A Magazine for the Women of Hong Kong • June 2014
Dragon Boat Festival CCWM AWA Half Jan 2014 Horizontal.pdf 1 3/12/2014 5:02:32 PM June 2014
The American Women’s Association of Hong Kong, Limited. Established in 1956 A volunteer organization of international women supporting Hong Kong charities and schools through community service and monetary grants, while providing educational and social activities for members. 14 AWAre Production Staff
Editor Joy Murray Tel: 6773 7036 [email protected]
Assistant Editors Carole Atkin Laura Metoudi Membership Information 3 Lori DiCarlo Angela Bellas WOW Update 4 Rachel Bourke Year in Review 6 AGM-Results! 8 Graphics ContentsGoodbye and Thank you! 9 Fahima Ahad 18 Mock Interviews 10 Jacky Ngan Scholarships 11 Photographic Global Insights 12 Fahima Ahad Asia Tours-Myanmar 14 Lori DiCarlo Cheung Chau 16 Wet Market 18 Advertising Manager Sheung Wan 20 [email protected] AWA Enjoys 22 Published & Printed by AT a Glance Activites 23 R&R Publishing Ltd. Local Tours and Activities 24 2126 7812 On-going Activities 28 [email protected] Sporting Activities 31 www.rrpublishing.com.hk 24 Contact Information 33
The AWA office is open from Monday-Thursday 9:30am-3:30pm. The office will be closed for Easter on Monday 21 April 2014.
Visit the AWA website: www.awa.org.hk Find us on facebook: www.facebook.com/awahk
Any opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author only and do not represent the opinion of the American Women’s Association. Any reliance by the reader upon any recommendation or opinion in this publication is at the reader’s own risk. The AWA accepts no responsibility for any loss which may result from such reliance. Copyright 2014. The content of the Aware publication is the property of the American Women's Association Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Information from within the publication may not be distributed without the express written consent of the American Women's Association. Welcome
From the President
What did Nora Ephron say she would miss? • Coming into Manhattan over the bridge • Taking a bath • Pie From the Editor What will you miss about Hong Kong, whether leaving for the summer or for longer? I will miss: June, a time to contemplate summer and possible travels to • The kites wheeling overhead – and I am especially cooler climes. It is also an important, if daunting, time for local attached to the one who perches daily outside my high school students. The future is before them and college window interviews must be faced. This is where AWA volunteers can • The Hong Kong skyline at night help by participating in the Mock Interview Program which is • A trip on the Star Ferry featured in this issue. Volunteers do make a difference to these • The very friendly Hong Kongers young people and the decisions they make. • All the wonderful friends I have made in Hong Kong through AWA Also featured is an article which describes the AWA Education and Scholarship Program and It has been an honor and a privilege to serve this great how funds raised by AWA support worthy organization over the last two years. Thank you all for giving students. me the opportunity to do so. As we move into summer and start thinking We are all so lucky to to live and work in about possible vacations it is also a time to such an exciting place as Hong Kong. Best review past months and to look ahead to the wishes to all of you who are leaving Hong future. Perhaps reflect on the work of the Kong for the summer, or permanently. organization over the past year and anticipate upcoming events, new volunteer opportunities, We trust your unforgettable experiences the Bazaar in November, and lots of interesting places to see and great friendships will last a lifetime and that you will remember AWA as a terrific through Local Tours. Even an exotic trip through Asian Tours organization which added to your many might be on your agenda. A review of the past year in pictures memories of Hong Kong over the years. may well stimulate ideas for your future involvement in the AWA. I want to thank everyone who has contributed to this great organization over I am always impressed by the diversity of activities undertaken the last year – and you have all contributed. by AWA and by the dedication of the volunteers. Their contributions have a positive impact on their home in Hong Special thanks to those I have served on the board with this Kong. As the title of our fundraising endeavor indicates, we year: Marcy LaRont, Nicky Cooper (who is returning to can ”Make a Difference”. Three outstanding volunteers are New Zealand), Julie Naughton, Lisa Mar, Irene Chu, Mary featured in this issue for their contributions but whatever your Barbara Hanna, Susan Trebach, Kate Weissman, Jennifer contribution might be, you can be sure it has a positive result. Schlueter, Angela Bellas, and Joy Murray. I also want to thank our dedicated office staff - Barbora Mayer, Joanne Lam and Caroline Nicholas. Jennifer and Angela are working Enjoy the June issue, take time to reflect, and continue to very hard on the updated website – we are looking forward enjoy life in Hong Kong. to launching that in June.
Have a great summer and do come back refreshed and energized for another great year in the Autumn.
Joy Murray AWA Editor
Eileen Glynn AWA President
2 AWARE June 2014 Membership
Owl (Out With the Ladies) Welcome New Members Come join us any week or every week - same time, same place (except public holidays). Cathy Annibell Amy Sacks Where: Oolaa Louise Charles Tara Schneider 20 Bridges Street, Soho Virginie Dafforn Colleen Short When: Every Tuesday, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Melissa Grove Nathalie Sommer Coordinators: Kathy Barber, [email protected] Ineke Hodder Amy Spiegel Julie Naughton, [email protected] Primila Lalwani Eleanor Stormonth Yasmin Lowry Gesine Wambach-Blaschkauer Foon Ying Anna Nunez When: June 11, 18, 25 Where: Meet at Admiralty MTR by Pacific Coffee CoordinatorS: Hildy Karev [email protected] Kate Mahjoubian, AWA (American Women’s Association) is a dynamic, [email protected] community of international women, with over 800 Cost: No fee but registration is required members from 36 countries. We are sure you will find Foon Ying means ‘welcome’ in Cantonese and what better your niche through our diverse range of activities, events welcome than to embark on a social adventure designed to and opportunities to volunteer. All women are welcome – foster new Hong Kong friendships. This informal program do join us! takes the guesswork out of finding your feet by designing fun activities for your group, sharing experiences and building Current members – you are our best ambassadors. Please your “guanxi” or ‘network’. Your commitment? Attend all introduce new arrivals and old friends to AWA – over wine three sessions over three weeks, be open to exploring your at OWL, at a Neighborhood Coffee, WoW event or new environment and meeting great people. Join and enjoy! encourage them to attend CHAT. AWA’s vision is that all women can connect with us and develop a rich, satisfying Neighborhood Coffees and purposeful life in Hong Kong. If you live, work or play in any of the following neighborhoods, join others in your area for a monthly coffee. Meet new Joining is easy via our website at: awa.org.hk friends or catch up with old ones, discuss and plan new or call 2527 2961. activities. Contact your local coordinator for details of forthcoming coffees. CHAT (Come Have a Talk) When: Thursday, 10:00am – 12:00 noon HK Central/Mid Levels (except public holidays) Kathy Barber, [email protected] Where: J.W. Marriott Hotel, 4th Floor, Lobby HK Southside Lounge (bar area), Pacific Place Walli Seegar, [email protected] Cost: No fee (all beverages & lunches at personal Sandra Gallaudet, [email protected] expense) Coordinator: Susan Wallace, 9783 3227 Pok Fu Lam and Shouson Hill CHAT is an informal gathering for members, newcomers, and Amita Gupta, [email protected] non-members. In a friendly atmosphere, we share a coffee or Kowloon tea and lively conversation. CHAT is a drop-in activity. No Jane Buck, [email protected] registration is required. Join us anytime between 10:00am Susan Trebach [email protected] and noon. The group often proceeds to lunch to continue chatting. A chance for some "grown-up" time and to leave the Discovery Bay little ones at home. Tracy Russell & Tina Volkman, [email protected] SAI KUNG Katherine Fenton, [email protected]
June 2014 AWARE 3 130912_WOW_bc_FIN.pdf 2 12/9/13 7:33 AM
MeMBe R shiP C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY by Carole Atkin
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WoW offers a range of personal and professional development talks, workshops and seminars to keep us all at the top of our L to R Julie Miller-Hansberry, Caroline Basham, game. We love to socialize and network too, Cassidy Klein, Xiaoming Jiao, Nicky Cooper and look forward to giving you a warm In the Coming Months welcome when you next attend. Over the summer the WoW team will be thinking about the sorts of events you would like to see more of when Re-inventing Your Career in Hong Kong Hong Kong re-groups after the hot summer months. Please They say Hong Kong is the place where you can do contact us at [email protected] if you have any particular anything - including re-inventing yourself and starting suggestions or requests. something new! From the reaction of audience members Otherwise, look out for us at OWL on Tuesdays at Oolaa, and from the experiences of the four WoW professionals a great opportunity to mix business with pleasure. who made up the panel on the evening of April 7th, we can see that this is definitely true. WoW Seeks New Chair Person Our panel of AWA professionals included Sadly, our wonderful Chair Person, Gina Franich, is • Julie Miller-Hansberry - Wife, Mom, Team Builder and leaving us to return to a “proper” job. We will all miss her Global Entrepreneur dearly. Below, in her own words, she tells us what she got • Caroline Basham - Director, (Personal Management), from the experience: • Cassidy Klein - Consultant Residential Leasing “Whether you are looking for a job, have your own • Xiaoming Jiao - completing a Master’s in Chinese Studies business or are wondering 'what might be next' in your at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. career life, being part of the WOW team is a very rewarding The panelists fielded questions such as ‘What was the experience and it has been a great honor for me to head up catalyst to make you want to change?” and “What lessons this young and happening AWA committee over the past and tips have you learnt through this process of change/ year. transition to new career, business opportunity or study?” Taking on the role as Chair of WoW has offered both The workshop was lead by Nicky Cooper as an professional and personal development. The women on the interactive experience, allowing audience members to share committee come from different backgrounds both culturally experiences from their own re-inventions. Some themes and career wise, providing a broad and dynamic team. We included the willingness to take risks, making the effort to spend time planning and organizing events and coming up understand the local culture and language, and keeping an with exciting opportunities and programs for our open heart and mind. participants. In addition to this, there are wonderful The workshop closed with a networking sessions along networking opportunities with different business groups with pizza and wine. and people in Hong Kong. The WoW team want to send a huge thank-you to Nicky My role in WoW helped to build my confidence over the and all the speakers who did such a great job on the night past year while I was exploring professional opportunities in and who were so open to helping all who attended to Hong Kong and definitely played a role when I took the achieve their own personal re-invention. decision to return to work last month.”
4 AWARe June 2014 Membership
If you are interested in being part of our committee or hear from you. Not only is it a great opportunity to engage being the new WOW Chair - please contact with people and industries you may not have otherwise, you might just have some fun and develop new friendships WOW is led by a dynamic and passionate group of in the process. Go on join the team and get involved! women from different industries and countries who create Contact us at: [email protected] and offer AWA members and the wider community. And don’t forget to visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AWA-Hong-Kong-WOW If you want to actively get involved with WOW by sharing your expertise, experience and time we want to
New Member Discounts
Diestel and Partners Concept Creations (Dental Surgeons) Ltd. AWA members will receive a 10% discount off their A group dental practice comprising four clinics, two in bill for tables of up to four on presentation of the AWA Central, one in Discovery Bay and one in Tung Chung. Our membership card. The offer is available at all seven modern clinics have been providing dental services to restaurants but not to be used in conjunction with any expats for more than 30 years. Each clinic also has dental other offers. See www.concept creations.hk for more hygienists. details. AWA members will receive a 15% discount on dental Frites Quarry Bay work, excluding orthodontic and some specialist G/F, Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Island treatments, at the following locations: East. Tel 2250 5188 Diestel and Partners (Dental Surgeons) Ltd. Frites Wan Chai Room 1914 Melbourne Plaza, 33 Queen’s Road Central. Shop 6, 1st Floor Causeway Centre, No 28 Harbour Road, Tel 2522 2099 Wan Chai. Tel 2877 2422 Smith and Jain Dental and Implant Practice Tapeo Central Room 703, Century Square, No. 1 D’Augilar Street, UGF, Shop A, Au’s Building, 15-19 Hollywood Road, Central. Tel 2526 2383 Central. Tel 3171 1989 Bayside Dental Practice, Discovery Bay Tapeo Sai Wan Ho Unit 1, G/F, Office Block 1, 92 Siena Avenue, Plaza North, Shop GA01-03, G/F of Lei King Wan, Site A, 55 Tai Hong Discovery Bay, Lantau. Tel 2987 0855 Street. Tel 2513 0199 A new clinic, Bayside Dental Tung Chung is located in Chicha Shop 26, Caribbean Square, Caribbean Coast, Tung Chung. Address: G/F, 26 Peel Street, Central, HK. Tel 2561 3336 Tel 2185 6550 The Roger Room G/F, 39 Peel Street, Central, HK. Tel 2341 2220 Souvla 1/F, Unit B, C, D & E, Ho Lee Comm Bldg, 40 D’Aguilar St, Central. Tel 2522 1823 Karma Jimbaran Boutique Villas, Bali Karma Jimbaran’s two, three and four bedroom pool villas are just steps away from Jimbaran Bay and close to Bali hot spots. The villas offer space, privacy and luxury with all the services of a top boutique resort. Karma Jimbaran Bali invites all AWA members to stay for four nights and only pay for three, plus book a couples massage and get a second one free. The offer includes daily a la carte breakfast, return airport transfer and access to Karma Beach, Bali. Call for more information. To book, please contact the Sales and Reservations office stating that you are an AWA member. Tel: +62 361 727 420 or Fax +52 361 727 781.
June 2014 AWARE 5 Membership
Year in Charitable Review Donations
Social Activities
Sports Activities
Volunteer Opportunities
6 AWARE June 2014 Membership
Education and Scholarship
Fundraising
Local and Asian Tours
New Office in Sheung Wan
June 2014 AWARE 7 Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting: Results! by Jennifer Schlueter
the date of issue. • The 2014-15 budget will be presented at the AWA General Meeting on May 30. The meeting convenes after the Awards Tea. • Two Reserve Funds have been established and funded to ensure the future financial health of the organization. The Operating Reserve will hold the equivalent of 12 months of operating expenses while the Property Maintenance and Technology reserve will maintain the AWA’s office and technology assets for 25 years. Lisa Mar, Recording Secretary gave a presentation about the reserve. • The new website re-launch date is June 17, 2014. Jennifer Schlueter and Angela Bellas, co-project leaders of the L to R Patty Tarallo, Nicky Cooper, Lisa Strunin, Marybeth Coffer, Irene Chu, Andrea Roth and outgoing president Eileen Glynn. project presented and provided members a sneak preview of how it will look.
The Annual General Meeting was held at AWA’s new Eileen then thanked Carole Atkin, who announced the offices on April 16th and was opened by Eileen Glynn, members of the nominating committee and the new board President. slate, which members approved. The new Board will take The AWA remains as busy as ever with many activities, office effective July 1st. fundraising and philanthropic efforts. “More than 1,000 members and non-members enjoyed President: Stephanie Bourque local activities and Asian tours. Nearly HK$1million has been 1st Vice President Fundraising: Marcy Laront raised. This enables us to offer scholarships to 30 students 2nd Vice President Membership: Nicky Cooper and monetary grants to local charities. The need in our 3rd Vice President Activities: Lisa Strunin community is great, this year, we received applications for Recording Secretary: Marybeth Coffer more than HK$4 million” said Eileen. Education and Scholarship: Eileen Glynn Eileen acknowledged the excellent work of all our Charitable Donations: Andrea Roth volunteers, saying, “We are an organization of volunteers, run Community Service: Patty Tarallo by volunteers. However, we couldn’t function without the dedication of our outstanding office staff, Barbora Mayer, Eileen thanked all the Board members for their Joanne Lam, and new addition, Caroline Nicholas". contributions and acknowledged the AWA office staff. Several business matters were communicated, including: Special thanks was also given to Randy Prescott who has • Membership fees have been raised to HK$980 effective moderated the AWA ListServe for seven years. Randy will July 1st; essential in keeping AWA’s financial position soon be moving to to Singapore. strong, allowing AWA to have office support staff and to The evening concluded with members socializing over a ensure operating costs are covered, even when glass of wine and appetizers. Congratulations to the new membership numbers fluctuate as they have this year. Board and our sincere thanks to outgoing Board members for • A rolling membership system will become effective as of your hard work and contributions! July 1, 2014 and membership will be valid for a year from
8 AWARE June 2014 Membership
Goodbye and Thank you!
Randy J. Prescott Though Roberta is planning to retire to Hawaii, she has A huge amount of work goes on many plans for retirement. “behind the scenes” to help the During a recent trip to Africa, she met a group of women AWA machine run smoothly and who formed a coffee cooperative in Uganda. Naturally, one of efficiently. Randy Prescott is one of the things on her post-Hong Kong to-do list is to help the our outstanding volunteers – and Ugandan women open a coffee retail outlet. She also intends we benefit from her time and to build homes for Habitat for Humanity and help restore expertise to make sure her areas of some UNESCO sites in China. AWA operate smoothly. Roberta has completed four separate stints in Hong Kong, Randy moved to Hong Kong Randy J. Prescott and each time joins/rejoins the AWA because “it is such a early in 2007. It was her first time fantastic organization!” living outside the USA and also her Let’s hope Roberta visits Hong Kong and AWA frequently, first time living in a city. since she will be missed. For almost two years she was Website Events Administrator, maintaining the Asian Tours page and the Lynda Coggins Events Calendar. From November 2009 she has been the Lynda Goggins has co-ordinated all E-newsletter Coordinator, e-blast Coordinator and ListServe our golf programs for over eight Moderator. These roles all entail many hours of work. years. She and her team have Randy has been a stellar volunteer for AWA. She is efficient, arranged golf at Deep Water Bay, lovely, calm and always does her job with a smile – despite Kau Sai Chau, wonderful many last minute requests. Randy, you will be sorely missed! tournaments, clinics, quiz nights, We wish you great success and good times with your golf outings….the list goes on. As upcoming move to Singapore. well as being an outstanding golfer, Lynda is a competitive swimmer, Roberta Wong Leung all while raising three sons. Lynda Coggins She may be leaving Hong Kong at She is stepping down to focus the end of her professional career, on other priorities, though the golf group hopes she will still but there is nothing “retiring” about join in AWA golf tournaments. Roberta Wong Leung. Here are some comments from the golf group: A woman with boundless “Thank you Lynda for being such a hard working, energy, curiosity, motivation and ambitious and generous coordinator. You will be missed.” accomplishment, Roberta is well "This is a sad, if inevitable, day for AWA golf! Thanks so known to many AWA members much for all the energy and time you've put into it - the through her volunteer activities. tournaments are always great fun. Big shoes to fill for She has been a driving force for the whoever takes over.” Galloping Gourmet group (hosting “Your tournaments are such great fun - an inspiration to all AWA groups at the races since she is a member of the of us no matter what our level of golf”.” Jockey Club), an organizer of the Ronald McDonald House "Lynda – we miss you. All the best in your future endeavors." birthday parties, and has helped with Kowloon Coffees.
June 2014 AWARE 9 Education and Scholarship
Mock Interviews – Opportunity for Students By Bernice Lee
Facing college interviews can be a daunting experience was such a privilege to get a glimpse into their world. Being for high school students, especially those for whom English is able to help them, even if it is only in a small way, feels very not a first language. The Mock Interview Program was piloted rewarding.” It is what keeps many of us coming back – school in 2010 and added to the English Activities Programs (EAP) in after school, year after year. 2012, the program is offered at about six local secondary Volunteering is easy. Working with a handful of students, schools and reaches more than 300 15- and 16-year old you ask questions from a list that is provided beforehand, and students each year. use a simple assessment form to give feedback about The program enables students to practice English with personal presentation, language and interviewing skills. If you fluent speakers and experience a simulated interview for 10 have ever been interviewed or interviewed others, you will to 20 minutes. It plays a part in preparing them for the have something valuable to add. Join one session at one government oral English exam and the rigorous admissions school, or multiple sessions at different ones. interviews of Hong Kong’s top universities. In addition to Next academic year, we hope you will join us in helping improving speaking skills, we hope students build self- teens gain valuable life skills and explore parts of Hong Kong esteem, learn to think on their feet and, as Shelly Matthias you may not have seen! said, “become more self-aware to be able to answer EDITOR'S NOTE: Bernice Lee has coordinated the Mock questions not just about their academic abilities, but about Interview program since 2012. Formally a human resources their thoughts and dreams.” manager, she is a professional interview coach and etiquette The core program always brings five to ten volunteers to a consultant. (ELI, The Etiquette & Leadership Institute. www. school for about two hours of mock interviews. However, I eli-asia.com.) usually give extra support because the schools are so under- resourced. At one school where there was no career counselor, I lectured to over 150 senior secondary students before they Study Session for Students met AWA mock interviewers. At another school, I held a five- week series of one-hour interactive workshops to give students Helping students prepare for their upcoming Final more tips and practice. It is fulfilling work, and I often wish I had English Speaking exam was the purpose of a study more time and people power to give them more. session on May 7, 2014 for students from Nam Wah Catholic Secondary School. Four students, one of High Motivation whom had been a Phone Pal for two years, We are often amazed at the high motivation of the participated. The students wanted to prepare for their students. Last month at The Jockey Club Eduyoung College, upcoming final English speaking exam so AWA students attended our sessions during their spring break volunteers conducted sample tests, gave the students because they wanted to get a competitive edge in the suggestions, pointers and advice on improving their university admissions process. The odds are against them. English skills. Only 18 percent of Hong Kong’s teenagers can study at a government-funded institution – the lowest admission rate out of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and Singapore. In contrast, member countries of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (including the UK, the USA, Canada and Australia) boast, on average, places for 68 percent of their teenage population. Given the discouraging statistics here, it is refreshing to work with such hard-working and receptive students. Many volunteers echo Lucinda Whitely’s sentiments, “It
10 AWARE June 2014 Education and Scholarship
Scholarships Awarded By Mary Barbara Hanna
Ms. Chak is studying Chinese, Ms. Lam’s major is Social Sciences and Ms. Yip plans to earn her degree in Behavioral Science in Modern Society. As we chatted with these three bright students, we inquired if their parents or other family members were able to attend the ceremony. One of the students shared that her mother, as a single parent, must work her restaurant job seven days a week and as she did not receive paid time off, could not miss any hours. The other students’ parents live “too far away” to attend or also had work responsibilities. Understanding the financial burden post-secondary education can be for many families, these students take their studies very seriously and work diligently to earn grades that enable them to win scholarships, such as those provided by the AWA. Thank you to all of the AWA members who have contributed time and money to the Education and Scholarship As Education and Scholarship Chair, the majority of my program this year. You have put those lovely smiles on those time is spent organizing and supporting the English Activity beautiful young women in the picture (including Eileen!) Programs: Chatterbox, Mock Interviews, Dining Etiquette, and Phone Pals. From finding volunteers to doing school visits, the E&S Chair has many “behind-the-scenes” opportunities to make sure efficient, impactful programming is delivered. At this time of year, however, I, along with the President, Eileen Glynn, have a chance to pause and celebrate the success of AWA in its fundraising efforts for the Scholarship Fund. In late fall and mid-spring, the E&S Chair receives ten to twelve invitations to scholarship award ceremonies for the post-secondary schools' students supported by AWA scholarship funds. As part of the program, we meet and chat with the students gifted with AWA scholarships. Sometimes they are very shy, but always smiling, friendly, and of course, thankful. In March, Eileen and I attended the scholarship award ceremony at Lingnan University, located in Fu Tei. We met three delightful young women, Chak Tsz Ning, Lam Wing Yee, and Yip Ka Man. All of them have completed year 2 and, thanks to AWA scholarship funds, will continue on to year 3.
June 2014 AWARE 11 Global Insights
Germany A Diverse, Welcoming Country
By Joy Murray
In his presentation on Germany, Nikolaus Graf the country. “One people, one nation, one state.” He outlined Lambsdorff, Consul General for Germany extended a some of the history of the country, recent and ancient, and welcome to AWA members. “Come visit, you will like it”, he spoke of the changing dynamics within Europe. “We are said. The presentation, part of the Global Insights series, was slowly trying to learn our role in Europe and in world politics”. hosted at the German Consulate, April 10. Germany is located in the center of Europe and has nine The Consul spoke of the many different regions of the direct neighbors. “For the first time ever we are surrounded country which “have their own characteristics and traditions” by friends”. along with “centuries old legends waiting to be told”. His lively “We never knew tourism would become such a major presentation was illustrated with a video and questions were part of German economy”. It has become a bigger asset to welcomed from the audience. the economy than the whole car industry. Language is not a Economically, Germany has an inflation rate of below one problem for shoppers, at least not if the language is percent. However, there is room for improvement in attracting European, however, with increased numbers of Chinese innovative young people and enhancing the role of women. tourists travelling to Germany, “Chinese could be a problem”, Consul Lambsdorff said affirmative political action is needed he said. to ensure qualified women can assume leadership roles. The presentation was followed by generous German On the world stage, Germany, a founding member of the hospitality. Guests were able to sample German wine, beer European Union, has been a big influence in Europe and the and delicacies on the terrace of the beautiful home of the country has to live up to its responsibilities he said. Consul Consul and his wife, Marcia. Graf Lambsdorff spoke positively about the reunification of
12 AWARE June 2014 Feature
My Tokyo Sushi Breakfast Adventure By Shelda Chickles
Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the largest fish and greeted with “irasshaimase”. There were three chefs behind seafood markets in the world. Located in Tsukiji in central the counter. The one closest to us greeted my husband with Tokyo, it also holds the famous tuna auction. The number of a bow and a thumbs-up. Smiling, he said loudly, “Red Sox, visitors is restricted and tour times start very early. It is a Koji Uehara!”. The chef approved my husband's Red Sox must see, seeing huge tuna laid out in rows is a sight to jacket. (Uehara is a pitcher who helped Red Sox win the 2013 behold. It is wise to check the market's calendar for days World Championship). We each ordered 12 pieces of when it is closed. omakase sushi. The chef confirmed what I couldn’t eat and Tsukiji Fish Market has two areas. The inner market is for encouraged me to take pictures. We were given a bowl of hot the wholesale operation and the outer market has both miso soup and green tea, then a succession of fresh fish and wholesale and retail shops as well as sushi restaurants. On seafood. Yes, the cut of the fish was not as refined as a four- this trip, a sushi breakfast was on the docket. Our destination star Michelin restaurant but the freshness of the generous was Sushi Dai, one three sushi restaurants, often portion of fish was undeniable. Good food, great service and recommended in travel blogs and websites. People line up to the price made the 4 am wake-up call really worthwhile! eat at these places because of the price and quality of their With much bowing and “arigato”, we stumbled out with sushi. Sushi Dai has the distinction of having the longest line. smiles from ear to ear and a belly full of yummy sushi. Time I aimed to find out why. now to plan our next sushi adventure, may it be at a civilized On a cold February morning, my husband and I walked hour of lunch or dinner or ungodly pre-dawn breakfast. towards the restaurant row, dodging scooters, trucks and For information on Tsukiji Tuna Auction Tour: http://www. carts. We arrived at Sushi Dai where a line had already shijou.metro.tokyo.jp/english/market/tsukiji.html formed. It was not even 5am. The restaurant opens at 5:30. For general information on Tsukiji Market including a We were already late! The first (lucky) few were literally calendar: http://www.tsukiji-market.or.jp/tukiji_e.htm corralled in front of the restaurant. The "bouncer", in the form of a petite Japanese lady, asked the rest to form a line on the sidewalk.She inquired about allergies.I told her what I couldn’t eat. Luckily, she spoke English and I didn’t have to take out my little note listing my allergies written in Japanese characters. At 5:30am, the first set of customers was ushered into the small restaurant. With only about 12 seats diners were seated shoulder to shoulder. As the first group walked in, the next group, including us, waited in the holding pen in front of the restaurant. My husband and I huddled together in the cold morning, questioning my insane plan to eat raw fish so early in the morning. Finally, at 6am, we entered the restaurant and were
June 2014 AWARE 13 AsiaN Tours
The Magic of Myanmar Adapted from the originals by Jennie Parker and Betty Thai
It has been nearly two years since AWA’s Asian Tours beaten down by its own government and stagnated by more visited Myanmar. At that time, the country was dealing with than a decade of economic sanctions. This was the backdrop the media frenzy generated by Secretary of State Hilary for our visit and with some apprehension we travelled to Clinton’s visit, the recent release of Aung San Suu Kyi from Myanmar. Unexpectedly and surprisingly, the Burmese proved two years of house arrest and the lifting of a decade of to be gentle, positive, humorous people and with an tourism boycott. Further, we were heading to a country inquisitive attitude. A country truly living the Buddhist way! The age of Myanmar's rich culture was evident in Bagan. We witnessed its expansive landscape covered by thousands of stupas and temples, some dating back to the 11th century. The sight of these iconic temples across the misty land was magical. In the afternoon, we climbed the Shwesandaw Pagoda. At the Eastern view from the top fifth tier of the Pagoda, we secured a key vantage point where we could see the sprawling landscape and thousands of pagodas brilliantly lit by the late afternoon sun. It was breathtaking. After waiting for the orange sun to descend behind the hills across the river, we were rewarded with a mesmerizing sunset. The next day, sunrise was no less spectacular, and from the vantage point of an early morning hot air balloon ride over Bagan, the
14 AWARE June 2014 AsiaN Tours view was breathtaking, as if we had been transported to floating gardens, made from woven reeds and grasses. These another time. gardens stretch as far as the eye can see and are narrow The lifestyle and culture of the people was also fascinating. strips so local farmers can do all the planting and harvesting We sat in boats with single-file chairs as we explored Inle right from their boats! Lake and enjoyed watching the agility of the Intha fishermen On our last night, we visited Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon as they maneuvered their boats in the one-legged style that is (formerly Rangoon). It is reputed to be one of the most their trademark. We saw the local floating market and the outstanding religious monuments in Southeast Asia. We had pottery village, where everything is locally sourced. The clay the special treat of multi-colored rope lights decorating the comes from the earth in the mountains and the glaze is made smaller pagodas to celebrate its 2,600th anniversary. from rock minerals from the nearby mountains. In the weaving Myanmar is an amazing destination. The well known village, we watched as weavers turned lotus stems into fiber Kipling quote still holds true today: “it was unlike any other used for scarves. In a cheroot-making shop, 11 girls sat on the place we have ever known”. floor rolling the cheroots with a corn-husk filter and tobacco AWA’s Asian Tours will return to Myanmar this coming leaves that had been soaked in an awful-smelling juice February. Sign-ups start 1 June 2014. Details are in this mixture. A highlight of our visit was boating through the issue of AWAre and on the AWA website.
All you have to do is pack your bags, get your visa and go – AWA’s Asian Tours are all-inclusive! ASIAN TOURS 2014 - 2015 TRIPS
Trip Date Destination Sign-Up Start Date Leader 20 – 26 September Nepal Trekking Sign-ups on-going Betty Thai, 9386 2385 18 – 24 October Tibet 1 May Cynthia Lackey, 6200 3222 28 – 30 November River Kwai & Hellfire Pass 1 June Jane Buck, 9530 7957 January 2015 Harbin October date, TBA Cynthia Lackey, 6200 3222 6 – 14 February Myanmar 1 June Marja Lasek-Martin, 9675 2596 March Asia Biking September date, TBA Amanda McGovern, 6200 3976 April Yellow Mountain & November date, TBA Rebecca Wong, 9278 2727 Shanghai Watertowns May Zhangjiajie & Feng Huang December date, TBA Kate Mahjoubian, 6462 6559 (where “Avatar” was filmed) September 2015 Mongolia March 2015 date, TBA Julie Naughton, 9028 6606
For more information on any trip, please contact the trip leader. The AWA office will not have the information!
Revisit World War Two in Three Days with Asian Tours!
Experience a long weekend of World War II history late next autumn as AWA’s Asian Tours takes you to Kanchanaburi, Thailand, home of the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. See the Bridge as we cruise down the river, experience Hellfire Pass as we travel on the Death Railway and maybe even view a re-enactment of the area’s Second World War history including an Allied bombing raid! Sign-ups start 1 June. Details are in this issue of AWAre Magazine and on the AWA website. Special: This coming September, in conjunction with AWA Local Tours, we will be offering a private screening of “The Bridge on the River Kwai” starring Alec Guiness, with a special in-person introduction by local historian Jason Wordie. Keep your eye on AWAre and the AWA website for more details!
June 2014 AWARE 15 Feature
The Cheung Chau Bun Festival By Joy Murray
The island of Cheung Chau becomes a popular destination for the Bun Festival which is celebrated around Buddha’s birthday, May 6. As part of the "Understanding Chinese Culture Series," Christine Chan described this popular and colorful festival. Many legends abound regarding the origin of the festival. Pirates and disease besieged residents of Hong Kong in the 17th and 18th centuries and the god Pak Tai was brought to Cheung Chau from Mainland China to drive away the plague and ensure smooth sailing and good catches for the islanders. Offerings were made to the god, including food and presumably hand-made buns. “The Pak Tai temple is the oldest in Cheung Chau and is the religious center of the island. This is the heart of the festival where most activities take place”. It is a week-long festival with a wide range of activities including prayers and offerings to Pak Tai, floats, parades, lion dances, and children dressed as mythological Chinese gods, balanced on stilts. According to legend, in the past, many villagers disguised themselves as gods to scare away evil spirits. A 60-foot bamboo tower is erected prior to the festival and covered with thousands of buns. The culmination of the festival, on the last night, is the bun-scrambling, when an assault is made on the tower by twelve participants who climb to the top to grab as many lucky buns as they can. The most prized bun is the one at the very top. “It is a big honor to get the bun or the banner from the top of the tower.” The buns are all stamped with good luck symbols to ensure health and prosperity. The festival this year was held from May 3 to May 7.
16 AWARE June 2014 Feature
The Cheung Chau Bun Festival
“The Pak Tai temple is the oldest in Cheung Chau and is the religious center of the island. This is the heart of the festival where most activities take place”.
June 2014 AWARE 17 FeATu R e
WetWet marketmarket onon aa RainyRainy dayday
by Tanvi Gupta
IT'S AnOThER RAInY dAY in Hong Kong as I pick my way down the slippery roads in Shek Tong Tsui. I am headed to the wet market, an appropriate choice given the weather. This is Hong Kong’s answer to fresh from the farm (or sea) produce, and is actually housed in a building, making it a good choice on a rainy day. It is called a “wet” market because of the predominance of water - the floor is rinsed with water multiple times in a day to keep it clean, fresh vegetables are sprinkled with it every so often (no refrigeration options that I can see), and there are several aquaria stocking fish and other sea animals. I have lived in many different countries over the past two decades, but I have never seen a more muddled, chaotic or colorful place to buy fresh produce. It is not that Hong Kong does not have its share of supermarkets, offering a more sanitized option to buy your greens. It certainly does. Wet markets are noisy, crowded, boast a cacophony of smells, and stock virtually everything you need in the kitchen, or outside of it. The wet market on Bowrington Road even has a haberdasher listed.
18 AWARe June 2014 FeATu R e
Wet markets can be set up in the open, with stalls clustered close together down a street. Some others though, like the one in Shek Tong Tsui, are actually in a building and the segregation of vegetables, dry food, meats and cooked food is quite clearly displayed.
Fresh food One thing I am always certain of in a wet market is that everything is fresh. And I do not mean just the veggies. If you wanted your seafood anymore fresh you would have to cast a money that I think is what they are asking for. If they like my line yourself. And the variety is unimaginable. Fish, clams, offer, they bag my purchase. If I get it wrong, I get a vigorous crabs, lobsters, even eels are all in glorious display. But this head shake and lots of hand waving for an emphatic negative. experience is not for the faint-hearted. Yo u could be greeted Either way, we understand each other, and I know they mean by flopping fish heads, or twitching tentacles! business. And then, of course, is the butcher shop with all the My favorite stall in the entire market is the flower shop different cuts hanging like a red veil on hooks. With a splatter right at the front entrance. Run by an old lady, I usually buy of red on his shirt, the big cleaver and the dull red light in his fresh lilies from her. And she always throws in some ferns for shop, the butcher always seems to me to be praying to ward free. Though, truth be told, the twinkle in her eyes always off any bad luck. With red being the color of celebration here, makes me wonder if I have been had. the irony of this imagery is not lost on me. I know at some point, I will probably get too busy as I But to me, the most fascinating part of going to the wet build a life in this fast-paced city. At that point, I will probably market is interacting with the vendors. Equal mix of local men go back to the supermarkets that offer me free delivery. But and women, most of whom do not speak English, they still do for now, I am happy to pick my way through the buzzing a stellar job of communicating. Over time I have developed a shops filled with activity and get a glimpse of a Hong Kong in routine. With the help of some hand gesturing, I offer the sharp contrast to the one into which I usually venture.
June 2014 AWARe 19 Feature
SHEUNG WAN By Frances Nicholls REVISITED Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foods, and Tea Exploring Sheung Wan can be a voyage of discovery. need to be kept in balance - Fire (bitter e.g. dandelion), Earth Tucked away in the narrow, winding streets of the district, (sweet e.g. carrot), Metal (pungent e.g. asparagus), Water Chinese Medicine shops yield the traditional answers to (salty e.g. seaweed) and Wood (sour e.g. lemon). Foods are health concerns. Located in the northwestern part of Hong also thought to have five natures: cold (e.g. banana), cool (e.g. Kong Island, you can travel there via MTR (Blue Island Line). tofu), neutral (e.g. celery), warm (e.g. chicken) and hot (e.g. Exit E2 (Sheung Wan MTR) brings you out at Wing Lok cinnamon) and to have yin (feminine) & yang (male) qualities. Street. Crossover and walk through the Italianate piazza (hard Cross back over Queen’s Road Central to see a traditional to believe you are in Hong Kong). Turn left, walk along Chinese tea shop, Ying Kee Tea House, which was established Queen’s Road Central, cross over and you will find a traditional in Guangzhou over 130 years ago. They know their teas so it Chinese medicine store, Eu Yan Sang. Browse among the is a good place to sit and try the different varieties such as large glass cabinets that display different types of Chinese Pu-erh, Teh Kuan Yin, Jasmine, Green and White tea. Large medicines such as marine products, plants, animals and red tea canisters line the shelves behind the counter and minerals all labelled in English and Chinese with their name cups and teapots are also displayed for sale. It is believed the and medicinal purpose. teas have health-giving benefits such as improving digestion Next door is their Integrated Medical Centre. English is or helping with detoxification. spoken here so if you are feeling brave enough to see a There is still much more to experience in Shueng Wan and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Doctor, have acupuncture in next month’s AWAre, Frances will continue her exploration. or be prescribed Chinese herbal medicine, this would be a good place to start. During the examination, the TCM Doctor will take your pulse and study the colour and shape of your tongue to aid with his/her diagnosis. The Chinese believe prevention is the best medicine so they prescribe not only herbal medicine but lifestyle advice, for example, what foods to eat, specific exercises (Tai chi and Qi gong), and Tui Na acupressure massage. The Chinese believe the five elements, and their corresponding tastes, are used to classify foods beneficial to each individual person’s health requirements and these all
20 AWARE June 2014 MeMBe R shiP ReM inD e R s
Membership Renewal
stay connected over the summer and don’t miss any AWA opportunities! the AWA membership year starts July 1, 2014 but you can renew at any time before that and your membership year will start from the date of your renewal. the annual membership fee is hk$980.
All AWA members are able to access the new AWA website including Forum, the new Listserve and a copy of the AWAre Magazine.
don’t delay! Renew today!
Welcome Back Coffee! ! Wednesday 18th September ! 9.30am until Noon ! The American Club, Tai Tam! ! Please join us to find friends, old and new! Learn how you can become more involved in the coming year! Discover all the marvelous local tours and activities, sensational ! Asian tours and unique volunteer and fundraising efforts that ! The AWA has to offer.!
COST: HK$240 Members / HK$270 Guests Cost: $195 Members/$230 Guests! Breakfast is included! ! Register at awa.org.hk! ! Shuttle bus available! ! !
June 2014 AWARe 21 AWA enjoys Behind the Scenes at Ocean Park
i-Hike in Lantau
High Tea at the Grand Hyatt Noon Day Gun
22 AWARE June 2014 Local tours and activities
Local Tours & Activities – At a Glance! Sign-up Starts 1 June
Wednesday, 4 June Learn How to Quill!
Tuesday, 10 June Carve Your Own Chop
Wednesday, 11 June Create Your Own Fragrance - Register by 5 June
Thursday, 12 June Behind-The-Scenes Tour of the Hong Kong Legislative Council
Monday, 16 June Rare and Unusual Gemstones
Tuesday, 17 June Buffet Lunch at the Pacific Club and Pink Flamingos
Thursday, 19 June Jason Wordie Lecture: Kowloon More Far – Hong Kong’s New Territories and Its People
Monday, 23 June A Visit to the Hong Kong Museum of History & Lunch
Wednesday, 25 June Baking Afternoon at Coco Pin – Heart-Shaped Macaroon Cheese Cake with Mixed Berries
Wednesday, 2 July Create a Leather Rose - Register by 26 June
Friday, 4 July Fourth of July Celebration on a Junk!
Thursday, 10 July Lolly Pop! Lolly Pop!
Some Local Tours Committee members enjoy Year-End Lunch
June 2014 AWARE 23 Local tours and activities
Learn How to Quill! When: Wednesday, 4 June 9:00am – 2:00pm Where: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – across from GNC Cost: $370 members/$440 member’s guest Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 10 Coordinators: Lori DiCarlo, 6136 9871 Jane Buck, 9530 7957 What is quilling? Do you know how to quill? If not, here’s your chance to learn. If you know how, well then, here is your chance to create another work of art. Today we will learn the very simple art form of “quilling,” also known as “paper filigree,” taught to us by Hong Kong artist, Violet Shum. Throughout this 2-hour class at the Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre, each of us will create a 3-dimensional piece of artwork using colorful strips of your design and work of art will be limited only by your paper. As a class, we will be taught to roll, shape, and imagination. Picture frames will be provided, so you will glue our “quilled” paper onto the back of a dimensional come away with a framed work of art. After class, we will frame. Violet will teach us how to arrange them into enjoy a light dim sum lunch, at shared expense. flowers, leaves, animals, letters, or decorative patterns;
Carve Your Own Chop Create Your Own Fragrance When: Tuesday, 10 June, 10:00am –1:00pm When: Wednesday, 11 June, 10:00am –1:00pm Where: AWA Office, 2-12 Queens Rd West, Arion Registration must be received by 5 June Bldg, 11/F, Sheung Wan Where: AWA Office, 2-12 Queens Rd West, Arion Cost: $400 members/$470 member’s guest Bldg, 11/F, Sheung Wan Capacity: minimum 3, maximum 8 Cost: $490 members/$560 member’s guest Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 8 This was so much fun when we did it in April that we’re going Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 to do it again. Millie, from the Dotted Collective, will teach us Barbara Galligan, 6080 6523 to carve our own stone chop or seal. The chop or seal is Is the chemistry of scent a mystery to you? Would you like to frequently used in Chinese correspondence and documents. try to blend your own scent? Ed from DIY Aroma, a local All materials and tools will be provided along with a selection provider of tailor made organic perfumes and beauty of designs from which to choose, such as Chinese characters, products, will describe the process of how scents are names, and pictures. You also can bring your own ideas to the categorized, where they are found in nature, and how layers class. If you would like to do your Chinese name, Millie will of fragrance are selected and then blended to create do all the research in advance of our workshop. Millie will signature fragrances. He will walk us through a series of guide us each step of the way during the design transfer, three blind sniff sessions during which we will select carving and finishing processes so that each of us takes ingredients for each of the three layers that will ultimately home a high-quality, handmade chop. No carving experience create our personal perfumes. Once we have selected our is required – it’s not nearly as difficult as one might think. ingredients, Ed will work with us in creating the perfect ratio of ingredients for our perfume. Each of us will leave with a better understanding of what goes into creating perfumes as well as a 50 ml bottle of our signature scent.
24 AWARE June 2014 Local tours and activities
Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Hong Buffet Lunch at the Pacific Club and Kong Legislative Council Pink Flamingos When: Thursday, 12 June, 9:10am – 10:45am When: Tuesday, 17 June, 11:45am – 3:00pm Where: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – by Exit A Where: Meet at Central Star Ferry Pier – street Cost: $70 members/$140 member’s guest level entrance Capacity: minimum 15 maximum 30 Cost: $270 members/$340 member’s guest Coordinators: Regine Pocsatko, 6141 7061 Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 12 Lena Zakharova, 9726 2378 Coordinators: Lisa Wallis, 6715 0653 Hong Kong’s Legislative Council (LegCo) was set up in 1843 Jane Buck, 9530 7957 as a colonial legislature under British rule. Today we will have The Pacific Club is located in TST, Kowloon, on its own pier the rare opportunity to take a guided educational tour of the with a picturesque view over Victoria Harbour. We will begin new LegCo complex. It includes the video corner, visitors' our afternoon enjoying a wonderful buffet lunch at the Club’s sharing area, exhibition area, children's corner, viewing gallery Island View Restaurant while taking in the sights and sounds and access corridors, memory lane, education activit rooms of the harbor. When everyone has had their fill of Club Island and education galleries. You will learn about how LegCo View’s delicious petite macaroons, we will begin a leisurely enacts laws, approves public expenditure and monitors the stroll over to Kowloon Park. Once an army fortress, this is work of the government. This will be an interesting behind- now one of Hong Kong’s largest public parks. Besides being the-scenes look to see where and how the government one of Kowloon’s best kept secrets, it is incredibly beautiful, passes the laws that effect Hong Kong’s future. tranquil and home to the most striking pink flamingos. So bring along your appetite, camera and comfortable walking shoes for a day filled with fun and laughter!
Jason Wordie Lecture: Kowloon More Far – Hong Kong's New Territories and Its People When: Thursday, 19 June, 10:30am – 12:00pm Where: AWA Office Cost: $320 members/$390 member's guest Capacity: minimum 12, maximum 20 Coordinator: Lori DiCarlo, 6136 9871 Join us for the last in our summer series of Historical Talks with Jason Wordie. Today’s topic is “Kowloon More Far: Hong Kong's New Territories and their People.” Added to the Crown Rare and Unusual Gemstones Colony by a 99-year lease in 1898, what became known as When: Monday, 16 June, 9:45am –12:30pm the New Territories comprises the "other" side of Hong Kong. Where: D’Alejo Jewelry, 9/F, On Hing Bldg, No 1 This fascinating, diverse place and its essential "difference" On Hing Terrace, Central from the rest of the city is frequently misunderstood – and Cost: $170 members/$240 member’s guest therefore unfortunately underappreciated – by urban Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 10 residents. This is not an impersonal lecture, but more a Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 friendly fireside chat with plenty of room for questions and Lori DiCarlo, 6136 9871 answers. Coffee and tea will be served. As we continue our series with Celso D’Alejo, we will move on to the topic of rare and unusual gemstones. There are more than 100 different gemstone varieties, of which the typical consumer can probably name only a few. This seminar will introduce us to the lesser-known gemstones which are rare and beautiful, but not necessarily expensive when compared to the big three: diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. This hands-on seminar will be conducted by Celso D’Alejo, a certified gemologist and appraiser in his showroom. We will see many gemstones, learn their characteristics, and how they are graded and valued.
June 2014 AWARE 25 Local tours and activities
A Visit to the Hong Kong Museum of History and Lunch LOOKING AHEAD When: Monday, 23 June, 9:30am – 2:00pm TO JULY Where: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – across from GNC Create a Leather Rose Cost: $80 members/$150 members’ guest When: Wednesday, 2 July, 10:00am – 1:00pm Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 20 Registration must be received by 26 June Coordinators: Lori DiCarlo, 6136 9871 Where: AWA Office, 2-12 Queens Road West, Lisa Wallis, 6715 0653 Arion Bldg, 11/F, Sheung Wan Get out of the heat and into the beautiful Hong Kong Cost: $370 members/$440 member’s guest Museum of History. Join us as we spend a couple of hours Capacity: minimum 3, maximum 8 learning about Hong Kong's rich historical and cultural Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 heritage. The “Hong Kong Story” exhibition comprises eight Kate Mahjoubian, 6462 6559 galleries, located on two floors, and vividly outlines the natural Most of us can’t grow roses here in Hong Kong, but we can environment, folk culture and historical development of Hong certainly learn the techniques to make a long-lasting leather Kong. There are over 4,000 exhibits, with the use of 75 rose which can be used as an accessory piece, such as a graphic panels, and a number of dioramas and multi-media brooch, key ring, hair clip, etc. The rose will be approximately programs, all enhanced with special audio-visual and lighting 9x7cm in size. No previous leather-working experience is effects. The exhibition, which is both entertaining and required. Millie, from the Dotted Collective, will teach us how educational, starts telling the story of Hong Kong from the to cut, form, fashion and finish our own leather rose. Devonian period 400 million years ago and concludes with Participants will select their leather from several choices. Join the reunification of Hong Kong with China in 1997. We hope us for a fun morning out of the heat, learning a new skill and you will come and experience this historical and cultural enjoy the company of your fellow AWA members. All journey through Hong Kong. Lunch afterwards will be at materials and tools will be provided. shared expense.
Baking Afternoon at Cocoa Pin – Heart-Shaped Macaroon Cheese Cake with Mixed Berries When: Wednesday, 25 June, 9:45am – 2:00pm Where: Meet inside Wan Chai MTR – by Exit A4 Cost: $450 members/$520 member’s guest Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 12 Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 Katherine Fenton, 9600 3197 Fourth of July Celebration Luncheon Cocoa Pin is one of Hong Kong’s newest professional cooking on a Junk! schools and is run by Pin, one of the best pastry chefs and When: Friday, 4 July, 9:45am – 2:15pm teachers in Hong Kong. In this class, we’ll learn to make a Where: Meet at Central Pier 9 striking summer dessert that will surely delight. We will start Cost: $225 member/$295 members’ guest by learning to make a traditional French macaroon base which Capacity: minimum 10/maximum 25 we will embellish with a cream cheese and mixed berry Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 filling. In addition, Pin will explain the difference between Liza Boltz, 6070 4303 French and Italian macaroons and which application is best for We may be in Hong Kong on the Fourth of July but we can each. We will finish by enjoying Pin’s famous hot chocolate certainly celebrate America’s Independence Day! We will and a taste of our dessert start the excursion with Bloody Marys and then have an creation. Pin holds multiple American pot-luck luncheon while we cruise around Hong certificates for patisserie, Kong Island. Included in the price is BBQ chicken, tips, paper including one from Le Cordon goods, etc. The rest of the feast is where you come in! We’ll Blue Paris. In addition, she is ask you to bring a side dish or dessert and will coordinate this the author of four cookbooks. with you before the Fourth. You do not have to be American Optional lunch to follow at to celebrate with us! Dress is casual, but red, white and blue shared expense. is definitely encouraged!
26 AWARE June 2014 LocaL tours and activities
Lolly Pop! Lolly Pop! When: Thursday, 10 July, 9:30am –12:30pm refund, Cancellation and Where: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – across from substitution policies GNC Every activity includes an administrative fee of HK$70* Cost: $470 members/$540 member’s guest Member/HK$140 Member's Guest. This base fee is not CapaCity: minimum 4, maximum 6 refundable at any time, unless the AWA cancels the event. Coordinators: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 Charges in excess of the base fee are refundable if cancellation Let’s indulge in the childish pleasure of making and enjoying is received by the AWA office at least one full week before the lolly pops and stick candies. Manie and Freddi, owners of Hey activity date. For example, if the activity is on a Tuesday, Candy in Tseun Wan, are going to let us inside their world of cancellation must be received prior to midnight of the creating bespoke hard candies. In this class, you will learn previous Tuesday. If the AWA cancels an event, the entire how hard candies are made, flavored and colored. Then you activity cost will be automatically credited to you. Credit notes will have the opportunity to create your own combination of are not transferable and must be used within six months from the date of issue or by the end of the AWA fiscal year (30th animal shaped lolly pops, twisted lolly pops and traditional June), whichever is earlier. You may request a check in lieu of a candy shop stick candies. It will be your choice as to whether credit at any time before the credit expires. you make one incredibly large lolly pop or selection of smaller Owing to the popularity of AWA activities, many have a items. Lunch to follow at shared expense. wait list and therefore substitutions cannot be accepted. If you are unable to attend an activity, please inform the AWA office to cancel your place and allow someone on the waitlist to attend.
registration procedures Local Tour and Activity (LTA) events are open for registration as of the first of each month in which the activity will be held. Activities being held in the early part of the following month are open for registration on the first day of the prior month. Check the AWA website at www.awa.org.hk for the most up-to-date schedule and don't forget to register early as many of the events will sell out.
* The $70 registration fee is purely an administration fee. It is not donated to the Charitable and Education fund.
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June 2014 aWare 27 On-going activities
Ongoing activities are generally for AWA members only. An SPIRITUAL LITERACY BOOK/ annual one-time registration is required to become a member DISCUSSION GROUP of an ongoing activity group. To register, contact the AWA When: TBD office at [email protected] or register on the AWA website: Where: TBD https://www.awa.org.hk/activities_ongoing.php. Coordinator: Kate Weisman [email protected] New AWA Buddy Program SLG is a gathering of interfaith, spiritually-minded women Welcoming new members in a personal one to one fashion is who celebrate unity in diversity and gather to foster spiritual the purpose of the new AWA Buddy Program. It is hoped literacy in everyday life. that this will nurture a strong connection between the new member and existing member while easing their transition into Hong Kong life. The buddy would welcome the new member and if new in town, the buddy could answer any questions about life in Hong Kong. Activities could range depending on available time and may include meeting for coffee or sharing an AWA event or activity. Buddy matching will take into account interests and also districts where new members live. Consideration is also given to whether the new member has children living with them as life with children can be a shared experience. Anyone interested in being a Buddy is asked to contact Alison As the Spiritual Literacy Group’s exploration of interfaith May at [email protected] and provide the following pluralism we studied Hinduism and visited A Hindu and a Sikh information: Temple in Happy Valley. The day culminated with a home- • District where living made Indian feast hosted by Deepa Tolani followed by a sari • Mobile number dress-up and fashion show. • Mail address • Whether or not you have children living with you ART LOVERS When: Monthly AFTERNOON BOOK CLUB Where: Various venues When: Tuesday, 3 June, 1:00pm Coordinators: Kumiko Matsushima Where: TBD [email protected]; Cost: No charge. One-time annual registration Cynthia Lackey, [email protected], Coordinator: Penny Van, Niel [email protected] 6200 3222 Anna MacDonald, [email protected] The “Culture Vultures” will explore the local fine arts scene. Often cited as the best work of short fiction ever written, "The We will visit museums, current exhibitions, galleries, film Dead" is the final short story in the 1914 collection Dubliners festivals, the Hong Kong Arts Festival, and the Literary Festival by James Joyce. Rightfully considered a short story with its numerous lectures by international authors. An masterpiece, "The Dead" tells the tale of a man (Gabriel) who, optional lunch at shared expense where we discuss our at a party hosted by his aunts in Dublin in the early part of the opinions will follow. 20th century, has a moment of self-realization and spiritual awakening when his wife tells him about a relationship she NEEDLE ARTS had as a young girl with a youth who loved her passionately. When: Fridays, 10:00am – 12:00pm James Joyce's elegant story details the New Year's Eve Coordinator: Elisabeth Denys, [email protected] gathering as so evocative and beautiful that it prompted Join us as we work on needle arts projects – sewing, quilting, Gabriel's wife to make a shocking revelation to her husband, needlepoint, cross-stitch, knitting, and embroidery – while closing the story with an emotionally powerful epiphany that chatting about our common interests, exchanging new ideas, is unsurpassed in modern literature. A beautifully written story learning and getting advice from each other. This is not a class by a masterful author, the ending paragraphs of "The Dead" but an informal group. Members may bring an unfinished are some of the most haunting and lyrical in all of literature. project to work on.
28 AWARE June 2014 On-going activities
BRIDGE AND LUNCH SOCIAL ICC – INTERNATIONAL COOKING When: Mondays, 10:00am – 1:00pm CLUB Where: AWA Office, No. 5, 11/F Arion Commercial When: Group meets every second Friday of each Centre, 2 Queen’s Rd West, Sheung Wan month, 10:00am – 2:00pm Cost: Free (Optional lunch at shared expense) Where: Various venues; TBA. Coordinator: Lisa Strunin, 6184 8370, strunin.lisa@ Capacity: minimum 6, maximum 8 gmail.com Coordinator: Sylvie Guyot, [email protected] Registration required for one-time only sign up for the entire Are you interested in learning how to cook international 2013-2014 membership year. dishes that might bring a welcome change to your daily Note: This group is for players with a previous knowledge of routine? Rotating hostesses will introduce foreign dishes and the game. demonstrate how to prepare easy, family-oriented dishes in Make Monday your bridge morning! Come and enjoy social the comfort of their own kitchen. Lunch follows each class. bridge at the AWA on Monday mornings. We rotate tables so We pick a new country monthly and share the costs for food there are plenty of opportunities to make new friends and and drinks (costs per person will not exceed $250). Each enjoy the company of others who love playing bridge. participant will leave with a printout of the recipes. The Optional lunch at a local restaurant follows. hostess will notify the group each month about the planned cuisine and the venue–first come, first in! GAMES GALORE When: Fridays, 10:00am – 3:30pm LUNCH BUNCH Where: The American Club, Fireside Lounge When: Monthly AWA or American Club members only Where: Various restaurants Coordinator: Beth Hall, [email protected] Capacity: maximum 20 If you enjoy playing Mahjong or Bridge, plan to come to the Coordinator: Marcia Hammelev Sander American Club on Fridays. 9868 4112, [email protected] Mahjong tables and tiles will be set up, and Bridge cards and Would you enjoy gathering for lunch on a regular basis? The tables will be available. All skill levels are welcome; however, Lunch Bunch coordinator sets up a group of 12 to 20 players must have prior knowledge of Mahjong or Bridge. members. Each member takes turns choosing the restaurant, Lunch is at individual expense; non-American Club Members making the reservation, informing the others, and hosting. may make payment by credit card only, no cash. Lunch is either at individual or shared expense as agreed upon on the day of the event. This is a great way to socialize FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUP with other AWA members while enjoying a variety of cuisines When: TBD in Hong Kong. Where: Central and Southside Coordinator: Barbara Markovits, MAHJONG MADNESS [email protected] When: Tuesdays, 10:00am – 4:00pm (come Enjoy French conversation in a fun, casual group setting! The anytime) French conversation group meets once a month with an aim Where: The American Club, Fireside Lounge or to socialize, have fun, and improve your conversational skills other location to be posted while gaining more knowledge about the culture. Activities AWA, American Club or AMHH members are organized by rotating hosts. All levels welcome! only Coordinator: Katherine Fenton, [email protected] ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUP 9600 3197 When: TBD Come and play mahjong on Tuesdays with other AWA / Where: Various locations, TBD American Club members. This activity is suitable for all skill Coordinator: Patty Tarallo, [email protected] levels, but players are expected to have a prior knowledge of Enjoy Italian conversation in a fun, casual group setting! The the rules. Optional lunch at individual expense. Non-American Italian conversation group meets once a month with an aim Club members must settle their bills prior to departure by to socialize, have fun, and improve your conversational skills credit card only (no cash or checks). while gaining more knowledge about the culture. Activities are organized by rotating hosts.
June 2014 AWARE 29 On-going activities
MOMS & TOTS MORNING PLAY DATES M-Cuisine Private Kitchen When: TBD Date and time: Friday, 6 June, 7:00pm Where: TBD Venue: M-Cuisine, Flat B, 17/F, Derrick Industrial Coordinator: Alpa Tolia, [email protected] Bldg, 49 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Wong Chuk Moms-to-be and tots up to 3 are welcome to join us for a Hang, Aberdeen morning of play, chatting, and coffee/tea! Please feel free to Capacity: minimum 8, maximum 16 come in costume. Charge: $780/person RSVP: Marybeth Coffer, Marybeth.coffer@gmail. PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP com , 6624 4484 When: Group meets at least once a month Let’s try something new and roll up our sleeves with private Capacity: maximum 10 chef Michael Erlik at his new private kitchen, M-Cuisine. We’ll Coordinator: Becky Wong, [email protected], 9278 learn to make three different kinds of sausage: Loukaniko 2727 Greek Sausage which is made of venison, feta cheese, The AWA Photography Group is a social way to enjoy lemon zest, Za’tar and thyme; Merguez Morrocan Sausage photography as a hobby while giving you a chance to practice which is made of lamb, spicy Harrisa paste, coriander, and your skills and explore Hong Kong. All you need is enthusiasm mint; and, Salsiccia Italian Sausage which is made of beef and a camera to join us as we capture Hong Kong's rib-eye, roasted garlic, parsley and dried procini mushrooms. contrasting architecture and communities. All camera types Yum! Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and canapes while welcome as well as suggestions for excursions. you review the recipes. Once we’ve had our safety briefing, Chef Erlik will guide us in deboning a whole leg of lamb and “SOCIAL” . . . IS COMING . . . ! venison and prepare them for mincing and seasoning with Are you finding yourself alone in Hong Kong with nothing to various spice combinations. Dutch pork and lamb casing will do? Craving some conversations with others besides the be used as we create sausage magic in the kitchen and learn doorman? You are sooooooooo not alone! AWA wants to find to use the sausage stuffing machine. Finally, after learning the a way for us to meet up – whether for a movie, coffee, wine, traditional sausage tying techniques, we will enjoy a sit down dinner or other adventures! SOCIAL provides the S.. dinner complete with various salads, truffled mashed cheduling, O..utings, C..oordinate, I..nteresting, A..nytime, L.. potatoes, dessert, and wine. At the end of the evening, you ink. Details coming soon. Interested in Helping Organize will leave with a full belly, approximately one kg. of your SOCIAL? Contact: Barbara Macho, [email protected]; handcrafted sausages, and a recipe booklet. The cost of the and/or Patti Smith, [email protected]. dinner of $780/person is $200 less than the normal price and includes the added value of dessert. The all-inclusive price GALLOPING GOURMET includes sausage making class, dinner, and wine. As this is a Hong Kong restaurants offer an international gastronomic private kitchen event, prepayment is required. Cancellations extravaganza which we explore by visiting different will be accepted and refunded only if a replacement can be restaurants each month. A designated host couple selects a found. restaurant for the group. Contact: info@ awa.org.hk.
A[[
A+ Living In Hong Kong
6031-4930 [email protected]
Any premises leasing business with us by May 31, 2014, you will have supermarket gift vouchers equivalent to 10% of service payment.
30 AWARE June 2014 SPORTing activities
The 2014 Dragon Boat racing season is about to begin for the AWA Globe Paddlers! We invite you to join us as at the races! These are full day races, usually beginning at 9:00am and ending around 5:00pm. The dates and locations for the AWA Globe Paddlers 2014 races are as follows:
Monday, June 2, 2014 – Sun Life Stanley International Dragon Boat Championship (www.dragonboat.org.hk) Location: Stanley Main Beach
Friday – Sunday, June 6-8, 2014 – Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Federation Races Location: Victoria Harbour
AWA’s Globe Paddlers Dragon Boat Although the whole AWA Globe Paddler team shares the goal Team Readies for the 2014 Race of winning races, when you commit to the AWA Globe Season Paddlers you quickly learn that it is much more than trophies that makes joining this team so worthwhile. It is a CoordinatorS: Elissa Imran, [email protected] tremendous honor and privilege to be a part of this group of 9618 470 0 outstanding women supported by excellent coaches and Sara Bertino, [email protected] sponsor. We hope you will consider coming out in October 9666 4954 2014 to the pre-season practices to see if joining the Globe If you walk by Stanley Main Beach on a Tuesday or Saturday Paddlers is a good fit for you! Please come cheer us on morning you might hear the cheer “More Power Now!” That during the races if you are in the vicinity! means the AWA Globe Paddlers are hard at work preparing P for the 2014 Dragon Boat racing season! Coached by Gary hotog
and Cordi Chin, sponsored by TTI, Techtronic Industries, and r aph
made up of AWA members, this dedicated team has been b s y practicing twice weekly to master the stroke and C : hop synchronicity required to excel at Dragon Boat paddling. s tick s D s
For those new to Hong Kong, the Tuen Ng Festival Day (Duen ia r Wu Jie in Mandarin Chinese) is an important public holiday y and is observed on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month following the Chinese Lunar Calendar. According to the Hong Kong Fast Facts website (www.hkfastfacts.com), the Festival began when the patriotic and well-respected scholar, poet and statesman, Qu Yuan (pronounced Chu Yuan), drowned himself to protest against the emperor. When the fishermen heard he had drowned, they jumped on boats to search for him. After a long search, they failed to find him. They started hitting drums and making loud noises to scare the fish so they wouldn’t touch Qu Yuan’s body. The Tuen Ng Festival’s dragon boat races are a re-enactment of the frantic, vain attempts of the fishermen who rowed out to save Qu Yuan. This year’s Tuen Ng Festival Day is on Monday, June 2.
Last year, the AWA Globe Paddlers had an outstanding season, beginning with a first place finish in the Lamma 500 meter women’s division and ending the season with a first place finish in the women’s division of the Sun Life Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships.
June 2014 AWARE 31 SPORTing activities
I-HIKES CoordinatorS: Lori Wigmore, Sarah Rindlaub Cynthia Lackey, [email protected] Cost: No charge. One-time annual registration. Are you amazed at how much space there truly is in Hong Kong? Join us for intermediate hikes in and around Hong Kong Island, lasting 2 to 3 hours, usually on Wednesday mornings. We hike various stages of the Hong Kong Trail, the Wilson Trail and many other trails that may not be as well known, but offer a challenge and a view. Occasionally we venture off of the island to the New Territories, Lamma Island and Lantau. These moderately paced hikes are recommended Weekly golf will continue until 12 June 2014 and resume in for beginner to intermediate hikers who love the outdoors. August:
SOCIAL GOLF When: Every Monday and Thursday Contact: [email protected] Where: Hong Kong Golf Club, Deep Water Bay When: 09:00 am tee-off on a roll up basis The AWA Golf Group is well into the golfing year. We've held Cost: $550 for AWA Members ~ please make sure you bring no less than seven golf clinics already and competed in five your handicap card and your HK ID or passport. tournaments while our regular golf continues every Monday Coordinator: Marlyn Robertson, [email protected] and Wednesday. When: Wednesdays Nevertheless, whether you are a member returning, or new Where: Kau Sai Chung Public Golf Course, Sai Kung to Hong Kong and perhaps even new to golf, we want you! When: Tee-times are usually booked on request and as the system allows (08:30 onwards) The AWA Social Golf Group makes playing golf in Hong Kong Cost: $600 approximately simple, fun and stress free. We try to cater for all levels of Sign up: As reservations have to made a week in advance, ability from beginner to advanced or experienced golfers. We kindly book your spot with the coordinator as soon as play regularly each week on different courses, and we also possible when the email is sent out advertising details about organise golf clinics twice a month to help you improve your the round. game. Every so often, we host golfing weekends or golf days Coordinator: [email protected] further afield such as in Macau and Mission Hills, and other one-off activities including quiz nights or simulator coaching, The AWA Social Golf group thanks Lynda Coggins for her amongst others. If you like the competitive side of golf, we years of service as the group's overall coordinator. Lynda has run a tournament each month, which is very popular. stepped down in this role as of May 2014. We look forward seeing Lynda on the fairways together ongoing and invite You can sign up to play golf with us by registering online via anyone who might be interested in fulfilling this role to email the AWA Website. Simply go to "golf" in the sports section, Jodi Jones on: [email protected]. complete the registration and you'll start receiving our emails, newsletters and other communications. There is no additional fee charged for this group and events are all open to AWA members and guests.
During the summer, tournaments and clinics will not take place until August when our regular golf programme resumes. Keep an eye out for dates and details about golf in the second half of the years by checking AWAre and checking our AWA Social Golf Group's newsletter ~ The Whack and Hack. For more information, contact the coordinator: Jodi Jones on [email protected].
32 AWARE June 2014 contact information
Office EXECUTIVE BOARD Phone 2527 2961/2 Fax 2865 7737 Executive Board [email protected] Hours 9.30am – 3.30pm Mon-Thu President Eileen Glynn [email protected] Address No.5, 11th floor. Arion Commercial Centre, 1st VP Fundraising Marcy LaRont [email protected] 2-12 Queen's Road West, Hong Kong 2nd VP Membership Nicky Cooper [email protected] Website www.awa.org.hk 3rd Vice President Activities Julie Naughton [email protected] Office & Website Manager Barbora Mayer [email protected] AWAre Editor Joy Murray [email protected] Membership Representative Joanne Lam [email protected] Charitable Donations Susan Trebach [email protected] Administrator Caroline Nicholas [email protected] Community Service Kate Weisman [email protected] Education & Scholarship Mary Barbara Hanna [email protected] Public Relations Jennifer Schlueter [email protected] Community Recording Secretary Lisa Mar [email protected] Treasurer Irene Chu [email protected] C haritable Donations [email protected] Social Media Angela Bellas [email protected] Chairperson Susan Trebach [email protected] Social Community Service [email protected] Activities [email protected] Chairperson Kate Weisman [email protected] ACS Partnering Susan Trebach [email protected] 3rd Vice President Julie Naughton [email protected] Cheung Chau Reading Program Ellen Albrecht [email protected] Art Lovers Kumiko Matsushima [email protected] Fenwick Pier Volunteers Carol Lampard [email protected] Cynthia Lackey [email protected], 6200 3222 Helpers for Domestic Helpers Tammy Baltz [email protected] Asian Tours Jane Buck [email protected] HK Society for the Blind Kate Mahjoubian [email protected] Bridge & Lunch Social Lisa Strunin [email protected] Meals in the Home Marybeth Coffer [email protected] Book Club - Day Penny Van Niel [email protected] Ronald McDonald House Renee Cheung [email protected] Anna MacDonald [email protected] Trisha Cliff [email protected] Dragon Boat E l i s s a I m r a n e l i s s a . i m r a n @ g m a i l . c o m , 9 6 1 8 4 7 0 0 Soup Kitchen Alison May [email protected] Sara Bertino [email protected], 9666 4954 French Conversation group Barbara Markovits [email protected] Games Galore Beth Hall [email protected] Galloping Gourmet Hallie Cohn [email protected] Education & Scholarship Global Insights Stella Schumann 2493 7114, Tracy Russell 6921 4400 [email protected] Golf – Events and Lessons Jackie Johnson 852 5662 7248 Golf – Social Play and Events [email protected] Chairperson mary Barbara Hanna [email protected] iHikes Lori Wigmore, Sarah Reinlaub, Cynthia Lackey [email protected] Chatterbox Rosalind Keith [email protected] International Cooking Club Sylvie Guyot [email protected] Kowloon Marti Law [email protected] Italian Conversation Group Patty Tarallo [email protected] Wan Chai tba Local Tours and Activities Jane Buck [email protected] Pok Fu Lam Rachel Bourke [email protected] Lunch Bunch Marcia Hammelev Sander 9868 4112 Sham Shui Po Lindy Vasey [email protected] Mahjong Katherine Fenton 9600 3197 Chai Wan Rosalind Keith rmekeith@ yahoo.com Moms & Tots Alpa Tolia [email protected] Ap Lei Chau Sue Cummings-Walder [email protected] Needle Arts Elisabeth Denys [email protected] Dining Etiquette Heather Black [email protected] Photography Group Becky Wong [email protected] Phone Pals Shibani Dutta [email protected] SOCIAL Barbare Macro [email protected] Mock Interviews Bernice Lee [email protected] Patti Smith [email protected] Spiritual Literacy Book/Discussion Group [email protected]
Fundraising [email protected] 1st VP Fundraising Marcy LaRont [email protected] Membership [email protected] 2nd Vice President nicky Cooper [email protected] CHAT Coordinator Susan Wallace 9783 3227 Public Relations [email protected] Foon Ying Kate Mahjoubian 6462 6559 Hildy Karev 6799 9604 Chairperson Jennifer Schlueter [email protected] Membership Discounts [email protected] Newsletter/E-Blast Coordinator Randy Prescott [email protected] Night OWL Kathy Barber [email protected] WOW 2527 2961/2 Listserve Moderator Randy Prescott [email protected]
If you would like to join the AWA or if you have any question about the organization, please contact the office or any of the Executive Board.
June 2014 AWARE 33