THE
www.eurasians.org JANUARY 2009 A Caring Community in Tough Times
WHAT’S INSIDE
Volunteers in Action: Packing Hampers for FSS
Interviews with Volunteers Christina, Monica and Sylvia
Focus on Youth: Launching the Young Leaders Network
Pre-teen Footballers excel along with Dragon Boat racers
Our caring volunteers Christina and Monica
THE MINISTER COMMUNITY BONDING ADVISORY PANEL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Representing the Eurasians in Cabinet Terence Shepherdson Mr. George Yeo Caroline de Guzman President Lionel de Souza Edward D’Silva Patron Vincent Schoon Herman R. Hochstadt Carol Pereira Vice President Dr. Barry P. Pereira Trustees LEGAL ADVISORY PANEL Oscar Oliveiro William Jansen Hon Secretary Barry Desker Michael Palmer Harry B. Pereira Timothy de Souza Martin Marini Joseph F. Conceicao Hon Treasurer FINANCE ADVISORY PANEL Zafran Coelho AUDIT COMMITTEE Colin Meyer (resigned on 21 December 2008) Po’ad Mattar Jean Pereira Lynn Desker Kevin Scully Burton Westerhout (co-opted with effect from 1 January 2009) Chad Olsen Daryl Pereira CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS Hon Asst Secretary ADVISORY PANEL Christine Clunies-Ross FUND RAISING COMMITTEE Warren Fernandez Francis Remedios Dawn Westerhout Committee Members Gerard Peacock Angelina Fernandez Khoo Yvonne Marie Pereira Dr. Ralph Stanley Geoffrey Da Silva Humphrey De Conceicao Carla J. Barker What’s Inside Christian Eber 03 AT THE HELM 12 MISCELLANY EA SECRETARIAT Navigating The Job Market President’s Message Director Operations Lester Low 04 ASSOCIATION NEWS 13 COMMUNITY GST Offset Package 2008 FSS Christmas Party Senior Operations Executive Chase Lim Boon Seng “Ray of Hope” Jingkli Nona Gets New Upbeat Tempo Thrift Shop & Movie Screening at ECH Chingay Parade 2009 Team Secretary IPC Status Six Eurasian Students Receive Buddhist Cecilia Sim Corrections Lodge Bursary Awards Regular Happenings Donation of Clothes and Household Items Education/Heritage Executive Bring Christmas Cheer Therese Thompson
06 FOCUS ON VOLUNTEERS Corporate Communications Executive Interviews with Monica, Christina and Sylvia 15 RECENT EVENTS Moira Ong Volunteers in Action: Packing Hampers for FSS EA/SRC Combined Games 2008 Women’s Wing Sunday Brunch FSS Executives J. Ramakrishnan 08 ACHIEVERS Celebrates Oktoberfest cum Halloween Florence Adriano Life in the Foreign Service Sunday Lunch Celebrates “Grease” Movie Theme EA Soccer School Wins Big at APSSO 2008 Events/Facility Executive Quest for Rowing Glory Ageing Safely and Artfully are Talk Topics Sugiman Rahmat Eurasian 1st Runner-up in Executive Look Family Christmas Carnival Silver Circle’s Christmas Dinner and Dance Volunteer/Membership Executive Tengku Alawiyah (Alia) 10 FOCUS ON YOUTH SRC Joins EA in Celebrating Christmas New Year’s Eve Tradition Lives On MYLN Inaugural Network Night Truly Takes Off Front Desk Assistant/Security Networking at Wine Party Le Réseau Walter Pinto The Twohill Siblings Get NUS Student Awards Just For YOUth EDITORIAL TEAM Edward D’Silva (Advisor) CONTRIBUTORS: Christian Eber (Chairman) Christine Clunies-Ross Articles in this issue are contributed by Yvonne Pereira, Martha Shepherdson, Zaf Coelho, Zaf Coelho Humphrey de Conceicao, Harry Pereira, Christopher Gordon, Christine Clunies-Ross, Martin Gabriel, Lester Low Therese Thompson, Moira Ong and K.C. Yuen Therese Thompson Moira Ong K.C. Yuen
The Eurasian Association, Singapore (Established July 1919) 139 Ceylon Road, Singapore 429744 Tel: 6447 1578 Fax: 6447 3189 Email: [email protected] MICA (P) 241/07/2008 AT THE HELM
President’s Message
“You know, there’s something about us Eurasians. While many have done well in various activities — in sports, the professions and the arts scene — it’s not unusual that some of us have encountered difficulties in life’s journey, and along the way, may need assistance. That’s where we keep a look out for one another, and as an association, we want to play our part.”
Dear Friends, So in this issue we have a few articles pages of this issue of The New Eurasian. about some Eurasian volunteers, helping Coming back to Education, we do have In the last issue of The New Eurasian, others quietly, in their own way, and if some late bloomers in primary and we emphasised Better Education and not for the “kay-poh-ness” in some of us, secondary schools who need tuition highlighted the achievements of our their stories will never be told. We salute givers to help them in some subjects. Do young people. In this issue we’d like to them. We hold them up as role models. come forward, if you are able to give a few talk about building a Caring Community, We are looking for more such volunteers hours to our youngsters. as we enter a new year fraught with grave or befrienders, to deliver food and other uncertainties. These are the twin pillars essentials, visit the shut-ins, extend a The message here is that, in these difficult that the Eurasian Association would like helping hand to the less fortunate. times, we now need more volunteers to to focus on as we start our 90th year as a come forward. So if you have some spare unique organisation founded in 1919. These volunteers do it because they time, please do contact us, especially care. And the reward, they tell us, is that our FSS staff: Florence, Ram or Alia. Eight months ago, when I assumed the wonderful warm feeling one gets after Volunteers are also needed in the other presidency of the EA, the world looked doing something good. It’s that feel-good Units: Women’s Wing, Silver Circle and quite normal. But we ended 2008 with factor and it’s priceless. We at EA have a the Performing Arts Chapter. There are unprecedented problems of a global unit that does just that, week in week out, some wonderful people working tirelessly economic downturn. Tough times are ahead. and if you have that desire to join us, do in the various committees now. Together We in Singapore are a resilient society, a contact our Family Support Services (FSS) with our small staff team, we can make multi-racial mix of many races. We in the or simply give a call to Florence or Ram the Eurasian Association a vibrant Eurasian community are the inheritors of a at 6447 1578 or email us at members@ organisation. We need YOU! cultural mix that’s quite unique, of east and eurasians.org. west, of Europe and Asia. This leads me to something close to our We have lots of other activities too, besides hearts and coming up sooner than you You know, there’s something about FSS and Educational Services (contact think! It’s our 90th anniversary celebrations us Eurasians. While many have done person is Therese): the Women’s Wing, in June/July this year. In the next issue of well in various activities – in sports, the Silver Circle and Performing Arts Chapter. The New Eurasian that comes out in April, professions and the arts scene -- it’s not And now there’s a new group, the Young we will have lots of details to share with unusual that some of us have encountered Professional Adults, forming the Mentoring you, including our Gala Extravaganza at difficulties in life’s journey, and along the Young Leaders Network (contact Sybil the Esplanade and a related major fund- way, may need assistance. That’s where Rocha, the Group’s chairperson, or Zaf raising event. So keep a look out. Until we keep a look out for one another, and as Coelho). You can find more details in the then, here’s wishing all our members the an association, we want to play our part. best in the New Year.
See you around more often in the Eurasian Community House.
Edward D’Silva President, The Eurasian Association 2 January 2009 04 ASSOCIATION NEWS
GST Offset “Ray of Hope” IPC Status The Education Committee of the Eurasian Package 2008 Association would be presenting vouchers, The Eurasian Association, having funded under the auspices of the Opportunity been awarded the IPC status and being a Community Self-Help Group In an attempt to refine a number of Fund provided by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports. working for the public benefit, has safety nets for the elderly and the needy given emphasis on transparency in our community, the Government Under the Progress Package [Budget 2006] and good governance. The last has set aside a programme called the issue (October) of The New Eurasian ‘GST Offset Package’. This is given the Government allocated $2m for Self- Help Groups to set up Opportunity Funds. announced the formation of three out through the Association to assist Committees i.e, Mandatory Audit families who may need additional The $2m will be disbursed as matching grants to the SHGs. Committee, Finance Advisory Panel support to meet the rising cost of living. and our Corporate Communications The EA is matching this package dollar- Advisory Panel. for-dollar. Project “Ray of Hope” aims to help defray the cost of education through the purchase This issue, we are proud to announce On 23 November, the Family Support of study guides, assessment books, stationery and shoes to families in need of that another two committees have Services hosted a luncheon for 150 been formed. They are Fund-Raising Clients and their immediate family assistance. Popular and Bata vouchers would be distributed to about 100 children Committee and Community Bonding members. The Women’s Wing and Advisory Panel. Performing Arts Chapter provided the in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary level who entertainment, joined by the Clients’ are currently listed in our database under children. Family Support Services and Education.
As part of our Christmas activities The event will take place on Saturday, 17 under the FSS, we felt it was a good January 2009 at 2.00pm at the Eurasian time to make the first disbursement Community House. Corrections of this GST Offset Package to those who are looked after under our FSS, The Eurasian Association would as well as families whose school-going like to congratulate Mr Geoffrey children and teenagers come under Chingay Parade Martin Especkerman for being our Education and Training Assistance awarded the Long Service Medal programmes. at the National Day Awards 2008. 2009 We apologise for this omission A total of 350 Clients benefitted from this in the October 2008 issue. Keep a look out for this year’s big parade package. In early December, members during Chingay in late January at City Hall. of the Management Committee and In another story on the Inter-Racial According to very reliable sources, the volunteers joined the ration delivery Inter-Religious Harmony Nite 2008, Eurasian Community will be represented team to personally deliver individual the Kristang Community Cultural by EA’s Performing Arts Chapter with its hampers to 130 households. Many Dance Troupe was from the Siglap own float and some 70 dancers performing acknowledged and expressed their South CC, and not South East CDC to choreography by Sylvia McCully. The gratitude through their Christmas cards as reported. costumes are designed by Debra D’Cotta to the Association. and music provided by Iskandar Ismail.
Regular Happenings
ACTIVITIES AT THE EURASIAN COMMUNITY HOUSE DATE TIME
Body Toning Classes Every Tue 8.00 – 9.00pm
Pilates Every Thur 8.00 - 9.00pm
Guitar and Drum Classes (Dixie Ferdinands) Weekly Evenings
European Swordsmanship Every Wed/Sun 7.00 - 9.00pm
Tuition Classes (Primary & Secondary) Every Sat 3.00 - 5.00pm
Eurasian Dance (Performing Arts Chapter) Every Sat 11.00am – 4.00pm EA Soccer School/Training (6-12 years old) Every Sun 4.00 - 6.00pm at Tampines Secondary School, Bedok North Road ASSOCIATION NEWS 05
About the Eurasian Community Fund
On 22 March 1995, then President of Specifically, it aims to give Eurasian employees, their contribution is deducted the Eurasian Association LTC Timothy students a better future by boosting their from their monthly salary and credited to de Souza made a strong appeal to the academic performance and improve the the Eurasian Community Fund through community, exhorting them to make quality of life of the community’s under- the CPF Board, while the self-employed regular monthly donations to the Eurasian privileged. To do so, it channels financial may make their contribution through Community Fund. In this hallmark letter aid towards subsidized tuition classes, GIRO. All donations are tax-deductable co-signed by former Minister E.W. Barker, educational programmes and bursaries and matched by the Government on a then EA Patron, he outlined the necessity for students as well as employment and dollar-to-dollar basis. Finally, LTC de of the ECF, which would benefit all needy welfare assistance. Souza expresses his confidence in fellow Eurasians. Eurasians to raise at least $350,000 LTC de Souza closed with an appeal to all annually for those in need and make a The letter states that the ECF’s main goal Eurasians to play their part by a monthly difference to the community. is to “uplift” the Eurasian community. contribution through CPF or GIRO. For 06 FOCUS ON VOLUNTEERS
Interview with Christina Francis, Volunteer with FSS
Volunteering has been a part of Christina What spurs Christina on is her belief in the Francis’s life from a young age. As her work she does and the clients, to whom husband’s family is also passionate about she has become emotionally attached. charity work, this has been something of a When she first started visiting families, family tradition after her marriage. In fact, many of them are in dire financial straits. when we called her for this interview, she However, Christina always goes the extra was taking a break from baking mince mile for those under her wing. Rather than pies for the Mission of Seafarers, an simply “dumping the rations and going organisation that helps stranded sailors. off” she makes it a point to sit down and talk with the families. Often, she even Like the way many good things happen, writes letters for them and helps them to Christina first signed up as a volunteer find the right channels to seek help for purely by chance. She had come to their problems. As she continues to spend the Eurasian Association for lunch more time with the families, she has the one afternoon, glimpsed a volunteer joy of seeing them pick themselves up, the recruitment booth and out of curiosity, breadwinners find jobs and the children went to see what it was all about. Since start going to school. Volunteering does that day four years or so ago, she had yield results, says Christina, and it is these been a committed volunteer of the Family that give her a sense of satisfaction and Service Centre. Once a month, she the motivation to carry on. delivers rations to families under the FSS by Moira Ong as well as serves as a Befriender to lonely senior clients. Christina Francis, Volunteer with FSS Interview with Monica Leicester-Wong, Volunteer with Women’s Wing
Five years on, changes have taken place, every one of us to come for the meetings.” with the Women’s Circle now renamed Monica has also enjoyed getting in touch the Women’s Wing and Christine Clunies- with the Eurasian culture and history. On a Ross the current chairperson. However, deeper note, when helping out at bursary Monica remains a stalwart volunteer. In awards ceremonies, she is moved when her opinion, the changes that have taken she sees Eurasian students of different place over the years are largely positive. levels being given opportunities to further For one, the community has become their studies and expand their horizons. younger, more vibrant and more open- Delivering rations for FSS has made her minded. She also likes the fact that it has realise that there are many needy families become more inclusive in its attitude, in Singapore, something she was not aware choosing to welcome with open arms of before. Thus, she says volunteering has Singaporeans of other races to its events allowed her to keep in touch with herself and activities. and the real world”.
While Monica’s years of volunteering have For those who are thinking of volunteering, yielded many priceless memories, one Monica says “volunteering is addictive”. experience that stands out in her mind However, she advises them to look within is the time she was a paddler for the EA to seek their motivation for volunteering. Monica Leicester-Wong, Dragons the first time the team took part She hopes that people will come forward Volunteer with Women’s Wing and FSS in the Singapore River Regatta. That, she to volunteer not for the sake of personal says, was memorable because “all of us benefit, but to serve society. She also When Monica Leicester–Wong first thought we were ahead, but in the end hopes that more youth will take on joined the Eurasian Association as a we came in last!” However she sees the active roles in the EA, thus bringing new volunteer, she laughs that she was “lured” race as an unexpected opportunity to try perspectives and ideas to the mix. Her wish by an invitation to tea and the magic word something different that she would not for the community is to have a showcase “sugee cake”. After that initial encounter have otherwise have experienced. of Eurasian culture in the city area, where she decided it would be good to do many tourists from different countries something for her own community. She Monica has indeed gained much from pass through. She feels this would be a signed up with the then Women’s Circle, volunteering with the Eurasian Association. wonderful opportunity to provide people headed by Michelle Soliano, and the She relishes the camaraderie she has with of other nationalities with a window upon Family Support Services, taking on duties the Women’s Wing committee, which our unique heritage and way of life. such as organising lunches, Bingo and the she describes as a “good team” in which New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance as well everyone gets along well with one another. Thanks for your insights, Monica! We hope that as giving out rations to the needy. This, she says, is “what draws each and these and all your other wishes come true. FOCUS ON VOLUNTEERS 07
Interview with Sylvia McCully, Volunteer with PAC
garnered many awards for her contributions Raffles City steps down Connaught Drive, to the performing arts industry. In addition, there was the necessity of choreographing for many years she has been the choir the performance such that the audience choreographer for the National Day Parade, who lined both sides of the road had a good including the extravaganza that marked the full-frontal view of the dancers. Also, the turn of the millenium. vagaries of the weather had to be contended with. For instance, one evening before a dry Although McCully’s picture and ballet shoes run, there was a sudden downpour. As the enjoy a prominent place in the Eurasian rain stopped at about 7pm, the dancers Showcase, and former President Bryan went on with their rehearsal in the mud and Davenport had previously suggested that slush, thus getting their shoes soaked! she conduct ballet classes at the Eurasian Association, she never had the opportunity to Ms McCully has been gratified at the come down to the new premises due to her excitement of the younger children at busy schedule. However, this year Performing participating in the Chingay Parade. Arts Chapter Chairman Humphrey de Additionally, during a dress rehearsal, Conceicao asked her to be the choreographer she was praised by the Artistic Director of Sylvia McCully, Volunteer with PAC for the Eurasian Association contingent for Chingay 2009 that the contingent was “by Chingay 2009. She took up the offer. far the most prepared”. Ms McCully says modestly that at the actual event, there will The name of Sylvia McCully is no doubt Choreographing the dance steps of the be other contingents, such as the Brazilians, familiar not only to those in the dance scene, contingent, which comprised dancers who would have more experience in such but to many a Singaporean and foreigner from the Eurasian Association, the Sylvia parades. However, with Ms McCully at the alike. An internationally renowned ballerina McCully School of Dancing and Cedar Girls’ helm, we are sure that the EA contingent will as well as the owner of the eponymous School provided challenges aplenty. For be able to hold its own! Sylvia McCully School of dancing, she has one, as the parade’s route moved from the
Volunteers in Action: Packing Hampers for FSS
Support Services. The ladies, mainly from the Women’s Wing, promptly got down to work. In assembly-line fashion, they set to lining the baskets before painstakingly arranging the goodies in them.
Each hamper included a bottle of sparkling juice, a tin of Danish butter cookies, a fruit cake, biscuits, a tin of sardines or tuna flakes, Tim-Tams, a packet of crisps, chocolates and a face towel. After that, the ladies wrapped the assortments in transparent wrapping paper and topped them with a tinsel bow for a pretty festive look.
A dedicated group of volunteers set off on 10 December 2008 to deliver the hampers to the FSS clients. The recipients were surprised and deeply touched by the gesture, especially as they had already received the GST off-set packages and the Well Wishes. Christmas Volunteers busily packing hampers for FSS Clients had certainly arrived early that year! Special mention goes to Mrs Joan Pereira, Ms Zoe Lazaroo, Mrs Pamela Menon, Ms Lucille On the morning of 4 December 2008, 14 Marcus, Miss Rose Marie Thompson, volunteers trooped into the multi-purpose Mrs Margaret Pennefather, Ms Philomena hall at the Eurasian Association where a Nonis, Mrs Christina Francis, Mrs Stephanie line of trestle tables stood along one wall. Holland, Mrs Lanette de Conceicao, Ms A variety of goodies were laid out, ready Lorraine Bligh, Mrs Monica Wong, Mr Harry to be packed into hampers that would go Pereira and Mrs Christine Clunies-Ross for to families under the care of the Family Tada! The finished hamper their time, dedication and support. 08 ACHIEVERS
Life in the Foreign Service
exactly one month after I joined the Ministry ASEAN Secretary-General and now of Foreign Affairs (MFA). I was assigned the Ambassador-at-Large Ambassador Ong role of staff officer for our Non-Resident Keng Yong. The trip to these two countries Ambassador to Kazakhstan Mr Sim Cheok was truly an amazing experience as Lim as he visited Kazakhstan to attend the these are perhaps two of the most scenic 10th anniversary of the founding of Astana countries in Central Asia with Tajikistan as the capital of Kazakhstan. located among the Pamir Mountains and the Kyrgyz Republic among the Tien Shan While most people view Kazakhstan mountains. It also gave me the opportunity through the eyes of the comedy character to learn about the histories and cultures of ‘Borat’, I had the opportunity to see for these two very unique countries. myself first-hand the situation in the Christopher Gordon (right) at a Kazakh market stall country. Kazakhstan is indeed different Finally, in October, I once again staffed our from the picture painted by Borat. A rapidly Non-Resident Ambassador to Uzbekistan modernising country due to its vast natural Mr Sim Cheok Lim on a representational It has been an exciting but hectic five resources, Kazakhstan is one of the most visit. Being one of the countries located months since I started my career in the advanced of the former Soviet Republics of along the Silk Route, Uzbekistan is steeped Singapore Foreign Service. Having been Central Asia. In a short span of ten years, in centuries of history and culture. assigned the role of Desk Officer on the its capital Astana has grown from a small Central Asian and North African Desk, provincial capital in the wilderness of the Even though my five months in MFA has my main role was to manage Singapore’s vast Kazakh steppe to a modern city with whizzed by like the wind, I can say that I relations with the Central Asian and North futuristic buildings popping up on every have thoroughly enjoyed my time in MFA African countries. street corner, a true testament to the hard having travelled to four of the five ‘stans’ work and vision of the Kazakh people. (Turkmenistan being the only Central Asian Part of the job of a Desk Officer in the country I have yet to visit). I hope that my Ministry is to accompany Singapore’s Two weeks after the trip to Kazakhstan, I career in the Foreign Service will continue to senior leaders and officials during their trips had another opportunity to staff a trip to remain dynamic and I look forward to more to overseas. I had the opportunity to make Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic. This exciting years ahead in the Foreign Service. my first trip to Kazakhstan in July 2008, time, it was for a study visit for the former by Christopher Gordon
EA Soccer School Wins Big at APSSO 2008
Many participating students become hard work put in by our boys and their champions at national, ASEAN, Asian and respective coaches during training, most even world levels. of them have been selected to represent their school teams. For those who have The 2nd APPSO was held from 3 to 8 not been selected, their soccer skills have November 2008 at Bungkarno Stadium certainly seen improvement. and Sahid Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia. Participating countries were Indonesia, The EA Soccer School welcomes anyone Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, who wants to join our practice sessions. Vietnam, Laos, the Philippines and Brunei. Training takes place every Sunday from 4pm to 6pm at Tampines Secondary Singapore sent a soccer team to compete School, 3 Bedok South Road. Our coaches in the event. While 250 players came for are Sebastian Yap, Alphonsus Arriolla and trials, only ten players were selected to Abdur Raheem. Please contact Harry represent Singapore. Two players from Pereira at 96382733 or Kevin Santa Maria the Eurasian Association Soccer School, at 98171743 for more details. Joshua and Gareth, Joshua Bernard Pereira (Midfielder) and top players from the EA Soccer School Gareth Low (Defender) were part of the Singapore contingent sent to compete in Jakarta. Both boys play for the St APSSO (ASEAN Primary School Sport Stephen’s Primary School soccer team, Olympiad) is a competitive sports event which emerged victorious at the recent for primary school students held at Junior National Soccer Tournament. In ASEAN level. The aim of the programme addition, Joshua was the tournament’s is to encourage participation in sports top scorer. at an early age as well as to instill the qualities of intelligence, physical prowess, Congratulations to the boys and coaches sportsmanship, friendship and respect for at the EA Soccer School! Thanks to the one another in the younger generation. Singapore contingent off to APSSO ACHIEVERS 09
Quest For Rowing Glory Eurasian 1st Singapore River Regatta Dragon Boat Race 2008 Runner-up in Executive Look
Jubilation over record time achieved
For the third year running, EA took part in The Singapore River reverberated with It didn’t come as a big surprise, not to the Singapore River Regatta Dragon Boat the constant mention of the Eurasian me anyway, if you know Christian Eber, Race and astounded the crowds with a Association’s Dragon Boat team as the the guy with the drop-dead good looks. stunning performance and a very enviable commentator focused on the leading two He was one of the top three winners race timing. This year’s team consisted of teams fighting for the first place. Shaun- in the tabloid “my paper” Executive some new faces as well as veteran rowers Paul Lopez drummed an aggressive pace Look contest last year. Friends and - competing in the People’s Association that set the rhythm for the determined acquaintances were kept in the dark, Corporate Members’ Open Category. crew while the remainder of the team, and his win came to light only on 6 friends and family members cheered from January when the bilingual newspaper The 10-man crew was lead by the charismatic the banks of the Singapore River. ran a story to promote their second pair of Clifford Le Caine and Bianca Hoeden annual contest to find the young “male and included veteran rowers like Calvin With only 50 metres to the finish line, or female who best represents the Palyama, Geoff Morris and Shaun-Paul the EA Dragons roared their charge and modern Singapore working executive.” Lopez. They were joined by a host of fresh surged forward, attempting to overtake faces such as Eddie, Paul Tan, Eugene the Singapore Canoe Federation. Their A member of our EA’s Management Huang, Nigel Whitaker, Angie Tan and Julian efforts saw them neck to neck in a grueling Committee for 2008/10, the affable J Matius. Together they blasted their way fight to the finish, only to place 2nd – mere 30-year-old was runner-up in the past the finish line with a record timing of 1 centimetres from the lead. newspaper’s first contest and walked min 47 secs. away with a $5,000 prize. But the The EA Dragons will continue training and best part probably was the career It was a memorable and emotional moment have set their sights on more local and advancement that came later. Last week for the team as they geared up and warmed regional races in the coming year. The team he was promoted from an executive up for the race. The laughs and jokes will also continue its recruitment drive for in a Japanese pharmaceutical firm to turned to professionalism as the rowers fresh faces and strives to realize its goal of assistant sales manager. were briefed on the strategy they would sending more boats for up-coming races. adopt. Once the command was given, all Any interested Dragonboat enthusiasts are Well done, Christian! Maybe you could the efforts and months of intense training welcome to join the team in their training coach other aspirants in the coming came into play. The EA Dragons roared sessions or in the upcoming fun rows. Email contest and keep the Eurasian flag flying. forward and gained a commanding lead [email protected] for further details. over the rest of the teams while striving by K.C. Yuen to chase the lead boat, crewed by the Singapore Canoe Federation. 10 FOCUS ON YOUTH
MYLN Inaugural Network Night Truly Takes Off
Fifteen youths, both students and young professionals, were gathered together at the Platinum Lounge for the EA Mentoring Young Leaders’ Network’s (MYLN) inaugural Network Night on 20 September 2008.
During the fun-filled evening, they were introduced to the MYLN and mingled over delicious light refreshments, in the process learning about the objectives as well as the activities that will be in store for them in the coming months.
“I am excited and hopeful for the MYLN. Guests at Network Night Meeting other Eurasians in such a context is definitely challenging my perspective on my identity as a Singaporean Eurasian, but it’s great. It is a step I know will only give my work as an aspiring theatre practitioner more depth and I want to take this step,” said Jamie Lewis, 22, a theatre arts student at LaSalle College of the Arts.
The MYLN, officially launched at the ECF awards on 6 September, is an avenue in which young Eurasian professionals from a variety of backgrounds can provide guidance to Eurasian students while in the Breakout activity to discuss future events process networking with each other. Networking at Wine Party Le Réseau The Mentoring Young Leaders Network held an exclusive Christmas wine party, Le Réseau (The Network in French) on 20 December 2008 at the Platinum Lounge. This event was catered specially for the young adults and professionals of the community. It was a sparkling evening of networking, wine, jazz and games. Young adults and professionals at the Wine Party The evening kicked off with a welcoming address from the EA President, Mr. Edward D’Silva followed by a special Eurasian museum tour conducted by Dr. Barry Pereira. Guests listened in awe as stories and anecdotes of early Eurasians were shared. Guests then mingled and played games over wine and light refreshments for the rest of the evening.
The next MYLN event will be the Chillout @ Starbucks in February 2009. If you would like to be kept abreast with our activities, do drop us an email at [email protected] or join our Facebook group – “Eurasian Association Mentoring Young Leaders Network.” Networking among the guests FOCUS ON YOUTH 11
The Twohill Siblings Get NUS Student Awards
every year to underprivileged children while Programme at NUS and am involved with my brothers and I usually played the elves. the National Civil Defence Cadet Corp’s I guess from a very young age, my parents Leadership Development Committee. I instilled in us the power of our actions enjoy going out to meet people and wish towards others and how simple gestures there was 48 hours in a day. Like my sister, can - as cliché as it sounds affect another I followed my parents to Rotary events person’s life positively. My parents are my although not as much. My parents are an motivation, we are not rich in any way, yet inspiration to me. My dad I believe gave me my parents give as much as they can to my work ethics and my mum taught me how others. I found my passion to serve from my to be level-headed. My sister and brother parents and will continue to do so possibly are also sources of lessons for me. Natalya as a career through working with NGOs or encouraged me to get out and do things IOs. My drive to continue serving comes outside school, working with NGOs and my from knowing that every simple action I brother is one that just does his thing, not do can help someone positively and that I worrying about what people say about him. have seen with my own eyes the state of the He is prepared to defend what he believes world we live in and simply cannot act like in. Their actions were timely reminders for it doesn’t exist - because I know I can help me at different points in time. Edmund and Natalya Twohill and that I can get others to help too. What is the award all about? At the recent National University of Edmund Twohill (ET): I am someone who is NT & ET: The awards for outstanding Singapore (NUS) Student Achievement always on the move and looking for new achievements are given out annually to Awards 2008, siblings Edmund and Natalya challenges, especially if it is leadership recognise exceptional individual students or Twohill clinched individual awards for related. Currently I am in the Army as a student groups who have made noteworthy Distinguished Leadership and Community Guards Officer in 1st Battalion Singapore contributions to activities outside the Service respectively. The New Eurasian Guards working with the anti-armour system academic curriculum/academic programme team met up with the dynamic siblings to and Lightstrike Vehicle. Apart from Army, I and who have brought honour to the find out more about them. try to find time to work on United Nations University. Youth Association (UNYA) with my sister Tell us more about yourself and what as well as other organizations which I was What are your plans for 2009? drives you? involved in the past such as the Halogen NT: School! Ha Ha Ha! Will also be aiming to Natalya Twohill (NT): My passion and drive Foundation, Young Changemakers Panel expand UNYA further and will be spending has always been to help and serve others. I and National Youth Forum. I am also working my summer break in Mexico working for a started when I was really young, my dad is a with two friends to conduct a Leadership local NGO. member of Rotary and played Santa Claus Programme for the University Scholars ET: Army work. Might be posting out of my current unit soon and getting ready for my next posting, likely to be Officer Cadet Just For YOUth School as an instructor. Help Nat develop UNYA, develop current projects and look for This section is dedicated specially for our in Singapore. So you can create an art new projects to do. Eurasian youth as we would like to listen scene by putting artwork in certain to your views pertaining to our society parts of Singapore, but I’ve got another Any message or advice for the youth? and community. idea which may sound a bit crazy. I NT: Cliché as it sounds, use your time in would like to see acts or performances school to find what truly makes you happy We will be featuring YOUR views on topics in places like MRT or bus, you know, and go for it. The happiest people in this of current interest; so to start the ball just a sudden surprise act. I wish there world are the ones who do what they love rolling, we begin with the arts scene. We was this type of performances. Hmmm, everyday. I found my passion in development asked several young Eurasians: not like street performances, but more work and doing it everyday is what makes like a skit or mime act. me happiest. When you’re happy everything What do you think can be done to create Jason Rodrigues, Student else falls into place. a more vibrant arts scene in Singapore? More art portraits hanging around the ET: You are now at the stage of your life where If there were more spaces for drama streets? one can afford to make mistakes. Dare to groups or dance groups to perform, Cassandra Fenella Joseph, Student dream and make the best out of everything galleries for painters and photographers to and disappointments in life are only meant to exhibit their work and local bands to hold Have something interesting to say? make us stronger. “What does not kill us will gigs/performances, record and mix their Want to get your word out on the only make us stronger”. “The Body Cannot music, all at cheaper or subsidized rates, street? Then get involved! Send in Do what the Mind Cannot Imagine” I am sure there will be an improvement in any interesting commentaries or Singapore’s arts scene. stories to us at [email protected] Congratulations once again Ed and Nat and Andrew Pang, Relief Teacher for publication in our Just for YOUth we wish you all the best, Make us proud! segment. by Zaf Coelho Recently I saw this Singapore local art by Zaf Coelho icon (the cow, moo) and a few art pieces 12 MISCELLANY
Navigating the Job Market
The landscape of job hunting is ever that your characteristics correspond with Times report in November last year, the changing, an evolution that changes the job before applying, and that you have service industry was the best performing in complexion with the advent of new the skills (or upgrade yourself to acquire industry, which added over 36,200 jobs for technologies, especially in the last decade skills if needed). its third quarter report. where computers had a big say, as to how businesses were run. Accepting any job just because it pays Given the current outlook, the service and well or there is an abundance of it can be related industries look like a better option Navigating the job market and securing a detrimental if one is not able to resonate for job seekers. As a HR professional, I job will mean having the required skills to with its values and objectives. For urge job seekers to identify jobs that their stay relevant to the needs of businesses. example, a Catholic doctor would find it characteristics are in sync with and to How does one ensure that he or she has very difficult to perform an abortion, as his upgrade their skills to suit the industry that landed the right job? Are there enough of values and upbringing would contradict the is expected to grow. jobs around that one can fit into, not just objective of an abortion, given his religious by Martin Gabriel securing it, but performing well enough to beliefs were strongly entrenched in him. ensure he keeps his job. He would therefore not be able to perform that task with conviction… so it is best that Do not just apply for a position just because he be a doctor that does other duties and it’s ‘popular’ and pays well. Do some soul not abortion. searching and ask yourself, do you fit into the job requirements? To make matters Anticipating which industry is poised to simple, I would dissect the requirement of grow would be a big plus when jobseekers a job into 2 segments, nature and nurture. decide to upgrade their skills. In Singapore, The natural characteristics of a person electronics and electrical manufacturing and/or his conditioning into adulthood, in may see a decline as emerging markets like a way can determine the type of job he can China and India can offer cheaper skilled comfortably fit in. For example, being in the workforce that would entice Multi National service industry requires one to be patient, Corporations to move their operations people oriented and a sense of fulfilment there. In addition, these manufacturing when you see others pleased with the firms are export driven, which has lost service you rendered. In short, the natural its momentum due to the global financial characteristic of a person who happens meltdown. Pharmaceutical, bioscience Martin Gabriel is the Chairman and Senior HR to be patient helps him fit into a job where and the service industries are expected to Consultant of HRmatters21, an online HR forum patience is the very crux towards high grow (albeit at a slower pace) as Singapore that boasts over 3,000 corporate members from Singapore and Malaysia. Martin is HR advisor to performance. I believe nature has a big say targets the growing tourism market. The numerous companies pertaining to HR issues. He here. Nurture, would be the training and up and coming integrated resorts would is also a corporate trainer that has trained more skills he needs to help him execute the job require a large pool of personnel to fill up than 1,000 personnel in the last 3 years. Contact better. This would be the technical aspect its service, security, gaming and other him at [email protected] or visit his website of the job requirement. Therefore ensure support vacancies. According to a Straits at: www.hrmatters21.net
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I have modified engines for performances at the Johor For maximum reach to a special Racing Circuit many times, winning 1st to 5th placings in past years. readership of over 7,000 households in Singapore. I run a one-stop complete motor-car service at the Esso Service Station, 553 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore Attractive rates start from only 574416, near Lower Pierce Reservoir. S$300 for a quarter page or Services include: Sales of new and used cars, Scrap S$600 for a half page. A 10% vehicles and exports, Insurance claims & third party, Service and repair of cars of all makes, Spray painting discount to first 10 EA members and panel beating, tyres and wheel alignment. booking before 1 March 2009! Please call to make an appointment for personal service, from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm daily except Sunday. For more information, please contact Ms Moira Ong at 6447 1578 or email [email protected]. COMMUNITY 13
FSS Christmas Party
After that Jingkli Pop Group danced the Jingkli Nona. The spirited movements, catchy beat and vivid red-and-black costumes of the dancers earned an explosive round of applause. Singing acts by Daily Fix, Jeffrey Rozario, and the Jensen’s Brothers followed, with songs running the gamut from classic easy-listening favourites to Christmas songs with a unique spin. There was also a special performance by the ladies of Women’s Wing, who were gamely dressed Volunteers and SC clients Children with Santa Claus in Santarina outfits. Guest performer Jude Paul wrapped up the festivities. Every year, Family Support Services (FSS) From 11.30am onwards the guests, mainly His renditions of upbeat songs such hosts a party for our clients to promote FSS senior clients, started streaming as ‘Save the Last Dance for Me’, ‘La social interaction, allow them to tour the in. They listened to a welcome address Bamba’ and ‘Sway’ brought many of the Eurasian Community House and to spread by Dr. Barry Pereira who also took the guests spontaneously to their feet on the the Christmas spirit among them. opportunity to inform them of plans for impromptu dance floor. the coming months as well as additional The theme of this year’s celebration, held programmes or packages they could Special guests Mr Gerry De Silva and his on Sunday 23 November 2008, was ‘It’s apply for through FSS. wife Cheryl graciously gave out prizes for Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas’. To the Lucky Draw. Other highlights included this end, the lobby and multi-purpose hall Lunch was served thereafter. Guests tucked the appearance of Santa Claus, who were festooned with seasonal colours and into a traditional Christmas lunch of turkey handed out presents to all the children, decorations to create a lively and festive roll with cranberry sauce and chicken curry and even posed for photographs with mood. A thrift shop was also set up in devil, with sugee cake for dessert. some of them, much to their delight. At the the Platinum Lounge so that clients could end of the day, tidbits were given out to all purchase good-quality clothes and shoes A performance by singers Robyn and the guests, ensuring that no one left the in time for Christmas at nominal prices. Andrew opened the day’s entertainment. celebrations empty-handed.
Jingkli Nona Gets New Upbeat Tempo
various points of Sentosa, before being edited in a European studio. The project would not have been possible without the part funding by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth And Sports (MCYS) under the title “Jingkli Nona Community Cohesion Project”.
The objective of this project is to create a music/dance video using a familiar “Eurasian” folk song, given a new twist by incorporating a pop element. Using the traditional and most commonly spoken Eurasian language and heritage, the video will be used to raise the level of awareness and volunteerism among not only the Eurasians, but also all races. It should appeal to youth, to show them that heritage The Eurasian Association (EA) has and tradition can be a fun “re-mix”. successfully completed the production of a music/dance video to create greater We plan to give this song national awareness of the Eurasian community exposure and at a later date launch it on in Singapore and its involvement in the International music scene. Video CDs Community Cohesion. will be distributed after its launch, and one will also be able to catch it on the The Kristang folk song entitled Jingkli Nona Internet. So get your dance shoes on and was re-written by John Klass and given “Jingkli” with us. an upbeat tempo. This was then filmed at 14 COMMUNITY
Thrift Shop & Six Eurasian Students Receive Movie Screening Buddhist Lodge Bursary Awards
at The Eurasian Front Row from Left: Victoria Apps, Darlene Jayatilleke, Trina Minjoot, Julius Roberts, Rachel Community House Nathan, Ignatius Shepherdson
Back row from Left: Therese Thompson (Education Executive), Edmund Rodrigues (Education Sub-Committee Member)
The 30th Buddhist Lodge Bursary Eurasian students selected were : Presentation Ceremony was held • Julius D Roberts from Tampines on Saturday, 4 October 2008 at The Junior College Women’s Wing volunteers Singapore Buddhist Lodge Auditorium. • Trina G Minjoot from Victoria Junior College Mr. K Shanmugam, Minister for Law and • Mellisa Rachel Nathan from Republic Second Minister for Home Affairs, was Polytechnic the guest of honour who officiated at • Darlene D Jayatilleke from Republic the event. Polytechnic • Victoria M Apps from Ngee Ann The recipients for this award presentation Polytechnic were students of Junior Colleges, ITEs, • Ignatius M Shepherdson from Polytechnics and Universities. Nanyang Tech. University
Crowd in search of good buys Each recipient received $800 for JC, $1200 for Polytechnic and $3000 for University. The Women’s Wing committee embarked on a plan to tie in the 2nd Movie Screening at the Eurasian Community House with a Thrift Shop to cater to the community Donation of Clothes and Household and our FSS clients. This initiative took weeks of planning and on Saturday, 15 Items Bring Christmas Cheer November at 11am, the stalls were set up that were unwanted but in good condition. with a wide array of second-hand clothes, From 3 to 8 November 2008, a box was books, toys, games and lots more. This placed at the reception counter of the Eurasian was showcased on our e-blast, magazine Community House for members to drop their and Facebook. donations inside.
The attendance at the event was also The response to the donation drive was boosted by the ladies of St Hilda’s Alumni heartwarming, leaving us in no doubt as to Lunch at Quentin’s and Jeet’s Playhouse Mr. Cedric, ECF Benefactor the generosity and goodwill of our members. Graduation Ceremony in the MPH with By the end of the project, the storeroom was parents and toddlers browsing at the It all began with a letter that was sent stacked with clothing and a multitude of items stalls and enjoying the food sold by the by an ECF benefactor to EA President such as toys, bed sheets, and utensils. About ladies in the Women’s Wing. For a first Edward D’Silva in October 2008. The twelve families under the care of the Family attempt it was promising and could be writer expressed his wish to donate some Support Service benefitted from the drive. something that could be a permanent clothing and other items to senior members fixture at the Association. who could not afford new clothes for the On hearing about the initiative, Women’s Wing Christmas season. He wondered if the EA Chairperson Christine Clunies-Ross decided to The movie screened was a family comedy could organize a project whereby members set up a Thrift Shop using some of the donated ‘Benchwarmers’ that appealed to the could donate their unwanted clothing which items. This would be held in conjunction with families that attended. From the screams could then be distributed to the community’s the movie screening ‘Benchwarmers’ on 15 of laughter, the appreciative feedback for senior citizens, thus allowing them to share November 2008. This permitted FSS clients more such gatherings and the delight on in the joy of Christmas. to purchase items at a nominal price, thus the children’s faces all felt that the hard preserving their dignity and allowing them to work was indeed worthwhile. All in all it Mr. D’Silva thought this was an excellent feel a sense of pride. was indeed a good day with the Eurasian suggestion and the ball was set rolling. Community House abuzz with activity. An appeal for donations was sent out Once again, a big thank-you to the big- Kudos to the hardworking Secretariat to members through our e-newsletter, hearted members who participated in the and the committee! requesting for clothes and household items donation drive! RECENT EVENTS 15
EA/SRC Combined Games 2008
Pereira. Practices were held at Loyang Valley Condo and soon everyone was more or less in the swing of things.
The day of the tournament dawned clear and bright and after a morning of intense preparation and prayer the team gathered at SRC’s tennis courts for the start of the games. The SRC social team was good but we were not going to give up without a fight. Our captains Colin Gomes and yours truly paired off our best players Soccer teams at EA/SRC games but SRC’s team was better. The 3 games played were the mixed doubles, men’s The EA/SRC Games was discussed Harry Pereira, Mrs. Christine Clunies-Ross doubles and the singles matches. What over a dinner in July with SRC President and Mrs. Yvonne Pereira would handle each we lacked in skill and stamina we made Dr. Johnny Goh and EA President Mr. game respectively. up with showmanship. The team vowed to Edward D’Silva in attendance. The revival take the practice sessions to a higher level of the collaboration which dates back to The games were planned for Sunday, 12 the following year and would come back the 90’s and the time when Mr. Timothy October 2008 at 3pm at SRC. The tennis with an even better chance of lifting the D’Souza was the then President and the team was then quickly formed and practice trophy the next time. The day ended with a games was in full force then. The ‘Crystal sessions were planned for twice a week to buffet dinner at the club with good music Cup’ was the trophy that was given out accommodate everyone’s busy schedule. and comradeship thrown in. In the true to winners of the games. Thus this was Christine, Monica Wong, Monica Lewis, spirit of sportsmanship, the teams had a decided at that fateful meeting that the Colin Gomes, Andre Danker, Patrick toast together as well as some SRC tennis games would go on. Soccer, tennis and Yap and Michael Lewis formed the core members wanting to coach our players. It balut were the games of choice and Mr. team with reserves Zaf Coelho and Harry was indeed a good day!
Women’s Wing Sunday Brunch Celebrates Oktoberfest cum Halloween
It was a most unusual mix: The famous Bavarian beer festival for the adults and a Halloween fancy dress contest for the children! Throw in a menu of German sausages sponsored by Brazil Churascuria, and sauerkraut with mashed potatoes, Indian mutton curry, French loaf and bread pudding and you have a whale of a party on a Sunday afternoon, with live entertainment to boot.
As usual, the Community hall was filled to capacity, as guests and members started arriving around noon. Greeted by pretty frauleins dispensing endless glasses of bears were great fun, with lively bidding Erdingers, and Gary Aviet dressed in among the enthusiastic crowd pushing up German costume the adults wasted no the bids, in one instance, to beyond $100.00. time in getting the party going, after a Who says there’s an economic downturn! Or short welcome speech by chairperson is it just our generous fun-loving nature! Christine Clunies-Ross. In between the table games and two rounds The beer drinking contests for both the gents of tombola, the New Vintage band played and the ladies were keenly fought, and at the great music for listening and dancing. end, Shaun-Paul Lopez and Jenny Tan took The lucky draw prizes were always keenly the honours as the fastest guzzlers of their anticipated, with prizes donated generously Volunteers togged up in Bavarian costumes gender. The sporting children in creative by members of the community. It was a lovely Halloween costumes gamely showed their party, thanks to the ladies from the Women’s stuff and Schuyler and Rebecca walked away Wing for organizing it with such great gusto. as winners. The auctions for the cute teddy 16 RECENT EVENTS
Sunday Lunch Celebrates “Grease” Movie Theme
The last of the monthly lunches organised This month, as has been the case in the that the food and atmosphere of the by the Women’s Wing was celebrated last three years, members proved their afternoon’s activities provided an incentive on 30 November 2008 with a tribute to generosity by their abundant donations. for most to return when the next lunch rolls the ‘50’s and the movie ‘Grease’ which Since it is the season of giving we around in January. Till then, have a blessed featured a very young John Travolta and handed out table prizes, with four lucky Christmas and a peaceful 2009. Olivia Newton-John. Some guests took tables walking away with chocolates pains to dress as Danny Zuko and Sandy from Cocoa Trees as well as gifts Olson. Music of the era rocked the house donated by our committee members and with Bernard, our guest deejay, playing generous sponsors who wished to remain lots of Rock and Roll. The movie ‘Grease’ anonymous. The kindness of our guests was also screened for our guests’ culminated in a cheque donation from entertainment. another anonymous donor. This will go towards the Family Christmas Carnival. The event also provided a chance to honour the EA Dragons who took home the second Special thanks are also due to Mr. Quentin prize for the People’s Association Dragon Pereira who generously donated six dining The victorious EA Dragons Boat Race held on Sunday 23 November vouchers for his restaurant. The ‘Best- 2008. The team has certainly done us Dressed’ couple was Mr Clifford LeCaine proud as it is still very young in terms of and Miss Deborah Lim who personified training and participation. Go EA Dragons! ‘50’s dressing to perfection. It was a Dr. Barry Pereira presented the medals heartwarming afternoon with Romito to them, after which the team treated the Mendoza urging guests to perform their audience to a great ‘hand jive’ show. preferred style of dancing, be it Rock and Roll or line dancing. Many took up the Lunch, which was catered by Quentin’s, was challenge until the lights came on at 4pm. indeed a sumptuous feast of devil curry, pot roast, mutton seku and patcheree. Guests It was a relaxing and fun afternoon for all Monica Wong leading the EA Dragons went back for second and even third helpings. who came. We received positive feedback in a round of ‘hand jive’
Ageing Safely and Artfully are Talk Topics
A second talk was given by Donald Wyatt, guest speaker from TSAO Foundation, on Mr Lionel de Souza imparting tips to a captivated audience on crime prevention and road safety ‘Artful Ageing’. He highlighted the many factors that affect how we age. He also The Silver Circle organised two talks on citizens were cautioned against carrying discussed with the audience various 18 October 2008 in the Platinum Lounge. too much cash or wearing expensive myths connected with ageing. Much food They were designed for senior citizens jewellery especially when going out alone. for thought was provided as we gained and those who care for ageing parents or They were also warned to be wary of some interesting insights into the other seniors. men or women who would use various ageing process. methods to con them out of large sums Crimes against the elderly are not of money or jewellery. It was not all serious matters. Before uncommon in Singapore. These folks the talk and during the tea break Steven are targeted because they are physically Mr de Souza also raised awareness of Gomez serenaded us on his guitar with weaker and perhaps too trusting. Lionel road safety. The elderly were advised to delightful all time favourites. All in all, it de Souza, a retired police officer, and use crossings and to be alert when on the was an afternoon well-spent, learning currently a private investigator and road. NCPC provided goodie bags for all how to be safe and how to make the crime ambassador for National Crime present. One of the items in the bag was most of our lives especially during the Prevention Council (NCPC), gave a talk on an alarm which produced a high pitched golden years. crime prevention and road safety. Senior sound when activated. By Martha Shepherdson RECENT EVENTS 17
Family Christmas Carnival
Generous sponsors from Crocs, Quentin’s and others who choose to remain anonymous made the lucky draw table very attractive and most stayed right till closing to enjoy the chance to walk away with the prizes.
Entertainment for the afternoon commenced after the arrival of Mr. Chan Soo Sen, who has attended the Carnival for the third year running. Romito Mendez started the ball rolling with Christmas Carols followed by Sleeq who entertained with his sultry looks and vocals, The Kristang Cultural Troup then entertained the crowd with their rousing rendition of all time favourite at the Children’s Christmas Treat. SE-CDC, Christmas Carols with Mr. Chan joining in Siglap South CCMC, SRC and PA were as well. Gerard Danker and Rage took the our collaborative partners this year which stage after and entertained everyone with made it even more special. Mayor Matthias their usual brand of stylish repertoire which Yao was our GOH for the Children’s Party got the feet tapping and people moving. and Mr. Chan Soo Sen MP for Joo Chiat Constituency was our VIP guest for the The final act of the afternoon was a special Family Christmas Carnival. performance put up by The Women’s Wing aka the Santa Rinas... they performed The Women’s Wing planned every detail Christmas Carols with special guest Mr down to the last carefully wrapped present Chan Soo Sen, who proceeded to bring and also ensured that the ECH was the house down with his rendition of ‘O The Kristang Cultural Troupe transformed into a Christmas Wonderland Holy Night’, this got everyone joining in and to evoke the atmosphere and feeling of by the end of the evening it was hard for The planning for the annual Family the yuletide season. This year the vendors everyone to say good-bye. Special thanks to Christmas Carnival took months to come took up the stalls readily, judging from all who made this event a magical afternoon to fruition on that clear Saturday morning the previous years attendance, and we and especially to our VIP’s who made the in December. It was worrying with the wet were fortunate to have an exciting array of time to join us for the afternoon festivities. weather threatening to mar the months Christmas novelties and decorations as Michael Palmer, MP for Punggol GRC, of planning but it wasn’t meant to be, the well as jewellery, cosmetics and perfumes Madam Zuraidah from Mendaki, Dr. Johnny day finally dawned bright and clear and and lots of delicious Eurasian fare. This Goh, Mr. Richard Yong and Mayor Matthias the day’s activities was underway. Children plus wine tasting from Rev Distribution Pte Yao, we thank you from the bottom of our from the different self help groups were Ltd, the SAVH masseurs which helped the hearts. invited, SINDA, Mendaki, and CDAC as well parents to relax and unwind plus tombola by Christine Clunies-Ross as our very own FSS families, made up the and a raffle throughout the day kept all in numbers that swelled to 180 in attendance the family occupied. Silver Circle’s Christmas Dinner & Dance
‘Tis the season to be jolly’ and everyone game and the other was a game involving certainly had a jolly good time at the Silver dancing on a ‘shrinking’ newspaper. Their Circle’s Christmas Dinner and Dance on 27 efforts to stay on the paper paid off because December 2008. The Multi-Purpose Hall all participants were awarded prizes. The was decked, if not with boughs of holly, at lucky draw also saw many walk away with least with enough festive decorations to attractive prizes generously donated by create a Christmassy atmosphere. There well-wishers and members of the Silver was even an ‘attractive’ Santarina (Gary Circle. The lucky winner, Veronica Jansen, Aviet in a blonde wig) as Emcee, and won the top prize of a pearl necklace dance music provided by The Silhouettes generously donated by Mr. Dayal Khemlani (Larry Fenton and Andrew De Silva). Dinner of Sollani Jewellers. catered by Quentin Pereira was delicious as usual and included Eurasian Christmas The Christmas theme continued with a lively favourites like curry devil, shepherd’s pie, session of carolling. Everyone joined in the feng and sugee cake. singing of Christmas carols led by members of the Silver Circle. One and all certainly had There were prizes to be won in entertaining themselves ‘a merry little Christmas’. games. Participants sportingly took part by Martha Shepherdson Doing the Conga dance in two games. One was a balloon inflating 18 RECENT EVENTS
SRC Joins EA in Celebrating Christmas
They were kings for the day, with events and other on his scooter. The children’s shrieks activities planned especially for them. They of excitement almost brought the house were met at the door with goodie bags that down. Deejay Gary Aviet, gamely dressed all included treats such as Oreos, candy canes, in green as an elf, worked the crowd with his chocolate wafers and lollipops. Some also antics and charisma, while Games Master posed for photographs with Santa Claus and Natasha D’Silva engaged the children with were promptly presented with a Polaroid as quizzes and game that created a festive and a memento of the encounter. vibrant atmosphere.
Upon entry into the hall, the children ran to When Mayor Matthias Yao came on stage play on the Bouncy Castle, sample candy for the Lucky Draw, even the exuberant floss and popcorn, and have their faces children calmed down, waiting agog to painted in weird and wonderful colours. hear if their number would be the next one They watched enraptured as balloons were called. However, no one left empty-handed sculpted before their very eyes into magical as presents were handed out to all who representations of animals and flowers. A had come, ensuring a fitting end to the talk by the SPCA on caring for pets added festivities. a touch of seriousness to the day’s fun and games. And that was just the beginning! Special thanks to sponsors Crocs for generously donating the Lucky Draw Prizes Welcome speeches by EA President and for making our event extra special this Edward D’Silva and Guest-of-Honour Mayor year! A huge thank-you too to the Singapore Matthias Yao declared the event officially Recreation Club for sponsoring the open. A special yoyo performance by Christmas presents this year and for making Spinworkx demonstrated the multiplicity of this year’s event a historic one with an VIP guests lunching with EA commitee members ways the ubiquitous toy can be manipulated. inaugural collaboration with them. The turn- Carols performed by the EA Children’s out was tremendous this year with almost The EA/SRC Children’s Christmas Treat, Choir put everyone present in the mood 180 kids in attendance. We look forward to held on 13 December 2008, saw the multi- for Christmas. The piece de resistance was next year’s party with an even bigger and purpose hall transformed into a Neverland. when Santa Claus’s arrival was heralded by better bang! Peace, love and happiness to Children of ages ranging from one to 12 blowhorns. We were lucky this year to have all for the coming 2009. years milled around laughing and talking. two, with one riding in on a bicycle and the
New Year’s Eve Tradition Lives On
The New Year’s eve ball has long been a tradition within the community which is eagerly anticipated year on year. The challenge last year was to top the 2007 ball and after much discussion the committee decided to go with a ‘Movie Star Glamour’ theme which would revolve around an era which epitomised glamour and sophistication. The crowd of 300 or so did not disappoint with the ladies working the red carpet with sparkling gowns and lots of bling and the men in tuxedoes and even a cowboy to boot. Marina Mandarin Ballroom Minister George Yeo and family with some VIP guests, EA members and performers was transformed into a movie set with the ‘stars’ enhancing the glamour factor.
This year was also extra special because our very special guest star was none other than Minister George Yeo who attended with the charming Mrs. Jennifer Yeo and Master Freddie Yeo. Mr. Michael Palmer, our Guest of Honour, who attended with his lovely wife, Diane, Mr. Amundo Lopez, Deputy Chairman to the Mexican Ambassador attended with Mrs. Lopez Carla Barker and Zaf Coelho having a ball of a time and Mr. Tan Boon Huat, CED of People’s RECENT EVENTS 19
New Year’s Eve Tradition Lives On (cont.)
Bianca Hoeden: Jubilant New Miss Eurasian
Jackie Pereira sizzles as Marilyn Monroe
Association and Mrs. Tan, who spent a good hour during cocktails mingling with Welcoming the New Year with a bang the ‘stars’. It was indeed a memorable Burton and Maureen Westerhout evening with the familiar faces mingling with living it up on the dance floor fresh faces plus newcomers to our ball who were fascinated with the history behind the style and pizzazz on stage and led the Eurasians rich culture and heritage. countdown with the crowd working themselves up to the final stroke of Our emcee for the evening, Mr. Gary Aviet midnight and with the confetti guns going aka Ms. Carmen Miranda, was stunning off it was indeed poignant for some and and kept the crowd entertained throughout happy for others to usher in 2009 with the evening with his madcap antics and much cheer and oomph! charm. Jackie Pereira aka Marilyn Monroe Volunteers and staff at the registration table and her dancers wowed the crowd with It was a truly magical evening with guests their renditions of movie classics and The countdown was fast approaching and soaking in the new year with well wishes dance performances. The tempo was Ms. Marina Xavier took to the stage and and loads of emotions. Guests were kept up with the ‘New Vintage’ taking put everyone in the mood with her sultry treated to more dancing and games centre stage with their ‘Blues Brothers’ voice and moves. It was then time to close with the treat of the evening being a hot, interpretation and cool outfits and kept the lucky draw with Mr. Gerry de Silva and steaming bowl of mulligatawny soup and the movie theme going with lots of hits Mr. Edward D’Silva conducting the top ten french baguettes. It was down to some from the movies which got the crowd off prizes. A huge thank you to our generous serious partying after and it was a sweet their seats and grooving to the beat. sponsors for this year’s lucky draw which ending for 2008 and the camaraderie, saw our table receiving 50 prizes. Mrs. friendships and close ties felt within the The highlight of the evening was an open Christine Dunster, walked away with the community and outside as well made the auction professionally run by Mr. Edmund top prize of a trip for two to Phnom Penh, New Year’s Eve Ball an event that will long Rajendra, owner of Eastern Carpets, who also donated a prize for the lucky draw. be remembered. Special thanks also to Mr. kindly donated a beautiful silk carpet for Dominic Wong who was the photographer the auction. It was heartening to note It was now time to bid adieu to our Miss for the evening, he contributed his time to that even in these lean times guests were Eurasian 2008, Miss Adaline Coelho, who our cause and we are truly grateful for his generous with their bids as all proceeds wore the crown beautifully this past year, kindness and his invaluable expertise. from the auction was going to a good it was also time to bid farewell to 2008 and cause, our Family Support Services. As Father Time took his leave amid boos and Thank you one and all for your kind support Mrs Evelyn Rodrigues stated emphatically hisses but his walk was well executed by and generous spirit and may 2009 be filled after purchasing a beautiful wool carpet, our very own Peter Rodrigues. with peace, love, happiness and good the money is going to a good cause and health. God bless. on top of that she had a beautiful carpet as Miss Bianca Hoeden, our Miss Eurasian by Christine Clunies-Ross well. A special thanks to all the generous 2009, ushered in the New Year with donors for donating the auction items. This year marks the
ANNIVERSARY of The Eurasian Association in Singapore.
We will celebrate in grand style with Blockbuster Extravaganza Events in June 2009 at the Esplanade.
A significant celebration for every Eurasian to enjoy and remember. Watch out for details in the next New Eurasian and on our website www.eurasians.org