BAMBOO TELEGRAPH ALL WOMEN, ALL WALKS OF LIFE, ALL NATIONALITIES

MARCH/APRIL2019 March/April 2019

DON’T MISS THE AWA FASHION SHOW FEATURING OUR MEMBER-MODELS

SIGN UP FOR the always thrilling night at the races fun places to HOW TO LOOK RUNWAY get coffee and READY WITHOUT cocktails in our BUSTING YOUR new column BUDGET “watering holes” VOLUNTEER LUNCH & ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The hard work and efforts of AWA’s dedicated volunteers make our multiple programs possible.

To express our heartfelt gratitude, we invite you to our AGM & Volunteer Appreciation Lunch.

Tuesday, May 7 further details can be found on our website and will be sent to volunteers by email.

For more AWA volunteer opportunities, see page 18 AWA SINGAPORE’S membership magazine BTmar/apr 2019 Bamboo Telegraph Production Team Contents BT Editor-in-Chief Tori Nelson [email protected] 2 President’s Message 8 3 Fashion Show BT Staff Managing Editor - Prachi Rangan 4 Community Service Photo Editor - Celine Suiter 5 Night at the Races Copy Editor - Helena A. Cochrane 6 Member Spotlight Local Tours Editor - Lorraine Graybill BT Online Editor - Jennifer Schell 7 Arts & Culture 8 Balance on the Red Dot 10 BT Advertising 10 Watering Holes Robin Phillips [email protected] 11 IWD Event 12 Photography Visit us on the internet: 14 Beauty & Fashion www.awasingapore.org 15 Ready in 5 Facebook: 16 Local Tours 20 American Women’s Association of 18 Volunteer Call Singapore - AWA 19 The Fork and Chopstick Questions, comments and administrative issues, 20 Holiday Luncheon please email us: [email protected] 22 You’re Not Alone 23 Hiking Printed by Xpress Print (Pte) Ltd 24 Tennis 23 6880-2881, fax 6880-2998 25 Running [email protected] 26 Golf Shots MCI (P) 099/06/2018 27 Writers’ Block Cover Photo by Hey Gorgeous Photography, 28 Calendar featuring AWA members Anne Perng (front) and Rebekah Gates (back) at our 2018 Fashion Show 26

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

AWA Cancellation Policies • If the event is marked NO CANCELLATION, then no refund can be given. • All other AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable admin charge. This cannot be returned under any circumstances. • You may cancel your attendance at an event by emailing [email protected] 4 working days prior to the event. • If you paid online, we will refund you via Paypal. If you paid by any other method you will be asked for your preferred refund method, cash or check. • You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member or to another identical event (e.g. Mahjong game to Mahjong game) no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing [email protected] with the new attendee’s name. • Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded. Please be advised that any names listed in this publication, the AWA directory or any other material published by AWA are for the exclusive use of AWA members only. Any commercial use is strictly prohibited. The Bamboo Telegraph is published 6 times per year. The American Women’s Association and the Bamboo Telegraph neither endorse nor take responsibility for the opinions expressed herein. Please address all comments and queries to the Bamboo Telegraph Editor. AWA does not endorse or promote any product or service offered through any advertisement that may appear in the Bamboo Telegraph.

BBambooamboo TTelegraphelegraph M March/Aprilarch/April 2019 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORGWWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 1 President's Message......

In the back of every Bamboo Telegraph is a very impressive list of all the activities that AWA has to offer. I often tell potential AWA members and newcomers you will not have any problem filling up your day with everything that’s going on in this group. Each of these activities and events are organized by a vast team of volunteers. You may be surprised to find out that some of these volunteers wear multiple hats and would never hesitate to help Mel Rice host another book group, walk around the island or be a part of a major event.

Starting this month, our nominating committee will be working to fill seats on the AWA Board for 2019-2020. While many board members will be staying active, we do have President’s Message some positions that will be opening up. If you have been wondering about how to get more involved, how to meet like-minded people, or how to give back, I highly encourage you to volunteer with the AWA! We would love to have you join us for a coffee and chat on Tuesday, March 5th from 10:00am-12:00pm, where you can meet the current board members and learn more about the upcoming opportunities we have to offer.

Without a doubt, April is one of the most exciting months at the AWA as the highly anticipated Fashion Show takes center stage on Friday, April 26th. The fashion show committee is led by Anna Dolganow and Yvonne Blackwood with incredible support from Emily Essaye, our Major Events Chair. Venta Norvilas, who has been a part of the fashion show for several years, is offering consulting skills as well as overseeing backstage while Jen Canale and Thea Helfer are coordinating all the behind-the-scene activities. Beck Dahl and Marcela Karabaum have been busy scouting out the designers and Erika Masiero has been working with our very own AWA members on perfecting their walk down the runway. You can’t have a fashion show without shopping and Lynda Mametz has carefully curated a list of vendors for the event. With tickets going on sale March 1st, this event will surely sell out. Who wouldn’t love an afternoon of shopping, fashion and fun?

AWA continues to grow and consistently provide a wealth of opportunities whether they be social, sports, special interest or community service. At the start of May, we will have our annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Annual General Meeting (AGM). This is a lovely afternoon where we celebrate the efforts of ALL our volunteers, vote for the upcoming year’s slate of officers and mingle with friends.

Have a lovely March and April ladies and hope to see you soon!

American Women’s Association FAQ’s/Important Information of Singapore • The AWA welcomes all nationalities, not just Americans. • AWA guest fees apply to Singapore residents. Out of town guests and family 15 Scotts Road #03-01 members pay the AWA member price. Singapore 228218 • Guests are entitled to attend 2 events (in total, not per year) before we ask General Manager: Sarah Cockerill them to join the AWA to continue participating. Main: 6734-4895 • You can register for membership and events any time on our website Office Hours: www.awasingapore.org Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm www.awasingapore.org

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

2 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo TTelegraph M March/Aprilarch/April 2019 AWA Fashion Show

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 3 COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOOD FROM THE HEART WILLING HEARTS SOUP KITCHEN FOOD PREP

Community Service PACKING UP GROCERIES

People go hungry in Singapore every day. Join AWA friends to help box up packages of groceries that get delivered to families with school age children. It’s one of the many programs of Food From The Heart, and one that AWA supports most months, so check the calendar regularly for future AWA packing dates too. Our upcoming dates are:

Date: Wednesday, March 20 Date: Wednesday, April 17 Time: 9:30am – 12:30pm Place: FFTH Warehouse, 130 Joo Seng Rd #03-01, 368357 Join fellow AWA members to prepare food for those less fortunate in Singapore. This soup kitchen prepares, cooks and distributes about 6,000 daily meals to over 40 locations island-wide, 365 days a year. Tasks include preparing daily meals, cleaning dishes, unpacking grocery trucks and repacking donated items. Children are welcome as long as they are at least 10 years old and must be supervised 1:1 (one adult for every child registered). All volunteers should wear clothing that will get dirty and wet, including closed-toe shoes.

Date: Thursday, March 28 Date: Saturday, April 27 Time: 8:30am - 11:30am Place: 11 Jun Ubi Blk 6 #01-51 Kembangan – Chai Chee Community Hub

Photo above: AWA volunteers at Food from the Heart. For more information on Community Service, contact Allison Burden at commservice @awasingapore.org

Richie’s Custom Tailor Classic and distinctive hand-made tuxedos for men and cheongsams for women

Orchard Plaza #01-68 150 Orchard Road, S 238841

6732-7867 9238-5654 HP

4 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 , ,

THE AWA PRESENTS A NIGHT AT THE RACES KENTUCKY DERBY STYLE! Enjoy a very special Singapore horse-racing experience under lights!

Gather your friends, don your best Derby-worthy hat, and join us for a night at the races. Watch live horse racing, enjoy a buffet dinner and socialize in the grand setting of the Singapore Turf Club.

Friday, May 3rd 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Singapore Turf Club 1 Turf Club Avenue, 739038

$75 Members and Spouses, $90 Non Members (includes dinner, private room with betting facilities and direct views of track)

Please bring plenty of cash for betting and the cash bar

Recommended Attire is Kentucky Derby Style

Register at www.awasingapore.org. This is a non-refundable event. MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Written by Christin Gustafson

INTRODUCING ... HELGA HERRERA

Member Spotlight Member Helga and her husband arrived in Singapore 8 years ago with their two children after spending 6 years in South Korea. Her son, age 16, is a student in Singapore and her daughter, age 21, lives in London after having finished her university studies in The Netherlands. Helga owns her own company, Grafika Photography and Design, and loves capturing Singapore’s life, culture, and diversity with her camera.

What about Singapore culture has surprised you the most?

I love the fact that Singapore is so inclusive and multicultural. Different ethnic groups live as good neighbors. Each group has its own beliefs, but they respect each other. It is incredible how the government has been able to accommodate the most important religious and cultural celebrations of each group. Although people mix and mingle freely, I love to see how people of every group proudly wear their traditional costume as well as Western clothes.

What is your favorite Singaporean holiday to celebrate? How do you think celebrating something from your new culture has helped you feel part of Singapore?

My favorite Singaporean Holiday is Deepavali. I love the energy of Little India around this time; the vibrant colors, the food, the flowers and the traditional outfits. Indian food is one of my favorites, the spices make it so rich and delicious. I walk around and enjoy the smell of the food and the fragrance of the flowers along the streets. The Sari is in my opinion one of the most beautiful and vibrant pieces of clothing, feminine and flowy, and it looks good on every body type. And the henna art that goes with it is unique. It is a treat to walk around and photograph the people and the activity going on, since street photography is one of my favorite types of photography.

How many houses/apartments have you lived in as an adult? Do you still hang all the pictures and decorate all the rooms? Does your apartment/house here feel like home?

Change has been a constant in my adult life and I love it. I think I have lived in 14 different homes as an adult, 12 since I got married, 10 since my daughter was born. Even in Singapore, in the 8 years that we have lived here, we moved four times, getting to know different neighborhoods and people. I still hang pictures and decorate the rooms. It is a lot of work and it takes a lot of energy, but having my things and memories around makes me feel at home.

What item in your Singapore home-away-from-home makes you feel most settled?

I am a firm believer that home is wherever you are. I love Bolivia, the place where I was born and raised, but my home is here with my husband, my kid, my dog and all the treasures and memories that I have collected from around the world. My camera has been a great companion as well, making me feel at home and helping me through difficult situations. My job as a photographer has allowed me to meet lots of interesting people, and some of them have become good friends. Photography is more than work, it brings peace and happiness to my spirit, and I have been lucky to share it with people all around the world.

What advice would you give first time expats?

Go out and make friends by joining a club or a church group. Go to a networking event, start a new hobby, talk to people (from all backgrounds). Eat local food and learn about the local culture, understand the differences between your native culture and the one you live in. Before you know it, you will feel at home.

To read an expanded version of this interview, see the Bamboo Telegraph online edition at www.awasingapore.org

6 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Arts & Culture

Myanmar Magic

Date: Thursday, April 11 Time: 10 am - 12 noon Place: Private Residence Cost: $15 Member/$20 Guest Limit: 18 people

Join the Arts & Culture Committee as we visit the home and gallery of Percy Vatsaloo who will share his 30 years of experience in collecting and dealing in antiques from Myanmar (Burma), as well as supporting a weaving village in Northeast Thailand. He will introduce us to various crafts such as lacquer ware, wood carving, textiles and silver of which the Burmese were masters. He will also touch on the aspects of collecting, such as what to look for and how to tell the difference between “new” and “old”. Many outstanding examples, including pieces from Percy’s private collection, will be on display. Don’t miss out!

Sign up at www.awasingapore.org

BOUTIQUES PIT BUILDING CURATED. DISTINCTIVE. DESIGN-LED. THE SPRING/SUMMER 2019 EDITION MARCH 29, 9AM – 8PM MARCH 30,10AM – 8PM MARCH 31,10AM – 6PM

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Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 7 Written by and Photographs provided by Katie Dewhurst

Hello All!

I’ve been a student of all things health and wellness for years now, but a year ago, I fully committed myself to the study of health coaching and functional medicine. I feel a strong sense of purpose to share a way of eating that focuses on balance and does NOT include deprivation and “do not eat” lists. I want women to reclaim the power they have to feel good in

Balance on the Red Dot Balance on the Red Dot their bodies, and better yet, to love their bodies. To have the tools to look and feel exactly how they want whether that means losing weight, balancing hormones, healing the gut or combating brain fog.

Considering all of this, I’m transitioning my old column, Scouting Singapore, to Balance on the Red Dot, which will cover topics related to health, wellness, and food! As my debut article, please enjoy my ultimate grocery shopping guide to keep your kitchen stocked full of healthy staples that will make cooking and eating at home delicious and easy!

• The Fishwives: I order online for wild and sustainably farmed fish (the salmon is the best I’ve had in Singapore!), grass- fed beef and lamb, poultry, Blanxart dark chocolate, wine, and other pantry staples. The Fishwives offers free delivery for orders above $180 which I like to take full advantage of by stocking my freezer full of high quality proteins so I’m always prepped to make healthy, delicious dinners on the fly.

8 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Balance on the Red Dot

• Little Farms: (pictured above) I go here on a weekly basis to stock up on the best quality produce (I can’t get enough of their avocados), free range eggs, coconut yogurt, kimchi, goat cheese, and healthy pantry items. You’re sure to find some new favourites! Plus, Little Farms offers free, same day delivery if you’re too busy to make it to the store.

• Bakening – Bakening specializes in Paleo breads and baked goods that are free of gluten, dairy, soy, refined sugar, and additives. Whenever I get the craving for baked goods I always turn to Bakening! You’re bound to love their soft breads, delicious muffins, cookies, and cakes – after all, Bakening prioritizes great taste just as much as sourcing clean, healthy ingredients.

• iHerb . com: I get a mix of pantry staples from iHerb.com including: Vanilla Coconut Collagen Fuel (my all-time favorite protein powder), nut butters (especially the MaraNatha Raw Almond Butter), chia seeds, Kettle & Fire Chicken Bone Broth, Wild Planet canned salmon (for spicy nori wraps), coconut aminos (my soy sauce alternative), avocado oil, flaxseed meal, and Primal Kitchen mayo (made without added sugars or inflammatory oils).

• The Whole Kitchen: My go-to for nut mixes, low-sugar granolas, and grain free/gluten free cakes and breads. I especially like the 7 seed sourdough for making avocado toast. Their products are free of refined sugar, gluten, preservatives and additives which is a brand I can get behind!

• Huber’s Butchery: This German butcher on Dempsey Hill offers a wide selection of quality proteins and anything you’d need to host a dinner party. My favorites are the grass-fed meats, sausages (free of fillers, flour, msg, and sugar), prosciutto, and European butters and cheeses.

• All Press – When I make coffee at home, my favorite is All Press Browns Mill Organic Blend. They use a hot air roasting method so your coffee doesn’t have that burnt, acidic taste. Go to sg.allpressespresso.com to purchase online or find the closest café to you for a cup of joe on the go.

• Redmart – And of course, Redmart for everything in between! For my morning smoothie, I love the Rude Health Almond Milk (specifically the unsweetened one with just almonds and water) and Earthbound Organic Baby Spinach which conveniently keeps for weeks in the freezer.

Katie Dewhurst is founder of Hello Balance, a full-service health coaching business. Contact her at [email protected] to learn more.

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 9 WATERING HOLES The Best Places in Singapore to find Coffee & Cocktails Written by Silvia Fernandez - Photographs by Maureen Mai

Watering Holes Toby’s Estate For Amazing Coffee & Cakes

I know what you’re thinking: Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay are for people who don’t live here. Yes, you are generally right. However, if you walk up the river a little bit, you will find this Aussie cafe that has the feeling of a neighbourhood gathering place. I would suggest sitting at the communal table and sipping any one of a number of coffees from other parts of the world prepared by experts. The lunch menu is good and the cakes are excellent with a couple of gluten/dairy free options not to miss. It’s a great place to meet old friends or make new ones!

8 Rodyk Street, #01-03 Singapore 238216 www.tobysestate.com.sg

Horse’s Mouth For Creative Cocktails

We always think of Orchard Road as the ideal shopper’s paradise. That may be the extent of it for some, but I would like to suggest this hidden gem for a fun cocktail hour. Recently, a friend mentioned the “secret hole in the wall” in the neighbourhood: the Horse’s Mouth Bar. The first surprise was its location in a shopping mall. It’s another example of how you can be surprised at any corner here in the Lion City.

The Horse’s Mouth is found in a basement, where there’s no sign, or at best, a disguised sign that leads you through a nice pasageway and a right turn to a …library?! Yes, this place feels more like a living room full of friends or acquaintances, and it features an exquisite Japanese style. You’ll find elegant Japanese touches and regional ingredients in every beverage. The bartender is certain to strike up an interesting conversation before suggesting a drink. I encourage you to follow this professional advice or let them create something new, customized for your refreshment.

583 Orchard Road, #B1-39 Forum Shopping Mall, Singapore 238884 www.horsesmouthbar.com

For more photos and details, see our Bamboo Telegraph Online edition at www.awasingapore.org

10 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 International Women’s Day

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 11 AWA PHOTOGRAPHY Photography

All Photos on this page by Karen Lucas

The AWA Photography Group has been very busy as usual. First, they did a fun Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Photo Shoot in December (photo below). It was very challenging to photograph as the scenes flashed by, but they were able to capture some great architectural shots from a unique perspective. AWA Photography leader Karen Lucas created some stunning collages, on the left side of this page. The group also had a blast capturing some iconic night- time scenes of Singapore from Gardens by the Bay East and the Benjamin Sheares Bridge (pictured above and on the right).

For more information on this group, contact Karen Lucas at [email protected].

12 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Photography

Both of the above photos were taken by Karen Lucas. The first one was taken with a shutter speed of 20 seconds which gives the clouds a nice soft fluffy feel by blurring their movement. The second photo, with the moving clouds appearing as faint swipe, was captured using a much longer exposure, in bulb mode and 3 Neutral Density filters.

One of the challenges of capturing this iconic skyline is the bushes in front of the shore , so a true reflection of the skyline couldn’t be achieved. Celine Suiter used her phone as a mirror to create a “fake’” reflection in camera in the photo above.

Above are 2 more interpretations of the iconic skyline by Marc Harris (left) & Maureen Mai (right):

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 13 AWA PHOTOGRAPHY UPCOMING EVENTS Tan Si Chong Su Temple Photo Walk Friday, March 15 9am-11:30am

Enjoy a fascinating morning of travel photography as you discover this colorful, charming oasis of calm hidden behind bustling Robertson Point. Built in 1876, this quaint ancestral temple is ornately decorated in the southern Chinese style and packed with objects of cultural importance. After visiting the temple, we’ll wander along the Singapore River, photographing as we go, and we’ll end the walk with a refreshing drink.

Price: Free Group size: Unlimited Meeting Point: Tan Si Chong Su Temple, 15 Magazine Road, Singapore 059568 Walk Organizer: Karen Lucas

How to Compose Great Photos Using any Camera or Phone Monday, April 15– 9am-12pm Photography/Beauty & Fashion & Fashion Photography/Beauty

Join Karen as she breaks down the complexity of great photography and shares her favorite creative tips and techniques. Learn easy ways to incorporate the key creative elements in your own photography to make gorgeous, impactful photos.

Price: Members $75 Non-members $100 Group size: Unlimited Venue: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Rd, 439053

Award-winning photographer Karen Lucas offers a comprehensive, step- by-step learning program for keen shutterbugs of all levels, plus an exciting range of workshops, fun photo walks and unforgettable tours.

eauty & ashion PARISIAN STYLE - TRES CHIC!

Date: Wednesday, March 6 Time: 11.00am to 1.00pm Place: Private Home in Emerald Hill address provided to registered guests Cost: $10.00 Member, $15.00 Guest Limit: 40

Come join us for a morning of champagne & cheese as we preview Parisian Style, the beautifully curated collection: Addiction by Jess. What better way to shop, mingle and meet new friends! PLUS we’ll have a morning of SURPRISES but you’ll need to join us to find out more.

Ticket price includes drinks and canapés.

14 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 READY IN 5 in 5 Ready Advice from The Unfussy Stylist to Simplify Your Life Written by & Photography provided by Danielle Bohn

How To Look Runway Ready Using Accessories

Accessories are to outfits, what herbs and spices are to a dish. They create interest, depth and allow you to completely change up the “flavor” depending on what you choose. The options are vast and limited only by the imagination.

However, as any good cook will tell you, the goal is not to mask ingredients, but rather to use them strategically to enhance or completely transform the canvas into a palate-pleasing finale. The same is true for accessories. So how then does one select the right accessories, ensuring they always look runway ready? Try these simple tips.

Create a go-to set A key to looking runway ready without exerting much effort is to buy 3 accessories in a coordinating palette. My favorite combo is a shoe, bag, and statement necklace or scarf. Change up the texture, pattern and sheen to create interest.

Add a pop of color with lipstick Add a cheery pink, sophisticated red, or a sultry burgundy to any uninspired outfit and instantly create flair and drama. If you want a long-lasting look, go for formulas that steer clear of oils.

Create harmony with your bone structure Determine if you have fine, medium, or large bone structure. Fine bone structured ladies will look best in pieces that appear delicate and dainty. For those with larger bone structure, opt for eye-grabbing statement pieces.

Emphasize your assets We all know the power of the décolletage. Play yours up by knowing exactly where your necklace should fall. Your shortest necklace should be the same length as the distance from the top of your forehead to the tip of your nose.

Take care of your treasures Precious metals can easily be brought back to life with a quick polish. Unfortunately, the same isn’t true with fashion jewelry. The best way to protect your inexpensive finds is to fight off humid air by storing them in sealed plastic bags.

Now go strut your stuff!

Danielle Bohn is the founder of Unfussy Style and can be reached at [email protected]

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 15 Markets of Mysteries of Singapore Eastern Medicine AWA LOCAL TOUR POLICIES

• Complete detailed tour descriptions are found at www.awasingapore.org.

• You must register to participate in an AWA Local Tour. Registration begins on the first of the month at www.awasingapore.org.

• If a tour is full, please complete the Waitlist Form. There is no charge to be on the waitlist; you will be TIME: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm TIME: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm MAR APR charged only if you are added to PLACE: Newton Food PLACE: Little India MRT, the tour. (This often happens!) 13 Center Car Park 02 Exit E, outside the station Wednesday COST: $63 Member, Tuesday COST: $39 Member, • You may cancel your attendance $78 Guest $47 Guest at an event by emailing office@ LIMIT: 19 LIMIT: 14 awasingapore.org no less than four working days prior to the event. We regret that cancellations received after that time cannot be refunded. Wet markets are an Asian Ever wonder about all the Chinese • All AWA tours include a $5 non- phenomenon. They are windows herbs that you see at the traditional refundable cancellation charge. into the soul of a country, a must-see chinese medicine shops? What about attraction and cultual experience to Ayureveda – one of the world’s • You may transfer your registration newcomers and visitors alike. To most oldest medical practices which to another AWA member, no less locals, wet markets are the “go-to” originated in India. than four working days prior to destination for the freshest produce an event for no fee by emailing and great deals. On this tour, we will pierce the veil [email protected]. of mystery surrounding some of the Wet markets gained their name from Eastern Medicine traditions as we • Only adults over 18 years of age their frequently wet floors often caused visit 2 places of healing. We’ll observe may attend AWA tours unless by the melting of crushed ice used to and learn from practitioners about otherwise designated in the keep the meat and seafood fresh. acupuncture, herbal medicine and description. massage. These remedies have been Come explore some of Singapore’s local • Tour attire: If your tour includes a developed throughout Asia over the visit to a place of worship, please markets where you will learn the names centuries for a variety of ailments. This be certain to cover your knees and of some fresh produce not found in tour is as fascinating as it is unique shoulders. Comfortable shoes and markets outside this part of the world. and it may make you think twice about an umbrella are always a good idea. On this tour, you will visit the largest popping that Panadol next time you wholesale vegetable center and its huge have a headache! • All tour end times are auction hall, where fresh and organic approximate. fruits and vegetables are available. NOTE: We will travel by MRT, from one point to the next, so please Be certain to wear comfortable shoes Tour Menu: remember to bring along your EZ link that may get wet, to see some of the card. This tour will end near Dhoby best markets in Singapore. Ghaut MRT.

WALKING BUS ART/CULTURE NIGHT FOOD NATURE SHOPPING NOTE: While wet markets accept only cash, this is an informational tour only and time for shopping will be minimal.

16 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Churches of Lights! Camera! Action! HDB: Housing the Singapore Film History of Singapore Public in the Republic Local Tours

TIME: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm TIME: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm TIME: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm APR Apr MAY PLACE: Newton Food PLACE: Jalan Ampas PLACE: Newtown Food Center Car Park Studios, 8 Jalan Ampas Center Car Park 16 27 COST: $75 Member, 9 Tuesday COST: $57 Member, Saturday Thursday COST: $68 Member, $71 Guest $94 Guest $84 Guest LIMIT: 19 LIMIT: 19 LIMIT: 19

Easter is Christianity’s most important Let us give you a quick snapshot: the You are familiar with the Black holiday. In search of the real spirit of 1950s was Singapore’s “golden age and Whites and the Conservation Easter, join us for this tour of some of cinema,” an era dominated by two houses, but what do you know about of Singapore’s historic and landmark movie companies: Shaw and Cathay. HDB Flats? Our guide will help us churches. Both these names survive in their learn all there is to know about the movie theatres, though only the Shaw Housing Development Board (HDB) After leaving Newton Hawker Center Brothers studios still exists in Jalan apartments! with our guide, we will tour the lovely Ampas. We will visit the wonderful barn-shaped St. George’s Church built Jalan Ampas studios, which is like We will learn how HDB won the in the Norman architectural style. Next, stepping back into another era. In United Nations’ World Habitat award. a visit to ‘Our Lady of Lourdes’ church recent years the movie industry here Additionally, we will discover how built to cater to the needs of the Indian has enjoyed something of a revival with 85% of the local population acquires Catholics. The tour continues at the many Singaporean directors releasing their HDB apartment and we’ll get to newly restored Cathedral of the Good films to international acclaim. see the HDB Heritage gallery, with its Shepherd, the oldest Roman Catholic examples of the different sizes and Church in Singapore, steeped in local After our blockbuster visit at the Shaw types of flats. The tour will also take history. Next, a tour of Chijmes, a Studios, we’ll hop on a bus and see us to various HDB neighborhoods and former Catholic church, school and some sites from movies made here. precincts to see how local HDB towns orphanage before ending the trail at Then, it’s on to the Cathay Gallery are planned and built. St. Andrew’s Cathedral, considered the before ending at the appealingly quirky seat of the Church of England by the “Projector” Movie Theatre on Beach There is more… the tour includes a Anglicans of Singapore. Road for a fascinating chat about the visit to the latest iconic development, current film scene in Singapore with the Pinnacle at Duxton, in Chinatown. This tour ends at Saint Andrew’s, someone involved in today’s industry. Here we will get panoramic views which is near the City Hall MRT of Singapore from the 50th story station. As the bus will not be NOTE: This tour ends at a different Skybridge. This is a great tour, don’t returning to Newton, taking public point from the beginning, so it’s best to miss it! transportation is recommended. take public transportation.

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 17 awa volunteer opportunities

AWA Information LOOKING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE & MAKE NEW FRIENDS AT THE SAME TIME?

AWA is a volunteer-run organization. Members plan, organize and lead all our wonderful events. If you are interested in donating some of your time, here’s a list of current opportunities:

•Data Analyst •Social Media Content Developer •Graphics & Layout • Advertising Account Manager •Kids Committee • AWA Kids Facebook Group •Newcomer Committee •After-Hours Committee •Local Tours Committee •Mahjong Coordinator – Evenings

For all the details please visit our website: www.awasingapore.org or send an email to: [email protected]

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18 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 THE FORK AND CHOPSTICK The Fork And Chopstick Mission: To highlight the off the beaten path, heritage, or just plain fun chomping grounds By Jenni & Eric Lee

Annalakshmi Janatha 104 Amoy Street, Singapore 069924

When we think of Amoy Street, it’s usually in the context of a night out for dinner and drinks. Unexpectedly perhaps, Annalakshmi Janatha is also here - a South Indian vegetarian buffet restaurant that is open only for lunch (11 am-3 pm daily, closed Sundays), and whose profits go toward supporting an Indian cultural society, Saraswati Mahavidyalaya. Annalakshmi is an international chain of restaurants that operates on the principle of “trust in humanity”. The establishment’s name is derived from that of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of abundance.

Ambience/Chomp Saturday lunch: The relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant, including subtle touches of Indian decor, works well with the food, which has a satisfying home-cooked flavor to it. We experienced the characteristic complexity of Indian cuisine while enjoying a gentle comfort-food palate. As an example, no onion or garlic is used here. During our visit, we made multiple trips to the buffet counter and came away thinking that we could become vegetarians if we could always eat like this! Starting with staples, there were chapatis, plain rice and a corn rice pilaf, with a choice of dishes like pumpkin curry, ginger rasam, mixed vegetable curry, dal tadka, fried okra and palappam. The palappam, a pancake made from fermented rice flour batter and thick coconut milk, was a treat served freshly cooked and accompanied by jaggery, a traditional cane sugar product.

The most interesting part? There are no prices or menus - you pay what you want for the meal. How much? An Indian colleague felt that with 2-3 trips to the buffet, $15-20 per person was fair. This is where the “trust in humanity” is most manifest. The cost of your meal is up to you!

What Others Are Saying: Google reviews give this establisment 4.4 stars out of 5: “One of the best places to have Indian vegetarian lunch in Singapore. The food isn’t soaked in oil and is not very spicy;” “It doesn’t repeat menu;” “Food is hygienic and they run a charity.”

Things to do in the area before or after your meal: Amoy Street is bursting with interesting architecture and history, and lined with renovated shophouses. Just around the corner from the restaurant, you can see Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple, 1839’s Thian Hock Keng Temple, dedicated to Mazu, Goddess of the Sea. On a nearby corner is The Nagore Durgah Shrine, which houses an Indian Muslim Heritage Centre, built by early South Indian immigrants around 1830. After a walk around the block, it will be time to quench that thirst! At 73 Amoy Street, you’ll find The Spiffy Dapper. It’s a popular cocktail bar at night, but also open for coffee and breakfast during the day, a.k.a. Dapper Coffee. You must stop there for coffee and of course a cocktail (we had both in one visit!)

Honorable Mention: Annalakshmi has a bigger outlet at Central Square, 20 Havelock Road. This other location is popular for lunch and is open for dinner as well (6:15-9:30 pm even Sunday). As a bonus, there are also gorgeous artifacts for sale here. Still, Annalaskshmi Janatha is a refreshing part of a walkable daytime tour of Amoy street, so get on over there. Happy Chomping!

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 19 AWA 2018 Holiday luncheon

Retrospective

The annual holiday lunch was held December 7th at the beautiful Shangri-La Hotel. The attendees enjoyed a three-course luncheon and received a themed ornament gift. Numerous lucky draws were given out and guests sipped on bubbles Holiday Luncheon Retrospective while doing some holiday shopping with a variety of local vendors.

The Holiday Lunch Committee, including Chair Machelle Robbins, Vendor Coordinator Lynda Mametz, and Major Events Chair Emily Essaye, did an amazing job arranging the event for 220 guests.

The Committee would like to extend a special thank you to the following partners for the event: Shangri-La Hotel - TTG Wines - Hey Gorgeous Photography - Asian Tigers Mobility

AWA Vice-President Machelle Robbins AWA President Mel Rice

20 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Holiday Luncheon Retrospective

All photography on these 2 pages are by Hey Gorgeous Photography, showing AWA members enjoying some pre-holiday shopping and a delicious lunch with new and old friends. To see more photos of the AWA Holiday Luncheon, please go to BT Online at www.awasingapore.org or our Facebook page.

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 21 You’re Not Alone… ReallY By Andrea McKenna Brankin When You Look Good, You Feel Good

Do you believe that’s true? Maybe sometimes, but it can be hard to follow Billy Crystal’s advice for Saturday Night Live audiences in the 1980s. The comedian’s feel-good quip

You’re Not Alone was meant to be funny, but it might be some good advice for our mental state after all.

You’re not alone in feeling that this is hard. Singapore can do a number on our looks. From frizzy, untameable hair to extra pounds sneaking up on you from a change in food and lifestyle, it’s often hard to look in the mirror and say, “You look mahvehlous (sic)!”

In the meantime, until we really do look marvelous, let’s take a look at how we take care of ourselves. Do you do something nurturing for your inner and outer beauty on a regular basis? Spa treatments-- usually only for special occasions. Massage--maybe now and then. Yoga class- as much as you can fit in to your busy schedule. Buying something you can feel good in every day—if you’re lucky enough to fit into local or couture styling. I get it; it takes time, money and effort.

Former Singapore expat and image consultant, Sharon Connolly, says allowing yourself the time and money to look good is an important step toward boosting how you feel about yourself. “We look at our reflection in the mirror about 75 times a day, and if you don’t like what you’re seeing, that negative message comes back to you and is reinforced 75 times a day.” She says humans are tuned in to having their outward appearance affect inward acceptance. “Even in ancient times, the Romans and the Egyptians would get all dressed up with ritual clothing, because special outfits make you value yourself; this is not a new thing.”

If you’re not going for the Roman look, there are certainly other options. And it doesn’t have to be for special occasions! We can do this with face mask packets from Guardian, simple (or more) makeup from your current bag of tricks, nice clothes and/or shoes, old or new, that fit you well, a cool handbag from Far East Plaza that no one else has, or some fun jewelry like Stones That Rock, which is an AWA fave and more.

Here are a few tips that are easy and doable, regardless of your income, body type or mental state.

-Take a bath. 10 to 20 minutes should do the trick. -Meditate. Even a few quick minutes at a time can help reset your mental state -Go shopping. Nothing feels better than clothes that fit your body type. -Try a little lip gloss. I found a South Korean brand called Whoo that I just LOVE! Instant mood-booster!

Hopefully, the foreshadowing of the famous and not-to-be-missed AWA Fashion Show on April 26th might perk you up a bit and encourage you to take a little more effort to look great even on a sloshy, rainy or blazing hot and totally humid day in the Lion City. Get tickets to see our own fabulous AWA ladies rocking the catwalk. You are sure to be inspired! (I know I am!) And maybe grab some design ideas for yourself, too. Try taking a few small steps to boost your self-esteem: make yourself look good and the rest will follow.

(For more details on Andrea’s tips to look and feel good, see the expanded version of her article in our Bamboo Telegraph Online edition at www.awasingapore.org)

Want to meet with a compassionate and supportive group of women? The AWA Listen Ladies has a confidential gathering on the 2nd Monday of every month in the AWA conference room. For more information, contact Andrea McKenna Brankin at [email protected]

22 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 AWA HIKING AWA Hiking

One of AWA’s newest groups is the weekly hiking group. Amanda Morris leads this challenging outing which usually goes through the peaceful woods around the MacRitchie Reservoir. It’s a beautiful escape from the relentless urbanness of Singapore. Hikers often see monkeys, lizards, and a variety of birds along the rugged trails while getting an outstanding workout. This is not a casual stroll but a hike that goes at a fast clip of 5 km an hour (about a 15 min per mile pace) and is usually 10 to 12 km in length. Sturdy hiking boots are strongly recommended since the dirt trails are rocky and can be muddy depending on the weather. But the miles quickly melt away as you enjoy the company of other AWA members. And before you know it, you’re finished and feel that satisfying tired soreness and glow of spending time in nature.

If you’re interested in joining the AWA Hiking group, it usually meets on Wednesday mornings at 8:30am. If anyone would like to act as a fill-in leader when Amanda is away, please contact her. For more information, she can be reached at [email protected]

Photos clockwise from top left: MacRitchie Trail; AWA Hiking leader Amanda Morris; Hikers Jody, Cathy and Tori; more MacRitchie trails; wildlife spotted along the trail.

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 23 Fun, Friendship, AWA Tennis and fair play Tennis Monthly Update

It’s been a busy couple of months for AWA Tennis and it’s been great seeing so many of our members out on the courts. Our programs are still ongoing but we did finish up Intermediate and Advanced Team Tennis for the year and celebrated at the Wrap Party to award the winners with their bag tags! Congratulations to all our participants for a great season!

Intermediate 1st Place: Volley Girls Intermediate Runner Up: Baby Got Backhand L-R: Sarah Innes, Paige Coleman-Rodriguez, Gina L-R: Denise Burchette, Tania Lindsay Jean, Chrissy Koneczny, Beth Robinson. Not pictured: Georgina Morse, Amy McBride. Not pictured: Tiffany Sukay, Webster, Nicky Nixon, Ayda Girma Justyna Forys-Schubert

Advanced 1st Place: Blue Belles

Deb Elliot, Suzanne Snowdon, Jo Brecque, Stephanie Monteith, Ruby Jaede, Michele Royliston, Mongchee Chang

Advanced Runner Up: Jolly Aces

Machelle Robbins, Megan Yem, Liza Rowan, Ibi Stark, Dianna Goodwin, Beck Dahl, Rebecca Gow Pictured L-R: Beck Dahl, Deb Elliot, Dianna Goodwin, Suzanne Snowdon. Coming up Girls Night Out Don’t miss our upcoming Girls Night Out Events! It’s a night of “free flow” social tennis for all levels. Come join us and have a fantastic time with music, snacks and bubbles.

Dates: March 13th - The theme is “Lucky Lassies”, so don’t forget to wear green! April 24th Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30pm Cost: $25 (This is a non-refundable event) Limit: 16

24 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 Felicia Burch Doubles Tournament Tennis/Running

The annual Felicia Burch Doubles Tournament is the perfect opportunity for you and a tennis partner to gain more tournament experience, have some fun, and meet new players in a social environment. Both you and your partner must be current AWA members, and all participants must have an AWA current assessment rating of -3.0 to 3.5.

Format (this may change depending on the weather):

Day 1: Round 1 Unseeded (randomly selected) Day 2: Seeded Eliminations and Quarter Finals Day 3: Semi-finals & Finals

Dates: April 1st - April 3rd Place: NUS Time: 8:30am warm up, 9am Match start Cost: $60 (This is a non-refundable event)

Sign up today with your partner on the AWA website. Please add the name of your partner in the comments section of the registration form. If you require an assessment, please visit our AWA Tennis Assessment page for the next available date.

Contact: [email protected] for questions about this event. AWA Running

Monthly Update

The women of the running group were very active over the winter holiday season. Our group kept up with our weekly runs at the Botanic Gardens here in Singapore, while other women were abroad on holiday running in all kinds of weather. We had some running in the freezing cold in the USA and others were sweating it out in South Africa, Thailand and New Zealand.

Some of us attended the AWA Holiday Luncheon in December and we had a lovely time eating delicious food, sipping some sparkling champagne, and browsing all of the wonderful products the vendors had at the event. We had a New Year's gathering with drinks at Mr. Stork Rooftop Bar in the Andaz followed by dinner at Beirut Grill in Bugis for all of our members in January 2019. We were very excited to see everyone at this event and catch up from our winter holiday travels and runs.

Many of us are also training and signing up for numerous races throughout Singapore in the coming months. The races are ranging in distance from 5K, 10K, to 21K. Here are the names of a few coming up in March and April:

March 31- Terry Fox Run April 7: 2 XU Compression Run April 29: Income ECO Run

We are still meeting at our normal time at 8:00AM on Tuesdays at the Botanic Gardens MRT stop and we run a 5K. We are always happy to welcome new members to our group at any time, so come on out for a run, coffee and chat! AWA runners enjoying a break in Singapore’s Contact: Alison Larkin: [email protected] beautiful Botanic Gardens

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 25 Golf Shots

the awa golf group welcomes both new and returning members Golf Shots

The American Women’s Association 18 holes Golf Team traveled to Bintan, Indonesia in December of 2018 for an overnight stay and two very enjoyable rounds of golf on the beautiful and stunning Ria Bintan golf course. We had a wonderful time golfing on this scenic course, but most importantly, we loved spending time with dear friends. Sadly, we had to say good bye to our longtime golf friend Peg Gerrity who moved back to the USA in December. A big thanks to Peng Pavie for organizing this fabulous trip.

From top left going clockwise: AWA 18-holers enjoying a round at Ria Bintan; lovely views of the water from Ria Bintan course; Annabella DeLorenzo strikes a pose; Hanna Appelt and Peg Gerrity; Peg Gerrity; 18 holers in Santa hats! The AWA 18 holes Golf Team is planning a 3 to 4 days Spring Golf Trip to Cambodia. Stay tuned for details!

Please contact PJ Wagner at [email protected] for the AWA 9 holes team or Ulrike (Hanna) Appelt at [email protected] for the AWA 18 holes team.

26 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 AWA WRITERS’BLOCK Writers’ Block Writers' Block is a monthly contribution from our AWA Writers’ Group members.

Virtual Possibilities By Christin Gustafson

Recently I made my first deposit into a Singaporean bank, a check for $0.15. Why would I bother depositing a 15-cent check? Because the issuing body threatened to charge my account $5.00 every month until it was cashed. They were forcing me into action. Not knowing how to deposit a check here, I ventured to my local bank branch to do it face-to-face.

As I headed down the block in the 93-degree heat and high humidity, I discovered the first flaw in my plan. I was wearing jeans. Even after 5 months of living here I still wasn’t smart enough to not wear them. (I know that is a double negative and not proper English, but double negatives were not my real problem, common sense was.) With my jeans stuck to my thighs like wet papier-mâché, I tried to open the bank doors. They were locked. This was strange because I could see an employee inside and it was after opening hours. That’s when I noticed a hastily made sign hanging askew which announced that the branch had been converted to a virtual banking center. Oh goody! Now I knew how my technophobe father feels when I tell him to text me. The sign directed me to a newly installed virtual booth. The glass door whooshed open, revealing a space which resembled a cross between a hotel lobby and an airplane toilet. It wanted to be cozy and functional, but it just made me nervous. Swiping my bank card, I summoned a bank teller. Virtually. A nice young woman greeted me from the screen, she also worked in this bank before the doors were locked. I wondered if she was sitting on the other side of the wall working at her desk. Virtually. She instructed me to turn the check over, fill in my account details, and then slip it into the slot outside the virtual center. Funny how they wanted my actual check, not a virtual one. Oh no! I didn’t know my account number.

“No problem” chirped the helpful teller,” you can push the button for an account balance report and it will display your account number”. This would virtually solve all my problems. Shoot! No pen in my purse. Nor in the booth--why would we possibly need one when banking virtually? “No worries!” said the teller. “Use your phone to take a picture, fill out the check later and return to the bank.”

With a plastered smile, I snapped a picture of the account number. Exiting the virtual bank booth, I heroically resisted the urge to bang on the bank doors and demand a pen from the man I could see working inside. I briefly considered walking somewhere to purchase one or returning later, but it was hot and I was wearing jeans. The ordeal needed to end, no additional discomfort would be endured for a 15-cent check.

I spied two manicurists in a nail salon preparing to start their day. Using their borrowed pen and tiny counter I copied my account details from the picture on my phone. Thanking them, I returned to the bank. I searched for the check deposit slot. Nothing looked like it does at home. Then I noticed the instructions on the wall, similar to those given by the virtual bank teller, but with the mystery phrase “cross your check”. I had no idea what this meant in a virtual or a real bank.

Google informed me that to “cross your check” you make two parallel lines in the upper left corner to indicate that the check can only be deposited directly into a bank account and not paid out to anyone. It was a check for 15 cents! I didn’t care who they gave the money to.

Sheepishly, I borrowed the pen again and made two parallel lines on the upper left corner of the check. Was this correct? Should I summon the virtual bank teller and ask? Standing there in my sticky jeans, I decided that I didn’t care anymore. I tossed my check into the slot and stomped away. It was my least favorite errand of the day. Virtually.

Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG 27 March 2019 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

LT: Singapore Baking 1 2 Tennis: Round Robin

Drop-in Coffee 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 LNO: Trivia Night Board & L’ship Coffee B&F: Parisian Style A&C: Hong Zhu An Mom & Tots Grp LT: DimSum After Ni Hao, 18 Hole Golf, Walking, Scrapbooking, Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Crafters’ Walking, Bridge Running Hiking Corner, Running Drop-in Coffee

10 11 12 LT: Markets 13 Dish:Cure 14 Photo Walk: Temple15 16 Tennis: GNO Wine & Cheese Event 18 Hole Golf, Walking, After Ni Hao, Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Walking, Bridge Running Hiking Running Drop-in Coffee 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 CS: Food From Heart After Ni Hao, Scrapbooking, IWD Event 18 Hole Golf, Walking, Mahjong, 9 Hole Golf, Crafters’ Drop-in Coffee, Choir, Walking, Bridge Corner, Running Running Hiking Drop-in Coffee 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 LNO: Trivia Night CS: Willing Hearts 18 Hole Golf, Walking, After Ni Hao, Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Walking, Bridge Running Hiking Running Drop-in Coffee 31

APRIL 2019 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6

Tennis: Felicia Burch LT: Eastern Medicine After Ni Hao, 18 Hole Golf, Walking, Scrapbooking, Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Crafters’ Walking, Bridge Running Hiking Corner, Running Drop-in Coffee 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Tennis: Clinic A&C: Myanmar Magic

Mahjong, 18 Hole Golf, Walking, After Ni Hao, Walking, Bridge Running Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Running Drop-in Coffee Hiking 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Photography Talk: Lucas LT: Singapore Churches CS: Food From Heart After Ni Hao, 18 Hole Golf, Walking, Scrapbooking, Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, 9 Hole Golf, Crafters’ Walking, Bridge Running Hiking Corner, Running Drop-in Coffee 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

18 Hole Golf, Walking, Fashion Show LT:Lights,Camera,Action Mahjong, Drop-in Coffee, Choir, After Ni Hao, CS: Willing Hearts Walking, Bridge Running Hiking 9 Hole Golf, Running Drop-in Coffee 28 29 30

28 WWW.AWASINGAPORE.ORG Bamboo Telegraph March/April 2019 AWA Events and Activities

SOCIAL AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS Scrapbooking – meets on the 1st, 3rd & 5thThursdays of the month. After Ni Hao – Mandarin conversation every Thursday at 10am. Whether you’re traditional or digital join us to preserve your memories. Laffey Hye Sung [email protected] Susan Studebaker-Rutledge, [email protected] Arts & Culture – Monthly talks and events focusing on Asian arts Speaker’s lunch – Informative, thought provoking and fascinating and culture. Maria Moran [email protected] speakers each month. Aarti Sonawala, [email protected] Bar Nights - Ladies’ nights, couples’ nights and opportunities for you to bring new friends to the AWA each month. Trivia Night – Trivia Night is a fun way to make new friends while Kristin Bemowski, [email protected] testing your trivia knowledge! meets monthly on a Monday night. Karla Popper [email protected] Beauty & Fashion - From Fashion Talks to Workshops, there’s no age limit to brilliant beauty & unlimited style. Workshops - Expand your mind! Learn something new about Florence Sorgini, [email protected] yourself, about Singapore or about the world - the possibilities are endless. Leezibet Heinzraiden [email protected] Book Groups – morning, afternoon and evening books groups, held monthly. [email protected] Writers’ Group - Beginner and published writers discuss their work every other Thursday. Anne Morgan & Elissa Viornery, Bunco – Play this simple dice game once a month in the [email protected] afternoon or evening. Lynn Saeger,[email protected] Cancer Support Group – meets the third week of the month, SPORTS focused on mutual support and information sharing. Rosa Liu, [email protected] Golf - Play 18-hole group on Wednesday, or 9-hole group on Thursday. 9-hole: PJ Wagner [email protected] 18-hole: Christian Connection - provides information and resources to Hanna Appelt, [email protected] help you connect with local Christian community groups. Angel Corrigan, [email protected] Health and Fitness – A variety of health and fitness activities and informative seminars to help everyone stay fit. Couples’ Bridge – Monthly on a Saturday evening, spouses Stacey Raza, [email protected] welcome. Amy Starling, [email protected] Hiking – meets at MacRitchie Reservoir every Wednesday morning. Crafters’ Club - Bring your craft project to work on and share every Amanda Morris, [email protected] Thursday. Charissa Litteken,[email protected] Running - Group runs for all levels on Tuesday and Thursday DINE (DISH IN the Evening) – Monthly dinners at a variety of mornings at 8 am at locations around Singapore. interesting venues. Spouses welcome! Saleema Khan Joseph Alison Larkin, [email protected] and Brittany Hazelton, [email protected] Tennis - A variety of singles and doubles play including DISH (Diner in Sensory Heaven) – Monthly lunches at a variety of tournaments, seasonal play, and team tennis for players of all interesting venues. Kaitlin McNeal & Alison Coriel, levels. Georgina Webster and Gigi Scott [email protected] [email protected] Drop-In Coffees on Wed & Fri– Orchard Tangs Providore Café, Walking - Walk all over this amazing island each week, walks from 10.30am till 12.30pm. Open to everyone, no need to register. This is 1 to 3 hours. Elaine Grout-Brown & Andrea McKenna Brankin, a great way to get started with AWA! [email protected] Laurie Day, [email protected] Duplicate Bridge – We play American Standard five-card major COMMUNITY SERVICE rules every Monday at Bishan CC. You don’t need a partner to join. Esme Parish, [email protected] Community Service - Connecting AWA members to volunteer opportunities with AWA’s featured organizations. Foreign Tours – travel the world and make new friends! Visit Allison Burden, [email protected] exotic locations, experience a variety of cultures, join an adventure trek, or shop ‘til you drop. Ronald McDonald House Charities [email protected] Shifts at both the Ronald McDonald House and Family Room to support the families of children at Singapore’s National University International Choir – rehearses every Wednesday and holds Hospital. Sheila Weidner, [email protected] performances in Spring and Winter. Michiko Kinoshita, [email protected] Humanitarian Organization for Migrant Economies Volunteer to provide education, entertainment or exercise to the The Listen Ladies – A compassionate group of Listen Ladies who residents at HOME’s shelter for migrant workers in Singapore. meet in a confidential and supportive monthly meeting. Machelle Robbins, [email protected] Andrea McKenna Brankin, [email protected] Food From The Heart Local Tours – Professionally guided tours of Singapore, multiple Help pack and/or distribute food bags to families in Singapore who times each month. cannot afford to feed themselves. Lorraine Graybill, [email protected] Janet Stride, [email protected] Mahjong - International style in a low-stress, FUN and learner-friendly People’s Association (A Singapore Government Body) atmosphere on Mondays at Boomarang Robertson Quay. Connecting AWA members to government volunteer opportunities, Siew-Wei Ngiam, [email protected] including working with the elderly and children, or the Chingay parade. Movie Lunch – Monthly lunch followed by a movie in the Orchard Christa Boncimino, [email protected] Road area. Anne Perng, [email protected] Willing Hearts Photography – Meets once a month to have fun practicing and Monthly shifts to prepare food for the less fortunate. improving our photography. All levels are welcome Allison Burden, [email protected] Alison Stanton & Karen Lucas, [email protected] For more information, visit our website: www.awasingapore.org Showroom/Warehouse, No.1, Syed Alwi Road, #03-02, Song Lin Building, 207628