BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore

Page created by Kenneth Byrd
 
CONTINUE READING
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
AMERICAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE

BAMBOO TELEGRAPH
                                   Jan/Feb 2107

                                 Make sure to check out
                                   Arts & Culture Week
                                  Captivating Cambodia
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
B T Jan/Feb
Bamboo Telegraph Production Team
                                                                                            Contents
BT Editor
Niki Cholet
                                                                                             2       President's Message                                                            10
bt_editor@awasingapore.org                                                                   3       Membership
                                                                                             5       Newcomers Network
BT Staff                                                                                             AWA Kids
Coreen Knox
                                                                                             6
Olga Terekhova                                                                               8       Community Outreach
                                                                                                     Captivating Cambodia Week
                                                                                                                                                                                    13
                                                                                            10
BT Advertising
Hanna Appelt                                                                                12       Arts & Culture
bt_advertising@awasingapore.org                                                             13       Night At the Races
                                                                                            14       Fashion Show/Model Call
Visit us on the internet:
www.awasingapore.org                                                                        15       Monthly Luncheon
                                                                                            16       Green Corner
Facebook:
American Women’s Association of
                                                                                            18       Activities                                                                     14
Singapore - AWA                                                                             20       Local Tours
                                                                                            24       Dish
Questions, comments and                                                                              Thanksgiving Retrospective
administrative issues, please email us:
                                                                                            25
admin@awasingapore.org                                                                      26       Photography

Printed by
                                                                                            28
                                                                                            30
                                                                                                     Tennis
                                                                                                     Golf Shots
                                                                                                                                                                                    25
Xpress Print (Pte) Ltd
6880-2881, fax 6880-2998                                                                    31       Writers’ Block
von@xpress.com.sg                                                                           32       Expat Adventures
MCI [P] 020/03/2016                                                                         34       Flirting with Food
                                                                                            36       Calendar

                                                                                                                                                                                    30
  AWA Registration Policies
   • Bookings open on the first working day of the month.
   • You must register in advance to attend an event, online registration is available at www.awasingapore.org
   • If an event is full, please join the waitlist. If a member wishes to cancel & cannot find a replacement, they can cancel their space with the AWA office.
   The space will then be offered to the waitlist, in date order.
   • The event ends at approximately the listed time.
   • Only adults over 18 years may attend AWA tours unless otherwise designated.
   • Family members and out of town guests pay AWA member price, other Singapore residents pay the guest price.

  AWA Cancellation Policies
   • If the event is marked NO CANCELLATION, then no refund can be given.
   • All other AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable admin charge. This cannot be returned under any circumstances.
   • You may cancel your attendance at an event by emailing office@awasingapore.org 4 working days prior to the event.
   • If you paid online, we will refund you via Paypal. If you paid by any other method you will be asked for your preferred refund method, cash or check.
   • You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member or to another identical event (e.g. Mahjong game to Mahjong game) no less than 4 working
   days prior to the event, by emailing office@awasingapore.org with the new attendee’s name.
   • Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded.
   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
   Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
                      January/February 2017                                                                                                                WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                      1
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
President's Message......
                                            Happy New Year! And just like that 2017 is here. The new year looks to be a busy one
                                            for me as I have my oldest graduating high school in May and my youngest completing
President’s Message

                                            middle school then transitioning into high school. I know the lull in activities for the past
                                            few weeks have been a welcome break as things ramp up quickly and big changes are
                                            headed our way in the coming months.

                                            The second half of the AWA club year promises to be every bit as exciting and full on as the
                                            first half of the year. Everyone will want to mark their calendars for the week of February
                        Tara Eastep         13-17th. This week is our annual Arts and Culture Week. This year we are pleased to
                                            highlight Cambodia as our featured country. The Arts and Culture committee have been
                                            busy for months lining up events and activities. I am sure that over the course of the week
                                            there is something appealing to almost anyone and will enhance your appreciation and
                                            understanding of the cultural side of Cambodia.

                                            Also in February, the AWA will participate in the Chingay parade. This is an enormous
                                            honor to be asked to join the parade procession and demonstrates our increasing presence
                                            and value in the Singapore community as a result of our ongoing contributions through
                                            our community outreach efforts. It would be nice to see and hear some of our members
                                            cheering us on as we make our way along the route!

                                            Right on the heels of an entertaining February is March. You will want to keep your eye
                                            out for information and registration regarding our spring event on March 10th. This year
                                            a night out at the races is scheduled which will be open to spouses and partners. Horses,
                                            betting, food, free flow…. Need I say more! This event will sell out quickly and promises
                                            to be an incredibly fun filled night.

                                            Every month I try to highlight a volunteer whose contribution to the organization is above
                                            and beyond. This month, I would like to give a huge shout out to our Bamboo Telegraph
                                            editor, Niki Cholet. For the past year she has done an amazing job of filling in the big shoes
                                            left behind by our previous editor Coreen Knox. The BT is a beautiful publication from cover
                                            to cover. I often use it as a marketing material when promoting the AWA and am always
                                            told by vendors, partners, and businesses how extremely professional our magazine looks
                                            and reads. It is a tremendous effort, and Niki sits behind her desk for many hours working
                                            on layouts. She wrangles with all the contributors to have their articles submitted on time.
                                            Over the course of the year, Niki has had to put in more hours as her team members have
                                            moved away. We are currently looking for volunteers with graphic design skills. If you
                                            want to join this fabulous team, please email me at president@awasingapore.org, and I will
                                            connect you with Niki!

                                            Have a great two months and hope to see you at an event soon!

                      American Women’s Association                                   FAQ’s/Important Information
                              of Singapore                          •   All AWA memberships now expire 12 months from the date you join.
                                                                    •   The AWA welcomes all nationalities, not just Americans.
                                10 Claymore Hill                    •   Although we rent office space from the American Club, you do not
                               Singapore 229573                         need to be a club member to join.
                        General Manager: Sarah Cockerill            •   As an AWA member you do not qualify for access to the Club facilities.
                                Main: 6734-4895                     •   AWA guest fees apply to Singapore residents. Out of town guests and
                                  Office Hours:                         family members pay the AWA member price.
                        Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm            •   Guests are entitled to attend 2 events (in total, not per year) before we
                            www.awasingapore.org                        ask them to join the AWA to continue participating.

                                      AWA MISSION STATEMENT:
                                      The American Women's Association is a sisterhood of women from around the world, who
                                      come together to enhance their Singapore experience through fulfilling volunteer run events
                                      and activities.

          2            WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                        Bamboo
                                                                                                     Bamboo
                                                                                                          Telegraph
                                                                                                            Telegraph January/February 2017
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
Coffee Talk: so many coffees, so little time!

                                                                                                         Membership
     If there is one thing we can say about our membership team (besides saying that they are nicest
     group of ladies around), it is that they are well caffeinated! AWA coffees occur all around the
     island, meeting the needs of new members, not-so-new members, and non-members alike.
     Ever wonder which coffee gathering is right for you? Here’s a little cheat sheet to help you
     find your coffee klatch.

     Newcomers Coffees
     In addition to a welcome call, brand new members receive an email invitation to a Newcomers
     coffee, hosted by our Newcomers Committee. These coffees are typically at the home of a
     committee member, and occur approximately every four to six weeks. They are a friendly and
     warm introduction to the AWA and a chance to mix both with other newcomers and veteran
     members.

     Wednesday and Friday Drop-In Coffees
     Our weekly coffees are designed to be fun and informal. Whether you are brand new or have
     been in Singapore for years, you’ll find a seat at this table. You don’t even need to be a member
     to attend – these weekly gatherings are the perfect opportunity for individuals considering
     membership to learn more about the AWA before signing up. If you have never attended a
     drop in coffee, now is the time. We are changing venues and adjusting our timings in 2017,
     so be sure to check out the Drop in Coffee page on our website before heading out the door.

     Share the Love Coffees
     Our Share the Love Coffees are designed to appeal to all! Whether you are an AWA member or
     not, we would love to see you at one of these fun and interesting events. Approximately every
     other month we find a unique venue to host us – past venues have included a local antique
     shop, a photography studio, an auction house, and a cooking studio! These free, interactive
     events allow attendees to mix and mingle while exploring a new spot within Singapore – and
     maybe learning a little something along the way. These events are designed to “share the
     love” in two ways – we share a venue that we love, and attendees are encouraged to share the
     “AWA love” by bringing along non-members so they can get a taste of what we do. Be sure
     to check out the January Share the Love Coffee details in this issue!

            DROP IN COFFEE LOCATION/TIMING CHANGE
     We are changing locations for the Wednesday/Friday drop in coffees! Starting January
     4, 2017 the drop in coffees will move to The Providore Café at Tangs Department Store on
     Orchard Road. The Providore is located on the second floor, right next to the escalator.
     Tangs is easily accessible via the Orchard MRT or a variety of buses.

     NEW LOCATION:
     The Providore Café at Tangs
     310 Orchard Road, 2nd floor

     Important: the timing of the coffees will also shift from 10-12 to 10:30-12:30.

     Please note the changes. We hope to see you in January at our new venue!!

Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                         WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG      3
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
Join us for the next Share the Love Meet and Greet!
Membership / From Our Advertisers

                                       AWA Share the Love Meet & Greets are an
                                       opportunity to get together for a relaxed coffee and
                                       chat. Each month, we find an interesting venue or
                                       opportunity that you might not have found on your
                                       own, and we ask our host or hostess to share some
                                       information with you that you might find helpful,
                                       or just plain fun!
                                                                                                               Date: January 24, 2017
                                       Calling all chocolate lovers! Come down to Anjali                       Time: 10 am - 12 pm
                                       Chocolat, an artisan chocolatier located in the                         Place: Anjali Chocolate
                                       beautiful and historic Loewen Gardens area of                                  73 Loewen Road
                                       Dempsey, for a Chocolate Appreciation and Tasting                              #01-15/16
                                       Session. Discover the history of chocolate and learn                           Singapore 248843
                                       how to taste chocolate like a connoisseur. We will
                                       be “treated” to a truffle making demonstration, and
                                       attendees will get to taste a freshly made chocolate
                                       truffle at the conclusion of the demo.

                                       You are encouraged to bring non-AWA Members
                                       to this event so they can get a taste of what we do,
                                       or to come yourself if you are not a member, but are
                                       considering membership.

                                                                                                    ASIAN COOKING WITH CLASSES
                                                                                                             WITH VIDA
                                                                                       Time:     10am –1pm
                                                                                                 Evening classes,& private parties for Special occasions.
                                                                                                 Form your own group. Helpers are welcome to all classes.
                                                                                                 Saturday mornings classes too. Children classes. Couples
                                                                                       evening. Classes….bring your wine’
                                                                                       Date:     Call or email for details for full monthly menus and wet
                                                                                                 market tours.
                                                                                       Cost :    $70 per class (with recipes and lunch or dinner)
                                                                                                 $136 for 2 classes booked and paid
                                                                                       Contact: Vida Berry:64682764 or vidadavid@singnet.com.sg

                                                                                       Over 29 years of teaching cooking experience.Found to have good health
                                                                                       properties in spices and herbs and learn how to use them and experience the
                                                                                       true harmony of of Asian flavor.Each month the cooking classes changes
                                                                                       slightly featuring all the famous dishes of Thai,India,Malaysian and Chinese
                                                                                       cuisine..Classes are conducted at my premises in a comfortable atmosphere.
                                                                                       All the 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 in a healthy way. And of
                                                                                       course you get to taste the dishes you prepared with a small lunch!

                                                                                             CULINARY WET MARKET TOURS AND SPICE SHOPS
                                                                                                                      ($48 per person)
                                                                                       A must for newcomers and others! Full of information on all the produce
                                                                                       you see with names and what they are are used for and which are sticky,
                                                                                       tasty,sour or bitter.How to look for freshness of fish and other seafood, variety
                                                                                       of 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 noon.
                                                                                       Tours on weekdays and Saturdays
                                                                                                                Hawker Food Tours ($48)
                                                                                               See all the amazing dishes Singapore has to offer and taste !!

                   4                WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                     Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
Newcomers Network/From Our Advertisers
  Newcomers Network
                                                                                                         By Becky Matakas
                                           On Being a Tourist
Based on a suggestion from the AWA Photography FaceBook page, my husband and I decided to spend
a couple of days in Siem Reap, Cambodia with a guide who is also a photographer. My husband has
loved photography for many years, but I’m a rookie photographer; I’ve taken it up as a result of moving
to Singapore, where travel to other parts of Southeast Asia is a regular part of life. Capturing the vibrant
sights, colors, and characters on a holiday helps to tell the story of a place. I’ve found immense pleasure
in scrolling through my photos, even when they are out of focus or aren’t cropped just right, to re-live the
trips we’ve taken.

Our Cambodia guide told us several times that he was taking us to places where there were very few tourists.
In an area like Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, which can be overrun with tourists, having someone with this
knowledge is invaluable, particularly when you want to shoot some photos of the Angkor Wat sunrise or
the Tomb Raider movie set. And yet, being a tourist is, in some strange way, part of the experience, even
when the other tourists spoil some of your best shots. Particularly when you walk right into someone
else’s perfect picture. We’re all in that new place to
experience the thing that draws millions of people
there, so sometimes, being shoulder-to-shoulder with
a bunch of strangers is simply part of the experience!

As expats, it’s common to feel as if we are tourists where
we live. I would venture to say that it’s also common to
feel resistance to this label as well. When we go away,
we want to avoid the touristy places at all costs, so why             15 Dempsey Road #01-09 Singapore 249675
would we want to embrace that role at home? Just like                    Email: hedgerscarpets@singnet.com.sg
in other places we’ve lived, we encourage visitors to                  Website: www.hedgerscarpetgallery.com.sg

see and do everything on the “it” list, even while we
might tend to say “I haven’t been there yet, but I’ve
                                                                          Carpet
heard it’s great!                                                      Clearance Sale
My suggestion is this: Embrace being a tourist in                      Up to 70% off
Singapore. Ask all of the curious questions. Go to the                    6462 0028 Open daily 10.30am - 7.00pm
Night Safari. Take the double decker Hippo bus around                Professional Carpet Cleaning & Restoration Services Available
the city. Do the things you’ve been meaning to do for
the last six months. Sign up for all of the AWA Local
Tours that you can fit into your schedule. Take a ride
on the Flyer. Find a food tour of local food. Check out
the Top Ten list on TripAdvisor and make it a point
to check all ten things off. Your experience of living in
Singapore will be all the better.

  Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                                     WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                    5
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
Kids Corner

                                  AWA Kids at LITTLE PLANET PLAYLAND!
               This lovely space is a miniature world for children to engage in imaginative and purposeful
               pretend play. It features a small, interconnected children’s play area designed to reinforce
               good social skills in a group play environment through interactive play, hands-on learning
               experiences and role playing. Little Planet is suitable for children up to 6 years of age.

               We have a special rate for AWA members during this time slot. $15 instead of $25 per child.
               • Children under 12 months are FREE when accompanying a paying child.

               Please register online at www.awasingapore.org so we can keep track of the numbers since
               space in the venue is limited.

               If you have any questions, please email Maria Di Vito at kids@awasingapore.org.

               Date:    Wednesday, January 11
               Time:    3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
               Place:   Little Planet Playland, 176 Orchard Road, #02-21 The Centrepoint, 238843
               Cost:    $15/Child, paid at venue
               Limit:   20

                              Kids: Catch a Lion Dance for Chinese New Year!
               Join in for a great tradition that the kiddies love (most of them anyway!). Lion dance
               timings for the Year of the Rooster haven't been published yet so stay tuned for the latest
               details on the “awakidssocialnetwork” Facebook Group.

               Date:    Wednesday, January 25
               Time:    TBA on Facebook Group
               Place:   TBA on Facebook Group
               Limit:   20

      6       WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                          Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
Play Date at POWER KIDS GYM!

                                                                                                                                         Kids Corner/From Our Advertisers
     The gym offers a unique range of programmes from 6 months to 10 years old. Their aim is to
     stimulate your child’s mind and senses through exercise and play.

     We will join their open gym session, you will pay $12 per child on arrival. Please register
     online at www.awasingapore.org so we can keep track of the numbers since space in the
     venue is limited.

     Date:    Monday, February 6
     Time:    10:45 am - 11:45 am
     Place:   Power Kids Gym, 81 Clemenceau Ave, UE Square #02/12, 239917
     Cost:    $12/Child, paid at venue
     Limit:   20

          Play Date at Artscience Museum - Future Worlds Exhibit!
     Artscience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is a unique space that both you and your children
     can truly enjoy. Explore a fully immersive 1500-square-metre digital universe, where 16
     spectacular art installations are brought to life and evolve in real-time through visitor
     presence and participation. Be amazed as this stunning interactive world responds to your
     behavior, and changes according to your creative input! Or just let the kids play on the
     slide!!

     **Please purchase tickets for a 4pm admission time** Meet at ground floor entrance lobby
     across from ticket counters at 3:45pm.

     You can purchase tickets at: www.marinabaysands.com/museum/future-world.html

     Do register online at www.awasingapore.org so we can keep track of the numbers and look
     out for you on the day. If you have any questions, please email kids@awasingapore.org.

     Date:    Wednesday, February 22
     Time:    3:45 pm - 5:30 pm
     Place:   Artsience Museum at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., Singapore 018956
     Cost:    See note above
     Limit:   20

                                                                     A travel agency run by Australian Expats, for Expats in Asia

                                                      Visit Australia & New Zealand for that holiday experience you will never forget.

                                                                               Explore the great outdoors.
                                                            Appreciate the quality, fresh food & wine. Meet the unique wildlife.

                                                                         We can help build your best ever holiday.
                                                                  Local knowledge. Trusted Advice & Service since 2004.

                                                                      www.ausxpattravel.com.au               +61 3 3521 1086
                                                                  info@ausxpattravel.com.au          WeChat ID: vickibaensch

Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                                      WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG
                                                                                          WeChat ID: vickibaensch                        7
BAMBOO TELEGRAPH Jan/Feb 2107 - Make sure to check out Arts & Culture Week Captivating Cambodia - AWA Singapore
COMMUNITY
Community Outreach

                                                OUTREACH
                                   Mount Elizabeth Hospital Visitation
                                        by Isabella Duncan, A.W.A Coordinator for the Visitation Program

                     When I was first asked to write this passage on my work with the volunteer program I had not
                     realized just how long I have been doing this; ten years as a volunteer, and five years as a coordinator.
                     It became a part of my life, something I have always done while in Singapore.

                     How things have changed. When I first started there were no iPhones, iPads, or kindles. Our volunteers
                     met with note pads and got started with important telephone numbers, (Embassies, High commission,
                     Insurances, Hotels Transport). These days almost everyone can obtain this information easily, but we
                     still try to help in this way, if needed.

                     The volunteers give their time to visit expat patients who are sick, having an operation, or other treatment.
                     For many patients, it is their first time in Singapore, having been sent from Malaysia, Indonesia or further
                     to have treatment in Mount Elizabeth. Some are just travelling and have fallen ill, or had an accident.
                     Many are without their spouses or family. We give a smile, support, listen to their stories and try to
                     give comfort. Over the years, we have received many cards, e-mails and letters from former patients
                     expressing how much they appreciated the service. One woman wrote “I just loved to see you ladies,
                     to have a good chat about the topic of the day and hear the news and updates.” I think in a small way
                     this support gives that help, they know they are not alone.

                     There are also patients who live in Singapore and who have travelled extensively. I find it good to listen
                     to stories of where they have travelled and what plans they have. Often, we can be chatting for much
                     longer than we think, the time goes by quickly.

                     We have a magazine and book trolley. When I first started, the magazines were all well out of date.
                     Now, A.W.A ladies bring magazines and books to the office regularly, to fill the trolley. As coordinator I
                     wanted so much to have the provision of updated material, especially the gossip and fashion magazines,
                     which the female patients particularly enjoy. I was fortunate to obtain sponsors, Expat Magazine and
                     SPH, who also provide us with up to date publications.

                     The hospital staff members know us well and are always polite and welcoming. I have had the pleasure
                     of being invited to some of their weddings, seeing their new babies and even a few retirement parties.
                     One of my favorite areas in the hospital is the nursery, looking through the glass at all those lovely
                     brand new babies, all different.

                     In spite of kindles and other devices, I still think a lot of the patients like the easy flipping through pages
                     and pictures in magazines and, of course, human contact plays its part in a social and easy way.

                     To give is to receive and I have had a lot of interesting and joyful conversations in my time in the program.

                     Thank you to all the ladies who have volunteered over the years and who have made the Mount Elizabeth
                     Visitation Program possible and successful. If you can make someone smile.............

          8             WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                  Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
kidsREAD Volunteer Training
Date: Saturday, March 18

                                                                                                                                                Community Outreach / From Our Advtertisers
Time: Choice of 2 sessions:
       9 am-12:30 pm or 1-4:30 pm
Place: National Library
       100 Victoria St., 188064
Cost: None
Limit: 10

Come be part of the kidsREAD program! Volunteers
are the lifeline of kidsREAD. The goal is to get the
children interested in books and to make reading
a fun and enjoyable experience.                                                ...a reason to                          smile
                                                                               We understand how daunting going to the dentist can be,
Volunteers can choose to volunteer at reading clubs                           which is why we aim to make you feel at home, away from
that have been set up island wide. The schedule                              home. Whether it’s maintaining a healthy set of pearly whites
                                                                             or attaining your dream smile, we’ll be your partner in holistic
is dependent on the reading club the volunteer                                    dental care for your entire family at both our clinics.
would like to be attached to. Some reading clubs
run on weekdays and some on weekends.

Volunteers are required to attend training and
complete an application prior to volunteer work.

There are two training sessions on this date: 9
am-12:30 pm or 1 pm-4:30 pm. Participants choose
one session to attend. Register for training at
www.awasingapore.org. Please list in the comments
box which session you would like to attend.

    Hoe Brothers Catering                                                    Boutiques
                   Roasting Turkeys since the 1960s

  40 Woodlands St 41, Singapore 738547
       Singapore American School             Catering for all Occastions
             Tel: 63636449               Fish and Chips and BBQ selections
             Fax: 62691855                    Western and Local dishes
            Mobile: 97809160                     Bartender Services
       sales@hoebrothers.com.sg

         Give your business a boost by
   advertising with us! Please contact
                                                                             Pit Building
   bt_advertising@awasingapore.org                                                   FRIDAY MARCH 10
                                                                                         9AM – 8PM
                         for more details.
                                                                                 SATURDAY MARCH 11
                                                                                     10AM – 8PM
Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                                                  WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                    9
THE AWA ARTS & CULTU
Arts & Culture Week

                                  Captivating
                          The Arts and Culture committee is proud to present Captivating Cambodia! The Kingdom Of Cambodia, a neighbor
                          to Singapore in southeast Asia, is a beautiful country rich in history despite its’ many challenges. Join us as we take a
                          closer look at this land of verdant green mountains and low-lying plains that are carved by the mighty Mekong river as
                          it meanders through awe-inspiring ancient temples. Treat yourself to a week of discovery where each day will unfold a
                          fascinating aspect from Cambodia's history and its rich arts.

                                           A Mosaic of Cambodian Memories
                                           Date: Monday, February 13
                                           Time: 10 am to 12 noon
                                           Place: Cairnhill Community Center, 1 Anthony Road Singapore 229944
                                           Cost: $15 Member, $20 Guest
                                           Limit: 30
                          The history of Cambodia is undeniably epic. From the mysterious monumental civilizations of ancient Funan
                          and Angkor, through the Khmer Rouge conflict and genocide of the 1970s, Cambodia has flourished, suffered
                          and survived while still maintaining a rich, optimistic culture proud of its world class heritage.

                          Join Dr. Kyle Latinis, as he escorts us through 2500 years of ancient empire building and decline, while ending
                          with a discussion on how Cambodia has reemerged from the horrific devastation in the late 20th century. Dr.
                          Latinis has over 20 years of experience in Cambodia and has served as Dean of Graduate Studies and Social
                          Sciences at the University of Cambodia.

                                           Reflections on Cambodia Refugee Art
                                           Date:    Tuesday, February 14
                                           Time:    10 am to 12 noon
                                           Place:   Intersections Gallery, 34 Kandahar Street, Singapore 198892
                                           Cost:    Members $15, Guest $20
                                           Limit:   15
                          Cambodia has a fascinating and dramatic history. Its rich cultural heritage, epitomized by Angkor world heritage
                          temples, was completely erased during the Khmer Rouge regime. This visit will explain how contemporary
                          artists strive to heal the wounds of the past and recreate a vibrant art scene.

                          We will start with a 30 minutes presentation to set the historical scene and introduce a few refugee artists who
                          successfully contribute to the revival of the Cambodian art. It will be followed by a commented viewing of the
                          exhibition showcased in the gallery: “Embroidered Dreams” by Savann Thav. Born in Cambodia in 1956, has
                          Savann lived and worked in France since 1980.

                                             Two Tales on the Mekong
                                             Date: Wednesday, February 15
                                             Time:		10 am - 12 noon
                                             Place:		Em Gallery, 16 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249685
                                             Cost:		$15 members, $20 guests
                                             Limit: 15

                          Emiko Nakamura started to work with weavers in Cambodia and Laos nearly two decades ago. Her background
                          in fashion propelled her to create her own collection of artisanal textiles. To this day, all her collections are made

          10          WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                        Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
RE COMMIT TEE PRESENTS

                                                                                                                        Arts & Culture Week
g Cambodia
  by the hands of skilled crafts persons. Her production takes place in both Cambodia and Laos, each producing
  a very different collection. In Cambodia, her clothing line, Boheme, is produced, while her exquisite woven
  textile collection is created in Laos. Each has different traditions, each different dynamics but both complete her
  collection. Her passion is predominantly textiles and every collection starts with textile design. Emiko would
  like to share with you what she has seen in these countries that led her to her venture, and how working with
  these artisans has given her insights into their arts and crafts.

  Please join the gathering at Emgallery for a conversation and exhibition about her work. As a special addition
  to Emiko’s talk, her photographer husband, Steve Golden, will also provide a short talk about his photographic
  adventures in deep Laos and Cambodia over the last twenty-five years.

                  Cambodia’s Silent Strength
                  Date:    Thursday, February 16
                  Time:    10 am to 12 noon
                  Place:   TBA
                  Cost:    $15 Member, $20 Guest
                  Limit:   20

  Tabitha Foundation has worked with Cambodian families for over 20 years and helped 4 million
  people to raise themselves from poverty to middle-class income through our six programs -
  savings, wells, house-building, cottage industry, school-building and now the construction of
  Nokor Tep, Cambodia’s first women’s hospital, by our sister organization, Nokor Tep Foundation.

   Despite their traditionally prescribed roles, women are pivotal to the success and prosperity of Cambodia.
  Following a brief outline of the modern history shaping the country today, we will show how these amazing
  women overcome daily challenges at grass-roots level and are driving the movement of millions out of poverty.
  We invite you to hear their voices alongside ours as we explore how their wellbeing is so crucial to that of
  Cambodia through their position in the family and at work, and why their contribution is now at risk.

                  The Goddesses of Angkor
                  Date:    Friday, February 17
                  Time:    10 am to 12 noon
                  Place:   TBA
                  Cost:    $45 Member, $50 Guest
                  Limit:   50

  Join us for a rare opportunity to enjoy a dance performance by the renowned Apsaras Arts. This unique
  performance will take you on a journey to unlock the secrets of women who were immortalized in stone, so
  long ago, as goddesses depicted on the temples of the iconic Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The choreography
  will fuse elements of traditional dance with a multi-media presentation on the meaning behind the dances
  and depictions of women within the context of Angkor. Based on the much acclaimed Mega Dance theatre
  production, Apsaras Arts are bringing this dance back to life exclusively for this AWA performance. Light
  refreshments will be served after the performance.

       Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                                 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG      11
Arts & Culture
Arts & Culture

                 The Art of Chinese Tea
                 Date: Wednesday, January 25
                 Time: 10:30 am to 12 noon
                 Place: Teahouse by Yixing Xuan
                        78 Tanjong Pagar Road ,Singapore 088499
                 Cost: $22 Member, $25 Guest
                 Limit: 20

                 Tea remains to be an important aspect in the
                 Asian culture, especially in China where it
                 originated. Come and explore with us the
                 art of drinking tea and learn all about the
                 secrets to brewing a perfect cup. Discover the wonderful atmosphere of Teahouse by Yixing
                 Xuan, a unique venue that will offer a glimpse of the history and culture associated with this
                 wonderful beverage. Allow Charlene Low to show you the correct way to brew tea using
                 insider “tips” to promote good health and find out what the art of drinking tea really means.

                 Join us for the chance to experience four types of premium teas and learn how harmony and peace are
                 the central pillars of Asian tradition in this relaxing tea ceremony.

        12         WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                           Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
Fashion Show / Model Call

                                 SAVE THE DATE FOR THE ANNUAL AWA FASHION SHOW

                              Glamour by the Bay
                            This year's show will again be held at the Grand Ballroom at the Park Royal Hotel
                             on Beach Road. Please mark your calendar for an afternoon of fun, fashion, and
                                                    bubbles on Friday, April 21, 2017.

                                                   2017 AWA Fashion Show
                                                         Model Call
                                                We are looking for models of ALL AGES, SHAPES & SIZES to represent
                                               the AWA at the Annual Fashion Show in April. No prior modeling
                                               experience is needed!

                                               At the model call we will take your photo and measurements for
                                               our fabulous runway designers. We will also give important dates
                                               and information about the show. Please note that models must
                                                be AWA members.

                                                  The show will feature some past favorites and new designers, all
                                                  at affordable prices. If you are interested in being a model, please
                                                  plan to be at one of the scheduled model calls. If modeling is
                                                not for you, but you would like to help backstage during the show,
                                             please email fashionshow@awasingapore.org.

                                             Dates: Monday, January 23, 2017 or Thursday, February 9, 2017
                                             Time: Drop in between 10 am - 12 noon
                                             Place: AWA Office (American Club) 10 Claymore Hill

              14            WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                       Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
AWA Monthly Speakers Lunch
The Monthly Lunch is a chance to mix and mingle with your fellow members and discover
something new. Each month, the AWA will introduce you to one of a fascinating range of speakers
at our regular monthly speaker’s lunch. These talk will be informative, thought provoking and
most of all fun! This is a fantastic way to meet new members, have fun with long-time friends and
share in new experiences together!

Stephanie Syptak-Ramnath
US Deputy Chief of Mission
Date: Tuesday, February 28
Time: 12 noon to 2 pm
Place: McGettigan’s Merchant’s Court #01-01, 3A
       River Valley Rd, 179020
Cost: $35 Member, $40 Guest
Limit: 60

This month we are joined by the new Deputy
Chief of Mission, Stephanie Syptak-Ramnath.
Stephanie has been awarded the Edward
R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Public
Diplomacy, and joins the embassy from her
previous posting as Minister Counselor for Public
Affairs at the US Embassy Mexico City.

Dress Code: Smart casual or business attire

Scott Mackenzie-VP Channels, Asia for NBC
Universal International Networks
Date: Tuesday, March 28
Time: 12 noon to 2 pm
Place: McGettigan’s Merchant’s Court #01-01, 3A
       River Valley Rd, 179020
Cost: $35 Member, $43 Guest
Limit: 60

In March, we are joined by Vice President of
Channels, Asia for NBCUniversal International
Networks, Scott Mackenzie. Scott has worked in
the global entertainment covering three continents
- North America, Europe and Asia. His extensive
list of credits include working many aspects of
the MTV brand as well as producing the first
international reality series.

Dress Code: Smart casual or business attire

For additional information please email monthlylunch@awasingapore.org
Green Corner                                                           By Melissa Diagana

                                    Trees, trees, and more trees
     In early November, news came that the tallest tree         The fact that the powers that be in Singapore feel
     in the tropics had recently been found in Borneo,          that it is worthwhile to repopulate the island with
     more specifically, in Sabah’s Danum Valley. Over           its original (tree) inhabitants should impress upon
     94 m (308 feet) tall, it would dwarf the “Supertrees”      you that this country really cares about its trees. It
     of the Gardens by the Bay, which measure a measly          is obvious when you look at all the tree-lined roads,
     25 or 50 m.                                                or at the various tree-centric DIY walks proposed
                                                                by the National Parks Board (www.nparks.gov.sg).
     Once upon a time, Singapore and much of the                Next weekend, follow the “Trees of the Fort” trail
     surrounding region was covered with primary                at Fort Canning Park, or opt for the “Civic District
     forests full of “dipterocarp” trees – tall, stately, and   Tree Trail” if you’d rather stick to flatter terrain.
     with straight trunks that just HAD to be chopped
     down for ship masts and other creations. The giant         If you want to learn more about the types of forests
     in Sabah is most likely a species of Shorea, one           present here – the lowland dipterocarp forest, the
     genus in the dipterocarp family.                           coastal hill forest, the freshwater swamp forest,
                                                                or the secondary forest - just head to the NParks
     We’ve still got a few dipterocarp trees left in town.      website. You can even train to become a professional
     Some are worth admiring - for example, the two             tree person! The Centre for Urban Greenery and
     majestic Chengal Pasir trees in Fort Canning, by           Ecology (www.cuge.com.sg) maintains research
     the stairs coming up from Canning Rise. Others             programs and offers certificates in arboriculture,
     are worth encouraging - for example, the babies            the study of the cultivation and management of
     recently planted by the grove of adolescent                trees and other woody plants.
     Sangkawang trees (another dipterocarp species)
     in Fort Canning, above River Valley Road, or the           While the dipterocarps are indigenous to this part of
     youngsters of the Dipterocarp Arboretum at Yishun          the world, Singapore is not picky when it comes to
     Park. And the upcoming extension to the Singapore          greening this little red dot, and so you will also find
     Botanic Gardens will feature an arboretum full of          many tree species originally from other countries,
     varied dipterocarp species.                                as long as their climates are similar. NParks’ “Know

16      WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                    Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
Green Corner
10 Trees” initiative highlights trees such as the
Rain Tree, the Broad-leafed Mahogany and the
Trumpet Tree (all from the tropical Americas), and
the Senegal Mahogany (from tropical West Africa).
There are also multitudes of sweet-smelling
frangipani trees scattered about the island – again,
from tropical America.

Some 250 of the most impressive – in terms of girth
or “botanical, social, historical, cultural and/or
aesthetical value” – trees in town have been graced
with the label of “heritage tree”. These celebritrees
are legally protected from harm (e.g., by lightening,
or adjacent excavations) and receive regular check-
ups. But, really, in my opinion ALL trees are worth
celebrating!

Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                  WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG   17
American Women’s A
     Special Interest Groups                                                            Scrapbooking
                                                                                        Susan Studebaker-Rutledge, scrapbooking@awasingapore.org
     After Ni Hao                                                                       If you want to get all your priceless photos organized, this is the group for you.
     Susan Yoshimura, afternihao@awasingapore.org
                                                                                        We usually meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 am. Please
     Ideal for those taking Mandarin lessons, who want more opportunity to
                                                                                        contact Susan if interested.
     speak, or native speakers willing to help enthusiastic learners. We meet every
     Thursday at 10 am to practice our speaking and listening skills. Our aim is to     Writers’ Group
     practice what we have learned.                                                     Lucia Damacela, writers@awasingapore.org
                                                                                        Explore your inner writer! Beginning and published writers meet to discuss
     Beading Buddies                                                                    their works in a non-threatening atmosphere. We meet every other Thursday
     Malu Kaul, beadingbuddies@awasingapore.org
                                                                                        from 10 am to 12 noon at a member’s home or a coffee shop.
     For all those who enjoy beading, want to improve your skill level or meet
     new friends, just bring along your beads, your tools and your inspiration and
     join us! We meet every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10:30
     am - 1:30 pm in a member’s home.
                                                                                        Social Activities
                                                                                        Bar Night
     Book Groups                                                                        Each month, step out and about in Singapore with the Bar Night team!
     Meg Ambroson, bookgroups@awasingapore.org                                          Throughout the year, the team will be arranging drinks for you at new venues
     Traditional styled book groups allow you the opportunity to meet other women       and old favorites. There will be ladies nights, couples nights and opportunities
     and to participate in a regular discussion of books. Book group members decide     for you to bring new friends to the AWA. This is a great opportunity to try
     on the books to read in advance so that everyone has ample time to obtain and      something new - bar nights are free events and you are welcome to bring friends
     read them. For a more comprehensive listing of book groups’ meeting times,         and (when applicable) partners. You can register for bar nights via the events
     openings and book lists, contact the coordinator.                                  calendar of our website. (We do ask you to register, so we can get an idea of
     Cancer Support Group                                                               numbers and also sometimes due to venue space constraints.)
     Jean Leng Goh, cancersupport@awasingapore.org
                                                                                        Bridge
     This group meets once a month during the third week of the month. All are
                                                                                        AWA has many options for Bridge players! To find out which group is right
     welcome to join. The focus is on mutual support and sharing information
                                                                                        for you, email Alison Robb at awabridgesgp@gmail.com
     among fellow cancer patients, survivors and friends. Contact the coordinator
     for additional information.                                                        Couples
     Christian Connection                                                               Sock-Yan Sim, couplesbridge@awasingapore.org
     Angel Corrigan, christianconnect@awasingapore.org                                  Do you and your spouse or partner enjoy eating, drinking, socializing and
     Christian Connection provides valuable information and resources to help           playing bridge? We play once a month on a Saturday evening, and we rotate
     you and your family connect with local churches, youth organizations, Bible        houses. Each couple is asked to bring a drink and an hors d’ouevres; the hosting
     study groups and more. We act as a clearing house for information on ‘What’s       couple makes a dessert. The format is party bridge, using Chicago scoring,
     On’ within the Christian Community in Singapore.                                   and the couples play as partners. The idea is that we will just play fun, casual
                                                                                        bridge, socialize and make new friends!
     International Choir
                                                                                        Duplicate
     Maribel Bawa, intlchoir@awasingapore.org
                                                                                        Esme Parish, duplicatebridge@awasingapore.org
     Under the direction of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Music graduate
                                                                                        On Monday afternoons we play Duplicate Bridge according to American
     Lee Khim Chong, the AWA International Choir rehearses and performs
                                                                                        standard five-card major rules. Players do not need a partner to join. We do
     concerts in both Fall and Spring seasons. New members are welcomed at the
                                                                                        play duplicate but we randomly determine partners on the day of play or you
     beginning of each season: early September and mid-January. Rehearsals are
                                                                                        are welcome to pair up ahead of time. Registration is via the AWA website.
     every Wednesday from 10-12 at St. Bernadette’s Church. Performances occur
                                                                                        This is a fun afternoon of bridge at the friendliest game in town!
     around early May and December, when the choir sings at a local elderly center,
                                                                                        Social
     a school for special needs children, two hospices and at a selected major venue.
                                                                                        Seema Joshi, socialbridge@awasingapore.org
     Motivational book group                                                            Social Bridge is for ladies who want to improve their game in a relaxed
     Mae-Ling Tien, motivation@awasingapore.org                                         conversational atmosphere. We play a “Chicago” Four-Deal Rotation, changing
     Focusing on promoting positive outlooks, attitudes and behaviors in our lives,     partners throughout the afternoon. We accept players from “experienced
     our group meets once every two weeks on a Tuesday morning from 10 am               beginner” upward, with our more advanced players happy to coach those
     to 12 noon to discuss a section of a personal development book. Books are          newer to the game. Every few weeks a new bidding convention is introduced
     selected by group consensus.                                                       or reviewed with set hands for practice. We play on Thursday afternoons in
                                                                                        the Orchard area.
     Photography
     Heather Goessel & Michelle Edmunds, photography@awasingapore.org                   Bunco
     Get to know your city and meet like-minded people interested in photography.       Machelle Robbins, bunco@awasingapore.org
     Participate in our regular monthly outings on the 10th of each month and           Bunco is a simple dice game but mostly it’s a fun excuse to get together once
     critique session every second month.There will be critique/advice sessions         a month, meet new people, see old friends and enjoy some adult beverages.
     throughout the year.                                                               Contact Machelle if you would like to join the afternoon or evening group.

     Quilting                                                                           Children’s Playgroups
     Cyndy O’Connor, quilting@awasingapore.org                                          Get out of the house and gather in a comfortable, safe and stimulating setting
     This is an opportunity to pick up your quilting again! Perhaps you are looking     for the little ones to interact and learn important social skills while moms chat
     for companions who share the passion of quilting. We meet on the 1st and 3rd       over coffee. If you would like to start or participate in a playgroup please post
     Thursdays from 10 am - 3 pm.                                                       on the AWA Kid’s Social Network Facebook page.

18       WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                                                   Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
Association Activities
   DISH (Diner in Sensory Heaven)
   Kathy Dolny, dish@awasingapore.org
                                                                                      Community Activities
                                                                                      Community Outreach
   DISH is a monthly social luncheon, located at various savory restaurants
                                                                                      Kerry Driver, outreach@awasingapore.org
   throughout Singapore. Grab the hand of a friend and join us. Please email or
                                                                                      This group helps AWA members connect to volunteer opportunities in
   join the AWA DISH Facebook group page to find out more.
                                                                                      Singapore. We coordinate volunteer programs for members at five featured
   Euchre                                                                             organizations, and we review and help promote other volunteer opportunities.
   Rosanne Hebert, euchre@awasingapore.org                                            Committee members oversee these efforts, and support AWA events to benefit
   Once a month on a Friday or Saturday evening, byob and munchie. Ice and            community outreach partners. To learn more about the volunteer programs,
   mix to be provided by host. We will alternate homes/ party function rooms.         see the information below, visit the website for dates and other opportunities,
   Beginners and husbands welcome! Easy to learn!                                     or visit the AWA Singapore Community Outreach page on Facebook and
                                                                                      “like” it to receive current news and information via your Facebook newsfeed.
   Mahjong
   Siew Wei Ngiam, mahjong@awasingapore.org                                           Ronald McDonald House Charities
   We play the international style in a low-stress, FUN and ‘learner-friendly’        Mary Porter, rmhc@awasingapore.org
   atmosphere on Mondays between 1 pm - 4 pm at Boomarang Robertson Quay              Sign up to join the pool of AWA volunteers that cover shifts at both the Ronald
   for $10/person (inclusive of one drink). You can either register to play as an     McDonald House and the Family Room to support the families of children
   individual or as a table of 4 (limited availability). If you are new to Mahjong,   getting treatment at Singapore’s National University Hospital.
   please email me to arrange for the required 2 training lessons before.             Humanitarian Organization for Migrant Economies
                                                                                      Cyndy O’Connor, home@awasingapore.org
   Movie Lunch                                                                        Volunteer to support one of the AWA programs with the residents at HOME’s
   Anne Perng, movielunch@awasingapore.org                                            shelter for migrant workers in Singapore, where a small group of members go
   AWA Movie Lunch Group meets once a month for lunch followed by a movie             every few weeks to provide education, entertainment or exercise.
   in the Orchard Road area. To be added to the regular mailing list, please go to    Mount Elizabeth Visitation
   the Movie Lunch page on the AWA website and register for the mailing list.         Isabella Duncan, mounte@awasingapore.org
                                                                                      Donate magazines and / or visit with hospitalized expat patients to keep them
                                                                                      company during their time in Singapore’s Mt. Elizabeth Hospital.
   Sports                                                                             kidsREAD
   Golf                                                                               Machelle Robbins, kidsread@awasingapore.org
   18-hole group: Monica Devereux, 18holegolf@awasingapore.org                        Help children in Singapore’s public schools develop a love of reading with
   9-hole group: 9holegolf@awasingapore.org                                           kidsREAD, a program supported by the National Library Service especially
   Join our 18-hole group on Wednesday mornings, or our 9-hole group on               targeting at risk pre-school and primary school students.
   Thursday mornings for a friendly round of golf on regulation courses here          Food From The Heart
   in Singapore. Registration is via the AWA website. A handicap is required          Janet Stride, ffth@awasingapore.org
   for 18-hole and our 9-hole group is perfect for beginners or to work on your       Join other AWA ladies to help pack bags of food that go to families in Singapore
   short game.                                                                        cannot afford to feed themselves and their school age children. On other days,
                                                                                      AWA volunteers and their family distribute some of those bags to people who
   Tennis                                                                             can’t get to the distribution centers.
   Michelle Ford, tennischair@awasingapore.org
   The tennis committee offers a variety of singles and doubles play for players of
   all levels. The seasons run from September through December, and February          Regular Coffees
   through April. Other team tennis is offered in the off season from December        Wednesdays & Fridays Coffees
   through February. We run three tournaments covering all skill levels. Our          Lynn Lees, wednesdaycoffee@awasingapore.org
   hugely popular end of season celebration is held every May when we award           Laurie Day, fridaycoffee@awasingapore.org
   coveted bag tags and acknowledge tournament winners. Please contact us at          There is a coffee meet every Wednesday and Friday (excluding public holidays)
   assessments@awasingapore.org to set up a session.                                  at 313 Somerset in Starbucks, Level 2 from 10 am to 12 noon. It’s a wonderful
                                                                                      way to meet new friends or reconnect with old friends. No need to register,
   Running
                                                                                      just show up.
   Jeanine Stewart, running@awasingapore.org
   Join us on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings for a group run at 8:30 am.            Meet & Greet (Monthly)
   We cater to all levels with a focus on meeting your goals and having fun as        Rohita Rajkumar, membership@awasingapore.org
   we explore various areas of Singapore. Afterwards, we reward ourselves with        Please join us for our monthly coffee as we welcome returning and new
   the appropriate ‘cool down’ at a nearby cafe.                                      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
   Walking
                                                                                      membership page.
   Gloria Carion, walking@awasingapore.org
   Come join a fun loving group of women as we walk all over this amazing
   island! We have walks for all kinds of walkers ranging from 1 to 3 hours.
   Each week, walking locations and directions are posted in advance on our
   Facebook page, AWA Walking with Women. To join, go to our Facebook
   page, request to join, or email us. Looking forward to walking & talking!

   Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                                                                  WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                          19
AWA Local Tours
Local Tours

                                                                         The tour also includes visits to a Chinese Temple and
                             chinatown new year                          a Clan Association, both integral part of the New Year
                                                                         celebration.
                               walk and lunch
               jan                                                    We end the tour with lunch at a traditional restaurant
                                                                      located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you

               18
                          DATE: Wednesday, January 18
                                                                      all about the do’s and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette.
                          TIME: 9 am – 1:30 pm                        Our menu includes dishes that have symbolic value
                          PLACE: Outram Park MRT Exit G               of auspiciousness. So, if you have always wanted to
                          COST: $65 Members / $98 Guests              learn all about the significance of tossing and eating
                          LIMIT: 20                                   the prosperity salad, locally known as ‘Lo Hei’, and
                                                                      the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year
              Join us as we usher in the Year of the Rooster! On this meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!
              walking tour our guide Diana will explain the Chinese
              calendar, customs and taboos of this exciting festival. DRESS CODE: We will be visiting a temple, so please
              We shall stroll through the quaint streets to learn the cover your knees and shoulders, and since this is a
              traditions of people past and present. We will see a walking tours, please wear comfortable shoes.
              bakery making special New Year Cakes, shops with Please Note: Food samples may contain pork, seafood,
              ritual papers and incense offered to the gods for nuts or other allergens. If you have any questions or
              prosperity, and a street bazaar selling festive goods. concerns, please contact localtours@awasingapore.org.

                                                                         The tour also includes visits to a Clan Association, an
                             chinatown new year                          integral part of the New Year celebration.
                               walk and dinner                           We end the tour with dinner at a traditional restaurant
               jan                                                       located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you
                                                                         all about the do’s and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette.

              20
                          DATE:    Friday, January 20
                                                                         Our menu includes dishes that have symbolic value
                          TIME:    5:30 pm – 10 pm                       of auspiciousness. So, if you have always wanted to
                          PLACE:   Outram Park MRT Exit G                learn all about the significance of tossing and eating
                          COST:    $65 Members / $98 Guests              the prosperity salad, locally known as ‘Lo Hei’, and
                          LIMIT:   24                                    the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year
                                                                         meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!
              Join us as we usher in the Year of the Rooster! On
                                                                         DRESS CODE: Casual but no revealing neckline, bare
              this walking tour, our guide Diana will explain the
                                                                         back, short skirts and shorts. Since this is a walking
              Chinese calendar, customs and taboos of this exciting
                                                                         tour, please wear comfortable shoes. Restaurant is air-
              festival. We shall stroll through the quaint streets to
                                                                         conditioned.
              learn the traditions of people past and present. We will
              see a bakery making special New Year Cakes, shops          Please Note: Food samples may contain pork, seafood,
              with ritual papers and incense offered to the gods for     nuts or other allergens. If you have any questions or
              prosperity, and a street bazaar selling festive goods.     concerns, please contact localtours@awasingapore.org.

                                                   AWA LOCAL TOURS POLICIES:

              Register for AWA Local Tours at www.awasingapore.org. 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.

      20         WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                                                      Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017
to Singapore, this tour will help you get to know the
                    art in transit -                         MRT stations a bit better. For those of you that have
                    northeast line                           been around for a while, be amazed by the artwork you

                                                                                                                          Local Tours
 jan                                                         never even noticed!

 24
            DATE:     Tuesday, January 24                    This Northeast Line tour starts at Dhoby Ghaut and
            TIME:     10:30 am – 12:30 pm                    showcases art in four MRT stations.
            PLACE:    Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station
                                                             Art Outreach, a company whose mission is to increase
            COST:     $20 Members / $25 Guests
                                                             visual art literacy and promote art appreciation in
            LIMIT:    15                                     Singapore, will help us gain insight into how the many
                                                             site specific artworks reflect the cultural and historical
The Art in Transit program is a bold and imaginative         heritage of the area and its community. Explore the
program that brings the works of Singapore’s top             past character of each neighborhood and gain a better
artists into the MRT stations and the lives of all who use   understanding of the many changes that Singapore has
them. In the process, the stations are transformed into a    experienced and continues to experience.
showcase of Singapore art for the world. For those new

                                                             miss this parade!
                     understanding
                                                             Upon arrival, we will watch the devotees attach their
                       thaipusam                             kavadis with hooks and skewers to their bodies.
  feb                                                        We then accompany the procession of devotees and
                                                             chanting well-wishers along a portion of the pilgrimage

   9
            DATE:     Thursday, February 9
                                                             walk toward the Chettiar Temple on Tank Road. We
            TIME:     7 am – 10:30 am                        will get back on the bus to continue our journey to the
            PLACE:    Newton Hawker Centre Car Park          temple. Once there, we will observe the ceremony of
            COST:     $34 Members / $42 Guests               removing the kavadis after respects are paid.
            LIMIT:    30
                                                             Please note that this festival features body piercing and
                                                             might not be suitable for everyone.
One of the most unique festivals in Singapore is the
Hindu celebration of Thaipusam. As we travel by bus          Be sure to bring your camera, wear comfortable walking
to Sri Perumal Temple on Serangoon Road, our guide,          shoes, and bring a container of water.
Diana Chua will explain the customs and beliefs of
this fascinating celebration. She will also describe the     DRESS CODE: This is a religious festival. Please dress
rituals Hindu devotees undergo in preparation for the        modestly (no short skirts, no short shorts, and no
Kavadi Attam – “Burden Dance”. You don’t want to             revealing tops) and wear shoes that are easily removed.

                                                             temple.
              TIONG BAHRu amble on
              monkey god’s birthday                          Hear about the fascinating hobby of ‘Bird Singing.’
  feb                                                        Next, we’ll stop by the locations to see the “new” and
                                                             “old” bird singing corners. Afterwards, we’ll have

 12
            DATE: Sunday, February 12                        some tea at the famous Tiong Bahru Market where we
            TIME: 3 pm – 6:30 pm                             can also sample some delicious Hawker food.
            PLACE: Lobby of Holiday Inn Atrium,
                                                         Towards the end of the walk, a treat awaits! It is the
                   junction of Havelock/Outram Rd        Monkey God’s birthday. His birthday always falls
            COST: $35 Members / $50 Guests               on the 16th day of the first Lunar month. In addition
            LIMIT: 14                                    to opera singing, we’ll be able to enjoy the festivities
                                                         planned for the day! Please join us on this ‘hip’ trip
Everyone loves the old-world charm of Tiong Bahru - through Tiong Bahru and have fun celebrating the
CNN Travel thinks it is ‘Singapore’s hippest hood’ and Monkey God’s birthday.
Travel and Leisure Magazine deems it as ‘Singapore’s
most charming neighborhood.’ Come on this walk to Dress Code: Please wear clothes that will cover the
learn why this area was once called the “Hollywood of knees and shoulders. Also, as this is a walking tour,
Singapore.” Visit one of the oldest temples in Singapore please wear comfortable shoes.
and learn about the man who donated the land for this

Bamboo Telegraph January/February 2017                                               WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG                 21
You can also read