathan Dethana (Dhamma Dana by his siblings)
U Kesala (Chief Resident monk, Alodaw Pyie Monastery in Arizona) Dhamma Q&A Several other books
“Nga Doh Khit Ka Tekkatho” Book by Shwe Ku May Hnin Given to me at the San Francisco Bay Area Talk
Book by Shwe Ku May Hnin
Books by Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) Collection of Poems Collection of Articles
Book by Tekkatho Moe War
Book by Saya U Nyunt Htay Collection of Swel Daw Poems
Book by RIT Poets
Books by Nyan Oo Maung Currently known as “Mudita Shwe Kyaung” Sayadaw U Nyanika
Books by various sayadaws in the Bay Area & beyond U Dhammapiya U Gosita Dhamma Bheri Sayadaw Aung San Tat Oo Sayadaw Thamanay Kyaw
Books by Dr. San Oo, Daw Than Yi & family
“Yahandar and Poke Ko Htoo Myar” Book by Dhammacariya U Htay Hlaing (in the 80’s for translating several of his “Dhamma Duta” articles)
Books by Sayawun Tin Shwe Given by his daughter Tyn Tyn Aye during her UCC studies
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ) mailed me two books that he bought in Myanmar. U Thant Ah Yay Ah Khin Collection Bagan poems (by Zawgyi, translated by Ah May Thar).
Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt believes in a “revolving library”. Gave me several books that he enjoyed reading.
8-8-88 Book by Dat Pone Htein Win Given at 5th ILF in Mandalay
Books by Members of Professional Spakers Association (PSA) Kyaw Kyaw Hlaing Kaythri Kyaw …
Magazines
Editor for “90th Anniversary Issue of the Founding of RUBC” (2013)
Wrote poems and articles for
RIT Alumni International Newsletter (for SPZP-2000)
“Swel Daw Yeik Sarsaung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010
“Swel Daw Yeik Magazine for Shwe YaDu”
U Ohn Khine (M70) and I compiled the CD supplement for HMEE-2012.
CDs
Received raw and formal CDs and DVDs for the various RIT Gatherings.
HlaMin 