Bamboo Telegraph December 2015 - awasingapore.org

Bamboo Telegraph

December 2015

American Women’s Association of

Singapore

Over 70 competitive sports teams across 12 sports inspire Stamford American students to achieve more than they believe they can, including Stamford American’s Varsity Cheer Squad.

Stamford off ers an outstanding international education for students from 2 to 18 years. We off er the rigorous IB Program – enhanced by American standards and a focus on languages – to equip your child for global citizenship.

Stamford American International School CPE Registration Number: 200823594D Period of Registration: August 10, 2014 to August 9, 2018

Inquiry Hotline+65 6653 7907

Open House

Friday, Dec 4 th 2015

Register at www.sais.edu.sg

FROM 2 TO 18 YEARS OLD

FUTURETEAM LEADERS

REQUIRED

100Real Madrid

70Competitive sports teams

Foundation Technical Academy on campus

Co-curricular activities

ST

home decor, antiques, art & crafts, textiles, linen, services, gifts, toys, furnishings, health & beauty, table-ware, jewellery, fashion, collectibles, paintings, antiques, art & crafts,

textiles, linen, services, table -ware, toys,gifts, furnishings, home decor, health & beauty, jewellery, fashion, collectibles, home decor, paintings, antiques, art & crafts, textiles,

linen, services, table-ware, toys, gifts, furnishings, health & beauty, jewellery, fashion, collectibles, paintings, antiques, art & crafts, textiles, linen, services, toys, gifts, furnishings,

health & beauty, jewellery, fashion, collectibles, paintings, home decor, antiques, art & crafts, linen, services, textiles, table-ware, toys, gifts, furnishings, jewellery, fashion,

collectibles, home decor, paintings,antiques, art & crafts, textiles, linen, services, table-ware, toys, gifts, furnishings, health & beauty, fashion, collectibles, jewellery, paintings,

Enjoy a day of shopping, refreshments and fun!

Fri 4th December, 2015 (10 am to 6:00 pm)

At Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore, Claymore Road Level 3 Ballrooms (Beside Orchard Towers)

For enquiries call 6235 3608 or visit www.fairsandbazaars.com Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/fairsandbazaars

An exquisi te col lection ofproducts and services for everyone

At Pan Pacific Orchard

© Copyright Fairs and Bazaars Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.

FREE ADMISSION!

All visitors are entitled to win fabulous Lucky Draw Prizes!

15 Dempsey Road #01-09 Singapore 249675 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.hedgerscarpetgallery.com.sg

6462 0028 Open daily 10.30am - 7.00pm

Year EndCarpet Sale

Up to 70% off

Professional Carpet Cleaning & Restoration Services Available

Please be advised that any names listed in this publication, the AWA directory or any other material published by AWA are for the exclusive use of AWA members only. Any commercial use is strictly prohibited. The Bamboo Telegraph is published 10 times per year. The American Women’s Association and the Bamboo Telegraph neither endorse nor take responsibility for the opinions expressed herein. Please address all comments and queries to the Bamboo Telegraph Editor. AWA does not endorse or promote any product or service offered through any advertisement that may appear in the Bamboo Telegraph.

Contents10 Claymore HillSingapore 229573General Manager: Sarah Cockerill

Main: 6734-4895Fax: 6733-6190Office Hours:Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

DECEMBER 2015

AWA Board & CommitteeOutgoing President: Annette Foster

Incoming President: Tara Eastep

First Vice-President: Rohita Rajkumar

Second Vice-President: Mel Rice

Third Vice-President: Cyndy O'Connor

Treasurer: Gloria Carion

Corresponding Secretary: Linda Schindler

Bamboo Telegraph: Coreen Knox

Community Outreach: Jennie Peuplie

Corporate Relations: Dana Glore

Major Events: Cindy Leonard

Social: Joanna Nicoletti

Special Interests: Pamela Fahey

Sports: Amy Catron

Parliamentarian: Kristina Thompson

General Manager: Sarah Cockerill

American Women’s Association of Singapore

BTPresident's MessageMembershipNewcomers NetworkHoliday LuncheonGreen CornerArts & Culture/ Bar NightCommunity OutreachAWA International Choir ConcertHome Tour RetrospectiveActivitiesLocal ToursWriters' BlockPhotographyTennisGolfHealth & FitnessBook ReviewFlirting with FoodDecember/January Calendars

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Bookings open on the first working day of the month. You must register in advance to attend an event. If an event is full, please ask to be added to the waitlist. Events end at approximately the listed time. Only adults over 18 years may attend AWA events unless otherwise designated.

AWA Registration Policies

AWA Cancellation Policies

1 BamBoo Telegraph DecemBer 2015 www.awasingapore.org

• All AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable administrative charge. This cannot be returned under any circumstances.• You may cancel your attendance at an event by calling the AWA office at 6734-4895, no less than 4 working days prior to the event.• Your money will be refunded to you in cash (less the non-refundable $5 charge), which you must collect from the office no later than 1 month from the date of the event. If you do not collect the money by that date, it will be forfeit.• You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member, 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.

President's Message......

2 BamBoo Telegraph DecemBer 2015www.awasingapore.org

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December 2015

Bamboo TelegraphProduction Team

BT EditorCoreen [email protected]

BT StaffNiki CholetJennifer GoldwasserSue LevensOlga Terekhova

BT AdvertisingHanna [email protected]

Features Contributors Judith AgustiLucia DamacelaMelissa DiaganaHelga HerreraBecky MatakasTerrie Price

Visit us on the internet:www.awasingapore.org

Facebook: Awa Singapore

Questions, comments and administrative issues, please email us: [email protected]

Printed byXpress Print (Pte) Ltd6880-2881, fax [email protected]

MCI [P] 162/03/2015

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.

Christmas has arrived in Singapore! When you get the chance take a stroll down Orchard Road to take in all the festive decorations. You will notice that the sign that welcomes you says, “Christmas on a Great Street.”Turkey, mash potatoes, stuffing, green beans, pumpkin pie and a little bit of vino were on the menu for our Thanksgiving Picnic. The perfect way for our AWA family to celebrate this time of giving at the lovely Kallang River Park. A big thank you to Kristen Graff, who has been a long time AWA member and board member for chairing the event. It was an enjoyable time for all and especially for my family and me as we depart this beautiful island after living here for nearly 9 years.As my time in Singapore comes to an end and I head back to the land of the free and the home of the brave, I can truly say that some of my best memories over the last 9 years are with the members, volunteers, sponsored organizations and vendors of the American Women’s Association. I have enjoyed my role serving you as the AWA President and I leave knowing that Tara Eastep, the new President, will continue driving our beloved organization forward. During my years on Fantasy Island and my participation with the AWA, I have met some talented and generous women who volunteer to ensure new and old AWA members have a social outlet while away from their homeland. There are too many AWA volunteers, chairs and board members to mention but I want to send my thanks as an AWA member for helping me integrate as an Expat wife. Now as I go home, I am already connecting with past AWA members who live throughout the USA and specifically in the San Francisco Bay Area. These women have left the Red Dot before me and we will rekindle friendships that have shared experiences. I have to admit I am looking forward to breathable air, having my own car, paying reasonable rates at the grocery store, not spending $200 for a family dinner, and the list goes on and on. But I know my week will not be filled with AWA friends and events so, I may have to actually get a job. I sure hope, I can find a job that has a requirement to drink champagne during the day!Let me end my last President letter like I started my first letter with a quote. “While I am living in the USA, I will stop worrying about the world ending today. It's already tomorrow in Singapore….”

Membership Notes

Volunteering with the AWAby Sarah Cockerill

The AWA has been my home for many years, and it is an organization that I love. Many people have heard me speak about my job over the years, and again and again I tell them – ‘Everyone I work with is a volunteer, which means every day, everyone I work with really WANTS to be there – who else can say that about their job?’Times have changed since I started working in the office way back in 1912, I can tell you! I remember when this was all fields you know…Ok, not really. But I do remember the days when all registrations were processed

by our army of office volunteers. We would talk to people every day over the phone or in person. When new members joined, we would get to know them, we could suggest events they might like to try, or volunteer positions that might interest them. The first day of the month – when event registrations opened – saw queues of people snaking out the door, all wanting to make sure they did not miss out on a coveted spot at the Holiday Lunch or Holiday Light Tour. An interactive website has been of enormous benefit to AWA members, as it has enabled members to jump straight into activities and events at whatever time of the day or night they choose. Interestingly, the early birds can still be seen getting their registration in first – if you are one of the many ladies who have booked an AWA event at 1am on the first day of the month via the website, I salute you!What it also means though, is that the office staff and I don’t always have the chance to talk to new members, and help them get involved. We also see less of our long standing members, so we do not have a chance to tell them that a volunteer position has just opened that would be perfect for them.So.… This article is really my roundabout way of reminding you all that the AWA needs volunteers to exist. As you know, paying your $150 membership of the AWA is not like paying for a membership of a gym. It is not simply a cash transaction. We are a group of women who have joined together and agreed to share the ‘cost’ of this amazing organization. By paying our membership fees, everyone contributes the money needed to cover our rent, insurance, office and website costs. But we also need many of our members to share the ‘cost’ in time and effort required to run our events and activities. The wonderful women who agree to share this ‘cost’ not only give their time for free, they also pay to attend the AWA events, including the ones they are organizing - board members included. I am humbled every day by the energy and enthusiasm of these Wonder Women, and I am so very, very grateful that I have had the chance to get to know them.Each year, we have about a 1000 members join (or rejoin) the AWA. I wish I could speak to all of you about your volunteer interests individually, but sadly there are not enough hours in the day. So I am reaching out and asking you to please get in touch to let me know if you have an interest in taking a volunteer role with the AWA, no matter how big or small. You can also let any current volunteer know that you would like to help, and they will pass that information to me.If you ask any of the existing volunteers, they will tell you what a rewarding and fun experience it is and how it can really make your AWA experience complete!

Holiday Office Hours

The office will be closed for the holidays

starting Monday, December 21st through

Friday, January 1st. The office will

reopen on Monday, January 4th.


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N e w c o m e r s N e t w o r kMemorable Connections By Becky Matakas

A few months ago, from the comfort of the home we had lived in for eighteen years, I found myself saying goodbye to many things. Every day, there were familiar things that I would mentally check off; I knew that it would be a long time before I saw them again. Our favorite sandwich place? Check. My hair stylist? Check. The walking trail near my home, the one that was the training ground for our new puppy? Check.

The goodbyes got more and more difficult, until eventually I was hugging my best friends, and then my now-greying-dog, and my brothers, sisters, and parents, and finally, my college-aged daughter. The image of her waving goodbye from the front porch of her university rental is one I will not soon forget. These are connections forged over time and tempered in inside jokes and silly photographs. I was going to miss my inner circle; I was going to miss my ‘people.’

Singapore is on the opposite side of the world from my previous home. Imagine my surprise when, the first week we were living in our apartment, my husband and I were on the ‘lift’ and met someone from my (small!) hometown. Later, I discovered that one of the fantastic women I’ve met through AWA has a nephew who went to prom with my daughter and her friends. In some ways, I think the universe was trying to tell me something. These little connections for which I have taken notice have been a threshold to feeling at home in a foreign land.

I owe my growing contentment with Singapore to the new connections I have made here. My husband and I have a go-to restaurant, an “old standby,” where the hostess recognizes us. I am beginning to find my way around our little corner of Singapore (albeit slowly!) without the help of Google maps. And I have an ever-growing circle of friendships with fascinating women who have enriched my time here in ways I never dreamed. I have met these women through AWA.

My closest friends from the United States have taken to asking me if I have found my ‘people’ in Singapore. I must admit, for a few weeks when we first arrived, I felt as if I never would. Thanks to AWA, though, Singapore is beginning to feel more like home. Get involved in the friendliest group in Singapore; you’re sure to find something that will help you make connections, too.

Caffeine and Conversation – Every WednesdayWe are fun, we are chatty, we are here every Wednesday! Come join us for coffee at 313@Somerset Starbuck’s at 10 am. No need to register. Come as you are and stay as long as you like. We’re just hanging out…why not stop by and have a coffee? Starbucks is located on the second floor of 313@Somerset and is easily accessible via the Somerset MRT or Midpoint Orchard (09038) or Somerset Stn (08121) bus stops.


Please join us in celebrating the holiday season with a fun, festive afternoon of food, wine and shopping at the annual AWA Holiday Luncheon!

Enjoy a glass of bubbly while shopping from your favorite vendors for jewelry, clothing, accessories, home accents and much more! Then, mix and mingle with friends over a delicious 3-course lunch served with wine and accompanied by entertainment and a lucky draw for prizes. This memorable, delightfully fun AWA tradition is one you will not want to miss!

Date: Friday, December 11

Time: 11 am Doors Open - Registration, Shopping and Bubbly 12 noon Program begins, Lunch served

2 pm Shopping continues 3 pm Event ends

Place: Shangri-La Hotel, Tower Ballroom

Cost: $90 Members/ $110 Guests. Price includes a glass of champagne, a delectable 3-course lunch with wine from Wine Affair and a beautiful custom-designed favor.

Limit: 180

Register via the AWA website at www.awasingapore.org. Please note this a no cancellation event.

Holiday LuncheonTHE AWA PRESENTS THE


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By Melissa DiaganaornerGCreenThe United Nations General Assembly has declared 2015 to be the International Year of Soils, and decreed World Soil Day to be December 5th. The date – his birthday – was chosen to honor Thailand’s King Bhumibol for his promotion of soil science and soil resource conservation.Most of us don’t realize it, but soil is one of our precious natural resources.

If we think of soil at all, it is when we wonder whether we should add fertilizer to our garden, or get our new house’s yard tested for lead. The UN wants to increase awareness of the myriad of other reasons to appreciate soil.If we reflect for a moment about the obvious role of soil in food (and fuel and fiber) production, we realize that soil is important for sustainable development. Perhaps less obvious is the ability of soil to store carbon and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, meaning that it can help mitigate climate change. The soils of the world are also involved in keeping water clean and resisting floods and droughts.Impressively, there are more microorganisms in one tablespoon of healthy (an important adjective!) soil than there are people on earth. Microbes in the soil help to degrade waste products and pesticides. And many of our antibiotics – current and probably future – come from bacteria and fungi residing in the soil.The biodiversity of the little things – think microbes, worms, bugs – living within soil has a huge effect on the biodiversity of the (more charismatic but no more important) bigger things roaming on top. As for what else is on top of soils, our cities are – and as cities expand, the soil beneath them becomes inaccessible.

Here on the small island we call home, we have been paving over paradise since colonial times. One of the biggest land reclamation projects was in the east. From the mid 1960s to the mid 1980s, the East Coast Reclamation Scheme added over 3700 acres to Singapore. Where did this “land” come from? From hills that used to exist in Siglap and Tampines, from soil that was removed to create the basin for Bedok Reservoir, and from foreign sand. Singapore imports more sand from abroad that any other country, with much of it coming from Indonesia – or more precisely, from Indonesian sand islands that no longer exist.Investigating the soil is of utmost importance before any construction or tunnelling activity. You may have seen yellow pyramid-shaped scaffolding around Singapore. They support borehole drills, which retrieve soil samples for analysis. In addition to looking into the structure of the soil, laboratory tests can also be run to look for contaminants in the soil.

The purpose of the UN’s honouring of soil is to help us to “connect soil with our food, water, climate, biodiversity and life”. One way to do that is to visit the “farmpreneurs” operating vegetable farms in the Kranji countryside up north (http://kranjicountryside.com). Other than those using hydroponics, all of folks at these farms get their hands dirty with good, old-fashioned soil, so that we get to keep our hands clean yet enjoy fresh produce. For years I have ordered our organic produce from Green Circle Eco-Farm, which uses the principles of biodynamic farming to improve their soil.If you spend some time hunting and clicking around the gardening pages of the National Parks Board website (www.nparks.gov.sg > Gardening), you will come across plenty of information and tips; e.g., composting at home, designing a container garden, attracting butterflies to your garden, joining or spearheading a community garden.As the UN has said, “A healthy life is not possible without healthy soils.” On December 5th, let’s all take a moment to reflect on that.

Urban farming with GroundUp Initiative

Open tar sands mine that is contaminating acres of soil

Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN


Arts &

Culture/ Bar N

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Each month, step out and about in Singapore with the Bar Night team!Throughout the year, the team will be arranging drinks for you at new venues and old favorites. There will be ladies nights, couples nights and opportunities for you to bring new friends to the AWA.

Date: Friday, January 29 Time: 6 pm

Place: Time & Flow, B1-18, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts RoadCost: Pay at eventLimit: 20

In January, join the AWA bar night team for a bubbly fix at Singapore’s first champagne bar Time & Flow! You can order specialty champagne by the glass or bottle, or allow our host to make a selection for you.

Please register at awasingapore.org so we can keep track of the numbers – this is a small venue so we need to be sure we can accommodate you!

Ladies Bar Night: Time & Flow

Arts & Culture

Five days, five exciting events including:

Bedazzled: India’s Mughal Jewelry in a beautiful B&W private homeThe Indian Heritage Centre- An Insider’s Perspective

Decoding Indian Classical Dance at Perumal Temple - learn some moves too!The Indian Masters: view a private art collection.

Aromatic Indian Feast at Tandoor: enjoy a gourmet experience with your partner!

Don’t miss out on the AWA’s Arts & Culture's Showcase event of the year! Registration opens January 4th at awasingapore.org.

Experience the Art & Culture of India!

Save the Dates:March 14th - 18th, 2016


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OUTREACHWishing everyone a wonderful and magical holiday season, as well as best wishes and safe travels for those who are departing Singapore.

Please join AWA for our Holiday Luncheon on December 11th. Celebrate the holidays while embracing the spirit of giving through donating gently used professional attire to Dress for Success, a local organization which supports women who are returning to work. AWA is accepting dry-cleaned business casual

suits, separates, and shoes. Donation boxes will be available at the holiday luncheon.

A thousand thank yous to our members for your support of AWA programs and activities throughout the year. Your active participation has allowed cash donations to be made to each of the three AWA Featured Organizations: American Women’s Welfare Association, KidsREAD, and Lakeside Family Services. $3,000 was presented to each community organization by past AWA Community Outreach Chair Janie Butler. The support and teamwork of all of our members has allowed the American Women’s Association to contribute to charitable organizations to benefit the needy while enriching the community in which we live.


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Register at awasingapore.org.


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Home Tour RetrospectiveThe AWA was thrilled to showcase some of Singapore’s most beautiful properties. Our tour this year included five amazing homes: three unique but quintessential Black and White homes, as well as two distinctly renovated shop houses. Each home was beautifully decorated to reflect each homeowner’s unique style. Many thanks to our AWA members Kathleen Maroney and Emma Thompson and local expats Isabelle Persenda, Nina Beale, and Matthew Elton for allowing us to view your gorgeous homes. If you know of any homes that would be an excellent candidates for the 2016 Fall Home Tour, let us know. We are already looking for homes. Please email your suggestion to Cindy Lenoard at [email protected].

We also want to thank all of our volunteers that put in many hours of hard work to make this event possible: Annette Foster, Belinda Zack, Cathy Curley, Constance Hsia, Cyndy O’Conner, Deirdre


Hom

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Sebastian, Helen Hong, Ingrid Charlton-Briggs, Julie Barry, Jane Butt, Kristin Graff, Peg Albert, P.J. Wagner, Pegge Bronner, Rohita Rajkumar, Sarah Cockerill, Tara Eastep, Terry Young, Tonya Ford, and Veronique Kuhner.

Also, a big thank you to Hedger’s Carpets for hosting the AWA ladies and to Littleones Photography for providing all of the wonderful snapshots of the event.

Since the Home Tour is one of the most sought after tickets in the fall, please make note that next year this event will be for AWA members only.

Home Tour Chairs, Andrea Richards and Joanna Nicoletti-Goh


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Special Interest GroupsAfter Ni HAoSusan Yoshimura, [email protected] Ideal for those taking Mandarin lessons, who want more opportunity to speak, or native speakers willing to help enthusiastic learners. We meet every Thursday at 10 am to practice our speaking and listening skills. Our aim is to practice what we have learned.

BeAdiNg BuddiesMalu Kaul, [email protected] all those who enjoy beading, want to improve your skill level or meet new friends, just bring along your beads, your tools and your inspiration and join us! We meet every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm in a member’s home.

Book groupsJudy Agusti, [email protected] styled book groups allow you the opportunity to meet other women and to participate in a regular discussion of books. Book group members decide on the books to read in advance so that everyone has ample time to obtain and read them. For a more comprehensive listing of book groups’ meeting times, openings and book lists, contact the coordinator.

CHristiAN CoNNeCtioNAngel Corrigan, [email protected] Connection provides valuable information and resources to help you and your family connect with local churches, youth organizations, Bible study groups and more. We act as a clearing house for information on ‘What’s On’ within the Christian Community in Singapore.

iNterNAtioNAl CHoirCecilia Cristol, [email protected] the direction of professional soprano singer, Masako Johnson, the AWA International Choir rehearses and performs two programs per year. New members are welcomed at the beginning of each season: early September and mid-January. Rehearsals are every Wednesday from 10-12 at St. Bernadette's Church. Main performances are at Christmas and in late spring, when the choir sings at local old-age centers, schools for special needs children and a concert evening at the American Club.

MotivAtioNAl Book groupMae-Ling Tien, [email protected] on promoting positive outlooks, attitudes and behaviors in our lives, our group meets once every two weeks on a Tuesday morning from 10 am to 12 noon to discuss a section of a personal development book. Books are selected by group consensus.

PHotogrApHyHeather Goessel, Vanisha Chandiramani, [email protected] to know your city and meet like-minded people interested in photography. Participate in our regular monthly outings on the 10th of each month and a critique session every second month. There will be two exhibitions for our photos during the year, namely the AGM and Welcome Back Fair. Members are encouraged to take photos at any AWA event and submit them to the BT Editor.

QuiltiNgEileen Robinson and Cyndy O-Connor, [email protected] is an opportunity to pick up your quilting again! Perhaps you are looking for companions who share the passion of quilting. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays from 10 am -3 pm.

sCrApBookiNgSusan Studebaker-Rutledge, [email protected] you want to get all your priceless photos organized, this is the group for you. We usually meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 am. Please contact Susan if interested.

Writers’ groupJudith Agusti, Lora Wilkinson, [email protected] your inner writer! Beginning and published writers meet to discuss their works in a non-threatening atmosphere. We meet every other Thursday from 10 am to 12 noon at a member's home or a coffee shop.

Social ActivitiesBridgeAWA has many options for Bridge players! To find out which group is right for you, email Jill Cordry at [email protected].

Couples

Sock-Yan Sim, [email protected] you and your spouse or partner enjoy eating, drinking, socializing and playing bridge? We play once a month on a Saturday evening, and we rotate houses. Each couple is asked to bring a drink and an hors d’ouevres; the hosting couple makes a dessert. The format is party bridge, using Chicago scoring, and the couples play as partners. The idea is that we will just play fun, casual bridge, socialize and make new friends!DupliCate

Esme Parish, [email protected] Monday afternoons we play Duplicate Bridge according to American standard five-card major rules. Players do not need a partner to join. We do play duplicate but we randomly determine partners on the day of play or you are welcome to pair up ahead of time. Registration is via the AWA website. This is a fun afternoon of bridge at the friendliest game in town!soCial Jill Cordry, [email protected] Bridge is for ladies who want to improve their game in a relaxed conversational atmosphere. We play a "Chicago" Four-Deal Rotation, changing partners throughout the afternoon. We accept players from "experienced beginner" upward, with our more advanced players happy to coach those newer to the game. Every few weeks a new bidding convention is introduced or reviewed with set hands for practice. We play on Thursday afternoons at Ardmore Park.

BuNCoMichelle Ford, [email protected] is a simple dice game but mostly it’s a fun excuse to get together once a month, meet new people, see old friends and enjoy some adult beverages. Contact Michelle if you would like to join the afternoon or evening group.

CHildreN’s plAygroupsPosition open, [email protected] playgroups for infants to 4 year olds meet weekly at a member’s home or a planned venue.

disH (diNer iN seNsory HeAveN)Kathy Dolny and Frances O'Keeffe, [email protected] DISH is a monthly social luncheon, located at various savory restaurants throughout Singapore. Grab the hand of a friend and join us. Please email or join the AWA DISH Facebook group page to find out more.

AWA Activities


AWA ActivitieseuCHreRosanne Hebert, [email protected] a month on a Friday or Saturday evening, byob and munchie. Ice and mix to be provided by host. We will alternate homes/ party function rooms. Beginners and husbands welcome! Easy to learn!

fAsHioN & BeAutyYasemin Pozam, [email protected] group for those who are interested in fashion, skincare and make-up and who would like to attend product launches, make-up workshops, boutique openings and clearance sales. We will discover local designers and their collections and work with skincare experts in various international brands to find out what is best for your skincare and beauty needs.

MAHjoNgSiew Wei Ngiam, [email protected] play the international style in a low-stress, FUN and ‘learner-friendly’ atmosphere on Mondays between 1-4 pm at Boomarang Robertson Quay for $10/person (inclusive of one drink). You can either register to play as an individual or as a table of 4 (limited availability). If you are new to Mahjong, please email me to arrange for the required 2 training lessons before .

Movie luNCHAnne Perng, [email protected] AWA Movie Lunch Group meets once a month for lunch followed by a movie in the Orchard Road area. To be added to the regular mailing list, please go to the Movie Lunch page on the AWA website and register for the mailing list.

WoMeN’s soCiAl NetWorkLindsay McClendon, [email protected] our WSN Google group if you would like to exchange information and ask questions about life in Singapore. Whether you are looking for a friend to join you for a movie night or need help finding a store that sells shoes in your size, the WSN group can help. Send Lindsay an email to be added to the Google groups list.

Community ActivitiesCANCer support groupJean Leng Goh, [email protected] group meets once a month during the third week of the month. All are welcome to join. The focus is on mutual support and sharing information among fellow cancer patients, survivors and friends. Contact the coordinator for additional information.

CoMMuNity outreACHJenny Peuplie, [email protected] This group is for those interested in receiving regular communications about ways to volunteer in the community. If you would like to get even more involved, there is also a CO Committee which works with the AWA featured organizations and plans the activities. To be added to the group list, please contact the CO chair.

MouNt elizABetH visitAtioNIsabella Duncan, [email protected] Volunteers are needed to visit hospitalized expat patients. Please check with the coordinator for dates and times for visitations. Monthly magazines are donated by SPH Magazines and Expat Living; however, donations of other recent magazines are also needed. Please drop them off at the AWA Office.

SportsBoWliNgLaura Novak, [email protected] Social bowling is played for fun on Fridays from 9:45 am until 12 noon at the American Club bowling alley. We don’t have teams, just come and bowl. If you are looking for a good time with friends that last a lifetime, come and join. There is no charge to join the roster. You will need to pay $8.40 for each session for 3 games and shoes.

HeAltH & fitNessStacey Schwarz, [email protected] us for the opportunity to explore a fun variety of health and fitness activities in Singapore! From great fitness events to informative seminars, we will have a fantastic time while getting fit and learning new things. Grab your friends and come try something new! To be kept up to date with information about this group, please register for the mailing list on the AWA website.

golf18-hole group: Nicky Kay, [email protected] group: Nicky Kay, [email protected] our 18-hole group on Wednesday mornings, or our 9-hole group on Thursday mornings for a friendly round of golf on regulation courses here in Singapore. Registration is via the AWA website. A handicap is required for 18-hole and our 9-hole group is perfect for beginners or to work on your short game.

teNNisLeslie Swift, [email protected] tennis committee offers a variety of singles and doubles play for players of all levels. The seasons run from September through December, and February through April. Other team tennis is offered in the off season from December through February. Tournaments and an annual luncheon are offered in May. Please contact us at [email protected] to set up a session.

ruNNiNgJeanine Stewart, [email protected] us on Tuesday mornings for a group run at 8:30 am. We cater to all levels with a focus on meeting your goals and having fun as we explore various areas of Singapore. Afterwards, we reward ourselves with the appropriate 'cool down' at a nearby cafe.

WAlkiNgLaura Duplantis, [email protected] great way to kick-start your week. Join us every Monday morning at 9:45 am for a walk of about 1-1.5 hours. We walk in a variety of beautiful places to enjoy the exercise, scenery and friendly conversation. Each week, walking locations, directions and rideshare information are posted in advance on our Facebook group page - AWA Walking with Women. To join, go to our Facebook page and request to join the group or email Laura.

Regular CoffeesWedNesdAy CoffeeLynn Lees, [email protected] is a coffee meet every Wednesday at 313 Somerset in Starbucks, Level 2 from 10 am to 12 noon. It's a wonderful way to meet new friends or reconnect with old friends. No need to register, just show up.

Meet & greet (MoNtHly)Rohita,Rajkumar, [email protected] join us for our monthly coffee as we welcome returning and new members to join us to learn about what the AWA has to offer and to provide help and information to make Singapore feel like home. Details on our membership page.


AWA LocAL Tours

Bookings open on the first of the month. You must register with the AWA office to attend. If a tour is full, please ask to be added to the waitlist. Tours end at approximately the listed time. You may cancel your attendance at an event by calling the AWA office at 6734-4895, no less than 4 working days prior to the event. All AWA event fees include a $5 non-refundable cancellation charge. You may transfer your attendance to another AWA member, no less than 4 working days prior to the event, by emailing [email protected] with the new attendee’s name. Cancellations received within 4 working days of the event will not be refunded. Only adults over 18 years of age may attend AWA tours unless otherwise designated. Thank you for your understanding.

AWA LOCAL TOURS POLICIES:

Fifty years ago, most of the shoreline of Singapore, especially in the north and west, was mangrove. Now little remains. But at Sungei Buloh, meaning Bamboo River, an area of woodlands, old orchards, prawn ponds and mangroves has been turned into a nature reserve. There are boardwalks through the mangroves, birdhides overlooking the ponds, lookout posts across the Straits

of Johor, and easy paths for gentle walking. It is peaceful and full of interest at any time of year, but during the northern hemisphere winter (September to March) Sungei Buloh plays host to many different species of migratory birds from Siberia and Northern China, including the beautiful white egrets. Our nature guide, Margie Hall, will try to show us a little bit of everything! - the mudskippers in the mangroves, the monitor lizards in the ponds, the plants, the butterflies and the birds. (she has a powerful telescope for looking at the birds.)

Notes: Wear comfortable shoes and a hat, and bring an umbrella, mosquito repellent, snacks and a bottle of water. Binoculars are useful if you own them. The recently extended Reserve now has two Visitor Centres, with plenty of restroom facilities and drink machines, but no food available so you may want to bring a snack.

suNGEI BuLoH WETLAND rEsErVE

8DEc

DATE: Tuesday, December 8TIME: 9 am – 1:15 pm

PLACE: Newton Food Centre Car ParkCOST: $34 Members / $49 Guests LIMIT: 19

As a major port, Singapore naturally attracted dynamic merchants from around the world; among these was the community that gave its name to Armenian Street, which runs toward the world-famous Raffles Hotel, founded and made famous by three Armenian brothers.

At their most populous in late 19th century, Armenians numbered less than one hundred. They were small in number but had a tremendous impact on Singapore

history. Armenians built the first church in Singapore and an Armenian woman, Agnes Joaquim, is responsible for discovering the national flower, the “Vanda Miss Joaquim” orchid.

Join us as we walk in the footsteps of the Armenians with our guide, Diana Chua. Enjoy anecdotal insights of a community that is fading into the main population due to a dwindling populace. The walk includes a tour of the Armenian Church, the Parsonage House as well as the Garden of Remembrance. Stroll down Armenian Street for a glimpse into their past.

The grand finale is a tour of Raffles Hotel including areas not accessible to the general public. The tour ends with mid-morning tea at the beautiful hotel dressed in Christmas splendor.

TEA WITH THE ArMENIANs

15DEc

DATE: Wednesday, December 15TIME: 9 am – 12:30 pm

PLACE: Armenian Church, Hill StreetCOST: $54 Members / $80 Guests LIMIT: 21


Local Tours

Register for AWA Local Tours via the AWA website at www.awasingapore.org.

Yes, there is farming and farmers in Singapore, tucked away in specific areas called agro-technology parks. Vegetables, mostly the leafy, green type, chicken eggs and fish are all the subject of government policy to boost local production. New developments include vegetables

grown on 6 metre tall revolving frames and marine fish farmed on land. Our tour through what the farmers call “the Kranji Countryside” with guide, Margie Hall, will present the tapestry of older and newer farms. Our various stops will include, amongst others, the one and only goat dairy farm, an organic wheatgrass farm and the coastal jetty for floating fish farms. Margie will explain how to explore on your own, where there are eating places and even overnight accommodation. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, but there is no real walking involved. Bring cash for drinks and produce shopping.

FArMING IN sINGAPorE

14JAN

DATE: Thursday, January 14TIME: 9 am – 1:15 pm

PLACE: Newton Hawker Center Car ParkCOST: $40 Members / $55 Guests LIMIT: 21

Come learn about all things Indian during Pongal - a Hindu festival that celebrates the Harvest. The most important day is called Thai Pongal. On that day, freshly harvested rice is boiled with fresh milk and jaggery in a new clay pot. While boiling the concoction, people

let the milk spill over the pot as an auspicious sign of material abundance and prosperity. This concoction of rice, milk and jaggery, is known as Pongal.

We will walk through the street markets in Little India and learn about the foods that are used during this festival. We will also visit an Indian dance school to learn about the symbolism behind Indian classical dancing and why Indian dancing is important in the Hindu life. Lastly, in order to fully appreciate all things Indian, we will sample the snacks that are served during this harvest.

Notes: As this is a walking tours, please wear comfortable shoes.

ALL THINGs INDIAN

15JAN

DATE: Friday, January 15TIME: 9 am – 12:30 pm

PLACE: Little India MRT Station, exit CCOST: $58 Members / $80 Guests LIMIT: 17

oN ForEIGN soIL -THE u.s. EMBAssy Tour

DATE: Friday, January 22TIME: 9:15 am – 12 noon

PLACE: Corner Entrance of Tanglin Mall (outside Starbucks)COST: $10 Members / $15 Guests LIMIT: 17

22JAN

What goes on inside the U.S. Embassy? What else do they do besides renewing your passport or getting additional pages?

This is your chance to get a peek behind the public entrance. Due to security, we are not allowed to tour the Embassy. We are however, allowed to leave the public area, and enter the “behind the scenes” general area. From there, we move on to the conference room

where many Embassy meetings take place. Here, the Community Liaison Officer or another staff member, will hold an information session for our group. We will learn about the many diverse roles played by the Embassy in support of U.S. Citizens on foreign soil.

At the end of the tour, we will have a few minutes to visit the Embassy gift shop. You will find gifts bearing the United States Embassy Seal.

U.S. and non U.S. Citizens are welcome.

Security requires that you provide us with your passport information at least one week prior to the tour, therefore, only registered tour participants will be allowed into the Embassy. Refunds cannot be given.

Dress Code: Please respectfully wear business casual attire, no shorts, tank tops or flip flops .


Loca

l Tou

rs MorE LocAL Tours

One of the most unique festivals in Singapore is the Hindu celebration of Thaipusam. We board our buses and travel to Sri Perumal Temple on Serangoon Road, as our guide, Diana, explains the customs and beliefs of this fascinating celebration. She explains to us the rituals Hindu devotees undergo in preparation for the ceremony, which makes this walk a not-to-be-missed occasion.

Upon arrival, we watch the devotees as their kavadis are attached with hooks and skewers to their bodies and then we will follow a portion of the route. We will accompany the procession of devotees and chanting well-wishers as they walk toward the Chettiar Temple on Tank Road. The bus will then take us to the Temple where we will observe the kavadis being removed after respects are paid, with much ceremony.

Please note that this festival shows body piercing and may not be suitable for everyone. Be sure to bring your camera, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a container of water.

Dress Code: Dress must be appropriate for this religious festival: that is no revealing tops and no short skirts or shorts. Bermudas are fine.

uNDErsTANDING THAIPusAM

24JAN

DATE: Sunday, January 24TIME: 7 am – 10:15 am

PLACE: Newton Hawker Center Car ParkCOST: $28 Members / $45 Guests LIMIT: 30

Join us as we usher in the Year of the Monkey! On this walking tour, our guide Diana will explain the Chinese calendar, customs, and taboos of this exciting festival. We shall stroll through the quaint streets to learn the traditions of people, both past and present. We will see bakeries making special New Year Cakes and shops with ritual paper and incense offered to the gods for

prosperity. The tour includes visits to a Chinese Temple and a Clan Association, both an integral part of the new year celebration.

We end the tour with dinner at a traditional restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you all about the dos and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette. Our menu includes all the dishes that have symbolic value of auspiciousness. So if you’ve always wanted to learn all about the significance of tossing and eating the prosperity salad, locally known as Lo Hei and the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!

Dress Code: Please dress respectfully. We will be visiting a temple, so please cover your knees and shoulders. Since this a walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes.

cHINEsE NEW yEAr WALk AND DINNEr

28JAN

DATE: Thursday, January 28TIME: 6 pm – 10 pm

PLACE: Outram Park MRT Exit GCOST: $74 Members / $100 Guests (includes dim sum dinner)LIMIT: 23

Join us as we usher in the Year of the Monkey! On this walking tour, our guide Diana will explain the Chinese calendar, customs, and taboos of this exciting festival. We shall stroll through the quaint streets to learn the traditions of people, both past and present. We will see bakeries making special New Year Cakes and shops with ritual paper and incense offered to the gods for prosperity. The tour includes visits to a Chinese Temple

and a Clan Association, both an integral part of the new year celebration.

We end the tour with lunch at a traditional restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown. Diana will tell you all about the dos and don’ts of Chinese table etiquette. Our menu includes all the dishes that have symbolic value of auspiciousness. So if you’ve always wanted to learn all about the significance of tossing and eating the prosperity salad, locally known as Lo Hei and the meaning of the dishes served at Chinese New Year meals, come join us for a toss and a bite!

Dress Code: Please dress respectfully. We will be visiting a temple, so please cover your knees and shoulders. Since this is a walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes.

cHINEsE NEW yEAr WALk AND LuNcH

29JAN

DATE: Friday, January 29TIME: 9 am – 1:30 pm

PLACE: Outram Park MRT Exit GCOST: $74 Members / $100 Guests (includes dim sum lunch)LIMIT: 17


Writers’ Block

AWA WRITERS’BLOCKFOG

by Lucia Damacela

Writers' Block is a monthly contribution from our AWA Writer's Group members.

Condensed nothingness over the sunrise,gauzing the horizon;grey strokes, wet and broad nostalgia,retouching the landscape,thickening the morning commute.

Inside the church’s bell, muffles its sixteenth century chime – each call more tenuous than the last.

Renders the towera daguerreotype of itself.In the cemetery, lingers on the headstones,vanishing the names of the departedand the colors of the flowersleft there by people it has also enveloped.

Contorts the windmill– Don Quixote must have seen the molinos de vientounder its spell because this one is indeed looking like a charging giant.

Dampens the whistle and cottons the silver serpents hiding under the train;soars on the swing,gallops on the bouncy horse,weighs down the teeter-totter.

Dilutes the aromaof Arabic coffee and cinnamon bunsemanating from the café;glides down the hilly road,gigantic jellyfish splashed on my windshield,and blurs the trees ahead– instant shadows in my mirror.

I drive away and look downhill: the town has vanishedbehind this magic curtain.My memory of it becomes foggy itself. I keep looking at the back seat for a while,to make sure fogis not coming with me.


Phot

ogra

phy

Free Daily Art ExhibitionsRecently, a group of ladies from the AWA Photography Group photographed the art displayed along Singapore’s North East MRT line. The art is not only fascinating but closely related to Singapore’s History and Culture, and worth taking a look at.

Art was integrated into the North East line in 1997, with the work of many of Singapore’s renowned artists, such as Teo Eng Seng and Milenko & Delia Prvacki. Art in Transit is a program that integrates art with transportation and architecture, you can look at pieces of art on your way back home and going to work, as it becomes an integral part of daily life. This program started with the North East line, continued with the Circle and Downtown Lines and there are plans to make it part of every new MRT line.

While the trip was worth the while, even

without the camera, the lighting was a bit poor. To remedy this I used a high aperture and ISO 400-800. A tripod would have been good help, but unfortunately I didn’t have one with me and would advise you to be wiser! Most of the pieces of art are flat, so I tried to photograph them from different angles, and the change in perspective not only makes for nice pictures, but also give the artworks a new kind of dimension reached through your camera lens!

The art around the stations is amazing and it is free for everybody to enjoy, I know I will complete my journey and visit the stations that I have not seen.

For more information about the AWA Photography Group please join our Facebook page – AWA Photography.

ART IN TRANSIT by Helga Herrera

Olga Terekhova


Photography

Olga Terekhova

Vaishali Kamani

Olga Terekhova

Olga Terekhova

Vaishali Kamani

Penn Austin

Olga Terekhova Helga Herrera

Vaishali Kamini

Olga Terekhova

Helga Herrera

Helga Herrera

Tenn

is TENNIS

Monthly Update

Coming Up: January Jubilee Tournament

The American Women’s Association is holding the annual January Jubilee Tournament and invites you to participate. The Tournament is open to all beginner and intermediate rated players, 2.0-3.0+. The January Jubilee is a fantastic opportunity to gain tournament experience, meet new players, and play in a fun social environment.

All participants must be current AWA tennis members and have an AWA assessment rating on file before registering. If you do not have an assessment rating, AWA Tennis will be conducting assessment sessions prior to the tournament.

We hope many of you will sign up with a partner. However, if you are interested in participating in the tournament and do not have a partner, please feel free to register, and we will make every effort to pair you with a partner.

The tournament has a set capacity, so please sign up early to avoid disappointment. To sign up, register online at www.awasingapore.org.

Date: Monday, January 25 and Tuesday, January 26Place: Savitar Tennis Centre: Fairmont Hotel – 80 Bras Basah Road, 8th Floor (tentative rain date is Wednesday, January 27)Time: 9 am to 12 noon (please arrive at 8:30 am for registration/check-in)Cost: $60 per player (AWA members only)

Sign up deadline: Friday, January 15Format: Doubles Tournament. Round robin day 1, single elimination day 2

So we have heard a new phrase this Fall Tennis Season, "Hazed out." Singles Challenge, Doubles Challenge, Social Doubles, Clinic, and our AWA Ladies LTS team were all impacted. For the first time ever, we had to put out a haze policy! Sadly, just when we thought it was going away, our Assessments were hazed out. We hope our Winter Tennis Season will bring about some clear weather so we can grab our gear and play some Team Tennis! Thanks to all tennis participants for their flexibility and understanding.

Thank you to all those who came out for our November assessments. Fortunately, we had no haze to speak of! If you are still in need of an assessment, check our website for our January dates.

Registration information for our Spring Season will be in the next issue.



Golf

GOLF SHOTSHappy Holidays From The AWA 9 & 18 Hole Golfers

Upcoming: 1st AWA Open and a Hole Event With The British Assn!

We have had an amazing first half of our golf season with a dynamic group of fun ladies. In spite of the occasional haze, we have enjoyed many exciting firsts, including our new Learn to Play Golf program in October, a Master Class with Lee Carrington in November, and a friendly Texas Scramble with the British Association held in Batam, Indonesia this past September.

Our friendly game pairing the AWA and the British Association ladies golfers. Thank you Mary Leadbetter and Southlinks for organizing this fabulous day of great golf, lunch, and PRIZES!

IMPORTANT: Ladies, you MUST REGISTER ONLINE at www.awasingapore.org with either the 9 or 18 hole group under the SPORTS tab. Learn to Play Golfers sign up as 9-Holers.

Santa’s Helpers!! Wishing all a Happy 2016 with no haze!


Hea

lth &

Fitn

ess/

Fro

m o

ur A

dver

tiser

s HEALTH & FITNESS Get Fit With SPEED!

We understand how daunting going to the dentist can be, which is why we aim to make you feel at home, away from home. Whether it’s maintaining a healthy set of pearly whites or attaining your dream smile, you can be sure to fi nd holistic dental care for your entire family at both our clinics.

WHAT CURVE SETS EVERYTHING STRAIGHT? YOUR BEAUTIFUL SMILE, OF COURSE!

GENERAL DENTISTRY, DENTAL SURGERY, HYGIENE: #08-15/16 Tel: +65 6397 6718 Email: [email protected]

ORTHODONTICS, FACIAL AESTHETICS: #11-04 Tel: +65 6250 0048 Email: [email protected]

24-hr Emergency: +65 9833 8706 expatdental.com facebook.com/ExpatDental

Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Drive, Singapore 307506.

Join Stacey with SPEED for an indoor bootcamp that is challenging, motivating and above all, super fun! We use a variety of equipment (TRXs, Kettlebells, Medicine balls and more) to get your muscles moving and use our indoor sprinting tracks, as well as ladders and cones, for a great heart-pumping, cardio boost: an all-over total body workout that will keep you smiling (and sweating) until the end!

Stacey Schwarz has her B.Sc. in Exercise Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Nutrition. She creates her classes to suit the needs of those with all levels of fitness– from those starting from scratch to those who have been at it for ages. Safe and efficient progression in an atmosphere of fun and support is the aim of all of her classes.

Date: Tuesday, January 19Time: 10:15 am – 11:15 am

Place: 100 Turf Club Road #01-02 Horse City, Bukit TimahCost: Free for membersLimit: 15, Register at awasingapore.org


Book Review/ From

our Advertisers

AWABOOK

GROUP Review Red Noticeby Bill Browder (c. 2015)

A young idealistic Russian lawyer refuses to lie and tarnish his professional integrity. His choice to speak only the truth about his client, British financier Bill Browder, results in Sergei Magnitsky’s imprisonment, mistreatment and eventual murder at the hands of his Russian prison guards.

Though Browder fought long and hard for Magnitsky’s release, he was not able to save him and Red Notice is a true story of the case and a tribute to Magnitsky’s sacrifice.

Browder started his career at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) with the aim to explore the investment possibilities of Eastern Europe. He ended up working in Russia, which held a special place in his family history. Eventually Browder became the largest foreign investor in Russia, running his own investment firm, the Hermitage Fund. He made a fortune investing in low-cost company shares and selling them when the prices of the shares rose. As part of his strategy in doing business in Russia, he directly took on a number of oligarchs when they attempted to illegally acquire his assets. According to Browder, President Putin was happy to let Browder carry on his anti-corruption campaigns against the oligarchs -- until the power shifted away from them. Once the power of the oligarchs weakened, Putin had no more use for Browder’s crusade and the Russian government moved against Browder, accusing him of tax evasion.

Not only was Browder in danger of losing his company and all its assets, but his staff was also threatened. Assassinations of Putin opponents are well documented, so Browder and his team quickly left Russia, later extracting all the Hermitage Fund’s assets.

Magnitsky, the firm’s lawyer, decided to stay in Russia with his young family, convinced that the new Russian environment was moving toward the rule of law. He was convinced that he had nothing to fear and that he would be able to defend his client without danger. He proved to be wrong.

Red Notice is also the story of how Browder worked to free Magnitsky from imprisonment, seeking the help of the British and the U.S. governments. The British were not interested in what might prove to be a difficult case diplomatically. After years of lobbying, Browder and his team convinced the U.S. government to vote on and pass the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act. It placed

diplomatic and economic sanctions against Russian officials who were involved in the imprisonment, torture and murder of Magnitsky.

Browder has written this book as a warning to the business community about investing in Russia. He feels that in exposing the events that led to Magnitsky’s death, he is continuing to strive for justice. He also feels his life is in danger and wants the world to know who would most likely be responsible if he himself should be assassinated. The story is a fascinating expose about modern Russia and Putin’s power in thwarting the democratic ideals that emerged with Perestroika.

Reviewed by Judith Agusti

C

M

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CM

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CY

CMY

K


Welcome to Flirting with Food! In this corner, we will discuss healthy, nutritional eating in Singapore and beyond.

Variety is the spice of life, and spice is the best way to make the most of your dishes. Singapore is a melting pot of tastes and there are a variety of delicious herbs and spices available. Liberally spicing your food is a great way to add flavor and texture without adding a lot of salt, or fat. Herbs and spices also contain important nutrients for your body.

Spices define cuisine. You can get the taste of specific cuisines just by adjusting the appropriate herbs and spices. Feel like Thai food tonight? Add some lemongrass, ginger and lime. Want some Italian food? Add some basil, garlic and oregano and you’re cookin’!

While herbs are usually plant leaves, such as mint, or rosemary, spices typically come from seeds, bark, or berries like peppercorn or cinnamon.

Here are four popular herbs and spices used in SE Asia cuisine.

Turmeric is found both fresh and powdered. It will add a beautiful orange color to your dishes. Use caution with fresh turmeric - it will stain your hands and cutting board orange, too! Turmeric is best added to soups, stews, curries, salad dressings, eggs or sautéed greens. It has many health benefits that include lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation and turmeric contains high levels of iron and manganese.

Ginger is popular in most Asian cuisines. You will find ginger pickled, grated, minced, sliced, juiced or candied. Aromatic, strong, pungent and spicy, ginger will add much flavor to your dishes; start with a little, you can always add more. It is best known for boosting your immune system and calming an upset stomach. Also try galangal; it is from the same family but more mild in taste. For a tea alternative, steep sliced ginger in hot water for five minutes.

Pandan leaves are long, thin, green, fragrant leaves, popular in SE Asian cuisine. They are sold fresh or frozen and must be crushed, bruised, or boiled to release their sweet vanilla like flavor. You will find it in nasi lemak, kaya (jam), rice dishes, curries and desserts. Pandan leaves aid in digestion and help freshen your breath.

Basil is one of the most common herbs used in cooking around the world, however it was first native to India and Asia. I worked with a chef in Hanoi who told me that there were over 150

Flirting with FoodSpice Up Your Life

By Terrie Price


Flirting With Food

different types of basil. Their family had more than 15 varieties growing on the patio. After tasting some side by side, yes, there is a difference! Try it fresh in salads, pureed in pestos, julienned in curries and soups, or infused oil and/or vinegar. Basil is high in vitamin A and K. Try sweet Thai, lemon or Vietnamese basil for a bit of variety. Use herbs fresh whenever possible and add them at the end of the cooking process to benefit from the most flavor and nutrients. Bon appétit!

Tom Yum Soupserves 4

Ingredients:1 small tomato, diced1 small onion, sliced1 large carrot, sliced5 cups water heated in a kettle1 cup diced tofu, fried (optional)7-8 slices galangal (or ginger), peeled2 lemongrass stalks, bruised, cut in large slices1-2 small red chilies, sliced 5-6 slices garlic3 kaffir leaves, stem removed2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (such as, broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, baby corn)2-3 tablespoons soy sauce1-2 teaspoons sugar½ - 1 teaspoon red curry paste or chili paste 1 can coconut milkbean sprouts and coriander leaves to garnish2 small limes, cut in half

How to:1. In a soup pot, sauté tomato, onion and carrot until just soft, 1-2 minutes. 2. Add water and next 10 ingredients, bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes. 3. Adjust for desired taste and spiciness; flavour should be sweet, spicy and

sour; vegetables should be al dente.4. Add coconut milk and incorporate until heated. 5. Remove from heat and divide evenly between 4 bowls. Top every bowl

with bean sprouts, coriander leaves, juice of ½ lime.6. The traditional way of eating is with a soup spoon and chopsticks taking a

little broth with a little vegetable. Use caution to not eat the lemongrass, galangal or chili slices.

Terrie Price is a Certified Vegetarian Chef and fitness instructor. She has worked with more than 27 different chefs in over 20 countries to learn about vegetarian cuisine. She is passionate about showing others how eating healthy whole food is easy and delicious.


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December 2015Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

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27 28 29 30 31

Golf TripLT: BFK Amazing Race

Running, Dish

Golf TripF&B: YSL Beaute

18-Hole Golf, WSN Coffee, Choir

Golf Trip

9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao, Scrapbooking

Holiday Lights TourLT: U.S. Embassy

Bowling

Bridge Christmas PartyChristian Connection

Mahjong,Walking, Bridge

LT: Sungei BulohSentosa Drop In Coffee

Running18-Hole Golf, WSN Coffee, Choir

AWA Choir Concert

Quilting, 9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading

Holiday Luncheon

Bowling


LT: Tea with the Armenians


9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao, Scrapbooking Bowling

Christmas

New Years Eve

Christian Connection

Mahjong,Walking, Bridge Running, Dish


9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao Bowling

Mahjong,Walking, Bridge Running


LT: Farming in SIngaporeQuilting, Scrapbooking, 9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading

LT: All Things Indian

Bowling

LT: Singapore Zoo


H&F: Speed Institute

Running

A&C: Chinese Tea Cermony


9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao

LT: Embassy Tour

Bowling

LT:Thaipusam Tour Tennis: January Jubilee


Newcomers Network


LT: CNY Dinner

Quilting, Scrapbooking, 9-Hole Golf, After Ni Hao, Writers, Beading

Bar NightLT: CNY Lunch

Bowling

OFFICE CLOSED

OFFICE CLOSED

Over 70 competitive sports teams across 12 sports inspire Stamford American students to achieve more than they believe they can, including Stamford American’s Varsity Cheer Squad.

Stamford off ers an outstanding international education for students from 2 to 18 years. We off er the rigorous IB Program – enhanced by American standards and a focus on languages – to equip your child for global citizenship.

Stamford American International School CPE Registration Number: 200823594D Period of Registration: August 10, 2014 to August 9, 2018

Inquiry Hotline+65 6653 7907

Open House

Friday, Dec 4 th 2015

Register at www.sais.edu.sg

FROM 2 TO 18 YEARS OLD

FUTURETEAM LEADERS

REQUIRED

100Real Madrid

70Competitive sports teams

Foundation Technical Academy on campus

Co-curricular activities

ST

Documents

Bamboo Telegraph December 2015 - awasingapore.org