1. pets
2. animal welfare

BT
Bamboo Telegraph
November 2014
American Women’s
Association of
Singapore
BT
NOVEMBER 2014
Contents
American Women’s Association
of Singapore
10 Claymore Hill
Singapore 229573
General Manager: Sarah Cockerill
Main: 6734-4895
Fax: 6733-6190
Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 9:30
am
to 4:00
pm
AWA Board & Committee
President: Annette Foster
First Vice-President: Kristina Thompson
Second Vice-President: Erin Michaelis
Third Vice-President: Mary Leadbetter
Treasurer: Caryn Pesek
Corresponding Secretary: Jennifer Daniels
Recording Secretary: Stephania Moore
Bamboo Telegraph: Coreen Knox
Community Outreach: Janie Butler
Membership: Peggy Bronner
Social: Amy Buchan
Special Interests: Tara Eastep
Sponsorship: Valerie Castellana
Sports: Amy Lovas
Tours: Constance Hsia
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President's Message
Membership
Monthly Luncheon/ Choir Holiday Concert
Holiday Luncheon
Cocktail Club
Carpet Auction/ Arts & Culture
Kids' Korner
Book Review
Holiday Lights
Expat Expertise
Nearly New Sale
Community Outreach
AWA Activities
Red Lantern Diary
Local Tours
Foreign Tours
Tennis
Golf
Writers' Block
Recipe of the Month
Member Benefits
November/ December Calendars
Parliamentarian: Schuyler House
General Manager: Sarah Cockerill
AWA Registration Policies
Bookings open on the first working day of the month. You must register in advance to attend an event. If an event is full, please ask to be added
to the waitlist. Events end at approximately the listed time. Only adults over 18 years may attend AWA events unless otherwise designated.
AWA Cancellation Policies
• All AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable cancellation charge. This cannot be returned under any circumstances.
• You may cancel your attendance at an event by calling the AWA office at 6734-4895, no less than 4 working days prior to the event.
• Your money will be refunded to you in the following ways: If you registered online via Paypal or in person by cash, check or NETS, it will be
refunded by cash (less the non-refundable $5 charge), which you must collect from the office no later than 1 month from the date of the event. If
you do not collect the cash by this date, it will be forfeit. If you registered via phone or in person by credit card, it will be refunded to your credit
card (less the non-refundable $5 charge). You will need to give your credit card details again to receive the refund.
• You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member, no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing admin@awasingapore.org
with the new attendee’s name.
• Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded.
• Exception for ongoing activity fees (e.g. Mahjong): You may transfer your attendance to a future date of the same activity, without incurring the
$5 fee. At the time you transfer your attendance, you must specify which future date you wish to transfer to. You can transfer your attendance up
to 4 working days prior to the event.
Please be advised that any names listed in this publication, the AWA directory or any other material published by AWA are for the exclusive use of AWA members only. Any commercial use is strictly
prohibited. The Bamboo Telegraph is published 10 times per year. The American Women’s Association and the Bamboo Telegraph neither endorse nor take responsibility for the opinions expressed
herein. Please address all comments and queries to the Bamboo Telegraph Editor. AWA does not endorse or promote any product or service offered through any advertisement that may appear in the
Bamboo Telegraph.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
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President's Message
November 2014
Bamboo Telegraph
Production Team
BT Editor
Coreen Knox
bt_editor@awasingapore.org
BT Staff
Niki Cholet
Sue Levens
Carolinn Sheely
BT Advertising
Karen Innes-Mulhall
bt_advertising@awasingapore.org
Features Contributors
Judith Agusti
Jill Cordry
Elizabeth Kain
Annette Lang
Carolinn Sheely
Visit us on the internet:
www.awasingapore.org
Facebook: Awa Singapore
Questions, comments and
administrative issues, please
email us:
admin@awasingapore.org
Printed by
Xpress Print (Pte) Ltd
6880-2881, fax 6880-2998
von@xpress.sg
President's Message......
As a longer term expat, it seems that time goes by even more quickly
living overseas. Exactly my point- we are actually heading into November
2014. Where has this year gone? I am not sure about you, but the final few
months of each year are always my favorite time. November, for instance,
reminds me of family time with Thanksgiving events, enjoying following
both college and professional football and the change to cold weather
clothing (not so much in Singapore but we have all seen the coats and
cold weather gear in the shop windows on Orchard Road and wondered
why?!) I know some of our AWA members head home in November to
spend time with friends and family. For those of us that stay in Singapore,
enjoy your Singapore extended group of close friends as they will remain
in your life forever. Keep on cherishing your time living overseas, and
specifically in Singapore. October at the AWA was particularly memorable, as we had one of the
year’s most anticipated events - The Home Tour. As usual, it was an
absolutely full event and a great success. The ladies and gentlemen that
opened up their homes to this event all had beautiful homes and were
extremely inviting. I have to say a special thank you to the Chairs, Andrea
Richards and Connie Hsia, who were the organizers of this year’s Home
Tour event - your dedication and hard work made for a flawless event.
We had a great start to the 2014 Home Tour at Hedger’s Carpet store on
Dempsey Hill. Along with viewing an array of beautiful hand knotted
carpets, Alice and Peter of Hedger’s also offered our members a wonderful
continental breakfast. As the five full buses of AWA members left Dempsey Hill, we were
welcomed at four homes and one luxury condo for the Home Tour journey.
The 2014 version of the AWA tour included the spectacular condo of
Mr. John Erdos. As most of you know, Mr. Erdos has a wonderful home
furnishing store and is a top interior designer. We also had the honor of
visiting the home of Valerie Brandt, the home of the United State Deputy
Chief of Missions. Our AWA members were also honored to spend some
time in two traditional Singaporean Black and White homes. One was the
home of Kate Saynor, a well-known philanthropist in our community. The
other Black and White was the home of Aarya Surindhara, a local restaurant
owner and a leading hospitality entrepreneur. Finally, we visited Nina
Beale’s beach bungalow home. Nina is a professional interior decorator
and the proprietor of Bungalow 55. We could not have imagined a better
line-up of beautiful residences for the 2014 AWA Home Tour. On behalf
of the AWA, thank you John, Valerie, Kate, Aarya and Nina for making
this event memorable for all.
As you all know, the AWA is a not for profit organization, but it still needs
exceptional volunteers to run it in a business-like manner. Over the years
and especially now, the AWA has had a group of trailing spouses that are
highly educated and professionally trained
MICA [P] 156/03/2014
women. In this month’s publication of the
Bamboo Telegraph, I would like to tell you
about just one of functions of the AWA
organization and the wonderful women that give their time to make our association
successful. Our all-volunteer Treasury department controls the AWA’s finances. This
function is now lead by our newly elected Treasurer Caryn Pesak. Within her team are
Sally Raney, Carolinn Sheely and Jane Brooks. These women have done an outstanding
job in 2014 and I wanted to pass along the thanks of all the AWA members for their
hard work and effort, because we can say, show me the money, and they can….!
As mentioned above, November is a month to give thanks. I want to personally say thank you to all our valued
members. You make our organization vibrant. And, I keep in mind that we are a group of volunteers and volunteers
are special people. Thank you to all our volunteers as you are the on-going heart of the AWA.
Quote of the Month: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget the highest appreciation is not to utter words,
but to live by them.” - President John F. Kennedy
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
AWA Events and Activities for
Working Women and Couples
The AWA strives to listen to the feedback from our
members and constantly improve our programs.
Throughout the year there are many events and
activities that are perfect for our professional
members as well as couples. We also work very
hard to ensure that there is something for our
members who are looking for things to do in the
evenings and on weekends!
Join us for a fun and fashionable gathering!
See old friends and meet new friends, as
well as look at cool and comfy clothing for
the steamy Singapore weather! You may
even be a model!
Date: Tuesday, November 11
Time:3 pm - 5 pm
Venue: Island Shop
Tanglin Mall, #02-11/12
Cost: Free of charge
Membership
November Meet and Greet
& Monthly Meeting
We had two great events in September that fit that
bill! On the evening of September 26th we had a
wine tasting with our wine sponsor, Benchmark
Wines.
On Saturday, September 27th there was a local tour
that was enjoyed by all!
If these events are of interest to you, keep an eye
out for Cocktail Clubs, Carpet Auctions, Wine
Tastings, the Holiday Lights Tour, among many
others throughout the year!
Register at www.awasingapore.org
AWA MISSION STATEMENT
T h e A m e r i c a n Wo m e n' s
Association of Singapore is a
volunteer run social organization whose
mission is to bring together women with
common interests through activities, events,
and to build awareness of the greater
Singapore community.
Our Cover:
86th Annual Macy's
Thanksgiving Day Parade
in New York City
lev radin / Shutterstock.com
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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Monthly Luncheon/ AWA International Choir
AWA Monthly Luncheon
You and Your Helper: Effective Employee Management
Do you already have a helper but you're overwhelmed with
information? Are you considering hiring a helper but just don’t know
where to begin? Please join us for a guest speaker from Singapore
Expat Solutions as they speak to the topic of “Domestic Helper
Services.” Learn what to consider such as the Singaporean laws,
interview tips, post hiring settling, and more.
Date:
Thursday, November 6
Time:12 noon – 2:30 pm
Venue: Lime House, 2 Jiak Chuan Road
Price:
$40 Members/ $50 Guests, includes lunch
Join the AWA at our regular monthly luncheons to hear interesting speakers
and make new friends. You can register for the monthly luncheon via the AWA
website at www.awasingapore.org.
AWA International Choir presents....
Join us for a festive musical evening as the ladies of the AWA International Choir Sing Noel to Celebrate our Holidays.
Date: Time: Venue: Cost:
Thursday, December 11
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Colonial Room
The American Club
$20 Members/$26.50 Guests/$16.50 Child (under 12)
Tickets include a buffet dinner, glass of wine, family, friends and a not so Silent Night. Tickets available for sale at the American Club Concierge Desk starting early November and are
non- refundable.
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
DATE:
Holiday Luncheon
Friday, December 12
TIME: 11 am - Doors open for shopping and bubbles
12 noon - Lunch program
2 pm - More shopping
VENUE: Tower Ballroom, Shangri-La Hotel
COST: $85 Members/ $100 Guests
Includes a 3 course lunch and wine (from Benchmark Wines), and a beautiful favor.
Please join us for a festive day of shopping, eating, friendship, and holiday cheer! Enjoy a delicious
lunch and last minute shopping with our favorite vendors. Register online at awasinagpore.org.
Please note this a no cancellation event.
Cocktail Club/ From our Advertisers
Cocktail Club – Hyatt Martinis
DATE: Wednesday, November 19
TIME: 7 pm – 10 pm
VENUE: Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Road,
Martini Bar @ Mezza9
COST: Free of charge. Drinks at own cost.
LIMIT: 50
DESCRIPTION: Get your glad rags on and join the
ladies of the AWA Cocktail Club as we go Martini Mad
at the Hyatt. With one of the largest selection of martinis
in Singapore, you can choose from over 40 specially
concocted martinis, including the signature lychee martini.
All house-pour drinks are 50% off. This event is ladies
only, feel free to invite your friends, and if the night goes
well there may be dancing later!
Dress: pull out your best cocktail frock – this is your
chance to get dressed up for the night!
Register via www.awasingapore.org.
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Annual Carpet Auction
Carpet Auction/ Arts & Culture
The AWA
Venue: Raffles Hotel- East India room
Date: Friday, November 7
Time: 6:30 pm drinks, light dinner, and carpet viewing
7:30 pm auction starts
Cost: $30 Members / $40 Guests
Register online at www.awasingapore.org.
ARTS & CULTURE
Highlights of the Peranakan Museum
What better way to dip into Singaporean life than by discovering the Highlights of the Peranakan Museum?
The Malay term ‘peranakan’ meaning ‘locally born’ refers to the children of traders from throughout
Southeast Asia and local women––the three main groups being Peranakan Chinese, Peranakan Indians,
and Jawi Peranakans. The museum contains the most extensive collection of art and artifacts from this
unique, hybrid culture that is part of Singapore’s living heritage.
In this guided tour led by Friends of the Museum docent, Philippa Johnson, we will explore a carefully
chosen selection of jaw-dropping visual arts and objets d’art representative of Peranakan culture. We will
also be fortunate to visit the temporary special exhibition
Auspicious Designs: Batik for Peranakan Altars, which features
tok wi (altar cloths) produced for Peranakan Chinese on the
north coast of Java that blend traditional Chinese symbols
with designs from Europe and Southeast Asia.
Date: Wednesday, November 19
Time: 10:45 am – 12:15 pm (please arrive at 10:30 am)
Cost: $9 Members/$12 Guests
Venue: Peranakan Museum, 39 Armenian Street
Limit: 12
You can register at www.awasingapore.org.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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K
I D S
K O R N E R
CHILDREN'S
THEATER EVENT!
J
unior Claus is the rebellious heir to an immense empire in the
North Pole, where elves busily prepare for the biggest day of
the year - Christmas. When Santa falls into a deep sleep because
the Belief-o-Meter falls to a dangerously low level, Grumpo the
greedy elf assumes power as Chief Inventor in Santa’s workshop.
After Junior runs away from home, Grumpo attempts to achieve
his sinister goal: ruin the Yuletide season forever.
W
ill Junior return home to save Santa? Can he rekindle the
Christmas spirit? Join Junior and his friends, Chipper the
elf and Pengy the penguin, as they race against time to bring
Christmas back.
Date: Time: Venue: Cost:
Sunday, December 14
11 am - 12:30 pm
DBS Arts Centre - Home of SRT
20 Merbau Rd., Robertson Quay
$33 Members/$39 Guests
Recommended for 5 years-old and above. Babies in arms must
have tickets. Register by Tuesday, December 2. No refunds if
cancelled. Book your tickets for these specially discounted
Category 1 seats online at www.awasingapore.org.
m
o m
2
P
s
b e
L A
Y
G R O U P S
Expecting in 2014 or early 2015? Come chat with others every
week about the joys and challenges of growing a baby. Share
stories and advice and even swap books through the Bumps,
Babies & Beyond – family books at the AWA office. We welcome
ladies at all stages of pregnancy and experienced mommas as
well as first timers alike.
Join over 100 other moms involved in the AWA playgroups.
Get out of the house and gather in a comfortable, safe, and
stimulating setting for the little ones to interact and learn
important social skills while moms chat over coffee. Meetings
are held once a week at the homes of members. Stressed about
hosting? Who has more sympathy for a messy house and smelly
kids than other moms? Have some beverages and toys and all
will be happy! Ranging in age from newborns to four years old
we are sure to have a group for you.
Please email Jennifer at awakids@awasingapore.org to join the AWA Kids’ Groups.
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Travel Asia With Kids
Traveling as a family involves unique and strategic planning logistics. Are you keen to explore the
wonderful travel opportunities Asia has to offer but are unsure about where, how, and when to
go? Then, come along to join travel expert and mom of three, Jess Yap of Country Holidays, as
she shares her personal and professional tips and insights into traveling with kids. Equipped with
10 years of working for Country Holidays and a lifelong passion for travel, Jess claims her favorite
memories are of the unforgettable trekking days in Nepal, as well as her close encounter with a
charging elephant at the Sabi Sands in South Africa. Now, as a mother of an 8, a 6 and a 3 year old,
Jess is eager to show her children the world, and takes them along her travels at every opportunity.
Date: Wednesday, December 3
Time:7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
OR
Date: Wednesday, December 10
Time:9:30 am – 11:30 am
Venue: The American Club
The Atrium (Level 3)
Price: $10 Members/ $15 Guests
Kid's Korner/ AAS Turkey Trot
AWA Kid's Social Network Talk
The talks will last approximately 1.5 hours, including question time. This is an adult only event. No
refund or cancellations received after Wednesday, November 26. Register via www.awasingapore.org.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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Book Review/ From our Advertisers
AWA
BOOK
GROUP
Review
Me Before You
by Jojo Moyes
“I was twenty-six years old and I wasn’t really sure about what I was.
You probably wouldn’t look at me twice. An ordinary girl, leading
an ordinary life. It actually suited me fine.”
With this introduction we meet Louisa Clark, sole breadwinner
for her family of four generations, who lives in cottage in a
small English village beside Stortfold Castle. Lou works as
a waitress at the Buttered Rum café, serving breakfasts and
chatting with tourists. That is, until the café is forced to close
and she must find another job to support her family.
Will Traynor had possessed his world. His wealthy family
lives in Granta House, on the opposite side of the Castle. Will
relished big business deals, loved high adventure sports,
vacationed in exotic faraway places, and had his pick of
many glamorous girlfriends. Until his accident. Now he is a
quadriplegic - unable to walk, unable to feed himself, unable
to control anything in his endless days.
In Me Before You, author Jojo Moyes brings these two characters
together in a journey that touches the heart and gives the
reader much to think about. In desperate need of a job, Lou
becomes caregiver and companion to Will in spite of her lack of
experience. She is trapped in the limitations she and her family
have imposed on her life. He is moody and acerbic; frustrated
with the fate he has been dealt. Lou fears Will wants to end
his life and makes it her goal to show him that in spite of his
disabilities it is still worth living. He wants her to grow outside
her self-imposed limits. Through Lou’s carefully planned
adventures and Will’s desire to expand her narrow worldview,
they experience sometimes painful, sometimes humorous, and
sometimes touching insights and perspectives of each other’s
lives. Their friendship grows into love, but is that enough for
Will to choose to live? How will Louisa’s life be changed?
The character development in this novel is very good. Moyes
invents two very different families from opposite ends of
the economic spectrum and gives a glimpse of the dynamics
of each. The main characters and their family members are
charismatic and engaging. Their pain, their perspectives, and
their love for each other are credible. Moyes puts the reader
in the shoes of various characters to understand their points
of view and provides lots to think about.
Our AWA book group felt Me Before You was a great
discussion piece for its character’s viewpoints, its insights into
quadriplegia issues, and the controversy of assisted suicide.
The book, and our discussion, left each of us to ponder what
we would do as a terminally ill or totally care-dependent
patient or as their mother, father, sister, brother, caregiver,
friend or lover. Who is in control? What do you do when the
only control over your life is death? How do you cope when
your head says “let him go” and your heart says “no”? When
the only thing left is to give in? Or is it?
Reviewed by Carolinn Sheely
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Holiday Lights Bus Tour
Holiday Lights Bus Tour
It’s that time of year again when Singapore’s streets light up with seasonal cheer! Join
us for our annual tradition of touring the spectacular Christmas lights on Orchard Road
from an open top bus! Snacks and treats will be served as you arrive, prior to boarding
the bus. New this year is Bus E - the Exclusively Adults (18+ years old) bus! Bring a
bevvy for the bus ride, and continue the partying in town when you get dropped off in
the Duxton neighborhood.
Date: Saturday, December 6
Times: Choose from 5 departure options: Bus A at 7 pm, Bus B at 7:20 pm, Bus C at 7:40 pm,
Bus D at 8 pm, Bus E (Adults 18+) at 8:20 pm. Check-in is 20 minutes before bus departure
time. Rain or shine, we will ride!
Cost: $25 Members/ $32 for Guests. Ticket price includes pre-tour refreshments and a
45 minutes bus tour.
Register via the AWA website at www.awasingapore.org.
Please note this a no cancellation event.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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11 Expat Expertise/ From our Advertisers
EX
PAT
PERTISE
by Jill Cordry
Everyday Exhaustion
When we are in our home country, we spend a good deal of our day on auto-pilot. In his book The Power
of Habit, Charles Duhigg describes 15 different actions and considerations involved in backing our car
out of the garage. When we first learned to drive, this was a stressful exercise and took a great deal of
concentration. But, once the actions were repeated often enough, they became a “habit” and we only
had to focus on whether there was traffic in the street. Our brain was free to contemplate an upcoming
meeting, listen to the news or to take a break while we sang along with the radio.
According to one paper cited in the book, more than 40 percent of the actions people perform each day
aren’t actual decisions, but habits. Obviously, they weren’t studying the life of an expat. Our brains are
working on over-drive over-time. There is little room upstairs for the patience required when every store
is out of your daughter’s favorite cereal.
When trying to explain this aspect of expat challenge to people at home, the closest analogy I can find is
the remodeling of a local grocery store. Daily. But still, familiar architectural cues will indicate where to
park and enter. You know the sugar will be on the same aisle as the flour and the oil with the vinegar.
In addition to navigating a foreign and seemingly constantly changing landscape, our time saving and
brain easing automatic habits haven’t travelled with us. Therefore, our tasks take longer and require more
thought. Hence, the cliché, “If you’ve crossed more items off your to-do list than you’ve added, you’ve
had a successful Expat Day.”
The good news is that our brains are wired to turn routines into habits. We just need to establish routines.
If you take the MRT regularly, you probably experimented with different routes until you found the most
efficient one. Then you took the same route everyday until it became a habit so strong that you can walk
home without thinking and without remembering to step out of your way to pick-up the dry cleaning.
And, this being Singapore, you still have to worry about cars accelerating when you try to cross the street
and the MRT entrance being in a different place than the week before.
Life moves quickly in Singapore, and dealing with uncertainty is part of being an expat. Experiencing
“the new” isn’t the same as when we are traveling as a tourist. We are not seeking novelty and learning
experiences, but rather trying to live our lives and fulfill our daily responsibilities. Doing things for the
first time, or without an established routine, brings with it an element of uncertainty. We experience,
whether we realize it or not, an anxiety which also saps our mental energy.
By establishing routines, for ourselves and our families, we can reduce our mental expenditures and
diminish the uncertainty in our lives. Your mind will then be freer to focus on finding running shoes for
your teenage son.
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Nearly New Sale
GREAT DEALS ON MATERNITY,
BABY & KIDS CLOTHES,
TOYS AND BOOKS.
Date: Saturday, November 15
Time:10 am - 12:30 pm
Venue: Stamford American International School
279 Upper Serangoon Road
Just 300 m from Woodleigh MRT (exit B)
ALL ARE WELCOME!
FREE ENTRANCE - FREE PARKING
REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE AT CAFE STAMFORD
CASH ONLY
VISIT THE JUNIOR SALE
& BUSINESSES
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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13 From our Advertisers
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
The children from Lakeside Family Services enjoyed a Morning of Music Appreciation at
the Yong Siew Toh Music Conservatory (YSTMC). Twenty-six children ages 7-14 attended
the noon recital conducted by conservatory students playing various instruments such as,
piano, violin, viola and flute. Dr. Bernard Lanskey, Director of the YSTMC, introduced the
concert to the children. It was a beautiful morning of music for both the children and AWA
volunteers. Thanks to all the AWA volunteers!
Community Outreach
COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
UPCOMING VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
To register please visit the AWA website at www.awasingapore.org.
Food from the Heart
Food from the Heart distributes bread and non-perishable food items to needy families and other needy
beneficiaries island-wide. Join other AWA women to pack and sort food for needy families at the warehouse.
*Please note: the FFTH warehouse has a new location.
Date:
Thursday, November 6
Time:9:30 am - 12 noon
Location:
Food from the Heart Warehouse
130 Joo Seng Road #03-01
Asian Women’s Welfare Association
Asian Women’s Welfare Association and the AWA will be holding a baking lesson with the SMILES (special needs)
children. Join a few other AWA women to bake and support these underprivileged children. Volunteers will be
asked to contribute to baking ingredients for the session (details will be provided after sign up).
Date:
Tuesday, November 18
Time:9 am – 11 am
Location:
Asian Women's Welfare Association, No. 9 Lorong Napiri
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
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15 AWA Ac
Special Interest Groups
Euchre
Rosanne Hebert, euchre@awasingapore.org
Once a month on a Friday or Saturday evening, byob and munchie.
Ice and mix to be provided by host. We will alternate homes/ party
Lily Chen, afternihao@awasingapore.org
Ideal for those taking Mandarin lessons, who want more function rooms. Beginners and husbands welcome! Easy to learn!
opportunity to speak, or native speakers willing to help
International Choir
enthusiastic learners. We meet every Thursday at 10 am to practice
Terri Dougherty, intlchoir@awasingapore.org
our speaking and listening skills. Our aim is to practice what we
Under the direction of professional soprano singer, Masako
have learned.
Johnson, the AWA International Choir rehearses and performs
two programs per year. New members are welcomed at the
AWA Market Place
beginning of each season: early September and mid-January.
sites.google.com/site/awamarketplace
Moving? Repatriating? Out with the old and in with the new? Rehearsals are every Wednesday from 10-12 at St. Bernadette's
Market Place online is the place to sell it! Buy and sell personal Church. Main performances are at Christmas and in late spring,
and household goods and include photos of your items. No when the choir sings at local old-age centers, schools for special
merchandise and no advertising allowed. Access to the website needs children and a concert evening at the American Club.
requires a free Google account (all email accounts accepted) and
confirmation of AWA membership. Contact Cindy Macholan at Mahjong
Zeenit Wise, mahjong@awasingapore.org
marketplace@awasingapore.org for more information.
We play the international style in a low-stress, FUN and ‘learnerBeading Buddies
friendly’ atmosphere on Mondays at the American Club. A light
Malu Kaul, beadingbuddies@awasingapore.org
lunch and drinks are served throughout the afternoon. Sessions
For all those who enjoy beading, want to improve your skill level start at 12:30 pm for lunch, play begins at 1 pm. Teaching sessions are
or meet new friends, just bring along your beads, your tools and conducted twice a month and players need to attend two teaching
your inspiration and join us! We meet every second and fourth sessions (AWA members only) before attending regular sessions.
Thursday of the month from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm in a member’s Mahjong costs $20 for AWA members and you must register with
home.
the office by the preceding Thursday to play.
After Ni Hao
Bunco
Motivational
Book Groups
Photography
Jo Sochi, bunco@awasingapore.org
Bunco is a simple dice game but mostly it’s a fun excuse to get
together once a month, meet new people, see old friends and
enjoy some adult beverages. Contact Jo if you would like to join
the afternoon or evening group.
Judy Agusti, bookgroups@awasingapore.org
Traditional styled book groups allow you the opportunity to meet
other women and to participate in a regular discussion of books.
Book group members decide on the books to read in advance so
that everyone has ample time to obtain and read them. For a more
comprehensive listing of book groups’ meeting times, openings
and book lists, contact the coordinator.
Christian Connection
Angel Corrigan, christianconnect@awasingapore.org
Christian Connection provides valuable information and resources
to help you and your family connect with local churches, youth
organizations, Bible study groups and more. We act as a clearing
house for information on ‘What’s On’ within the Christian
Community in Singapore. Our Book Club reads women’s Christian
fiction. We meet to discuss our books on the 3rd Monday of the
month. To get connected contact Angel.
Culture Vultures
awasingaporeculturevultures@gmail.com
Find out more about local theatre productions, shows, concerts,
art exhibits and other cultural events around town. No organized
events, just book your own tickets and meet up with others before,
during, or after the event. Email to put your name on the email list.
book group
Mae-Ling Tien, motivation@awasingapore.org
Focusing on promoting positive outlooks, attitudes and behaviors
in our lives, our group meets once every two weeks on a Tuesday
morning from 10 am to 12 noon to discuss a section of a personal
development book. Books are selected by group consensus.
Helga Herrera, photography@awasingapore.org
Meet people interested and skilled in photography and participate
in regular monthly activities, such as photography field trips,
workshops, exhibitions, competitions, fairs and much more. This
group is a forum to discuss and share our views and skills about
photography. Contact Helga for details.
Quilting
Caryn Pesek and Eileen Robinson, quilting@awasingapore.org
This is an opportunity to pick up your quilting again! Perhaps you
are looking for companions who share the passion of quilting. We
meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 10 am -3 pm.
Scrapbooking
Susan Studebaker-Rutledge, scrapbooking@awasingapore.org
If you want to get all your priceless photos organized, this is the
group for you. We usually meet the first and third Thursdays of
the month at 10 am. Please contact Susan if interested.
Social Bridge
Jill Cordry, socialbridge@awasingapore.org
Social Bridge is for ladies who want to improve their game in a
relaxed conversational atmosphere. We play a "Chicago" Four-Deal
Rotation, changing partners throughout the afternoon. We accept
players from "experienced beginner" upward, with our more
Duplicate Bridge
advanced players happy to coach those newer to the game. Every
Karol Crouse, bridge@awasingapore.org
few weeks a new bidding convention is introduced or reviewed
AWA Bridge meets Monday afternoons at the Colonial Room with set hands for practice. We play on Thursday afternoons at
in the American Club. We play according to American standard Ardmore Park.
five-card major rules. Players do not need a partner to join. We
do play duplicate but we randomly determine partners on the Writers’ Group
day of play or you are welcome to pair up ahead of time. Cost is Melissa Diagana and Vanessa Hangad, writers@awasingapore.org
$17 Members/$22 Guests for a sumptuous lunch at noon. A fun Explore your inner writer! Beginning and published writers meet
afternoon of bridge play at the friendliest game in town! Contact to discuss their works in a non-threatening atmosphere. We meet
on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month from 10 am to 12 noon
Karol for more information or to sign up.
at a member's home or coffee shop.
16
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
ctivities
Social Activities
Sports
Children’s Playgroups
Bowling
Delphine Granger, awakids@awasingapore.org
Standing playgroups for infants to 4 year olds meet weekly at a
member’s home or a planned venue. Please contact Kimberly for
more information or to join a group.
DISH (Diner
in
Sensory Heaven)
Andrea Masi and Lisa Wildeman, dish@awasingapore.org
DISH is a monthly social luncheon, located at various awesome
restaurants throughout Singapore, held on the first Tuesday of
every month. Grab the hand of a friend and join us. Please email
or join AWA DISH Facebook group page for lunch and to RSVP.
Kids’ Social Network
Kelli Dunn, bowling@awasingapore.org
AWA Fun Bowling is played on Fridays at 9:45 am at the American
Club bowling alley. We don’t have teams, just come and bowl. If
you are looking for a good time with friends that last a lifetime,
come and join. You don’t have to be good. You just have to be FUN!
Golf
18-hole group: Ann Min, 18holegolf@awasingapore.org
9-hole group: Lola Finley, 9holegolf@awasingapore.org
Join the 18-hole group for a friendly round of golf every Wednesday
morning on regulation courses in Singapore. Contact Connie for
18-hole tee times. The 9-hole group plays on Thursday mornings
on an executive golf course. Contact Sharon for 9-hole information;
perfect for beginners or to work on your short game.
Delphine Granger, awakids@awasingapore.org
Join the AWA Kids Social Network on Facebook and start
interacting! Want to suggest KSN activities? Want to find out about Tennis
AWA kids events? Do you simply want to connect? Lookup AWA Leslie Swift, tennischair@awasingapore.org
Kids Social Network and request to be added. No advertising; no The tennis committee offers a variety of singles and doubles play
soliciting. Only AWA members and their trusted guests may join. for players of all levels. The seasons run from September through
December, February through April. Other team tennis is offered
Mom 2 Be Meetup
in the off season from December through February. Tournaments
Delphine Granger, awakids@awasingapore.org
and an annual luncheon are offered in May. Please contact our
Pregnant? Looking to meet other women who are pregnant too? assessment coordinators Emily Bodden and Janet Maurillo at
Join us for a coffee hour and chat about whatever might be on assessments@awasingapore.org to set up a session.
your mind, as you get ready for the arrival of your little one! A
great way to meet other pregnant women who are experiencing Running
Kie Young, running@awasingapore.org
the same joys of pregnancy.
Dust off your old trainers and join us for a Tuesday morning
Movie Lunch
run from 8 am till 10 am as we explore Singapore various areas of
Anne Perng, movielunch@awasingapore.org
Singapore. Afterwards, we reward ourselves with the appropriate
The Movie Lunch Group meets once a month for lunch and a movie 'cool down' at a nearby cafe.
in the Orchard Road area. For more information or to be added to
Walking
our contact list, email Anne.
Laura Duplantis, walking@awasingapore.org
A great way to kick-start your week. Join us every Monday
morning at 9:45 am for a walk of about 1-1.5 hours. We walk in
a variety of beautiful places to enjoy the exercise, scenery and
Cancer Support Group
friendly conversation. Each week, walking locations, directions
Elissa Bayliss, cancersupport@awasingapore.org
and rideshare information are posted in advance on our Facebook
This group meets once a month during the third week of the group page - AWA Walking with Women. To join, go to our
month. All are welcome to join. The focus is on mutual support Facebook page and request to join the group or email Laura.
and sharing information among fellow cancer patients, survivors
and friends. Contact the coordinator for additional information.
Community Activities
Regular Coffees
Community
outreach
Janie Butler, outreach@awasingapore.org
This group is for those interested in receiving regular
communications about ways to volunteer in the community. If
you would like to get even more involved, there is also a CO
Committee which works with the AWA featured organizations
and plans the activities. To be added to the group list or to join
the CO Committee, please contact the CO chair.
Mount Elizabeth Visitation
Isabella Duncan, mounte@awasingapore.org
Volunteers are needed to visit hospitalized expat patients. Please
check with the coordinator for dates and times for visitations.
Monthly magazines are donated by SPH Magazines and Expat
Living; however, donations of other recent magazines are also
needed. Please drop them off at the AWA Office.
Just Coffee (alternate Fridays)
Lynn Lees, justcoffee@awasingapore.org
Just Coffee meets every other Friday at Coffee Bean at the Forum
from 10 am to 12 noon. It’s a wonderful way to meet new friends
or reconnect with old friends. Just show up.
Women’s Social Network (Wednesdays)
Jessica Fonseca, wsn@awasingapore.org
Join our WSN Google group if you would like to exchange
information and ask questions about life in Singapore. Whether
you are looking for a friend to join you for a movie night or need
help finding a store that sells shoes in your size, the WSN group
can help. To join, email wsn@awasingapore.org to be added to the
Google groups list. There is a coffee meet every Wednesday at 313
Somerset Starbucks; contact the coordinator for details.
Meet & Greet (Monthly)
Pegge Bronner, membership@awasingapore.org
Please join us for our monthly coffee as we welcome returning and
new members to join us to learn about what the AWA has to offer
and to provide help and information to make Singapore feel like
home. Details on our membership page.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
17 Red Lantern Diary
By Elizabeth Kain
Singapore for Newcomers
Singapore offers a wealth of cultural, recreational and historic sights. With its multi-lingual citizenry (who
are happy to direct you) and excellent public transportation, the country is easily accessible to everyone. The
only challenge you will have is deciding what to see first and finding the time to experience everything on your
list. With respect to the former, I offer some our family favorites. I hope you’ll enjoy these excursions as much
as we did when we first arrived.
Relax in the Botanic Garden
A stroll in the verdant Botanic Garden is one of Singapore’s highlights. The
lovely and plentiful outdoor sculpture art adds to its appeal, and while bikes
are prohibited, scooters are not and provide a fun way for kids to experience
the park. If you love music, check the schedule for free concerts, and be sure
to leave time for the spectacular Orchid Garden. The Park’s Jacob Ballas
Children’s Garden provides a wonderful learning and play environment for
youngsters under 12.
Admission: Park is free; Orchid Garden is $5 for adults and $1 for students.
Opening hours: 5 am to 12 midnight daily (Orchid Garden 8:30 am to 7 pm)
Address: 1 Cluny Road
Web site: www.sbg.org.sg
Learn about the country’s history at The National Museum of Singapore
Housed in a lovely colonial building, this is my daughter’s favorite museum
in Singapore. It offers a fantastic History Gallery that takes visitors from
Singapore’s beginnings to today. An added bonus is a special audio guide
for children aged 7 and up. The interactive exhibits in the Living Galleries
introduce newcomers to the country’s food and fashion.
Admission: $10 for adults; $5 for children (6 to 18), seniors and students.
Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily for History Gallery; 10 am to 8 pm for Living Galleries.
Address: 93 Stamford Road
Web site: www.nationalmuseum.sg
Cruise the Singapore River
The Singapore River has long been the heart and soul of the city. Today, a cruise on a “bumboat”
affords visitors an excellent sense of the country’s past and present. You can’t beat it for panoramic
skyline vistas, and as you cruise, you’ll also get a good view of the country’s Merlion mascot (2002),
Cavenagh Bridge (1870), neo-classical Fullerton Hotel (1928), statue of Singapore founder, Sir
Stamford Raffles (1887), and the Esplanade (2002), Singapore’s iconic performing arts center.
Getting there: You may board the boats at any of the jetties along the Singapore River. I recommend starting your journey at Clarke Quay,
so you can have a tasty lunch before or after your cruise. You should expect to pay around $20 per adult and $12 per child.
18
www.awasingapore.org
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Maxwell Food Centre: 1 Kadayanallur Street
Opening hours: 8am to 10pm daily.
Discover a bit of old Singapore at Pulau Ubin
If you have not yet ventured to nearby Pulau Ubin, a small island
off the northeast coast, you are in for a treat. It provides a reminder
of what Singapore must have been like 50 years ago, before the
arrival of glass towers and monolithic shopping malls. Indeed, it is
a place where one may still find remnants of the country’s kampong
village life: verdant hills, an abundance of wildlife, and the peace and
solitude sometimes missing in our busy, everyday existence.
Red Lantern Diary
Eat at a hawker centre
During the 1970’s the government of Singapore moved all the street food to central locations known
as “Hawker Centres.” The move included a licensing and rating system that ensured cleanliness
of these small eateries. Today, they offer affordable, and delicious meals. My favorite is Maxwell
Centre, near Chinatown. Try Chicken Rice, often cited as Singapore’s national dish.
Getting there: Go to Changi Jetty (Changi Point Ferry Terminal), located not far from the Changi Village Hawker Centre. Cost per
person per ride is $2.50. Bumboats run from sunrise to sunset.
Have a drink on the roof of the Marina Bay Sands
Once you have admired the hotel’s unique architecture from a
bumboat, ride the elevator to the top to enjoy a different kind of
view. On a clear day, you can get a great bird’s eye perspective
of the city. Tip: Instead of paying $23 for the Sands SkyPark
Observation Deck, go the Ku De Ta Sky Bar. You have free access
to the top and can sit and sip a glass of wine while enjoying the
same view. The price will come out about the same once you’ve
paid for your drink, but – especially during off-peak hours - the
overall experience is greatly enhanced.
Admission: SkyPark is $23 for adults, $17 for children and $20 for seniors; Ku De Ta Sky Bar is free though one drink will cost
approximately $20 per person.
Opening Hours: SkyPark is open 9:30 am to 10 pm (11 pm on weekends); Ku De Ta is open from 12 noon to late.
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue
Website: www.marinabaysands.com
Try foot reflexology
While in Singapore you should consider trying foot reflexology, an ancient
Chinese custom still popular today. While many westerners consider this
simply a foot massage, reflexology equates each area of your foot to a part
of your body. This means that if you have a particular ache or pain, it can
be remedied – or improved – by massaging the corresponding place on
your foot. Whether you believe this outing will have a medicinal impact or
not, it’s a relaxing way to spend an hour. We like to go to Frictiovilla located in the Orchard Road
area. Reservations required.
Explore Singapore’s multiculturalism with a walk through China town,
Little India and Arab Street
Singapore is well-known for its rich multicultural heritage, and there is no better
way to experience this facet of the city than to walk through one of its ethnic
neighborhoods. The three most popular destinations include Chinatown, Arab
Street, and Little India. It is in these districts that a visitor truly gets a sense
of Singapore’s history and diverse population. Plan to spend a day in each,
visiting the historic churches, mosques, and temples, and don’t forget to stop
in one of the many eateries to try local dishes.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
19 AWA Local Tours
AWA LOCAL TOURS POLICIES:
Bookings open on the first of the month. You must register with the AWA office to attend. If a tour is full, please
ask to be added to the waitlist. Tours end at approximately the listed time. You may cancel your attendance
at an event by calling the AWA office at 6734-4895, no less than 4 working days prior to the event. All AWA
event fees include a $5 non-refundable cancellation charge. You may transfer your attendance to another AWA
member, no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing admin@awasingapore.org with the new
attendee’s name. Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded. Only adults
over 18 years of age may attend AWA tours unless otherwise designated. Thank you for your understanding.
You can now register for AWA Local Tours via the AWA website at www.awasingapore.org.
nov
12
In the footsteps of
the armenians
new walking tour!
DATE: Wednesday, November 12
TIME: 9 am – 12:30 pm
PLACE: Armenian Church, Hill Street
COST:$54 Members / $80 Guests
LIMIT:22
As a major port, Singapore naturally attracted dynamic
merchants from around the world; among these was
the community that gave its name to Armenian Street,
which runs toward the world-famous Raffles Hotel,
founded and made famous by three Armenian brothers.
At their most populous in the late 19th century,
nov
14
or
dec
5
U.S. Embassy TourS
DATES: Friday, November 14
OR
Friday, December 5
TIME
9:15 am – 12 noon
PLACE: Corner Entrance of Tanglin Mall
outside Starbucks
COST:
$10 Members / $15 Guests
LIMIT:18
Armenians numbered less than one hundred. They may
be small in numbers but they are huge in their impact
on Singapore history. Armenians built the first church
in Singapore and an Armenian woman, Agnes Joaquim,
is responsible for discovering the national flower, the
Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid.
Join us for a trail in the footsteps of the Armenians
with our guide, Diana Chua, and enjoy anecdotal
insights on a community that is fading fast into the
main population due to a dwindling populace. This
trail includes a tour of the Armenian Church - the main
church building, the Parsonage House as well as the
Garden of Remembrance. Stroll down Armenian Street
for a glimpse into their past. The grand finale is a tour
of Raffles Hotel including areas not accessible to the
general public and ends with mid-morning tea.
we will have the opportunity to meet members of the
staff and ask questions. Although we’ll be restricted to
a limited area in the embassy, we will be able to visit
the shop for gift items bearing the United States seal.
U.S. and Non-US citizens are welcome.
Security requires that you provide us with your
passport number at least one week prior to the tour;
therefore, only registered tour participants will be
allowed into the Embassy. Credit for cancellation
cannot be given after passport details are submitted
to the embassy.
What goes on inside the US Embassy? Wouldn’t you Please respectfully wear business casual attire: no
shorts, tank tops or flip flops.
like to know?
This is your chance for a small peek inside those
imposing walls. The Community Liaison Officer or
one of the other staff members will hold an information
session for our group. We’ll learn about the many and
diverse roles played by the embassy in support of U.S.
citizens as well as within the Singaporean community;
YOU MUST ALSO BRING YOUR PASSPORT
WITH YOU ON THE DAY OF THE TOUR.
NOTE: If you wish to purchase items in the shop you
can pay with cash, Visa or Master Card.
send us your tour photos!
20
www.awasingapore.org
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
churches of
Singapore
nov
Thursday, November 20
9 am – 1:15 pm
Newton Hawker Centre Car Park
$40 Members / $60 Guests
22
Local Tours
20
DATE:
TIME:
PLACE:
COST:
LIMIT: After leaving Newton Hawker Centre with our guide,
Diana, we will tour the lovely barn shaped St. George’s
Church built in the Norman architectural style. Next,
we will drive to St. Joseph’s Church, established by
the Portuguese Mission and hear the story behind
its beautifully crafted stained-glass windows and
Portuguese azulejos. Moving on, we will drive past the
Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the oldest Roman
Catholic Church in Singapore, which is also steeped
in history. We will then visit St. Andrew’s Cathedral
before moving on to our last stop to visit ‘Our Lady of
Lourdes’ church built to cater to the needs of the Indian
Catholics.
Are you finding it hard to get into the Christmas spirit
in 90 degree temperatures? Are you standing in lines in
a bah humbug mood during this holiday season? If so,
please join us for this new holiday local tour of some of
Singapore’s more interesting and historic churches. We
may not be able to help with the heat, but hopefully this Dress Code: We will be visiting places of worship,
please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders and
will help you to find the real spirit of Christmas.
thighs. Refreshments are not included; feel free to bring
water and/or a snack.
dec
3
sacred telok blangah
new tour!
DATE: Wednesday, December 3
TIME: 9 am – 1:15 pm
PLACE: Newton Hawker Centre Car Park
COST: $40 Members / $60 Guests
LIMIT:22
This tour brings us to the southern part of Singapore, to
a charming and rarely visited district known as Telok
Blangah. Its name means ‘Cooking Pot Bay’ in Malay,
and is derived from the shape of the bay. The history
of the area dates back to thirteenth century Singapore
and it was once the enclave of Temenggong, the local
dec
9
DATE: Tuesday, December 9
TIME: 2:15 pm – 5:30 pm
PLACE: Raffles Hotel,
Beach Road Foyer
COST: $95 Members / $145 Guests
LIMIT:28
Raffles Hotel became a national monument upon its
centennial in 1987. With its unique blend of tropical
garden setting and classical architecture, the hotel is
the legendary symbol for all the “fables of the exotic
East”. Rich in history, Raffles Hotel is part of the fabric
of Singaporean Culture.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Chjimes
On this bus tour, we will visit a Catholic church, a
Chinese temple of the Eastern Hell, a Sikh temple, the
former royal enclave of the island chief and a Hindu
temple, among other landmarks.
Join us as we head out of town to discover yet another
intriguing area of Singapore.
Dress code: Casual and suitable for temple visits.
Low neckline, sleeveless tops and short shorts are not
welcome at the temple.
We will gather at the Beach Road foyer (beside the Bar
and Billiard Room) at 2:30 pm for a short history talk
and tour with Mr. Leslie Dan, the Hotel Historian. Mr.
Dan will share delightful stories of this famous hotel. At
3:30 pm we will enjoy the English High Tea Buffet in the
Tiffin Room.
historical raffles
and High tea
St Andrews Cathedral
island chief. Today, Telok Blangah is a fascinating area
with many iconic landmarks including diverse places
of worship.
Out of respect for paying guests, we will not be touring
the entire hotel or rooms, but we may just find ourselves
in front of their GIANT decorated tree in the main foyer
before heading off to High Tea (area off limits to nonhotel guests, but an exception may be made for lucky
AWA ladies). We ask that you dress appropriately,
no tank tops or shorts. Please sign up soon to avoid
disappointment! Vanda Miss Joaquin
Armenian Church and Parsonage house
www.awasingapore.org
21 AWA
n
Foreig
Tours
Yogyakarta – Discover Javanese Culture and History
Discover Javanese culture and history on this 4 Day/3 Night adventure to Yogyakarta, Indonesia. We will explore
the ancient Hindu temple of Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 9th century and
is the largest Hindu temples in Indonesia. We will also visit Borobudur, a 9th century Buddhist temple, and an
equally impressive structure. Your trip is not complete without an evening show of the Ramayana, a cultural dance
performance that depicts a great Hindu love story. We will also visit markets, take a becak ride, learn how batik is
made, and visit a spa! This quick trip is a great getaway, so sign up soon.
TRIP DATES: Tuesday, March 3, 2015 – Friday, March 6, 2015
COST: S$1655 twin share; S$250 single supplement; S$25 AWA admin fee. Please refer to awasingapore.org for a
complete list of cost inclusions and exclusions.
DEPOSIT: Full Payment by cash or check to Shanti Travel Asia Private Limited
DEADLINE: Registration forms, deposit, and copy of passport and NRIC/FIN due to the AWA office by
December 15, 2014.
Space subject to availability. Call 6734-4895 or email office@awasingapore.org for more information.
RESTRICTIONS: Maximum 12 people. Adult AWA Members, houseguests or family members only
TOUR LEADER: Sonia Bhambri
Day 1: Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Singapore - Yogyakarta via Prambanan and Ramayana Show (2h30 flight)
Morning flight from Singapore to Yogyakarta with Silk Air. Welcome in Java! Your personal driver will pick you
up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Yogyakarta. Around noon, proceed to Prambanan. Lunch at
Prambanan Gallery Resto. After lunch, you will visit Prambanan, a 12 century-old Hindu complex. At sunset,
admire the fine sculptures of the temples dedicated to Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. The colors of the sky, the
reflections of the sun and the shadows playing with the temple casts a marvelous show of beauty. Around 6 pm,
you will go to Purawisata Theatre for a dinner and traditional Ramayana Show. The Ramayanan ballet is based on
an epic Hindu poem which tells the story of King Rama adapted in local dances, mixing Javanese style, culture and
music. Transfer back to your hotel for a good night’s rest.
Day 2: Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Yogyakarta - Excursion to Borobudur, Batik class, shopping silver (2h drive)
After breakfast, your driver and guide will take you towards Borobudur Temple. The biggest Buddhist temple
in the world, with its dozens of Buddha status sitting on terraces. Then you go for Lunch at BS Resto close to the
temple. After lunch it's time to learn how to make your own Batik, this traditional technique of manual wax-resist
dyeing applied to garments. Take your time to create your own design to bring back home. Then you'll head
towards Kota Gede for a shopping session in Silver jewellery boutiques, hearings, necklaces and bracelets can be
found at very fair prices. Dinner at Sekar Kedhaton and transfer back to your hotel.
Day 3: Thursday, March 5, 2015
Yogyakarta – Excursion to Taman Sari, Kraton, becak ride, Bird Market, Spa
Breakfast at hotel. Take a short a visit of Yogyakarta, including the Kraton Palace built in 1756: a fine example of
Javanese architecture in the centre of “Jogja”, then to the Taman Sari also known as "The Water Castle", where
the Sultan came to enjoy the pools. After this visit, you will go for a becak ride, a typical three-wheel mode of
transportation in Yogyakarta. Visit the Bird Market, a very popular and intriguing place. Lunch at Bale Raos. After
lunch, enjoy a walk in Yogyakarta's small streets and discover batiks and Wagans handicrafts. Then it's time for
some rest at Martha Tilaar Spa where you will enjoy a traditional body massage during one hour. Before going for
dinner at Sasanti Restaurant, you will enjoy a sunset walk in Jalan Malioboro to enjoy the animated atmosphere at
night. Transfer back to your hotel.
Day 4: Friday, March 6, 2015
Yogyakarta – Singapore (2h30 flight)
Transfer to Yogyakarta airport for your morning flight to Singapore. Flight to Singapore.
From our Advertisers
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
23 Tennis
TENNIS
Monthly Update: Team Tennis
Team Tennis
Team Tennis is fast approaching and is a fantastic way to have fun with friends, old and new,
playing this game we all love. For those who might be new to AWA team play, matches will be
played over the course of December and January, taking a break for the holidays, and will be
divided into two levels. Intermediates will play on Thursdays and the advanced group will play
on Wednesdays. As stated on the website, “players are assigned to teams in order to achieve
a competitive balance among each team.” Registration is now open on the website’s events
page, and everyone rated 3.0- or higher is encouraged to participate. The deadline to sign up
is Friday, November 7th so don’t wait!
Upcoming Events: January Jubilee Tournament
January Jubilee – Monday, January 26 - Tuesday, January 27
If you are new to competing in tournaments, or just feel that you aren’t quite ready to play
with the more advanced ladies, the January Jubilee is a great way to get your feet wet, and get
playing! If you have a rating of 3.0+ or below, this doubles tournament is for you! Registration
will be open on the website towards the end of November, and we’ll update tennis members
with more details as we approach the event.
If you need to be assessed, check the website for available dates the first week of November.
Tennis Tidbit of the Month: Bananas vs. Sodium
From the USTA website:
“…Contrary to what most tennis players and coaches have heard, clinical evidence clearly
supports a relationship between heat-related muscle cramps and a high sodium loss, not
potassium. Players will generally lose 3-10 times as much sodium as potassium during play. “
Insufficient sodium intake can lead to inadequate rehydration, muscle cramps, and an increase
in heat exhaustion. As everyone’s body and tolerances are unique, ladies, please make sure
you know what you need to stay healthy and hydrated on the courts.
Monthly Update:
Here are some shots of the 18-holers doing what it takes in finding their balls! In trees, in
the jungle, in the deepest of bunkers! Each month the 18-holers will host a “Theme” day. This month it was “Flowers” and each of
the ladies wore flowers in their cap, skirt, hats!
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
Golf/From our Advertisers
GOLF CORNER
25 From our Advertisers
26
www.awasingapore.org
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Writers’ Block
AWA WRITERS’BLOCK
Something Still Remains
by Judy Agusti
T
he afternoon sun shines through the leaves of the ficus tree as my mother stirs the two
spoonfuls of sugar into her coal-black Cuban coffee and leans back onto the cushions
of her white verandah chair. Her eyes look to some distant place, a memory or dream, a
childhood. The world of her Florida home still calls her back to me from that other world.
I can feel, though, the illness pulling her away and, one day we will not be able to sit and
reminisce about her days riding her horse along the empty white beaches of Baracoa on
her way to work as a teacher in the mountains near her hometown. There are memories of
swims in clear blue Caribbean waters, of palm trees blowing in gales before a hurricane,
of the sweat of dancing and of the days when her dimples could still tease. Maria Luisa
knows the monster of dementia waits for her in some near future, because the doctor
declared it so. It is not a reality she has chosen, or wants to acknowledge. Yet she knows
her words are not easy to retrieve. She knows there are missing pieces in memories, like
jigsaw puzzles left undone. Gaps, gaps. What was it she meant to say? How long ago was
that? Who was just on the phone who seemed to know her? All these torments she now
has, and fears of getting lost somewhere on her way to…who knows where? At times the
faces seem to blur and someone so dear to her has no name. Who is it? She knows that
kind person loves her, but why?
A
nd so, I find myself mourning her loss, even while she is with me. I glimpse from
time to time that sad, lost soul she may become. I want to hold on to that brave,
spunky young woman who brought me up, who taught me honesty and courage, who
criticized, but also praised. I don’t want to let go of that crazy Cuban babe, who once
turned the heads of men as she walked down the street, catching their gaze with her dark
hair, heart-shaped lips and big brown eyes. Now she is silver-haired and getting shorter
and thinner every day. Her shoulders hunch a little. She is forgetful and afraid. But she
is still a comic. Even as dementia claims her ability to speak, she lifts her eyebrows in
exaggerated surprise at my sister’s low-cut blouse. She does a jig as we walk through the
security gates at the airport. She mimics a singer’s high notes, throwing her head back
and opening her mouth like a fish. Perhaps she will always be funny, even when there’s
nothing else. I hope so.
Writers' Block is a monthly contribution from our AWA Writer's Group members.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
27 From our Advertisers
28
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Italian Lentil & Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
by Annette Lang
Ingredients (Meatballs):
Ingredients (Sauce):
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 celery sticks, finely chopped
2 carrots, grated
500 gm. lean minced beef
1 cup brown lentils from a can, rinsed
and drained well
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 eggs
Small handful parsley, finely chopped
Large handful breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onions, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons tomato puree
250 ml vegetable stock
2 cans (400 gm.) chopped tomatoes
1 handful fresh basil leaves, finely
chopped
Recipe of the Month/ From our Advertisers
Recipe of the Month
Here’s what to do:
1. Prepare the meatballs: Heat the half the oil in a large heavy-based saucepan and cook the
chopped onions, celery and carrots for 5-10 minutes or until the onions and carrots have softened.
Add garlic until fragrant, and then remove mixture from pot into a large bowl. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the tomato sauce: In the same large pot add oil and cook onions till slightly browned. Add
garlic till fragrant. Add 2 cans chopped tomatoes, bay leaves, tomato puree and stock.
3. Bring to boil, lower the heat, cover the pan and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaves and blend tomato sauce mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Return it to the pot and set aside.
5. Finish the meatballs: Once onion mixture has cooled in the large bowl add the minced beef,
lentils, Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, eggs, parsley and bread crumbs.
6. Season well with salt and pepper and mix well.
7. Using wet hands shape the beef mixture into neat golf ball size.
8. Reheat the tomato sauce, add chopped basil. Once sauce is simmering slowly add ready rolled
balls. With a soft arm rotate the pot slowly making sure all balls are covered in sauce.
9. Let simmer for 20 -25 minutes.
10. Serve with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Serves 8
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
www.awasingapore.org
29 Member Benefits
AWA Member Benefits
Australia Expat Travel
AUD$50 discount off the consultancy
fee if you book a holiday with us in
2014.
www.ausxpattravel.com.au
Test Rocker
USD$75 and 6 month extended
access for all AWA members. Enter
the coupon code ‘AWA’ at checkout.
www.testrocker.com
Send Out Cards
An affordable way to send cards and
gifts from your computer to anwhere
in the world. Send a free card today!
www.SendOutCards.com/Blinkman
Kathy Dunderdale
10% off on first time package of 3
sessions.
www.jinshinjyutsu-singapore.com
Eastern Carpets
To celebrate our 26th anniversary...
enjoy storewide discounts up to
50% for the months of September
to November and be treated to a
surprise gift with every purchase.
www.easterncarpets.com.sg
Littleones Photography
$100 off usual session fee. Voted
as top family photographers in
Singapore for 3 years running.
www.littleonesphotography.com
Rorybird
10% discount off hand smocked
and unique applique clothing for
boys and girls ages 0-6 years. Enter
THANK10 at checkout.
www.rorybird.com
Tomato Photography
50% off creative session fee. 50%
off softcopies. 20% off all ala-carte
products. Conditions apply.
www.tomato.sg
Grafika
10% discount for any Photography
Package, not valid with any other
promotion.
http://grafikaphotographydesign.com
Vida’s Asian Cooking Classes
20% off wet market tours with
purchase of 2 cooking classes.
vidadavid@singnet.com.sg
Hassan’s Carpets
50% off storewide on the tag price
exclusively for AWA members.
InTouch Stationery
10% off all stationery items and 5%
off customized orders.
Hedgers Carpets
Spend $800 at the Dempsey Store
and receive a handwoven Indian
Kelim flatweave (5’6”x3’6”) worth $150
(while stocks last).
www.hedgerscarpetgallery.com.sg
Judith Agusti - Guitar Studies
One free lesson in beginning
guitar. No guitar required for
first lesson. Music provided by the
instructor.
judy.agusti.lloyd@gmail.com
The Teak Tree - Contemporary and
Traditional Furniture
10% off for AWA members.
theteaktreefurniture@gmail.com
Mosaic Society
10% discount when a Mosaic
course is booked.
Hanis Group
10% for One Fair Booking. 20% for
4 Fair Bookings. Complimentary
Goody Bag will be given to the first
50 AWA Members at any of our fairs.
Keppel Bay Sailing Academy
10% o f f a l l Roya l Ya c ht i n g
Association-accredited courses
with professional and certified
instructors. Valid until December
31, 2014, terms and conditions
apply.
www.kbsa.com.sg
Present your AWA Membership card at these businesses to receive
special discounts.
30
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
Class-i-fied: Please contact the class instructors
directly. These are all private classes which are not
AWA-endorsed.
ASIAN COOKING CLASSES WITH VIDA
Time:10 am to 1 pm
Evening classes and private parties
for special occasions. Form your own
group. Helpers are welcome to all
classes. Saturday morning classes too.
Children’s classes. Couples evening
classes, bring your wine.
Date:
Call or email for details.
Cost:
$68 per class (recipes and lunch/ dinner)
Contact:Vida Berry, 6468-2764
vidadavid@singnet.com.sg
Over 29 years of teaching cooking experience. Spice up
your cooking and experience the true harmony of Asian
flavors! Each month the cooking courses feature all the
famous dishes of Thai, Indian, Malaysian and Chinese
cuisines with menus that change monthly. Classes are
conducted at my premises in a comfortable atmosphere.
All ingredients and recipes are supplied. Teaches how to
select and use fresh, quality ingredients for each region
and share cooking techniques that will give the best
results when you cook at home. All dishes are cooked
healthily and, of course, you will get to taste the dishes
you prepare with a small lunch!
CULINARY WET MARKET TOURS AND SPICE SHOPS($48)
A must for newcomers and others! Full of information on
all the produce you see with names and what they are
used for and which are sticky, tasty, sour or bitter. Learn
how to look for the freshness of fish and other seafood,
veggies, fruits, Asian spices and herbs. Visit some Indian
grocery shops and explain all types of rice, lentils and
spices. Lots of tips and very popular tour! 10 am–12:15
pm. There are trips on Saturday and Sunday.
2 OR 3 DAY COOKERY COURSE FOR HELPERS
Course covers Indian, Thai, Malaysian, Chinese cuisine.
Email for details.
Full monthly menu details, courses and wet market trips
can be sent by email to you.
Bamboo Telegraph November 2014
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS
6 Sessions of 3 hours each
Class-i-fied/ From our Advertisers
Class-i-fied Ads
Dates:
Mondays, January 5, 12, 19, 26
and February 2, 9
Time:
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Place:
Jervois Road
Cost: $520
Contact:
Geraldine, 9177-6797
geraldine@Mphotography.com.sg
www.geraldineMphotography.com.sg
PHOTOGRAPHY COURSES BY GRAFIKA
NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY (5 hours)
Date/Time: November 6, 10 am to 12:30
6 pm to 8:30 pm (fieldtrip)
Cost: $190
pm,
LONG EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY (5 hours)
Date/Time: November 11, 10 am to 12:30 pm
November 12, 8 am to 10:30 pm (fieldtrip)
Cost: $190
SHOOTING SHALLOW
(Control the Depth of Field) (5 hours)
Date/Time: November 20, 10 am to 12:30
November 21, 8 am to 10:30 am (fieldtrip)
Cost: $190
PHOTOGRAPHY CLINIC (2.5 hours)
Date/Time: December 1, 10 am to 12:30
Cost: $100
CHRISTMAS PHOTOGRAPHY (5 hours)
Date/Time: December 4, 10 am to 12:30
December 5, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
Cost: $190
pm
pm
pm
Sign up 2 weeks in advance and get a FREE 16 GB
SD Card.
Class size: 10 maximum, 4 minimum
Place: Bukit Timah area/ fieldtrip locations
Contact: Helga Herrera, 8233-0960
helga.herrera@grafikaphotographydesign.com
www.awasingapore.org
31 November/ December Calendars
32
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Bamboo Telegraph November 2014