AWA
JUL · AUG
Bamboo Telegraph All women, All walks of life, All Nationalities
HOW TO STAY FIT DURING A PANDEMIC PLUS EXPLORING NEW AREAS OF SINGAPORE BY FOOT OR BY BIKE TIPS TO LOOK YOUR BEST ON A VIDEO CALL AND THE ONE ACCESSORY YOU NEED TO STAND OUT GAME NIGHTS, PAINTING, HIGH TEA AND A MURDER MYSTERY PARTY ARE JUST SOME OF THE UPCOMING SUMMER SERIES EVENTS
2020
Contents
JUL AUG 2020 02
President's Message
Bits & Bites of Expat Life 03 04 06 07 08 10 11 12 14
Ask an Expert Expat AWA's New Board Member Spotlight Family Fun Adventures Exploring Singapore Watering Holes Fork & Chopstick You’re Not Alone Let's Go
AWA Singapore's Membership Magazine
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AWA Group Scoop 13 Writers’ Block 16 Summer Series 18 Photography 20 Fashion Show 22 Beauty & Fashion 23 Community Service 24 Cultural Cooking 25 Arts & Culture 26 Book Club Update 27 Movie & Lunch 28 Tennis 30 Running 31 Fitness During a Pandemic 32 AWA Potpourri
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Cover Photo by AWA member Christi Elflein Editor-in-Chief Tori Nelson bt_editor@awasingapore.org Staff Managing Editor - Emily Oberton Technical Director - Celine Suiter Graphic Editor - Gina Vono Copy Editors - Helena A. Cochrane - Amanda Jaffe Photographer - Elena Boyce Advertising Katherine McCall bt_advertising@awasingapore.org Jasmine Wells-Yao advertisingsales@awasingapore.org
www.awasingapore.org
Visit us on the internet: www.awasingapore.org Facebook: American Women’s Association of Singapore - AWA Instagram: awaofsingapore Questions, comments and administrative issues, please email us: office@ awasingapore.org
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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.
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President's Message
American Women's Association Of Singapore Dear American Women’s Association, It is truly my honor to serve as the American Women’s Association Singapore President for 20202021. This sisterhood, made up of women from around the world, fosters connections with the local community and with women from all walks of life. These connections enhance our Singapore experience, Deb Minnock regardless of whether we are President new to Singapore or a longtime expat. I speak from experience—six years ago, when I moved to Singapore with my husband, AWA’s resources and programming helped me make the island home. Since then, I’ve developed strong connections with AWA members, friendships that have been a wonderful source of support during this challenging time. The travel restrictions adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have been particularly distressing to our community members who have family residing outside of Singapore. The AWA’s online activities and promotions and forums—the Walking and Running Groups, Cultural Cooking, Book Groups, Coffee Chats, Online Mahjong, Happy Hours, Listen Ladies, and so many other offerings and groups—continue to make a huge difference to AWA members. The AWA will continue to offer these and other virtual events throughout the summer, and is always open to new activity ideas or other suggestions, so let us know if there is something you would like to try or would like to see offered! And we will do our best to keep you informed about whether upcoming events will be virtual. Rest assured that we will resume our fantastic activities and annual events in person as soon as it is safe to do so. During difficult times like these, connections to each other and the local community are more important than ever. So, this year I plan to encourage the AWA to continue to foster these connections through our volunteering and a focus on giving back to Singapore. One of the purposes of the AWA is participating in Singapore community activities. Over the next year, my goal will be to strengthen the connections between AWA and our host country by expanding our involvement and support of various activities. With the support of our very talented Board (listed on pages 4-5 of this issue), I’m sure that we will have a wonderful, and interesting, year ahead. -- 2 --
Finally, I would like to thank several dedicated AWA members for their help: Mel Rice—our outgoing AWA President and tough act to follow. Thank you for everything, Mel. Typhaine de Bure—our outgoing Vice-President, who provided invaluable expertise. Christa Templeman Boncimino and Allison Barnes Burden—our outgoing volunteer group organizers responsible for the truly impressive AWA man-hours. I appreciate all the volunteers (especially and including Janet Stride) who continue to make a difference in Singapore. Siew-Wei Ngiam—Mahjong leader extraordinare, who taught so many AWA members the joy of the game. And thank you, Sarah Cockerill, our General Manager, for keeping us organized and positive, and for your invaluable advice and confidence in us. Have a good rest of the summer—be safe, be well, and be ready for creative connections. Best regards,
Debra Kearl Minnock
American Women’s Association of Singapore 15 Scotts Road #03-01 Singapore 228218 General Manager: Sarah Cockerill Main: 6734-4895 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 4:00 pm www.awasingapore.org
FAQ’s/Important Information • The AWA welcomes all nationalities, not just Americans. • AWA guest fees apply to Singapore residents. Out of town guests and family members pay the AWA member price. • Guests are entitled to attend 2 events (in total, not per year) before we ask them to join the AWA to continue participating. • You can register for membership and events any time on our website: 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.
Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Ask An Expert Expat
Answering your questions about expat life Written BY AND PHOTOGRAPHY by Tanya Arler ASK AN EXPERT EXPAT is here to address our members’ reallife questions regarding the unique circumstances inherent in expat living. In this column Tanya Arler, a mindset coach, author and seasoned expat, will offer some answers.
It will take three months for our container to arrive. How do I manage our home once we’ve packed up, and our new/temporary home while our ‘stuff’ is still floating around? Simplify, simplify, simplify. As daunting as it might feel, being forced to simplify can make life easier and offer the space you need to gently transition into your new life. Old routines fall away in new surroundings and you have a chance to try out new routines before you’re up to your eyeballs in boxes.
Before I moved, I was determined to take Mandarin classes, but everyone speaks English so well here, do I need to learn the language? That depends on what you want to get out of it. If your intention is to become fluent so that you can integrate into Singaporean culture and have indepth conversations with locals, I’m not sure that’s realistic. If you’d like to learn some basics and challenge your mind, absolutely. Adapting to a new culture, establishing a home and building a support network is a full-time job, so prioritizing how to spend your extra time is key. If you’re fascinated by the language, by all means pursue it. But if you’re taking lessons because you think you "should," think again. There are many ways of getting to know the culture and challenging your mind, so find something you really enjoy or have always wanted to try, keeping in mind that making new friends is key to finding your footing in your new home.
You learn to cook full meals with one pot, your kids learn to amuse themselves with fewer toys, you have less laundry to do… life is just less full. The beauty is that it gives you time. Use that time to say goodbye, and once in your new country, to explore. My family and I cherish the times we spent in temporary housing. It was like a warm-up for real life. My Advice: Treat it like a gift, offering you opportunity to adapt and explore more easily. www.awasingapore.org
If wrapping your head around a new language appeals to you, kill two birds with one stone. Take group classes with other expats, organize a small group of your own or join the AWA After Ni Hao Group (find more information on the AWA website) to practice speaking with like-minded people. It’s a great way to make friends and learn the language My Advice: Spend your free time pursuing activities you really enjoy, preferably also with other people. Tanya Arler is the founder of A HAPPY EXPAT, offering expat spouses practical tools and advice on how to navigate the staggering changes they face. For more info, visit www.ahappyexpat.com
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A WA'S New Board for 2020-2021 Introducing the awa board members President – Debra Minnock The President’s role is to direct the general affairs of the AWA, setting goals and a specific tone for her term of office. She represents the AWA to the wider Singaporean and international community and ensures the AWA board complies with all appropriate rules and regulations. Deb has been in Singapore for over six years, and has been an active member of the AWA Singapore since 2015. She has chaired the Sports and the High Tea groups. This will be her first term as President. Vice-President – Kristen Mooney The Vice-President is in charge of Membership. She has overall responsibility for our membership numbers and marketing efforts, working with our drop in coffee and drinks volunteers, our long term member group and our marketing volunteers. Kristen joined the AWA in 2019. She had previously served as a co-chair for the AWA Newcomers. This will be her first term as Vice President. Treasurer – Ali Donaldson The Treasurer is the financial conscience of the AWA and provides factual, unbiased financial information to facilitate informed decision-making by the board. She is responsible for all financial income and expenses, and works closely with her assistant treasurers and the GM to manage this. Ali joined the AWA in 2018 and has volunteered regularly with our Community Service group. This will be her second term as AWA Treasurer. Secretary – Katherine McCall The Secretary is responsible for accurate record keeping within the AWA, all board meetings and the accompanying agendas and minutes. She also oversees the Policy and Nominating committees, supporting them and ensuring they follow all appropriate rules and regulations. -- 4 --
Katherine joined as an AWA member in 2018. She has volunteered in a variety of groups, including Communications and Local Tours. This will be her second term as AWA Secretary. Volunteer Director – Mel Rice The Volunteer Director spearheads volunteer recruitment and appreciation. She actively works with the communications team to disseminate accurate information about open volunteer positions through the website, social media, and email. She serves as co-chair of the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and supports the Sports, Social, Special Interest and Major Events Chairs. Mel joined the AWA in 2008. She just finished two terms as President. She has previously volunteered as Vice-President, Sports Chair and chair of the AWA Fashion Show. External Affairs Director – Linda Schindler The External Affairs Director has overall responsibility for our interaction with the wider community through our community service and our relationships with corporate partners. She works closely with and supports the Community Service Chair and Corporate Relationship Manager. She also supports the President in making connections with the wider community in Singapore. Linda joined AWA in 2014. This is her first term as External Affairs Director. Previously, she served as Communications Director for two years and Special Interest Chair for two years. Communications Director – Lorraine Graybill The Communications Director is responsible for AWA communications, including the Bamboo Telegraph, website, upcoming event emails and social media. She works closely with the chairs of these committees and ensures they follow all appropriate rules and regulations. Lorraine joined AWA in 2016. She has been an active member during her time here, previously chairing Local Tours. This will be her second term as Communications Director. Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
A WA'S New Board for 2020-2021 Introducing the awa board members Major Events Chair – Venta Norvilas The Major Events Chair represents the major event committees on the AWA board: Home Tour, Thanksgiving Picnic, Holiday Luncheon, Holiday Lights Bus Tour, Spring Event, Fashion Show, and any other ad hoc major events. Venta joined the AWA in 2013. She has chaired the Bar Night committee, served on the board as Social Chair and this will be her second term as Major Events chair. Social Chair – Kristin Bemowski The Social Chair represents all of the social committees on the AWA board. Kristin joined the AWA in 2017. This is her second term as Social Chair. She previously chaired the Bar Night committee. Special Interest Chair – Aarti Sonawala The Special Interest Chair represents all of the special interest committees on the AWA board. Aarti joined AWA in 2013. She has chaired the Speakers Lunch program and the Holiday Luncheon. This will be her first term as Special Interest Chair.
Sports Chair – Jaclyn Muncy The Sports Chair represents all of the sports committees on the AWA board. Jaclyn joined AWA in 2018. She has since volunteered on AWA event committees. This will be her first term as Sports Chair. Community Service Chair – Ashley Fagan The Community Service Manager works with her committee to provide AWA members with information about, and an opportunity to volunteer with, non-profit organizations in Singapore. Ashley joined the AWA in 2018. She has been the co-chair of AWA Playgroups since 2019. This will be her first term as the AWA community service chair. Corporate Relations Manager – Emily Ludwick The Corporate Relations Manager maintains an overview of the AWA’s business partnerships and coordinates our annual contracts and agreements. Emily joined AWA in 2016, and has been an active volunteer on several committees. This will be her second term as Corporate Relations Manager.
Ex officio: General Manager- Sarah Cockerill The general manager is the only AWA paid staff position. She is responsible for maintaining, supervising, and coordinating AWA business, and for advising and supporting board members in carrying out their duties. Sarah joined the AWA in 2005, became the office manager in 2006, and then general manager in 2008. After a three-year interval in Japan, Sarah returned to the AWA in 2012 to take up the position of general manager again.
www.awasingapore.org
Historian- Caitlin Fry The Historian provides the board with background and information regarding AWA board decisions and AWA activities from previous years. Ideally, this position is offered to a member of long standing who has served on the AWA board in a variety of roles over a period of several years. Caitlin served on the AWA board in the 2000s and was President in 2009 and 2010. She recently returned to Singapore and began volunteering for AWA again, chairing the 2019 Home Tour and No Exit Strategy group. This will be her second term as Historian. -- 5 --
Member Spotlight
getting to know our members beyond the usual chitchat
Bhavani Krishnamurthy moved to Singapore thirteen years ago with her husband and two children, after a stint in Hong Kong. Bhavani is a fund manager, and volunteers with SINDA. She is in the AWA Writers’ Group, where she has workshopped a beautiful and riveting memoir she is writing about her grandmother.
Written by Christin Gustafson
What have you learned in Singapore that you didn’t expect? Singapore is a better gateway to Chinese culture than Hong Kong was, as Singaporeans showcase it through a broader global lens. I love Chinese New Year: watching the Lion Dance, the red and gold colors, the tossing of the salad, and the giving out of red packets. It energizes me and makes me glad to be in the here and now. What has surprised you? The continual tree pruning that goes on in Singapore was a pleasant wakeup call to remind me that I live in a rainforest. How has working in Singapore been different than you expected? The lunch break routine is almost a cultural facet of working Singaporeans – a sweet team-building exercise and quite different from what I’ve seen elsewhere. I had no idea what a big part the food court plays in Singaporeans’ lives. What do you miss from home that you can’t find in Singapore? Singapore is fantastic for expatriate Indians because of Little India! One gets almost everything here that you would at home. But I miss Indian Chinese cuisine! Brought by the Chinese into India (Calcutta has a Chinatown), it was adapted to the local palate. While restaurants here try to fill this need, eating at them is not the same as eating in your neighborhood China Gate or Mainland China back home! You have moved often. apartment or house?
Do you decorate each
I’ve lived in 17 places as an adult. Doing up a house is a therapeutic exercise. I do not like anyone interfering with the house project either – so what I usually do is to move my family in only after I am done with decorating. Weeks of setup are preceded by months of planning. I’m a sort of bridezilla, with my husband and kids being the bemused groom and wedding guests! As the kids have grown up, and my husband is more vocal in his bid for autonomy, I am slowly ceding control. My current home is a tad frumpy, but it somehow still feels right.
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Bhavani Krishnamurthy
Did you live in a large city or in the country before you came to Singapore? Do you escape into nature here? I lived in metropolitan apartments most of my adult life. It’s been the only imaginable way until now. I used to make a ritual of driving to East Coast Park very early in the mornings. I would clamber up an embankment and sit for some time looking at the unpredictable seascape, ships anchored in the distance, the sun rising suddenly. I’d break a coconut and fling it out into the sea asking for blessings from Nature – the waters, the sun, the mother Goddess. I look forward to when I can do this again. Meanwhile, the circuit breaker has taught me to truly value my house and garden - and family.
Christin is a seasoned expat who enjoys learning how others adjust to their adopted hometown. She is a member of the AWA Writers Group, a busy mom of two sons and has lived in Singapore since 2018. Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Family Fun Adventures
finding Cool things to do in and around singapore
Let's Ride!
Written by and Photography by Christi Elflein
Working and studying from home? You need some fresh air! And you need to move! Grab your kids, hop on a bike, and take a ride! It will boost your spirits, burn a few calories, and provide a great bonding experience for your family. Singapore has been actively expanding its Cycling Path Network and Park Connector Network for 30
stadium, we ride along the Marina Reservoir towards downtown. This scenic section traverses through Bay East Garden, crosses over Marina Barrage and through Gardens by the Bay, emerging at Marina Bay Sands. This is another great spot for a break, especially if your kids need an ice cream recharge.
Biking in Gardens by the Bay
years. Hundreds of miles of paths wind their way around the city, linking housing to parks and the city center. Check out the Land Transport Authority’s network map (www. lta.gov.sg). The popularity of biking has surged the past few months. The absence of tourists and less traffic have opened up the sidewalks and roads for an easier connection to popular bike paths. Biking along Orchard Road My family is part of this surge of new riders, exploring new routes weekly. We’ve stumbled upon whimsical bridges we didn’t know existed, seen the city skyline from new perspectives and reveled in the sight of playful otters. Our favorite route begins east of Novena, where a path runs along the Kallang River until it reaches the National Stadium, which is a great spot to refresh water bottles and grab a snack. From the www.awasingapore.org
Our route then wraps around Marina Bay, skirting the edge of the Central Business District, and pauses again at the Merlion for a photo op. We continue over the Jubilee Bridge, then travel up the Singapore River through Boat and Clarke Quays. From there, we veer off the river and around the north side of Fort Canning to Istana Park, where we connect to Orchard Road. We ride the sidewalks on Orchard Road until it ends and reconnect through side streets to Novena, where we began. This route covers about 20 miles and takes a leisurely three to four hours to cruise. Remember to stay left and be considerate of pedestrians. If you need a bike, start your adventure on the Singapore River, where you can rent a shared bike using an app (such as SG Bike or Anywheel) for $2 per hour. However far you go or whichever path you take, you are sure to enjoy it. Now, let’s ride! Christi is an urban planner for an architecture firm in Florida. She moved to Singapore and joined AWA in 2019 and is loving exploring her new city with her husband and two kids. -- 7 --
Exploring Singapore observations of an expat in Singapore
Paying a Visit to Esplande Park
Written by and Photography by Amanda Jaffe
View from the mouth of the Singapore River
Wedged between the Padang’s classic green and the durian-spiked Theaters on the Bay, Esplanade Park and its surroundings are filled with monuments and memorials that invite you to join in some of Singapore’s collective memories. It’s worth your time to accept the invitation and pay a visit.
five steps leading to the monument list the five years of World War I, and bronze tablets list the names of the dead. In 1950, the Cenotaph’s base was expanded to commemorate World War II casualties on the reverse. This side of the Cenotaph is inscribed, “They died that we might live” in Singapore’s four official
The Esplanade Park Memorials Three memorials sit at the heart of Esplanade Park: Tan Kim Seng Fountain and Lim Bo Seng Memorial at either end and the Cenotaph in the middle. It’s not often that you find monuments commemorating the contributions of individuals in Singapore. There’s something wonderfully Singaporean in the fact that these three memorials were designated collectively as a single National Monument in 2010. Tan Kim Seng Fountain resides at the park’s Stamford Road end. This beautiful cast iron fountain, constructed in 1882, features four Muses, faces of Poseidon, and cupids. The inscription around the base commemorates Tan Kim Seng’s 1857 donation toward the construction of public waterworks for the city of Singapore. A leader of Singapore’s Chinese community, Tan Kim Seng founded two educational institutions and was a leading supporter of Singapore’s Chinese Pauper Hospital (today’s Tan Tock Seng Hospital). Modelled on the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, Singapore’s Cenotaph sits, solemn and austere, in the middle of Esplanade Park. Completed in 1922 and unveiled by the Prince of Wales, Edward VIII, it was built to honor the 124 men from Singapore who died in World War I. On the side facing the Padang, -- 8 --
The Struggle Against the Communist Party of Malaya Marker
languages. The steps list the years 1939 through 1943, with 1944 and 1945 inscribed on the base. At the other end of Esplanade Park, you’ll find the Lim Bo Seng Memorial, the only Singapore memorial to honor an individual’s sacrifice during World War II. Long active in anti-Japanese war efforts, Lim Bo Seng fled Singapore shortly before Japan invaded for Malaya, where he built a resistance group known as Force 136. Lim Bo Seng was captured by the Japanese and died in a prison camp in 1944. The memorial, unveiled on the tenth anniversary of his Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
replaced by five mature Angsanas brought from Upper Serangoon Road. Take a moment to admire The Rising Moon, by Han Sai Por and Kum Chee Kiong. Installed in 2015, this granite and steel construction with accompanying boulders reinterprets the five stars and crescent moon of Singapore’s flag and pays tribute to the Singapore River.
The Cenotaph
death, features an eight-sided pagoda with bronze roof, four bronze lions, and plaques honoring Lim Bo Seng in Chinese, Malay, English and Tamil. Near the Cenotaph Not far from the Cenotaph, another memorial recalls Singapore’s struggle against the Communist Party of Malaya, which sought to establish a communist regime in Malaysia and Singapore from 1948 until 1989. A nearby historical marker recalls a memorial erected near the end of the Japanese occupation to honor the Indian National Army (INA). Starting in 1942, Japan encouraged -- in some cases forced
Spend a few minutes surveying the mouth of the Singapore River from Queen Elizabeth Walk. Originally a seaside promenade, the walk was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953. Then head toward Anderson Bridge and take the underpass (Singapore’s first, from 1964!) to Empress Place, named in honor of Queen Victoria. Here, you’ll find colonial-era monuments in the form of the Dalhousie Obelisk (erected in 1850) and the original statue of Sir Stamford Raffles (unveiled in 1887). Near Tan Kim Seng Fountain From Tan Kim Seng Fountain, cross Stamford Road to visit and reflect at War Memorial Park. Rising in the park’s center, the four columns of Singapore’s Civilian War Memorial commemorate the shared wartime experiences of Singapore’s four main ethnic groups. In a corner of the park near the intersection of Stamford Road and Esplanade Drive, you’ll find the remnants of Stamford Bridge, which used to cross the now-covered Stamford Canal. While not a memorial, they remind us that there are many ways, big and small, to connect with Singapore’s past.
Stamford Bridge Pier
-- prisoners-of-war from the British Indian Army to join the INA to fight for Indian independence. Lord Mountbatten ordered the memorial destroyed when he returned to Singapore in 1945. Around Lim Bo Seng Memorial Near the Lim Bo Seng Memorial, five Angsana trees recall Gor Zhang Chiu Kar, Hokkien for “under the shade of five trees.” This was a popular dating spot from the 1960s until the 1980s. When the original trees became diseased in the early 1990s, they were www.awasingapore.org
Tan Kim Seng Fountain
In addition to exploring Singapore for Bamboo Telegraph, Amanda Jaffe writes about her travel adventures on her blog, Rambling Llama (www.ramblingllama.com). -- 9 --
Watering Holes
The best places in singapore to find coffee & cocktails Written by Silvia Fernandez
Bringing the Bar to You This Watering Hole column is a little different since we don't know when bars and cafes will reopen and when people will feel comfortable sitting down for drinks together in a public place. So for this issue, let's consider a new option.
placed an order by phone and their courier showed up with a selection of high-quality tacos, guacamole and chips that Frida Kahlo would be proud of for dinner. Who doesn’t like margaritas? We chose Tommy’s Margarita Kit and were delighted to sip Arquitecto Tequila, limes, agave nectar and a pinch of smoked salt while on the balcony doing Zoom with family. Another option is the Brass Lion Distillery, an eightyear journey to perfect a spirit with local products. It was a birthday present that got us into gin, big time. We also discovered it is not only the gin but the tonic that makes the Gin & Tonic our favorite. Brass Lion Distillery provides gin to most bars in Singapore; you would probably recognize their iconic bottles. They currently offer a “Circuit Breaker Survival Kit” with one of their emblematic Dry, Butterfly Pea or Pahit Pink Gins to pair with a great tonic of your choice, sent to the comfort of your home to enjoy at sunset. Somehow, we are forced to live day by day right now, so let’s be positive and invest time in planning your new cocktail to make today a special day. You deserve it! NOTE: I am not linked or have any affiliation to any of these businesses, but believe it is a good way to support local companies.
Margaritas with lots of fresh lime
We all deserve a little pampering in these dire times and maybe it’s a great time to try something new, like the delightful home delivery of.. get ready for this.. cocktails! Yes! I utterly enjoy finding new drinks with a local twist and now we can do it safely in the comfort of our own home. Here are a few local options to try: I think the project “Wheels On The Bars (wheelsonthebars.sg) is a good option to browse and purchase cocktails, ready to serve at home. This project aims to help bars to sustain their business. Their motto is: ”Buy a drink, save a bar.” Have fun browsing the website; there is a directory where you find a wide range of cocktail bars and their menus. I follow Junior The Pocket Bar on Facebook and Instagram and I get the latest menu and promos. The time I ordered, they had a Mexican theme. I simply
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Freshly made guacamole
Silvia is an eternal expat and global traveller. She's enjoyed exploring Singapore's hidden gems since 2017. Her husband, Mark Dixon, is her enthustiastic collaborator. Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
The Fork and Chopstick
To highlight the off the beaten path, heritage, or just plain fun chomping grounds
Written by and Photography by Jenni & Eric Lee
Great Eggspectations: Poultry in Motion
Craving chicken with your beer?
Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory
This probably has been the longest we have ever gone without eating out. Although we’ve been able to hone some of our cooking skills, sometimes we’ve really wanted a break. Time to transition from making dinner to takeout and deliveries. We decided to settle on some comfort food: local, unique, and comforting fried chicken!
There’s more to try than Popeye’s or calling the Colonel. Let’s explore some alternatives, starting with the other KFC that has become trendy: Korean Fried Chicken. Korean Fried Chicken has become quite popular lately in Singapore, and quite a few outlets have opened up. Chir Chir Fusion Chicken Factory at 313 Somerset is a branch of a well-known South Korean chain. There are classic, garlicky, spicy and curry fried chicken varieties, along with less artery-clogging baked chicken. The fusion that makes Korean chicken are the sauces -- sticky, sweet, spicy and salty meets crispy, craggy fried chicken. If you are familiar with Korean food, the sauces will seem familiar, but now they’re topping fried chicken chunks. Warning: the spicy chicken is really spicy. Another alternative to run-of-the-mill fried chicken could be a more local choice, ayam penyet, or “smashed chicken.” Ayam penyet is a popular form of fried chicken from Indonesia that is actually smashed after frying in order to soften it. We tried the version at Ayam Penyet President in Far East Plaza. The chicken is served with sambal, along with tempeh, tofu, and rice. It makes for a tasty, alternative form of fried chicken, but probably better for dining in rather than takeaway. Warning: the sambal is really spicy. Staying in Asia, the Filipino chain Jollibee offers yet another variation on fried chicken. Jollibee is famous www.awasingapore.org
A sampling of fried chicken enjoyed at home
throughout the Philippines and has been expanding globally, including 42 stores in the U.S. Accompanying the plain or spicy bird is the satisfying gravy on the side. There are familiar sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw, but a well-known extra (although not to everyone’s taste) is their spaghetti. Warning: the spicy chicken is really spicy. Verdict: Which was our crunchy, juicy, salty and spicy favorite? The winner was Jollibee! Try them all and decide for yourself. What Others Are Saying: Google reviewers gave Jollibee 3.7; Ayam Penyet President 4.2; and Chir Chir 3.9 stars (out of 5). On Foodpanda, all three eateries earned 4.5 out of 5 stars. Don’t forget to pick up beer on the way home. And a healthy salad. Happy Chomping!
Jenni & Eric Lee live to eat and explore local eateries and bars. Originally from New York, they have lived in Singapore since 2012.
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You're Not Alone... Really
coping wtih the ups and downs of being an expat Written by Andrea McKenna Brankin
The ‘New Normal’ Requires some ‘New Tips’ for Managing Life To help support our AWA community, the Listen Ladies group hosted a Zoom call early on during the Circuit Breaker with counselor Martin Williams, of Harmony Counselling, on how best to cope with life during this Covid-19 Circuit Breaker. One key point Martin made was how important it is to surround yourself with positive people: those who help you stay calmer in the craziness going on here and in our home countries. The AWA has had many efforts from the various groups to keep all of us connected and supported. Among them, the weekly coffee meeting, online trivia, after ni hao, drop-in drinks, the walkers’ group and the ‘No Exit Strategy’ group have all put their meetups online with regular Zoom calls or, in the case of trivia, an online competition.
Family time can include doing a puzzle together
Look for other fun options on our AWA Home Stay Activities page. www.awasingapore.org Martin shared other great tips under a few categories in his presentation: For managing anxiety, one of the suggestions was to find “grounders amidst all the electric energy,” such as people, places, objects, activities, mantras or other touchstones that keep you firmly planted in a logical reality. These things might include a walk in a nearby nature park, putting together a puzzle or reading an exciting book. “Be a reducer and not a producer of viral anxiety and panic,” he notes, adding that in this way we can also be “grounders” for others. When it comes to managing relationships, Martin pointed out a nuance we don’t always think about and may be a first in our “new normal’ of being with family members. All. The. Time. “Don’t take it in -- 12 --
Reduce stress by going for a walk
your stride when loved ones speak to you in ways you don’t like,” he says. He gives an interesting tip: Act surprised. “Surprise marks clear boundaries around what we expect in our relationships, and communicating that ‘This isn’t normal’ and can be an effective way of communicating that ‘It shouldn’t be’.” Managing our kids (of all ages) during this time presents challenges because parents may not really know how to explain the situation to their children. But, Martin says, children sense even our unspoken worries and it leaves them perplexed and anxious. Therefore, it’s better to be hopeful and honest about the COVID situation. “Even though you may worry that talking about the pandemic will increase their worries, bringing difficult topics into conversation can actually help to quiet stressors, as children often imagine scenarios far worse than the reality. Sharing factual and age-appropriate information helps them put things into perspective,” says Martin. Following these tips can help to maintain our sanity (literally) during this ‘new normal’ of life with COVID-19. We face several weeks of continued isolation and restrictions and we’re uncertain about what the summer may bring. Even so, our AWA connections and some mental pauses can help us keep it together. *To reach Martin directly, contact our group and I'll share his email with you. Andrea runs the AWA Listen Ladies Group, providing confidential support at monthly meetings. listenladies@awasingapore.org Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Writers' Block
a monthly contribution from our AWA Writers Group members. Written by and Photography by Marta Rabins
From the Covid Journal April 2020 Singapore A bride and groom walk across Fort Canning Green, posing for photos I wonder at them starting their life in such uncertain times, when they will soon be forced to spend all their time together I come here often, and walk along the low, brickwalled perimeter, watching Indian workmen restore the engravings on tombstones of the long dead Those who were once buried under the green, and removed to make way for the living Sailors, merchants and soldiers from Christian lands whose final resting place is across vast oceans far from home Adventurer or scoundrel, tradesman or scholar, some with wives, and children born here Died in childbirth, or from fevers of one sort or another Today there is just one fever on everyone’s lips Why do we think as modern-day tradesman or traveler, that we are immune to the vagaries of humankind?
Bride and groom in Fort Canning
To those we love and others, young and old, with no respect for borders or status We’re given this gift of life without knowing how long we can keep it Find the joy, for surely pain and suffering are there too The park trees stand by as silent sentinels
We drift along on life’s currents thinking to be the master of our universe when in truth the gods, nature or the ‘virus’ are truly in control
In my new neighborhood, I no longer walk in Fort Canning, masks are mandatory, and couples can no longer be out together
It’s an illusion this pact we have with ourselves, that we will never die and so are surprised when it suddenly happens by the thousands
It draws me outside, alone, to listen
Yet I’m called to prayer five times daily by a muezzin with a voice that’s both plaintive and inviting
The AWA Writers’ Group meets the second and fourth Thursday to discuss their work. For more information, send an email to writers@awasingapore.org Wall of tombstones in Fort Canning
www.awasingapore.org
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Let's Go!
Travel, tours and fun itinerary ideas around southeast asia Written by and Photography by Meg Sine
Let’s Go Virtual Travel! Travel is an important aspect of expat life in Singapore. But while our passports are sitting idle for the immediate future, we can still dream of traveling when it will be safe again. If a Zoom meeting is the antidote to social distancing, virtual travel is the remedy to living in this temporary travel void. I chose my 2017 visit to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to search and vet some YouTube videos to create a virtual tour rather than just a narrative. Have some fun and enjoy an updated version of armchair travel. Global pandemic aside, Jordan is probably the safest place to travel in the Middle East other than Dubai or Oman. The history, culture, culinary traditions and hospitality are legendary. The people are warm and genuine, English is widely spoken and did I mention how delicious the food is? Jordan is small and compact and therefore a perfect country to see in only six or seven days (except for the eastern desert). Amman in the north to Aqaba in the south is about the same distance as NYC to Washington DC. We didn’t join a tour, preferring instead to rent a car and roam on our own as informed by tour books, Google searches and recommendations from a friend who works in Amman. Our itinerary included stops at the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib, Petra, Wadi Rum, Madaba and Jerash.
Meg and her daughter try some Dead Sea mudding
Our next eagerly anticipated destination was a slot canyon carved by rushing water down through the steep escarpment. The following video really captures the raw, geologic beauty of the vertical rock walls and the excitement of hauling oneself through the rushing water of Wadi Mujib.
Floating in the Dead Sea: Photo by Ri Butov from Pixabay
The highlight upon arrival into Amman was a wonderful cooking class at Beit Sitti, meaning My Grandmother’s House. We didn’t stay in Amman long, as our biggest anticipation was to get to the Dead Sea, about one hours drive. We were not disappointed. We enjoyed a delightful mud spa and experienced that funny floating sensation. Here is a link to one video blogger’s Dead Sea virtual tour. -- 14 --
Petra is one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Jordan, in recognition of the ancient civilization and well-preserved architecture. It is clearly the motivation for most of the nearly one million visitors to Jordan each year. Even the cinematography of Indiana Jones cannot convey the beauty and grandeur of this rock city. Click on this link to scan in all directions for a virtual tour: Petra 360 View. Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
After Petra, what could be more amazing? Wadi Rum is another UNESCO treasure of Jordan. This vast national park near Aqaba was the extraterrestrial film set for Star Wars and Red Planet. The reddish sand and the barren, rugged, windswept topography truly could pass for another planet. We did hire a Bedouin guide, a friendly fellow and member of a group of nomadic people made famous in the award-winning film Lawrence of Arabia. Our tour included an open-air ride in the back of a pickup truck (better for the 360 view) instead of a camel trek (too uncomfortable and slow) to several places in the desert to hike sand dunes, climb stone arches and visit a green oasis. We slept one night in a Bedouin tent camp where the local staff baked and barbecued a wonderful dinner, with heated rocks in the ground. Our Bedouin guides shared their love of music and camaraderie around the evening campfire. Here is a virtual visit to Wadi Rum.
Petra the Treasury
Like Madaba, the city of Jerash is a living museum of ancient history. We walked along an old Roman road decorated with Ionic columns on stone paving that showed 2,000-year old ruts from Roman chariots. I felt like I was in another movie set, maybe Ben Hur. Follow this short video blog to tour the largest collection of Roman ruins outside of Italy: Virtual Tour of Jerash.
Wadi Rum camels
Returning north to Amman and the airport, we completed our one-week tour with one day each in Madaba and Jerash. Madaba is very special for Christian churches and beautiful tile mosaics dating back to the time of the Crusades. It was also a good place to shop for souvenirs, appreciate art and savor some more Mediterranean food.
www.awasingapore.org
Jordan issues visas on arrival to US citizens. The best time to visit is in the spring from March until May or the fall from September to November. If you haven’t been to the Middle East, after this virtual tour you might find Jordan jumping to the top of your travel bucket list. Meg lived and traveled all over Asia for almost 25 years before moving to SIngapore in 2018. She enjoys biking, walking and quilting with AWA Creative Hands.
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Summer Series 2020 SPECIAL AWA EVENTS IN JULY AND AUGUST
Virtual Murder Mystery Party: 80’s Gone Bad! Dates: Saturday July 18 and Aug 15 Time: 7pm to 10pm Cost: $20 Limit: 20 (open to members & family over age 15) This is an interactive and exciting murder mystery party where we will keep you on your toes. As prom night unfolds, an innocent life will be claimed. From the preppie to the punk rocker, the jock to the jilted, all are suspected but only one is to blame. Can you find the culprit in this crazy madness filled with neon, naughtiness and narcissistic behavior? Get ready for a night of virtual mystery and intrigue. As well as competing to solve the mystery, we will be voting on best dressed and best acting!
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Get Your Crafty On! Dates: Monday July 20 and August 17 Time: 1pm to 2pm Cost: Free Get inspired to dust off those knitting needles or unbox that sewing machine and get started or reacquainted with your favorite craft. Find out where to access supplies in Singapore, the best YouTube videos to try, and even find a Creative Hands member to mentor you while you get started. Join a few Creative Hands veterans to help create a crafty plan to make something beautiful.
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Game Nights Date: July 28 and August 25 Time: 7pm - 9pm Cost: Free Bored of the same old board games at home? Join us for one of our AWA Game Nights this summer. Starting at 7pm, we’ll play a family-friendly game that’s sure to be a blast! Other family members are also invited to join in the fun and all ages are welcome, so include your spouse and kids and earn some bragging rights. Please check the event listings on the AWA website for information on how to prepare. You may need to download a free app or other materials, such as pen and paper, may be required.
Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Fun with Cooking 101 Date: Time: Place: Cost: Limit:
July 6 2pm – 4pm Aarti’s house, virtually $10 member $20 guest (children free) 20
Join us for a fun Zoom cooking party! Aarti Sonawala will share recipes that will make cooking seem easy and fun! We will start with a tequila-based fruit cocktail, move on to an appetizer of stuffed portobello mushrooms with pomelo salad and end with a cheesecake dessert! A list of ingredients will be emailed to you in advance once you sign up to join the session.
AWA Member Talk series Tuesday, July 7 at 1:30, Lindley Craig will talk about Neuro Linguistic Programming Tuesday July 21 at 1:30, Tanya Arler will discuss Mind and Mindset. There is so much talent among our members, and this is the perfect time to learn from each other. These talks will allow a member the chance to educate, enlighten or amuse other members with something she is passionate about. They will be held over Zoom in small groups and are free to join, but you do need to sign up in advance. Keep an eye out for other really cool conversations. And it’s not too late to sign up. If there’s something you want to share, we want to hear about it! Please email office@ awasingapore.org with details of your topic.
Virtual High Tea Date: Time: Cost: Limit:
Tuesday July 14 3pm – 4:30pm $65 13
Please join us for a very special Virtual High Tea on the afternoon of July 14th. The Regent Singapore will prepare an array of Italian High Tea delicacies and offer contactless delivery to your home. As a special treat, the Tea Lounge’s Senior Chef will join our chat and explain the high tea offering. You will receive a Zoom invite the morning of the 14th and your High Tea meal will be delivered between 1:30 and 2:30. This is a no cancellation event. You will receive a link to submit your address and any dietary restrictions after you register. We look forward to seeing you at tea!!
ArtJam with Shikha Date: Time: Location: Cost:
Tuesday, July 21 8pm - 10pm Comfort of your own home $80
Join us for two hours of detox and de-stress as you paint this beautiful Singapore skyline from the comfort of your home. Shikha will guide you, step by step, with her easy-to-follow instructions. No prior painting experience is necessary, and all supplies will be delivered to your home prior to the event. Create your own Singapore-inspired artwork from start to finish and try something new. It’s sure to be a fun evening of creativity.
Sign up for any of these events in the calendar section of our website. If you have any questions, please email : office@awasingapore.org
www.awasingapore.org
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Photography Group
The awa Photography group welcomes both new and returning Members
A message from Karen Lucas, Outgoing Photography Co-Chair:
photo by Karen Lucas
This iconic photo would have been impossible to take before the COVID-19 Circuit Breaker: the scene is normally over-crowded with tourists jostling for the best photo spot. During the lockdown, we cycled to Marina Bay every weekend. Each time I was blown away by how incredibly beautiful Singapore looked, and I felt so incredibly grateful to be able to live in this amazing place that I love so much. So it’s quite poignant that during the lockdown, we found out we would be leaving Singapore for another international assignment after the summer. -- 18 --
Although our new adventure will be exciting, it will be so hard to say goodbye to our life here and all the wonderful friends we’ve made in the last 14 years. It’s been a pleasure serving as Co-Chair for the AWA Photography Group and sharing my passion for photography with all of you lovely ladies. I hope you continue to explore Singapore with your cameras and enjoy everything the city and AWA has to offer. And, if you’re planning a trip to the Kansai region in Japan, please come and visit me!
Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Photography Group
The awa Photography group welcomes both new and returning Members Please note that both of these walks will occur only if current rules allow such gatherings. Please check the AWA website for the latest information.
Flower Dome Photo Walk Join the AWA Photography Group for a beautiful morning of photography. Enjoy taking wide angle shots of the displays of flowers and plants or zoom in for some dramatic close-ups. Date: Wednesday, July 9 Time: 9:30am to 11:30am Place: Entrance to Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay Cost: Free (purchase entry ticket in advance) Limit: 15 people Suitable for: All levels of photographer with any camera or mobile phone What to bring/wear: Comfortable walking shoes and a sweater, as it can get chilly inside the dome. A camera with a range of lenses from wide angle to telephoto. Volunteer Walk Leader: Alison Stanton
Marina Bay Sunset Photo Walk Join the AWA Photography Group for an exciting evening of photography during the magical “Blue Hour.” Capture Singapore’s iconic scenes: the Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion and the CBD. Date: Thursday, August 13 Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm Place: Esplanade Outdoor Theatre (with the ‘white sails’) Cost: Free
photo by Holger Link via Unsplash
Suitable for: All levels of photographer with any camera or mobile phone What to bring/wear: Comfortable walking shoes and water and a snack. A tripod and a camera with a range of lenses; a wide angle would be most helpful. Volunteer Walk Leader: Christina Haist
photo by Karen Lucas
www.awasingapore.org
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A WA Fashion Show 2020 VIRTUAL STYLIN'
Empowered by Fashion A message from the 2020 Fashion Show Committee: Yvonne, Yamile, Cindy, Erika, Sabrina, Melissa, Marcela L., Emily, and Mel:
In particular, the Fashion Show Committee would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the following people who committed to participate in this year’s show and/ or made AWA’s first online fashion week possible:
• The wonderful designers, vendors and contributors Friday, April 17th, would have been this year’s AWA • Our lovely models Spring Fashion Show, “Empowered by Fashion,” with members and guests enjoying a fun-filled day of • The AWA volunteers who generously helped us shopping with select vendors and designers while throughout the year nibbling on hors d’oeuvres and sipping delicious • AWA’s Communications Team bubbly. Unfortunately, given the situation this spring • The AWA members who joined us online and in accordance with the Singapore MOH guideduring AWA Fashion Week lines, there was no choice but to cancel the event. It was necessary, but not without disappointment for the Fashion Show Committee members, models and backstage volunteers, as well as the many AWA members who’d looked forward to Ana Lucia in Asfall Andrea in Asfall Angie in Divas Closet Carola in Riri Florance attending this year’s show. Although we didn’t have a Fashion Show, Fashion Show Chair Yvonne Blackwood and members of the Committee were very excited to present AWA members with their very own “AWA Fashion Week” through the AWA Members Community Facebook page. During AWA Fashion Week, the Fashion Show Committee highlighted one to two designers/ contributors each day, in addition to sharing “behind the scenes” photos Chris in The WYLD Shop of the AWA models that had been taken during their fittings. The unique designers beautifully represented the show’s theme with diversity in simplicity, an intelligent, ethical and personal approach to sustainability, glamorous contemporary designs, and showstopper collections of fusion luxury wear. AWA members had a chance to learn about the designers’ brands and take advantage of special AWA member discounts. A lot of time and effort is put into organizing all major events, especially the Fashion Show, and the Committee could have not accomplished what it did without the active participation, understanding, and amazing support of everyone involved. -- 20 --
Elena in Jo Kilda
Erin in Divas Closet
Gemma in Jo Kilda
Gina in Divas Closet
Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
A WA Fashion Show 2020 VIRTUAL STYLIN'
Gry in Asfall
Helen in Jo Kilda
Hilde in Anna Rainn
Jennifer in Divas Closet
Kim in Divas Closet
Kristina in The WYLD Shop
Manuela in Jo Kilda
Michelle in Riri Florance
Nita in Divas Closet
Noelle in Riri Florance
Rachana in Asfall
Rekha in Maisha Concept
Shwane in Asfall
Sieva in Anna Rainn
Vanessa in Divas Closet
Yvonne in Divas Closet
www.awasingapore.org
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Beauty & Fashion Looking good while having fun
When the Circuit Breaker began, most of us were hopeful that it would last a few weeks. With the reality that four weeks turned into eight and the uncertainty of our “new normal," Beauty & Fashion chair Florence Sorgini answers some questions about what this will mean for our wardrobes. What does the end of the Circuit Breaker mean for fast fashion? I suspect now that retail shops have the green light to reopen, we’ll be seeing more seasonal sales! I recommend picking up classics and essentials like the little black dress or the perfect power suit that can be worn a million different ways! Try not to get trapped into buying last month’s outfit just because it is on sale! Don’t forget the “little guys.” Shopping local brands will help you stand out and support a small business owner that was impacted by the Circuit Breaker. What are some tips and tricks for Zoom fashion etiquette? At the moment, staying connected is extremely important. With more of us using Zoom for both workrelated and personal uses, some minor tips can help us look our best and give off positive energy. First, I recommend taking the time to blow out and style your hair. If you are pinched for time, a frizz-free ponytail is always a great option. Second, avoid distracting patterns. A simple top in a flattering shape will keep your Zoom guests interested in what you’re saying. Next, keep makeup to a minimum. Apply a fresh-faced look and avoid highlighter, as it can make your skin look too shiny on screen! Last, pick a clean area for videochatting. The last thing anyone wants to see is a messy kitchen or unkept house. If that’s not possible, then choose one of Zoom’s virtual backgrounds. Don’t forget that a beautiful smile remains the best accessory. A smile will always get you noticed!
Photo of Jo Brecque provided by Theresa Cotton
Will masks be the new fashion accessories of 2020? Haven’t you heard? Masks are all the rage! I’m confident they’re here to stay. When looking for a reusable mask, please make sure you stay away from polyester! Not only is it environmentally unfriendly, but it’s not intended to be worn over your mouth and nose because it’s a textile that doesn’t breathe! As an alternative, look for masks that are made of cotton and preferably double-layered! Will the spring/summer trends still be relevant? When it comes to the season’s trends, I always recommend finding one that will suit your lifestyle and budget and go with it! Try not to blow the budget on all the seasonal trends! Post-Circuit Breaker, I suspect we all might want a little more color in our lives, and purple was set to be the color trend for 2020! To be honest it’s one of those colors that is constantly on the fashion rotation. Do remember to archive garments you may have in purple, so that when it does return (and it always does), you can shop your closet first! Picking up some purple might just do the trick to freshen up your summer 2020 vibes! Beauty and Fashion would love to hear from you. If you have any more fashion questions, drop us an email! We’ll ask the experts! This summer, stay safe, stay home and stay stylish! Be sure to check out page 32 for more lovely face mask photos of AWA members.
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Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Community Service
awa members contribute thousands of volunteer hours each year Everyone wins when volunteering with AWA’s Community Service. Our heart for Singapore has remained strong in these Circuit Breaker days and beyond, as evidenced by the strong desire to volunteer with our charity partners during this time. While many of the organizations were not able to take outside help, we were able to set up events
Since most of us will be around all summer, we are scheduling time with these organizations at least once a month through the summer. If you can’t get into one of our scheduled events, you can organize a group of friends and schedule a time together. Help others while feeding your heart and soul.
AWA volunteers at Food from the Heart
AWA volunteers at Willing Hearts
with Food from the Heart and Willing Hearts. These groups fell under essential services and were able to take volunteers while following government guidelines. Many members stepped up and served the foodinsecure of Singapore with an open heart. It also allowed the volunteers to see friends and have much desired face-to-face contact, while remaining a safe distance apart. Volunteering at Willing Hearts Soup Kitchen Date: Thursday July 23 Time: 12pm to 3pm Place: 11 Jalan Ubi Blk 6, #01-51 Kembangan – Chai Chee Community Hub, 409074 Cost: None Limit: 12 What to expect: Please note extra precautions will be taken upon entering the facility; temperature taking, health declaration, social distancing, and mandatory mask wearing. For your own safety and hygiene purposes, please wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and bring a water bottle.
www.awasingapore.org
New Ballers tennis team donating time
For more information, please contact commservice@awasingapore.org -- 23 --
Cultural Cooking
learning to prepare CUISINEs FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD Cultural Cooking has been missing our monthly Social Kitchen gatherings, but we’ve still been busy online. Our Facebook page (AWA Cultural Cooking) has had some great weekly competitions. We’ve made desserts, salads, and fiveminute appetizers for our Zoom Happy Hour challenge. We are currently looking for a great vegetarian meal. Join the FB group to see all of these great recipes and get in on the competition to win an AWA apron. We are looking forward to returning to Social Kitchen as soon as the rules allow it. Our first event back will be an Indian Feast. Signup information will be posted on the AWA home page. Once we return, we’ll be meeting every third Thursday of the month from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. One popular class earlier this year, led by AWA member Meg Sine, featured a Thai luncheon. We made green curry paste from scratch, but decided the packaged ones were much easier. Meg also introduced us to Wing Bean salad which was a definite winner! Enjoy the recipe below.
Wing Bean Salad (Yum Tuapu) –Serves 4 Salad 4 C wing beans 300 g or ¾ lb. minced pork 6 Tbsp. shredded coconut toasted 2 Tbsp. roasted peanuts finely crushed 1/3 C shallots, sliced thin 4 hard-boiled eggs-quartered 1 C fresh mint Dressing 6 Tbsp. lime juice 2 Tbsp. fish sauce 2 Tbsp. Thai chili paste 6 Tbsp. coconut milk 2 cloves garlic, minced 2-3 Thai chilies, seeds removed, minced 2 tsp. palm sugar or brown sugar
Ladies enjoying Thai cooking class
Directions: • Cook pork in fry pan and set aside. As an alternative to pork, use 1 C chicken (cooked and shredded) and/or 6-8 cooked shrimp. • To blanch the beans, bring a large pot of water to a full boil and add enough salt until the water tastes like well-seasoned soup. • Add the wing beans and cook for 1 minute. It’s important to use a large pot of water so that the water temperature doesn’t drop too much. If not using large pot, blanch the beans in batches. • After 1 minute remove the beans and immediately plunge them into a big bowl of ice water. Drain well and slice beans crosswise ¼ inch slices. -- 24 --
Wing Bean Salad
• Combine all the dressing ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir until the chili paste is dissolved. Add wing beans, pork, shallots, toasted coconut, peanuts and mint leaves; toss to mix well. Serve with hard-boiled egg on the side. Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Arts & Culture Discover new worlds
Did the Circuit Breaker take a toll on your wanderlust? Although AWA Arts & Culture cannot host any tours or cultural experiences at the moment, thanks to virtual tours we can still experience museums from around the world, art in high definition, and famous cultural sites in street view. So until we can visit art collections again in person, check out the websites for these wonderful museums to enjoy some world-class artwork from the comfort of your own home.
In America: Georgia O'Keefe Museum, Santa Fe Detroit Institute of Art The Dali Museum, Florida For questions or to learn more about our group, email: artsandculture@awasingapore.org
In Singapore: National Museum of Singapore National Gallery Singapore Philatelic Museum Singapore Biennale 2019 The Istana In Asia: National Museum of Modern Art, Seoul Ateneo Art Gallery, Manila National Palace Museum, Taipei Virtual Collection of Asia Masterpieces Power Station of Art, Shanghai In Europe: British Museum, London Olympic Museum, Switzerland Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
National Gallery Singapore
www.awasingapore.org
iLight Festival National Gallery Singapore
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Book Club Update read any good books lately?
(Re)register for Book Groups in July Each summer, the AWA Book Group registration lists are reset and all members must re-register if they would like to continue to participate in their group. We do this each year to ensure that the group information remains current and active. For existing book group members and those wanting to join a book group for the first time: please go to the AWA website, click on Social / Book Groups, and follow the normal registration process. There is no cost to join a Book Group.
Thurday evening Book Club
Our six AWA Book Groups are going strong! Many of us have more time to read these days, and we are still having our lively discussions – online! We hope to resume our in-person monthly meetings soon, but for now we are staying connected and staying safe. Farewell and Thank You! This is the time of year when we say goodbye to our members who are leaving Singapore during the summer. We wish you all the very best! We want to say a special THANK YOU to our departing Book Group leaders: Gretchen Beyer, Christa Boncimino and Janet Gluskoter. Thank you for helping to build our wonderful communities. You will be missed!
Wednesday afternoon Book Club
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Wednesday morning Book Club
Silver Linings We all have our ups and downs through Circuit Breaker, but many of our book group members have enjoyed the extra time to dig deep. Let’s be honest, there’s not that much else to do! Although we would much rather be together to discuss our books (with a coffee or glass of wine in hand!), meeting online has made it much more common to join book clubs with friends and family all over the world. These connections are perhaps the greatest silver lining of all! What we read during the Circuit Breaker A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid Our House by Louise Candlish Sarah’s Key by Tatiana De Rosnay The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Movie & Lunch
summer film recommendations Some of the most anticipated summer releases are awaiting the reopening of theaters. Look for Christopher Nolan’s Tenet with its worldwide release on July 17, 2020. The unnamed Protagonist, played by John David Washington, is on an international espionage mission that unfolds “in something beyond real time.” Disney’s live-action Mulan has a new premiere date of July 24, 2020. The majority of the storyline remains the same, but some features of the animated movie will be changed to fit more naturally with the live-action version. One thing you won’t see is the protagonist breaking out into song.
Tesla is a new interpretation of the rivalry between Nikola Tesla (Ethan Hawke) and Thomas Edison (Kyle MacLachlan). Written and directed by Michael Almereyda, the film examines the race to modernize American cities and towns with electricity. It promises to be a different look at the topic from 2019’s The Current War, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, which Movie Lunch members saw in theaters. Tesla is available on VOD on August 21.
The movie release I can’t wait to see in theaters is Wonder Woman 1984, with a new August 14, 2020, premiere date. I will be looking for people to enjoy it with me on the big screen. The previews indicate that Wonder Woman’s true love, portrayed by Chris Pine, is somehow resurrected. If you aren’t ready to head back to theaters when they reopen, there are some good films premiering straight to digital release. Here are a few of the films whose release dates have been permanently scrapped and moved directly to video on demand (VOD). The Truth, by director Hirokazu Kore-eda, is about strangers that pretend to be relatives and relatives that pretend to be strangers. The drama, set in Paris with actors Juliette Binoche, Catherine Deneuve and Ethan Hawke, will be released on VOD on July 3. Summerland, by playwright Jessica Swale, is set in a remote seaside community during WW2. The main character, played by Gemma Arterton, learns to appreciate life after meeting a new companion. This uplifting drama is available on VOD on July 31.
www.awasingapore.org
While the 2021 Academy Awards might be delayed from their usual February showtime, changes in the nomination process caused by the pandemic should make for a very interesting show. Since theaters have been shuttered and most film festivals have been cancelled, the Academy has decided that films released straight to digital and skipping theaters altogether will be eligible for awards.
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Tennis
Fun, Friendship and Fair Play AWA Tennis 2020/2021 Tennis Committee As we come to the end of the rather abbreviated AWA Tennis Spring season, we are looking forward to once again getting back on the court together soon. And we’d like to introduce our new AWA Tennis committee members for the upcoming season. Some of you may not know this but this group is made up of 16 amazing, committed, talented, chatty, athletic ladies. Each of them is responsible for a committee within AWA tennis, including Team Tennis, Girls Night Out and Tournaments to name just a few, as well as behind-thescenes support of Communications and Finance.
Kanika Karu
Kanika Karu (aka Jamie’s sidekick): Team Tennis Intermediate Division How long in Singapore? 2.5 years Favorite Tennis Player: Joanne Tan who plays on WITS div beta and will soon be on the pro circuit. She is a firecracker! Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: Brooklyn 99 Jamie McGrath: Team Tennis Intermediate Division How long in Singapore? 2 years in October Favorite Tennis Player: Kanika Karu – her sidekick! Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: The Last Dance, Bulls (basketball) Documentary. I'm originally from Chicago and very much remember these finals - and it's a really well-done show. We also did the entire Marvel series with the kids. And so many others that we were convinced someone had hacked into our apple account Becca Meurer: Communications How long in Singapore? Aug 2019 Favorite Tennis Player: Roger Federer (not very original, I know!) Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: Money Heist!
Jamie McGrath
Becca Meurer
Jo Brecque: Girls Night Out How long in Singapore? 2 years Favorite Tennis Player: Monica Seles Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: Sex Education Jeanne Craig: Doubles Match Play How long in Singapore? 12 years this fall. Favorite Tennis Player: Naomi Osaka. Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: Homeland, Money Heist, Ozark, Unorthodox. Karen Bordas: Clinics How long in Singapore? 1 Year Favorite Tennis Player: Venus Williams Favorite show on Netflix during Circuit Breaker: Narcos
Jo Brecque
Karen Bordas
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Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Tennis
Fun, Friendship and Fair Play Sadly, we have to say goodbye to friendships that we have made on this small island we call home. We'd like to extend our thanks to the following ladies who have given up so much time and energy to AWA Tennis. Deb Elliott: Advanced Team tennis (2016-2019) and Tournaments (2019-2020) Length of time on the Committee: 5 years Next stop: Gold Coast Australia Karen Christiansen: Clinics Length of time on the Committee: 4 1/2 years Next stop: Darien, CT, USA. Gretchen Beyer: Communications Length of time on the Committee: 1 year Next Stop: Back to our home in Northern California Donna Williams: Tournaments Length of time on the Committee: 1 year Next Stop: Not sure where our next chapter is taking us, it could be here or England or Australia.
Paige Coleman-Rodriguez: Girls Night Out Length of time on the Committee: 1 year Next Stop: Paris Liz Sinatra: Intermediate Team Tennis Length of time on the Committee: 6 months Next Stop: San Francisco, CA, USA Nicola Nixon: Girls Night Out Length of time on the Committee: 5 months Next stop: USA For more information on Tennis events, please check out the tennis pages on the AWA website. Save the date: Welcome Back to AWA Tennis, Thursday September 10, 2020
To register for all events or for full details please see the tennis page on the AWA website
Nothing can come between a woman and jewelry. Not rain, not shine and not a global outbreak. So, adorn your regal digits with a Black Diamond special edition ring set in 18k gold, handcrafted in a Victorian setting.
www.awasingapore.org
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Running
Running Around SIngapore... And Beyond Commitment and creativity are two words that clearly describe the AWA Running Group. No longer being able to run together during the Circuit Breaker, the group created daily challenges to keep its runners motivated. These included having to find specific shapes while running, and going on an art hunt and posting their finds. In addition, 25 runners created a video to share their experiences during the Circuit Breaker. However, the ultimate challenge was participating in the first-ever AWA Circuit Breaker Race! This race was born from the desire to participate in a virtual run while also helping our community. Runners chose a distance (5k, 10k, 18k or Half Marathon) and then received their race bibs electronically. The participants could run anytime during a span of three days and had to send a picture showing the distance and time achieved. Afterward, each runner received a virtual medal. In all, 23 AWA runners completed the race!
Ellie Doyle
photograph objects that are easily associated with Singapore. Think shophouses, Merlions, construction sites and more! The group is also looking into organizing another virtual race called the AWA Vacation and Virtual Asia Run. Runners will “travel� around Asia by mileage that would be contributed by runs or fitness activities.
Suellen Lee
The other component of the race, which was to help our community, definitely exceeded our expectations. The race organizers chose to raise funds for ItsRainingRaincoats. This organization helps migrant workers in Singapore and it was especially relevant during the CB. Runners were encouraged to donate to the organization instead of paying the usual race entrance fee. The race raised $1,280 that went toward buying data plans for migrant workers. The Running Group is not slowing down this summer! We are already planning our next virtual race that will be called the I Love Singapore Scavenger Race. Runners will sign up to run a specific distance and -- 30 --
Interested in participating in either race? Send us a request on our AWA Running Facebook page to find out more!
Bamboo Telegraph - Jul/Aug 2020
Fitness During a Pandemic
tips to stay healthy even under "stay at home" rules
We Still Can Walk
Before COVID-19 restrictions took effect, the world was our gym! Now we have so many restrictions and even with the slow re-opening, there are still limitations to what we can do and where we can go. Sitting around moping, resisting, and fussing is not helpful. We must do something to get moving. Here are some ideas to get you moving and things to do that can help. First, we need a healthy breakfast to get our metabolism going and say goodbye to sluggishness. For late sleepers, set the alarm to provide structure and get moving. Vitamins, coffee, tea, and protein or energy drinks can help.
Written by Kristina Guerrero
Need some motivation? An accountability partner is closer than you think. Get connected through Facetime, Instagram, Snapchat, or Zoom. AWA’s walking group has a Facebook page and shares virtual walks. The government offers a website full of workout ideas (www.myactivesg.com). We need each other, so reach out, get connected, and plan workouts with others – even if you don’t actually work out together.
We still can walk, so find a walking path to walk/jog, and take new paths for variety every other day. At some point, increase the distance. Start an exercise log/journal to show effort/progress. I’ve incorporated bottles of bleach and laundry detergent for weightlifting (my husband also suggested lifting a case of beer) and climbing the stairs instead of using the elevator. Necessity is the mother of invention! If walking and lifting household products doesn’t work for you, YouTube has many workouts available; dancing, workouts, Zumba, and kid videos are great challenges too. If you have a bike, scooter, skateboard, or pet, add it to your workout. Use what you have. Make it fun, have variety. Remember to stretch. Stuck at the computer? Move the chair out of the way. Take brain breaks and add movement like standing, stretching, high knee raises, and running in place. Add push-ups or jumping jacks for a few minutes. Play a song and start dancing! Keep moving! Need to stay seated? Grab some canned veggies and lift! Incorporate knee lifts, make a running motion to keep the blood flowing and improve circulation. www.awasingapore.org
Finally, remember this time will not last forever. Make the best of it. Make some plans for when it’s over. Know you are not alone. Take it one day at a time, one step at a time. You can do this. Love yourself, take care of yourself. You will be better for it. You are worth it! Until then, remember -- we still can walk. Kristina has a master's degree in clinical mental health counselling and is also a school teacher EC-6th grade and special needs EC-12th grade. She arrived in Singapore in July 2019. -- 31 --
A WA Potpourri face mask selfies
Here is a collage of AWA members proudly wearing the required face masks, submitted on AWA social media. How many of these lovely ladies can you identify?
A WA Events and Activities BE in the know
Social & Special Groups
After Ni Hao – Mandarin conversation every Thursday at 10am.
Hyesung Laffey & Manju Banka, afternihao@awasingapore.org Arts & Culture – Monthly talks and events focusing on Asian arts & culture. artsandculture@awasingapore.org Bar Night – Ladies’ nights, couples’ nights each month. Kristin Bemowski, barnight@awasingapore.org Beauty & Fashion - From fashion talks to workshops, there’s no age limit to brilliant beauty & unlimited style. Florence Sorgini, beautyfashion@awasingapore.org Book Groups – Morning, afternoon & evening books groups, held monthly. Kate Breslin, bookgroups@awasingapore.org Bunco – Play this simple dice game once a month in the evening at Boomerang Bar, Robertson Quay. Anne Roberts, bunco@awasingapore.org Cancer Support Group – Meets the third week of the month, with a focus on mutual support and information sharing. Rosa Liu, cancersupport@awasingapore.org Christian Connection - Provides information and resources to help you connect with local Christian community groups. Barbara Winkler, christianconnect@awasingapore.org Couples’ Bridge – Meets monthly on a Saturday evening. Spouses are welcome. Amy Starling, couplesbridge@awasingapore.org Creative Hands - Bring your handiwork project to work on and share with other creative women every 2nd, 4th & 5th Thursday. Charisse Litteken, crafters@awasingapore.org Cultural Cooking – Ready to learn your way around the international kitchen? Monthly cooking classes are for you! Donna Bose & Sarah Beutelschies, cooking@awasingapore.org DISH – Monthly lunches at a variety of interesting venues. Caitlin McNeal, dish@awasingapore.org Drop-In Coffees – Meets at Orchard Tangs Providore Café, on the 2nd floor every Wed & Fri from 10.30am - 12.30pm. Open to everyone, no need to register. Noelle Speers, coffee@awasingapore.org Duplicate Bridge – American Standard five-card major rules every Monday. You don’t need a partner to join. Amy Starling and Sock-Yan Sim, duplicatebridge@awasingapore.org Girls Trips - Contact Tina Farmer and Karen Anderson, trips@ awasingapore.org High Tea - Enjoy monthly teas at Singapore’s top hotels. Debra Minnock, hightea@awasingapore.org International Choir – Rehearses every Wednesday. Performances in the spring & winter. Michiko Kinoshita, intlchoir@awasingapore.org Listen Ladies – A compassionate group of ladies who support one another. Andrea McKenna Brankin, listenladies@awasingapore.org Local Tours –Professionally guided tours of Singapore. Terry Young & Cathy Barshop localtours@awasingapore.org Mahjong - International style in a low stress FUN friendly atmosphere on every Monday afternoon & 3rd Tuesday evening at Boomarang Robertson Quay. mahjong@awasingapore.org Movie Lunch – Monthly lunch followed by a movie in the Orchard Road area. Michelle Reeb, movielunch@awasingapore.org Newcomers - For AWA's new members. Louisa Marks, newcomers@ awasingapore.org No Exit Strategy - For women who have lived in Singapore eight years or more. Caitlin Fry and Paige Okun, noexit@awasingapore.org
Photography – Meets once a month to have fun practicing and
improving our photography. All levels are welcome. Alison Stanton & Christina Haist, photography@awasingapore.org Playgroup - For moms with kids under age 3. Meets every Friday morning at a member's home plus a monthly "Moms Night Out". Ashley Hamlin & Morgan Steinman, playgroups@awasingapore.org Podcasting – Meets every 3rd Wednesday to share information & ideas on the podcast process. All levels welcome. Anne Morgan, podcasting@awasingapore.org Trivia Night – Trivia Night is a fun way to make new friends while testing your trivia knowledge! Meets monthly on a Monday night. Karla Popper, trivia@awasingapore.org Workshops - Expand your mind and learn something new about yourself, about Singapore or about the world - the possibilities are endless. Leezibet Heinzraiden, workshops@awasingapore.org Writers’ Group - Beginner and published writers discuss their work the 2nd & 4th Thursday of every month. Anne Morgan & Elissa Viornery, writers@awasingapore.org
Sports
Golf - The 18-hole group plays on Wednesday & the 9-hole group
on Thursday. Lily Giddens & Peng Pavie, 18holegolf@awasingapore.org Health and Fitness – A variety of health and fitness activities & informative seminars to help everyone stay fit. Stacey Raza, fitness@awasingapore.org Hiking – Meets at MacRitchie Reservoir every 1st & 3rd Thursday morning. Tori Nelson & Christine Schooling, hiking@awasingapore.org Pilates - Mixed ability classes bookable monthly. Jo Cockerill, pilates@awasingapore.org Running - Group runs for all levels on Tuesday & Thursday mornings at locations around Singapore. Marangeli Wouda and Claire Langree running@awasingapore.org Tennis - A variety of singles and doubles play including tournaments, and team tennis for players of all levels. Georgina Webster & Gigi Scott, tennischair@awasingapore.org Walking - Walk all over this amazing island. Mondays are 10K, Wednesdays are 5K. Andrea McKenna Brankin & Mercedes Bainbridge, walking@awasingapore.org
Community Service
Community Service - Connecting AWA members to volunteer
opportunities with AWA’s featured organizations and more. Ashley Fagan, commservice@awasingapore.org Ronald McDonald House Charities - Support the families of children at Singapore’s National University Hospital. Qian Marquard, rmhc@awasingapore.org Food From The Heart - Help pack and/or distribute food bags to families in Singapore who cannot afford to feed themselves. Janet Stride, ffth@awasingapore.org Willing Hearts - Monthly shifts to prepare food for the less fortunate. Spring Sun, willinghearts@awasingapore.org kidsREAD - Help local children develop a love of reading. Rekha Kumar, kidsread@awa.singapore.org For more information, visit our website: www.awasingapore.org