Hollandse Club January/february 2014
TheMagazine bi-monthly publicationbybythe theHollandse HollandseClub Club AA bi-monthly publication
events & events & Activities Activities Welcome 2014 Drinks Teens Pool Movie Mad Science Camp Quiz Night Lion Dance Performance
food & food & Beverage Beverage
Wine Tasting Event Monthly Specials Wine Takeaway
Visit us online online @ www.hollandseclub.org.sg www.hollandseclub.org.sg
New Years Resolutions Typhoon Haiyan Aid Special Nutritional Advice for Christmas blowout
Resolutions All Over www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 1
In World Business Class we’ll tune into your rhythm You may cross one or more time zones during your journey. Whatever rhythm your body and mind are in, we accommodate our service to your sense of time. When do you want to sleep? When and what do you want to eat from our menu? Other wishes? We’ll get it just right for you. Visit klm.sg for more information.
2 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Contents Feature:
08 New Years Resolutions: What are yours? 04
President’s Message
05
GM’s Message
06 10 48 50
Facility Information Calender Activities Contacts Library
Upcoming Events
12 Kristel Zweers 12 Australian Day 13 Waitangi Day 16 World Press Photo
Members
22 The Witteveen Family 22 Hash House Harriers 23 New Members 23 Main Commitee Resolutions 23 Holiday in Japan 24 Panay Project 25 U- Weeeh 26 Arnout Mostert 27 Apps & Websites 28 Johan Schoenmaker Kids / Teens
29 Upcoming Events 33 Teenage Talk Food & Beverage
36 Food Promotions 38 Take Away Wines
Event Reports
18 Numama Christmas Concert Sports & Recreation 34 Sinterklaas 2013 40 Aquaspin 35 Disco Swimming 41 Nutritional Advice 42 Hockey Updates The Club 43 Swimming Updates 19 Tennis Triple B: Kiki Ho 44 Tennis Updates 20 Members Survery Results 46 Squash Updates 21 F&B Survey Results 20 KLM’s 94th Deft Blue House
EDITOR’S MESSAGE New beginnings! The other night, I had the best family dinner party in a long time, with funny children and dear grown ups, and it gave me heaps of energy. One of them had just returned from helping in the Philippines, others had been there for their professional education and another one is about to go and give her share of humanitarian aid. More people will go to one of the thousand islands and try to make a difference in the devastating situations people find themselves in. I’m sure you have all helped raising funds for them or for the large NGOs like the Red Cross. In this Magazine, you’ll read about the experiences of (non-) members who went to Ilo Ilo and helped. Isn’t it surprising that so much good work can be done just by going there, finding an ATM, buying stuff that is needed and handing it out. You may be interested to read about some countries’ National Days, what teenagers like about the Club and what Chef Raymond is preparing for you. If you go to Facebook and like the Club’s page, you’ll find interesting information, news and updates. With the Year of the Horse about to stomp in, it’s time for resolutions, if you’re making them at all. Many people don’t think of it, others may use it as a means to look to the past and to the future. I like to do that, and my resolutions are about sensible things, although what I forget is to be irresponsible and encourage the fun things in life: eat more cake! Make the very best of your life: make memories and dine with family and friends, keep fit, dress up your life and get out more. Lose what you can forget; take with you the beautiful things, the sweet memories, and let’s look forward to the many new and challenging things that life is treating us to. Here’s to new beginnings! See you at the Club! Eva Stein
Cover Picture by: Bernhard Wamelink
22 Camden Park, Singapore 299814 | Tel: 6464 5225 | Fax: 6468 6272 | www.hollandseclub.org.sg Email: info@hollandseclub.org.sg | Court Bookings: reception@hollandseclub.org.sg
The Hollandse Club Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed free to members of the Club. For advertising enquiries, email marcom@hollandseclub.org.sg Views and opinions expressed may not necessarily reflect those of the Club, its committee or editorial staff. © All Rights reserved. MICA (P) 156/04/2009. www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 3
President’s Message Committee Members MAIN COMMITTEE President: Robert Gorter president@hollandseclub.org.sg Vice-President: Jacqueline Lemmens vicepresident@hollandseclub.org.sg First Secretary: David Liem firstsecretary@hollandseclub.org.sg Second Secretary: Kristel Flinzner secondsecretary@hollandseclub.org.sg Honorary Treasurer: Wietske Helle treasurer@hollandseclub.org.sg Chairperson for Food & Beverage: Nienke Nauta-Kuipers fnbmember@hollandseclub.org.sg Chairperson for Sports: Guido Nieuwenhuijzen sportsmember@hollandseclub.org.sg Commercial Affairs: Bas Winkel commercial@hollandseclub.org.sg Ordinary Member: Alex Lambeek & Jean-Paul Deslypere COMMITTEE MEMBERS Kids Committee Chairperson: Evelien Stoel Members: Maria Dort Sports Committee Chairperson: Guido Nieuwenhuijzen Library Committee Convenor: Hian Tan 6468 4004 Members: Liesbeth van der Hulst, Cora Smouter, Joossien Dessing, Angela Bowskill, Susanne Westerbeek, Nina, Hian Finance Committee Chairperson: Wietske Helle 8399 5729 Members: Then Wee Lin, Edwin Jager Bas Winkel, Anneloes van Haaren, Pierre Stevens F&B Committee Chairperson: Nienke Nauta-Kuipers 8161 7626 Members: Tony Moes, Patou Dijsselhof, Suzanne Westerbeek Magazine Committee Chairperson: Eva Stein-Veeneman 9668 4879 Members: Nedda Chaplin, Steven Groeneveld, Karien van Ditzhuijzen, Bernhard Wamelink (Photographer)
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Dear Fellow Members, A very happy New Year to all our members and staff of the Hollandse Club. I hope everyone has had a nice break, and is ready for another year full of fantastic Club activities and initiatives to look forward to. 2013 was a successful year for the Hollandse Club. We expanded the hotel room facility, resurfaced our fifth tennis court, upgraded the ladies changing room, and made significant changes to our Food & Beverage options, to name a few noticeable improvements. We have been able to do all of these investments, while at the same time strictly controlling our costs. In financial terms, we have really turned around the Club in 2013, and I’m very proud of my colleagues in the Main Committee and the Management Team of the Club who made that happen. Soon you will receive your invite for our Annual General Meeting of Members, where we will provide you with a detailed overview of the highlights of 2013, and where we will look ahead to the future. Please approach any of the committee members if you have specific items you’d like to put on the agenda. We have been very encouraged by good and constructive feedback from many members so far about possible events and facilities. Even more encouraging were the initiatives from some of our younger members. Quite a few children have approached the committee with various ideas about facilities and events for their age groups, and we look forward to follow up on those initiatives. I hope I will see many of you at one of our upcoming events. I would also like to use this opportunity to thank all of our volunteer members for their enthusiasm in helping the Club move forward. And of course we can always use more volunteers to help out. So if you’re still looking for an appropriate New Year’s resolution, why not consider a volunteering role at the Club. From experience, I can say that it is both fun, as well as highly rewarding. If you have the time, energy and ideas to join the Main Committee or any of our other committees, we would love to hear from you. On behalf of the Main Committee Robert Gorter President
GM’s Message Club Management
Dear Members, Welcome to 2014, the Year of the Horse. Chinese astrology promises us an energetic and lively year ahead. A year where the Hollandse Club can be the starting point for many New Year’s resolutions. Want to start exercising again? Pick up tennis where you left it many years ago? Spend more time with the family? Eat less and more healthily? Lose some kilos? Start that volunteer job? Donate some of your precious time to charity? Your Club can be the starting point for all these resolutions. A number of members started early with their New Year’s resolutions. After Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) hit the Philippines, Dutch national Arnaut Mostert started the Philippines Aid Initiative, ‘The Last Mile’. Soon, word was out and besides monetary donations, a number of members (and non-members) donated their time and travelled to the Philippines to volunteer for this aid initiative. Inspired by the stories of others, I also decided to volunteer for a week. I can say from the bottom of my heart, the hands on approach of helping people to rebuild their livelihood has really made a difference! Further in the magazine you can see and read more about the experiences of the initiator of ‘The Last Mile’ and other volunteers. An even-numbered year as 2014 will always bring us at least one major football event. This year it’s the World Cup in Brazil. We are already looking forward to the months of June and July. A great event where for all our members there is a team to cheer for. We are looking forward to welcoming supporters from Germany, Belgium, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Holland, Australia, Japan and many other countries to the Club. The World Cup is not the only exciting event we are looking forward to. In 2014 we have 10 international comedy nights coming up, at least 4 Dutch comedy nights, cooking workshops, cultural tours, movie nights, various tournaments and sporting events, Summer and Winter camps and a lot of children’s events. Wishing you all an energetic and healthy New Year. I am looking forward to raising a glass to 2014 with you during our ‘welcome 2014 drinks’ in the Serambi Bar on Sunday 12 January 2014. Elmer van Loon General Manager
General Manager: Elmer van Loon 6461 1103 gm@hollandseclub.org.sg Banquet Operations Manager: Tan Boon Phang 6461 1137 banqmgr@hollandseclub.org.sg Banquet Executive: Mariah Said 6461 1112 banquet@hollandseclub.org.sg Head of Membership & Marketing: Evan Quek 6461 1139 sales@hollandseclub.org.sg Membership Executive: Darma Jahari 6461 1111 membership@hollandseclub.org.sg Marketing & Communications Executive: Oreal Goh 6461 1117 marcom@hollandseclub.org.sg Member Relations Officer: Jeeta Kaur 6461 1104 members@hollandseclub.org.sg Events Executive: Marjon Gijsman 6461 1110 events@hollandseclub.org.sg Sports & Events Executive Robbie Lyons 64611151 sportsrec@hollandseclub.org.sg Sports & Events Executive: Yurni Hikmah 6461 1127 sports.exec@hollandseclub.org.sg Finance Manager: Vangel Neo 6461 1108 finmgr@hollandseclub.org.sg Accountant: Zoey Lee 6461 1106 a.r@hollandseclub.org.sg Administrative Assistant: Regina Sim 6461 1160 adminasst@hollandseclub.org.sg
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FACILITY INFORMATION Club Opening Hours Sunday - Thursday: 7.00am - 11.00pm Friday - Saturday: 7.00am - 1.00am General Office Hours Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 6.00pm Tel: 6464 5225 (Reception) Fax: 6468 6272 Lost & Found Items Please contact the Housekeeper at 6461 1114 or Reception at 6464 5225
Sports & Recreation Facilities Gymnasium Monday - Sunday: 7.00am - 10.00pm Library Tuesday - Saturday Facility information for the library will be different every week. Multi-purpose Sports Court Monday - Sunday: 8.00am - 10.00pm Please check availability with reception before using. Squash Courts Monday - Sunday: 7.00am - 11.00pm Court Bookings: reception@hollandseclub.org.sg
Food & Beverage Outlets
Swimming Pool Monday - Sunday: 8.00am - 10.00pm NB: Closure times for competitive swimming: Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 5.00pm - 7.30pm (Two lanes will remain open) Last Friday each month: 5.00pm - 7.00pm *At least two lanes will remain open on School Holidays between Monday to Friday.
The Lounge Monday - Sunday: 9.00am - Closing (Last order 9.45pm) For reservations, please call Reception at 6464 5225 or email rm@hollandseclub.org.sg
Tennis Courts Monday - Sunday: 7.00am - 11.00pm Booking is required. For court bookings, email reception@hollandseclub.org.sg
Serambi Bar Wednesday - Sunday: 6.00pm - 11.00pm
Child Minding Service Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 12.00pm For children aged from 1 to 6 years. Tel: 6461 1150
Terrace Monday - Sunday: 8.00am - 11.00pm (Last order 9.45pm) Beverages available until closing Tennis Pavillion Mon - Fri: 8.00am - 12.00pm 6.00pm - 10.00pm Tues & Thur: 4.00pm - 10.00pm Sat, Sun & PH: 8.00am - 12.00pm 4.00pm - 11.00pm For special opening hours for events, please ask reception. During opening hours a limited menu is served. Tradewinds Bar Sunday - Thursday: 11.00am - 11.00pm Friday - Saturday: 11.00am - 1.00am Eve of PH & PH: 11.00am - 1.00am Pool Bar Monday - Friday: 10.00am - 7.00pm Saturday: 8.00am - 7.00pm Sunday & PH: 8.00am - 6.00pm
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Mums & Tots Group Tuesday: 10.00am - 11.30am Newborn to 4 years at Rotterdam Room The Puppy Club Monday - Thursday: 12.00pm - 8.00pm Friday: 12.00pm - 10.00pm Saturday & PH: 10.00am - 10.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 8.00pm For children aged from 1 to 6 years. Juniors Room Monday - Thursday: 12.00pm - 8.00pm Friday: 12.00pm - 10.00pm Saturday & PH: 10.00am -10.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 8.00pm For children aged 7 years and above. The Chillout Room Monday - Sunday: 10.00am - 9.00pm For children aged 12 years and above.
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Upcoming Events Photo Credits: Bernhard Wamelink Left to right: Evan Quek, Karien van Ditzhujzen, Steven Groeneveld, Nedda Chaplin, Bernhard Wamelink, Eva Stein, Oreal Goh and Elmer van Loon of the magazine committee
New Year’s Resolutions What are yours? By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
T
he theme of this first magazine of the New Year that is in front of you is: Resolutions. Good resolutions, the ones that people like to make around this time of year. Having never made any myself, I have a lot of questions before I can start to write about the subject. Why do people do this? What kind of things do they resolve to do? And, most importantly, do they actually go through with what they promised themselves? Every year it happens again, and again. People promise themselves to start doing something good, or stop doing something bad, at the start of the New Year. It has been happening for as long as we can remember, and it is done in most cultures as well. On average, 40% of people will make New Year’s resolutions. Research also shows that 88% of these New Year’s resolutions fail. Clearly, good intentions alone are not enough. Popular wishes So what are the most popular resolutions made worldwide? Interestingly, there isn’t much difference between cultures. Across the globe, the majority of New Year’s resolutions have to do with healthy living: lose weight, exercise more and eat more greens. Others aim to make not themselves, but the world around them a better place, and will resolve to become more environmentally friendly, by finally starting to recycle paper and glass, or by volunteering to help out senior citizens at a local community centre. Others again might aim to better their finances, to spend less money on wasteful shopping sprees, pay off their debts or finally start saving for early retirement. And of course, there is that most famous resolution of all: to quit smoking. 8 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
I asked some fellow Singapore expats what their New Year’s resolutions were for the year 2014. One that resounded well with everyone was to stop getting irritated when driving in Singapore. Another popular one was to travel more, and to see all of Singapore’s neighbouring countries. Or it would be to see Singapore’s own highlights with the family: the flyer, Pulau Ubin, East Coast Park. Someone else resolved not to get annoyed about the weather anymore. It wouldn’t get any cooler or dryer, so she vowed to just bring an umbrella against sun or rain and get out. One Singapore expat related how one resolution made here, proved fairly easy to keep: cutting down on TV time. With the selection on offer on local TV it was quickly in the bag. My favourite one? Live more in the present. Actually, all these resolutions seemed pretty good to me, and I am starting to think there might be something in it after all. Not just people; governments make resolutions too, such as Singapore’s Mr Lee Hsien Loong, who in his New Year’s message of 2013 vowed to run a clear and good government by “investigating wrongdoings thoroughly and dealing with them decisively and openly.” As the end of 2013 is near, this is still a difficult one to check up on and we can only hope this one has not end up like that 88%, drowned in good intentions. Expert advice If we listen to the experts, the best way to actually manage to fulfill your good resolution is to team up with like-minded people. Nothing like some peer-pressure to keep up the good work, as when you no longer care about losing those last few pounds, you will at least want to make sure you don’t lose face.
Want to lose weight? Join weight watchers. Quit smoking? Join a program. Or, in these modern days, commit to your goals on Facebook, and promise your friends regular updates. Blogs are another way to make your resolutions public and make sure you don’t give up easily. One Singapore blogger has a website dedicated completely to achieving lifelong financial freedom. It will come as no surprise that his resolution for 2013 was to receive $2000 in passive income by the 13th of December. As good a resolution as any, I suppose. Unfortunately, the post announcing his resolution was the last one he ever wrote. Writing this article has made me wonder whether I should make any resolutions of my own? I can come up with plenty of areas that need improvement in my life. More focus, more saying ‘no’. Less shouting at the kids. And, let’s face it, more exercise. Finishing my book. Yet, I am realistic enough to know that I will either do these things, or not, regardless of what I resolve now. Only life will tell.
Zodiac predictions for 2014 Rat (Years: 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008) Rat people will start the Horse Year 2014 with a great progress at work. In love these people will still have to work hard to impress the one they love in the coming Chinese Year 2014. Ox (Years: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009) Ox people might feel lazy in the middle of the coming Chinese year but situation will get a spark with the arrival of someone special in their life. These people might enjoy some location change for work in the coming year. Tiger (Years: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010) Tiger people are expected to suffer from some minor health problems in the months of June or July. These people are going to give a tough competition to colleagues at work in the coming year and there are strong chances of a promotion for these people in the Horse Year 2014.
So for now, I will leave you with not a personal resolution, but one on behalf of the whole Magazine Committee, and all its contributors. We resolve to keep improving this already much improved Magazine, and updating you with interesting articles every two months. Do you think we can do it?
Rabbit (Years: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011) Rabbit people will face a roller coaster situation between work and love life in the coming year due to same people linking the two spheres of life. These people are predicted to get some financial gains in the last quarter of the year.
So what about you? Have you made yours?
Dragon (Years: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012) Dragon people are going to travel around the world in the Chinese Horse Year 2014 and this will be due to work or leisure. These people are also expected to grab many interesting marriage proposals in the coming year.
“I hope to plan my life better, by prioritizing my activities, say no when needed, so that I will become less stressed, and will have the time to finalise my book.” - Karien “I want to pick up that tennis racket again, instead of watching others working themselves in sweat while enjoying a caffe latte… And my other resolution: I will be one of the 40% that makes sure he is part of the 12%...” - Elmer “I want to focus on my studying and get my proofreading qualification by Easter!” - Nedda “For the last 10 years of my life I have lived on 5 coffees a day. In 2014, I will drop down to maybe one in the morning.” - Evan “I would like to learn to write short stories in English, to take more photos and use them too, by framing or enlarging them, and to eat vegetarian every other day, better for the world and my family.” - Eva “In 2014, I would like to get more sleep, keep fit and hopefully find a hobby.” - Oreal “I belong to the group that does not make resolutions. Not because I think there is nothing to be improved, but because I believe I will be one of the 88% for whom they do not work” - Steven
Snake (Years: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) Snake people might feel neglected in the beginning of the coming year due to a betrayal from a loved one. These people will perform well at work and grab some interesting promotions and incentives. Horse (Year: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014) Horse people are going to enjoy romance to the fullest in the coming year and there are also chances of a family expansion for these people. Some family celebration will keep these people occupied in the middle of the year. Sheep/Goat: (Year: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003) Sheep people will be on cloud nine in the months of September and October due to an exciting love life and professional life after a long time. These people will indulge in some spiritual activities as well in the Chinese year 2014. Monkey (Year: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004) Monkey people will need to sharpen their professional skills in order to excel in their work in the year ahead. These people will be boring in their love life due to lack of interest or attraction for the spouse. Rooster (Year: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005) Rooster people will be mind blowing in investing money and gaining from these investments in the year ahead. These people are also going to be socially recognized for some charity work done in the past. Dog (Year: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006) Dog people are going to excel in academics in the year ahead and chances are bright for many of these people to go for foreign studies. These people might get hooked in the nuptial knot in the last quarter of the year. Pig (Year: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007) Pig people will need to be emotionally strong in the Horse Year 2014 in order to tackle some tough situations that might come in their way. These people will be bit stressed out due to work pressure in the last few months of the year. www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 9
Upcoming Events
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January January
Kids Pizza Making & Movie
Sunday, 4pm Members: $ 12.50 | Non Members: $15 An all time favourite at the club, Pizza making with Chef Sukimin! Afterwards, enjoy your pizza while watching a movie Monsters University! Welcome 2014 Drinks Sunday, 4pm onwards Members: $10 | Non Members: $ 15 Join us in welcoming 2014! Free flow of Oliebollen and the first drink is on us! Limited to beer/ housepour wine/ soft drinks)
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January
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January
Makeup Workshops (Adults & Teens) Sunday, 1pm - 3pm (Adults) Members: $30 | Non Members: $40 3pm - 5pm (Teens) Members: $25 | Non Members: $35 Learn the right techniques of applying make up and basic skin regimes/treatments for both adults and teens. Brought to you by Style and Beauty Experts.
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January
Sunday, 5.45pm (30 mins) Free of Charge Watch a self defence demo from Sensi Peter A. Robertson.
Mad Science Camp
Teens Poolmovie! Friday, 8.30pm Members only: $5 Watch a movie on a big screen while chilling out on a float or dipping in the pool with your friends.
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Saturday, 8.30pm Members: $40 | Non Members: $ 50 Join us once again for a night filled with laughter at Comedy Night, brought to you by Comedy Club Asia.
Saturday, 5pm - 6pm (3-5yrs) 6pm - 7pm (6-9yrs) Members: $20 | Non Members: $25 Learn the basics of ballet, jazz, hip hop, salsa and other types of dances, brought to you by Centre Stage.
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January
January
Comedy Night ( Comedy Club Asia)
Saturday, 1pm - 2.30pm (8-12yrs) 4.30pm - 6pm (Teens/Adults) Members: $20 | Non Members: $25 Learn the art of belly dancing brought to you by Marina.
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24 January
BellyDance Workshop
Self Defence Demo
Wednesday, 7.30pm, The Lounge Members: $18.50 | Non Members: $22.50 Enjoy a two course dinner, followed by a movie.
Friday, 8pm (Main Hall) Members: $20 | Non Members: $30 So you think you know it all? Prove it at the Hollandse Club Quiznight!
January
January
Movie Night: The Heat
Quiznight!
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January
Creative Dance Workshop
Monday, 8.30am - 1.30pm Members & Non Members: $100 Explore the fundamentals of aerodynamics in this hands-on program about how things fly! Learn all about the basic principles of flight, build your own flying devices and fly them! Fruit snacks & drink provided. Ages 8 & up.
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January
Aquaducks Swimcamp Wednesday, 9am - 12pm Members: $75 Have a splashing good time playing games and doing pool activities with our friends from Aquaducks. Price includes lunch.
Upcoming Events
February
CALENDER Events not to be missed in the month of January and February. Begin your new year with all these exciting events. Please remember to register early to avoid disappointment!
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February
Balloon Sculpting Workshop
Sunday, 3pm (Age 8 and up) Members: $20 | Non Members: $25 A 90 minutes workshop where kids will learn how to sculpt balloons into a variety of creative things.
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February
Teens Self Defence Course
Friday, 6pm - 7pm (Rotterdam Room) Members: $120 | Non Member: $140 For teens aged 13 to 18. Learn the art of Zen Do Ka Urban Survival Self Defence by Sensei Peter A. Robertson. This class has 4 classes: 7/2, 14/2, 21/2, 28/2.
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February
Lion Dance Performance
Sunday, 11:30am Free of Charge | At the Terrace Come on down to watch a lion dance performance, a traditional chinese dance to comemorate Chinese New Year.
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February
Kids Magic Workshop
Saturday, 3pm (Age 8 and up) Members: $20 | Non Members: $ 25 Back by popular demand, e Magical Moments is back with the Kids Magic workshop, where children under 18 will learn cool magic tricks. Ages 8 & up.
February
Kids Movie
Comedy Night ( Comedy Club Asia)
Sunday, 3pm Members: $5 Enjoy the movie, Hotel Transilvania, with some buddies and a Ribena drink with snacks.
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February
Wine Tasting
Friday, 7pm Members: $45 | Non Members: $55 Let our host Clessidra introduce you to three wines from Tuscany paired with snacks and nibbles.
Saturday, 8.30pm Members: $40 | Non Members: $ 50 Join us once again for a night filled with laughter at Comedy Night, brought to you by Comedy Club Asia.
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February
Movie Night: The Great Gatsby
Wednesday, 7.30pm, The Lounge Members: $18.50 | Non Members: $22.50 Enjoy a two course dinner, followed by a movie.
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Upcoming Events
Kristel Zweers, Comedian Dutch tai tai in Singapore
Australia Day
By Rachel Ward, Australian Member Ambassador
By Eva Stein
W
e met in a Tiong Bahru coffee joint, where she sips her tea. We met for a talk, since she performs at the Hollandse Club and at stand up comedy stages with Comedy Club Asia. With a record like yours, what made you move to Singapore? “I moved for love; I just got married to my Dutch boyfriend in Singapore, who has worked and lived here for a long time. After meeting him, I began to perform for Dutch clubs in Asia and held my own management, so I could see him on a more or less regular basis. After a couple of times, I felt I could live here … so here I am.” She continues: “I’m on stage with my Dutch show in Beijing and Ghanzou, and most likely in Shanghai as well. Next week I’m off to Jakarta and possibly Bangkok.” In her shows, she highlights problems in society, due to the internet and individualism, not only from a female point of view. “I seem to have the ability to give a good feel to both sides.” High heels She left the Netherlands with suitcases of clothes, books and her paperwork to finish some taxes, plus one suitcase full of shoes. When do you wear them? “I do stand up comedy here, 2 to 3 times a week, then I wear my heels. There’s a subgroup of Singaporean comedians every Wednesday until midnight, at Blu Jaz in Kampong Glam. I am part of their professional line-up. Every Tuesday at 9:30pm, there’s Comedy Masala at Home Club at Riverwalk, in the MOM building.” Anything else? “Being a drama teacher, I do corporate training with Dutch Punch, using improvisations. I’m a DP and waiting for a letter of consent.” Are you funny in English? “Yes! I ended up 2nd in a Singaporean contest, with mostly my own material that I translated. I found it’s not all totally universal, like when I talked about cleaning up after your dog. People didn’t understand the punch line, because they don’t actually walk their dogs themselves. So not everything is translatable; in the long run I’ll find new stuff.”
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ustralia Day is on January 26th, a day when Australians get together to celebrate what’s great about being Australian and everything that makes Australia a great place. It’s the day we reflect on what we have done, what we can be proud of and what we can do to help make Australia even better. Historically, January 26th 1788 was the day the first fleet of eleven convict ships arrived from England. After eight months at sea, they landed in Port Jackson (Sydney) with about 1400 passengers on board. 700 of those were convicts and 700 were soldiers, sailors, officials and their families plus a menagerie of animals. Although Australia Day marks this anniversary, today, celebrations reflect the diversity of the Australian population, the country’s achievements and its opportunities for the future. It is a public holiday in Australia and Australians hold celebrations in cities, towns and suburbs around the country, and all around the world. Popular ways to celebrate are BBQs, music concerts, fireworks or spending time with families and friends. How do Australians celebrate in Singapore? In true Australian fashion, there is the great Aussie BBQ organized by ANZA and hosted at the Australian International School. Many of the Australian pubs and restaurants in Singapore hold special events to celebrate as well. Of course, many Aussies get together and have their own barbie with their family and friends. You don’t need to be an Aussie to join in the fun; just get some friends together on January 26th and think about all things great about Australia and join Aussies all over the world celebrating Australia Day. Whatever you do, have a great one!
What can we expect from you at the Hollandse Club? “It will be a Dutch show with a Singaporean twist, now that I’m a professional tai tai. I have a resolution for you … as I will quite smoking by the end of December, I had to come up with a new one: travelling as much as I can!” Kristel will be performing at the Hollandse Club on Friday, 7th March. $40 (Members) / $50 (Standard) / $35 (Early Bird) Early Bird rates ends on 31st January 2014.
DID YOU KNOW... Australia was firstly discovered by a Dutch explorer, Captain Willem Janszoon of the ship ‘Het Duyfken’ who named it New Holland. The Dutch explorer did not think the land was very interesting and did not explore it any further. It wasn’t until 1770, when Captain James Cook came and started using and exploring the land, that he renamed it ‘New England’.
Kristel Zweers is known for participating in improvisations on TVshows on Dutch television like ‘Mag ik u kussen’ and ‘De Lama’s’. Her shows are named Tegenspraak* (2004), Onschuldig (2007), Ruig (2009) and Puur (until May 2013). (*Contradiction, Innocent, Rough, Pure.) www.kristelzweers.nl
After 18 years, prisoners were sent to Australia from Britain to be used as a convict colony. Because there were so many prisoners, the land from the coast to the Blue Mountains was not enough and they needed to search for more land to fit them. This was when they first started to explore the other side of the Blue Mountains.
12 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Upcoming Events
Waitangi Day By Marni Brewis, age 10
Photo Credits: Shutterstock
K
ia Ora (Maori for “Hello”). Waitangi Day is a very important day for New Zealand and New Zealanders. Waitangi Day is celebrated every February 6th. We remember the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which are New Zealand’s founding documents. The Treaty was signed by Maori leaders and British leaders in New Zealand in 1840. It took place at what is now called the Treaty House in Waitangi, Bay of Islands in the North Island. Since 1974 this day has been a public holiday in NZ. What is the Treaty of Waitangi? The Waitangi Treaty established British governorship and UK sovereignty (it means supreme power or authority) over New Zealand. It also granted Maori ownership of their lands and gave them the same rights as all British subjects. About 500 Maori Chiefs signed the Treaty saying at the time they signed, “We are now one people”. Eight more copies were made and sent around NZ to more chiefs for more signatures. Controversy Unfortunately there is some controversy around the Waitangi Treaty. Some people say the English and Maori versions of the Treaty are different. People also wondered whether the 19th century Maori understood what governorship really meant (meaning giving sovereignty to the Crown,
the British Queen). Also back then, Maori society relied on the spoken more than the written word so would have believed what they were told rather that what was in the text of the Treaty of Waitangi. How is it celebrated in NZ? Celebrations start on 5th February at a Marae (a cultural place where Maori culture is celebrated – usually a rectangle of grass/land). Political dignitaries are invited to hear speeches and debate over the current problems and concerns of the Maori. At dawn on Waitangi Day (6 February) the Royal New Zealand Navy raise the New Zealand Flag, Union Jack (UK) Flag and St Georges (England) Flag at the Treaty House. There is then a church service and songs and dance. Waka (traditional Maori/ Polynesian canoes) and a Navy Ship reenact when Governor Hobson was called ashore to sign the Treaty. Since the day is also Bob Marley’s birthday Wellington celebrates Waitangi Day by hosting “One Love” – a music festival that celebrates peace and unity. Celebrations on the day are quieter than in most of countries – there are no parades or widespread celebrations. The day is a national holiday during the warmest part of the New Zealand summer and most people take the opportunity to spend the day at the beach – an important part of New Zealand’s culture.
How is it celebrated by expats? In London where there is NZs largest expatriate population, the Kiwis celebrate with a Waitangi Day Ball and on the closest Saturday to the 6th of February Kiwis participate in a pub crawl using London Underground’s Circle Line. The aim is to have one drink at each of the 27 stops. At 4:00pm a mass Haka is performed at Parliament Square as Big Ben chimes. Kiwi’s wear costumes and sing songs such as the National Anthem of New Zealand “God Defend New Zealand”. Our family looks forward to celebrating it by the pool (not the beach) in Singapore with delicious lamb, beef & pavlova (a NZ dessert that is a giant merengue with cream and sliced kiwifruit with passion fruit drizzled on top). Otago Pinot Noir and Monteiths beer are for the grown ups. Content source: http://www.globalkidsoz. com.au/waitangi_day__nz.php
Photo Credits: Marni Brewis www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 13
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14 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
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16 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
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World Press Photo is Coming to Singapore
1st Prize Sports Action Singles by Wei Seng Chen, Malaysia
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fter having traveled to almost 100 cities in 45 countries over the past year, the World Press Photo 13 exhibition visits Singapore from the 8th until the 30th of March 2014 at the Raffles Hotel. Singapore will be the exhibition’s final destination, so this will be your last chance to visit the 154 mind blowing photos of 54 award winning photographers from 33 countries! Often described as ‘the Oscars of visual journalism’, World Press Photo is a prestigious contest to which thousands of press and documentary photographers submit their images annually. The contest is judged by leading experts in visual journalism who represent various aspects of the profession. The international jury carefully picks the winning images from hundreds of thousands submitted photographs. For this 56th contest almost 104 thousand images were submitted by nearly six thousand photographers. World Press Photo is a non-profit organisation based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It was established in 1955 by members of the Dutch photojournalists’ union, who wanted to create an international competition to complement an already existing national contest called the “Zilveren Camera”. By doing this, they hoped to benefit from exposure to the work of the international photojournalists’ community. Until today, the various elements that form World Press Photo’s foundations remain the same not only the contest, exhibition and award, but also its educative and communicative roles. Over the years, World Press Photo has developed a clear mission. It is committed to supporting and advancing high standards in photojournalism and documentary photography worldwide, and to generate wide public interest in and appreciation for the work of photographers and for the free exchange of information. The Singapore exhibition is free of charge for the public to visit. We also have an exhibition tour app, which can be downloaded for free from www.worldpressphoto.org. We look forward to welcoming you at the Raffles Hotel in March!
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eVENT REPORTS
NUMAMA CHRISTMAS CONCERT
18 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
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What did you do before you worked at the Club? “Before the Hollandse Club, I worked at the Swiss Club, the Shangri-La Hotel, and I worked in Sydney’s Chinatown, Australia. I am a Singaporean and came back after some time. I bought a flat and started to look for work close by, because I have a small little puppy Chihuahua. I share my flat with my lady cousin, who drives a taxi for a living.” If there’s a tournament, she comes in earlier and gets help from colleagues with whom she “works as a team”. “Everything I do nicely is for the Club, because we meet the same members every day, it’s not a hotel where guests leave.” She is honest and loyal to the Club and explains that if “we give 100% to serve the members, than you can perform better!” This, she adds, applies to everyone. During our interview, people come and order juice, coffee and sandwiches, and every time she gets up with a smile. What do you do after work? “I take care of the dog, I like reading magazines on sports in Singapore (I am more interested in tennis than football). I like to take a walk and see nice things, so sometimes I take a tour. I like to watch documentaries. My hobby? Watching tennis; I love to watch tennis and see Serena, Sharapova and Jankovic.”
“I am more of a vegetable person, you know”
Tennis Triple B By Eva Stein
F
or eleven and a half years, Kiki Ho has been working at the tennis bar among sportive members and other tennis fans. She’s famous- for her special juices and pride in her service.
How come this terrace looks like a Belgian beer bar? “We sell eight different Belgian beers, and they’re recommended by the Food and Beverage member Jean-Paul Deslypere. The furniture and decorations you see here are his personal belongings. We have Palm, Triple 8 (only at Hollandse Club!), Hoegaarden, Leffe Blonde and Brun, Bavik Premium Pilsener, Rose Beer, Wittekerke and Trappiste Rochefort. So Triple B stands for Belgian Beer Bar!” Can you tell us something about your work? Kiki begins: “I work from 8-12 in the morning, then I go home and come back between 6 and 10.30pm. On Saturdays I begin at 4pm. I come in early, open the bar and heat the coffee machine, then arrange the tables and chairs, and also the tennis courts. On week days, there are mainly ladies here in their nice outfits.” She is very determined and continues that “I do my job the way members like, I give the best service to them.” She likes to interact with children, who are required to say the magic words Please and Thank You if they want something from her. She doesn’t live very far away from the Club and her mother, brother and sisters all live in the same area. They take care of their mother, who lives by herself in a flat of her own. Kiki is happy that she has the afternoons off and usually goes home then.
How did the Kiki Juice come about? “I noticed that many ladies like to drink healthy juice. I started to try, taste and improve the juice, and now I have a very good recipe: ice, juice of a green apple, orange and a thumb of carrot, plus a little slice of ginger. My newest juice is something like apple, lime and some ginger. I’m more of a vegetable person, you know.” Maybe that’s why she serves the ice cooled, crispy orange carrot sticks over coffee, and everybody likes them. What don’t we know about you? “When my younger sister was working for (then) Swissair, I travelled to Europe. We went to St Moritz, Switzerland; to Pisa, Italy; I love Venice and threw coins in the fountains in Rome. We went to Monte Carlo and Nice in France, to Austria and visited the Czech Republic. In Munich, Germany I saw where the bombing had taken place at Oktoberfest. In Belgium, we ended up in a fight and hurried back to the Eurorail train headed for Amsterdam in the Netherlands. It was below freezing and I stepped on the ice, thinking I could walk on it. No! It was too thin and I fell through, so cold! I went to Hainan Island, China that is famous for chicken rice and seafood. You know, they feed the fish oats which makes their flesh very soft and tender. I have seen the Niagara Falls in Canada. You know, I have seen the eight wonders of the world.” And then she smiles: “You know, actually my hobby is fishing. There are lots of fish in Australia.” She describes why abalone is better than oysters and why raw fish is so good. “When I start fishing, I can’t stop. It’s like shopping, once you feel the bite …”
Operating Hours: Mondays - Fridays : 8am - 12nn | 6pm - 10pm Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays: 8am - 12nn | 4pm -11pm Call ext 126 or 131 for any food and drinks order.
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Results of the Members Survey 2013 By The Main Commitee
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n behalf of the Main Committee, we would like to thank all our members who took the effort to fill out our yearly member satisfaction survey last October. As many as 238 members completed the questionnaire, which is a great result! The vast majority of the respondents has children (92%), and have been members for an average of nearly 5 years. The overall satisfaction level has remained more or less stable in comparison with the last two years; 65% of our members are satisfied to very satisfied, with an average satisfaction score of 3.55 (on a scale of 1 to 5). The satisfaction with the terrace slightly increased in comparison with last year. Slightly lower satisfaction was observed with the price level of food and beverages, as well as with the attractiveness of the promotion specials. However, satisfaction with the kids’ food options, the level of change in the menu, the freshness, taste and presentation of the food and the knowledge and attentiveness of the terrace staff has slightly increased. All scores are between 3 and 3.5 (on a scale of 1 to 5). The exception is the Bun menu, which has a score of 3.82. The overall satisfaction with the facilities that the Club has to offer is comparable with earlier years. One exception is, not surprisingly, the quality of the changing rooms. Satisfaction was just under 3 last year, and dropped to just above 2.5 in 2013 (on a scale of 1 to 5). We are therefore pleased to announce a renovation of the ladies changing room that will take place shortly. Another exception is the playground. After the renovation of the playground that was carried out last year, satisfaction increased
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20 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
from values around 3 in 2011 to values around 3.5 in 2013. The member survey has shown good to very good scores (>3.5 or >4 on the 1 to 5 scale) on the quality of our sports facilities and offerings, such as the swimming lessons, gym, tennis and squash. We are very pleased with these results, which is also the merit of our sports providers. Satisfaction with our kids events, social/cultural events and festive events lies between 3 and 3.5 (scale 1 to 5). This is comparable to the results of the two years before. In this questionnaire, we added some questions for the first time about our International Ambassador Program. The goal of this program, which the Hollandse Club started last year, is to involve members of different nationalities in the organisation of events. We hear regularly that our international events, like St. Patricks Day, miss some authenticity. Having international members involved in the organisation would be very helpful to get authenticity into these events. However, our member satisfactory survey showed that the International Ambassador program is not very well known. About 20% of the respondents answered that they would be willing to volunteer in this program and help us with the organisation of events for our members. I would like to use this opportunity to invite these respondents and anyone else who would like to play an active role in our Club, to step forward and contact me or someone else in the Main Committee. The satisfaction with our service staff has very high scores (between 3.5 and 4 on a scale of 1 to 5). Of course, we are very pleased with this result and we want to thank our staff for their commitment and service to our members.
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F&B Survey Results By The F&B Commitee
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o start with, we would like to thank everyone for participating in the survey and taking the time to help improve the F&B at the club. Your opinions are highly apprectiated and will be used to further improve the club’s services. We recieved 72 feedback forms during the last three weeks of October. The new menu has been recieved quite positively but the layout can be improved a bit further. Our respondants think that we have very friendly staff, which is positive. We can see, however, that the staff needs to be better trained in improving the service level. The quality of the food is above average, but there is still room for improvements. We are working on it! In January, you will find some changes in the menu: more international items, different sandwiches and a variety of salads. Furthermore, there will be an additional fresh fruit juice menu on the tables. Lastly, your comments on coffee and pizzas have been taken into consideration. We will be planning improvements based on the suggestions and will inform you on this in the coming months. The winners of the $20 vouchers: Minnie Ahn-Eggen Hilde van de Waal Hang Groeneweg Chris Huke Colin Ouwehand
KLM’s 94th Delft Blue House T
he entire KLM Delft Blue Houses collection is on loan from KLM and on permanent display at the Hollandse Club entrance. We have now added KLM’s 94th Delft Blue House to the collection. This house was presented on KLM’s 94th Birthday on 7th October. The first copy of house no. 94 was presented to the mayor of Texel, Francine Giskes.
KLM has had a special bond with the island of Texel since the 1930s. From 1 July 1937 until 22 August 1939, KLM operated a scheduled service between Schiphol and Texel Airport. By choosing the Oudheidkamer as its 94th Delftware miniature, KLM reaffirms its ties with the island. The Oudheidkamer was built as a poorhouse in 1599, providing shelter and support for those in need. People who were temporarily homeless or strangers to the island were allowed to stay in the house free of charge for three nights. The hosue was later used as a family home until it became a museum in 1954, exhibiting a variety of artworks and historical objects, most of which date from the 19th Century. KLM has presented its Delftware miniatures on board since the 1950s. The miniatures are replicas of remarkable buildings in the Netherlands. Since 1994, the number of houses in the series has kept pace with KLM’s anniversary. Since then, a new miniature has been added on 7 October each year. The miniatures are presented to World Business Class passengers on intercontinental flights. www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 21
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Members in Focus:
The Witteveen Family
We are Remko and Michelle Witteveen, and we arrived in Singapore in August this year with our three boys, Wybe (15), Mees (13) and Olivier (11), and our two Labrador dogs. The children attend the Overseas Family School. We previously lived in Singapore between 2002 and 2005, when Olivier was a newborn. Mees and Wybe were enrolled at the Hollandse School and Remko used to work for ABNAmro (he currently works for ING). We then moved to Hong Kong for 2 years, after which we spent 6 years in Wassenaar, Netherlands. Returning to Singapore feels like coming home, although many things have changed – what is now Marina Bay Sands was the ocean, and there was much less traffic and construction going on back then!
somewhere. There are about 2000 Hash House Harrier chapters on all 7 continents. Jon, for instance, joined them when living in Jordan. Each chapter usually has between 20 and 100 members. The running events are all non-competitive and almost all involve running and beer. But mind you, we do non-alcoholic things with families as well.
I read there are men-only chapters. Why? There are 10 chapters in Singapore, some with men, some with women (the Harriets!), others with men and women, and ones with families and kids. And in Singapore, we even have a Hash for dog owners (a world first) and a bike Hash. How does it work? The Hash begins with the “hares” laying down a trail and is followed by the “hounds” trying to stay on the trail without running into false trails and dead ends. The end of the trail is often called the On-After or the On-Down, and is where everyone gets a chance to socialize. After the drinks, we often have dinner together and it is just great fun. Over the years, the Hollandse Club has always been a very nice place to start and finish.
We rejoined the Hollandse Club because of the many fond memories, and due to the fact that it is always a fantastic place to eat, especially with friends or family. We like the soft-court tennis court (Michelle intends to join social tennis once she has settled in). Olivier trains every now and then on the courts – he is a very active tennis player. Furthermore, we enjoy the Dutch books in the library, and the variety of social activities organized by the Club.
Who are… The House Harriers? By Steven Groeneveld
Now and then a group of people gather at the Club’s parking lot, start running in the vicinity and after that return to the Club to have drinks together. They are called the Hash House Harriers and sure look like a merry group. The Magazine spoke with Jennie Lim and Jon Button, both enthusiastic members. What can you tell us about the Hash House Harriers? The House Harrier tag line is ‘a drinking club with a running problem’. The Hash House Harriers running club was started in 1938, in Kuala Lumpur, when a group of English gentlemen decided it would be good to start running a bit through the jungle before having their gin or whisky. The place where they lived was called the Hash House. At present, almost any day of the year, in almost any part of the world, there’s probably a Hash going on 22 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Is it all just for fun? It is more than just having a good time. We have people from all nationalities, of which more than half is Singaporean. Everybody is welcome. Thus, you see a very interesting mix of people. What we have in common is a great social interest. The Hashes do a lot for charity as well. Every year in October, the Harriets organize a breast cancer awareness run. Another chapter, the Lion City Hash, is now raising funds to help the Dover Park Hospice. If members of the Club are interested, they can go to www.doverpark.org.sg/ for more information. It is a very worthy cause for sure. Want to know more about the Hash House Harriers? Check out the activities of all chapters on http://lioncityhash.com/singapore.htm
Members
Extending a warm welcome to our New Club Members • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Main Commitee Resolutions Nienke Nauta–Kuipers: My New Year’s Resolutions...I haven’t really thought about them. Don’t we all wish for health and happiness? It is always a surprise what the New Year brings, especially for all of us expats. Yes, personally I wish for health and happiness for my family. I wish that my kids will be happy in whatever they do.
Jacqueline Eaton & Andrew Eaton Stan Goense & Ellen Goense Anthony Hearne & Nina Hearne Audrey Johnston & David McGowan Bridget GN Lim Saul .M. Neale & Amanda J. Neale Mathieu Pelier & Linda Pelier Reginald Tan Jacques Werner & Soraya Werner Wartel Anh & Wartel J. Samuel Mie-Leng Wong & Ivo Delfgaauw Remko Witteveen & Michelle Witteveen - Mout Peter Huizing & Esther Huizing Edwin Jager & Ingrid Jager-Verhagen David Kiu & Audrey Ng Charles Loh & Su Mei Loh Yacin Mahieddine & Valerie Mahieddine Anish Singh & Kamak Kiran Jarno Timmerman & Anne Zwart Yu Ping Yu J.A. van der Meulen Ashley Robinson & Diana Chen - Robinson David Evans & Rachel Evans
Club-wise, as I am a member of the Management Committee and responsible for Food and Beverage, I do hope that we can keep up the good work from last year. In January, there will be some new items on the menu. We are currently investigating new pizza options, and also better coffee options. Indoor dining will also be finalized soon. So in 2014, I hope you will all enjoy the food and beverage outlets at the Club. Jacqueline Lemmens: I love the time around New Year’s Eve. I always look back at the last year and make a lot of resolutions for the New Year. I want them to be as realistic as possible, so that I will be able to fulfill them all. Since I finished training to become an English teacher in 2013, I want to start teaching English in the New Year. As Vice President, I am responsible for the HR policy of the Hollandse Club. In the last personnel survey, some staff members asked for English training. That is why my resolution for 2014 will be to give free English lessons to the Hollandse Club staff members that are interested in learning. Wietske Helle: I am not really a person for making New Year’s Resolutions. Come to think of it, I hardly make resolutions at all, even during the year. Which means either a) I never do anything, which is bad for me or for others or b) I don’t have selfcorrecting behaviour. Hopefully, it’s the former. Of course there have been instances in the past where I’ve wanted to lose weight and exercise more; cry and stress less; laugh and enjoy life more. These days, I don’t really feel the need to change; this possibly means that I’m becoming old and stubborn in my ways... or just happy in accepting who I am.
My Holiday in Japan By Noor Groeneveld, age 9
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ast October, I went on holiday to Japan with my parents. We first spent 2 days in Fukaya, a small town not too far from Tokyo, where my mother had lived for one year and where she went to high school when she was 18. We then travelled to Kyoto on the incredibly fast Shinkansen, a train that travels at almost 300 kilometres per hour. Kyoto is very nice. It has beautiful temples and a real samurai castle. We stayed at a very nice hotel where they had DVDs for free for children to take to their room. We rented bikes and cycled through the city almost every day, which was fun and sometimes a bit scary. We cycled through a very big park to see the old imperial castle. It was totally different from the castles we have in Europe, but also very beautiful. And I really liked the food. Of course we ate sushi, and fortunately we also found an Italian restaurant, because I really like pizza.
The best thing was one rainy afternoon, my mother found a special studio where you can be dressed up as a maiko, and they then take photos of you. A maiko is a young girl who has to learn how to become a geisha. It took more than 2 hours do all the make-up and put all the clothes on, and then I had to pose with different things, such as a parasol and some old Japanese musical instruments. That was not always easy. I really like the pictures. Of course my parents like them very much as well, maybe even more than I do. We saw a lot of girls in Kyoto wearing kimonos, that was so nice. We also visited some Japanese friends and they told us that wearing kimonos when you go shopping or dancing is cool for young people. When we got home, my parents asked if I wanted to go to Japan again one day. I said yes.
Tell us about your vacation... Send an email to pr@hollandseclub.org.sg with a write up about your vacation and have it published in the next magazine! Remember to include your pictures! www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 23
Members
Small Team, Big Impact: The Panay Project By Willemijn van Blommestein, Maud van Velthoven, Marijke Rombeek and Desi Wentink
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e were asked by one of the editors of the Hollandse Club Magazine to give a short impression of our week in Panay, Philippines. It is difficult to find the right words to express what we saw and experienced. The extreme devastation in areas that have been hit by typhoon Haiyan and the huge number of people who lost everything amounted to a very intense experience. What we could do and what we did to help out was pretty straight forward but the impact of what we saw and felt when bringing goods to the people, is much harder to describe. We will try to give an impression of our week in Panay…
We flew to the city of Ilo Ilo on the island of Panay. From there on, we had to make a trip to the north of the Island, to the city Kalibo. On our trip up north we visited a Dutch lady, Erna Vinkers, who started the Let’s Care Foundation for abused girls in Antique, the western province of Panay. After the typhoon, she started a project to help in several villages nearby that had been hit by giving them building materials and hygiene kits. We decided to join her in this project. It was a special experience to meet such a dedicated power girl who already spent three years in Panay supporting girls in distress.
“ The extreme devastation in areas that have been hit by typhoon Haiyan and the huge number of people who lost everything amounted to a very intense experience.”
We would like to start with this note: we are very impressed by the impact of one brave guy, who decided to pack his bag and actually go there and reach out to people in urgent need. He didn’t know whether the circumstances would be safe, whether he could be useful or what he could do. The snowballeffect of his decision and his actions are enormous and lead to actual support of hundreds of families… RESPECT! Thank you Arnout Mostert!
Hopping on board Immediately after we read his mail with his reasons to initiate the Last Mile (Panay)-project, we all knew we wanted to help him. We all had the same thoughts and were immediately convinced we wanted to join Arnout’s great plan to go there and make a difference ourselves. Even though we had no idea what the situation would be like in Panay in terms of casualties, damages and safety because Arnout had just arrived in the Philippines as well. The only suggestion was that it would be unwise to travel with women only! All to say is that we did try to arrange male companions! 24 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
After arriving in Kalibo we were brought up to speed by the team, which included Philippine policemen, drivers and other locals who got involved. Their knowledge of the local culture and politics would prove to be very valuable throughout Project Panay. Every evening, we had meetings to share the experiences of the day and to plan ahead for the -next day. On the first day in the North of Panay, after a short introduction into effective shopping in Philippine supermarkets, after having visited totally destroyed areas and the school project, Willemijn already did food-drops herself, with some help from Izy, a Philippine lady, who had a company nearby and was immediately committed to the project with her family. Desi teamed up with Sir Arnout on the first day to travel to Roxas City and all the way to the east, in order to bring relief goods to a coastal village Pillar, where things got pretty hectic while distributing the goods, and to identify a school-project with a power woman heading the completely destroyed school. The
Members following days, we focused mainly on the very devastated area of New Washington, close to Kalibo, as the long drive from the east proved to be very dangerous at nighttime with fallen trees, electricity poles and wires hanging over and lying in the middle of the roads. The village of Fatima struck a nerve, as here you could see the extreme power of nature having its way with solid brick houses turned to bits and pieces scattered along the beach.
U-weeeh!
Column on daily life as an expat in Singapore By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
“After losing their houses, their livelihoods, their schools, they gave us genuine smiles and lovely words and drawings.” New Washington, a long strip of land with water on both sides, was now marked as a focus area from the team in Kalibo, as pretty much the whole area was destroyed; nothing was left, just unrecognizable remains of what used to be houses, schools, shops… we saw residents sitting on top of the piles of rubble…piles that used to be their houses. While seeing all that, it is impossible not to wonder about the incredible inequality and unfairness in the world. Marijke and Maud joined the Roxas team on the second day to identify new projects, to set up the shopping system in this new area, and to bring relief goods and building materials to completely destroyed areas, which also included the northern remote islands. These unfortunate islands had not been reached by relief efforts. To bring one boat load of first relief goods to an island where 80% of all houses and buildings are completely gone, houses lying flat on the ground, is quite a humbling experience as you know they need 100 times the amount of help you are bringing. Fortunately, we could come back with a lot more.
“We were so impressed that even in times of great despair, the people in the Philippines are so polite, patient and cheerful.” We were so impressed that even in times of great despair, the people in the Philippines are so polite, patient and cheerful. After losing their houses, their livelihoods, their schools, they gave us genuine smiles and lovely words and drawings. We could only feel humbled and filled with respect for the Philippine people… how resilient they are, especially the women. Because what struck us as well, was the fact that that in most places, it is women who are in charge. Most of the village chiefs, church leaders, spokespersons and school heads are women. It was easy to speak with these women, to get answers and estimates; it was wonderful to cooperate with them. This quickly led to one of our principles: from now on, we deal with women when it comes to the distribution of food, medicines and building materials. One of the Phillippine ladies gave us her version of Philippine reality: ‘the men drink and gamble, women take responsibility’. This also explains the huge number of power girls we have met along the way. During our time in the Philippines, we worked hard and we did our best to be as useful as possible. We are very happy that we could join the first phase of Project Panay, happy to be part of such a fantastic initiative. We are glad to have met so many power women in one week. Girl Power rules! Although of course it all started with Arnout…
Picture credits: Karien van Ditzhuijzen
D
riving in Singapore is a lot of fun. There is getting in the right lane, on time. Zigzagging motorcycles. Zooming taxis. Traffic jams. ERP systems. Finding your way with a satnav that does not seem to know its way around any better than you do. And, most famously, there is the Singapore U-turn. Everyone who has visited the Hollandse Club will remember the dreaded U-turn you have to make to get there. It is great fun. And I get to experience this fun every time I leave my house. When I exit our little cul-de-sac, I need to turn left onto the main road. Even if, like most of the time, my destination is to my right. Our main road is eight lanes wide, with an impenetrable barrier down the middle. And no, this is not a motorway. At the first traffic lights that I encounter, I can only go straight, or turn a pointless left into yet another dead end lane. When I continue down the road, skirting the large nature reserve that takes up most of central Singapore, if I am lucky and it is after nine thirty in the morning, half way down the road I can make a U-turn. I knew of U-turns before moving to Singapore, of course, but this city has taken the phenomenon to a new level. The U-turn is ubiquitous. Even my kids love talking about U-y’s (pronounced u-weeh): where to do it, how to do it, and most importantly, when not to. Because, in Singapore, you can only do it when there is a square blue sign saying you can. Which, in the case of the gap in the barrier halfway down our main road, means you can only do it after nine thirty in the morning. And there is a reason for this. If I continue on down the road and make my U-turn under the viaduct, I will get stuck in a jam. I have no means of avoiding this jam, which I am able to observe with increasing trepidation as I drive all those miles up the road. If I am lucky, ten to fifteen minutes later I will find myself passing my own street, now in the correct lane. If things are bad, it might take half an hour. Appointments between eight and nine in the morning? Not a good idea. The way back home requires no U-turn, but presents its own challenges. Our little drive is a left turn off the main road, just after you cross the motorway. And when I say just, I mean just. When you arrive, eager to turn left, you need to cut across traffic exiting the motorway. You have about ten meters to do so. And can you really blame motorists for not noticing the give way sign or the dotted lines at the exit? I often find myself stopping, honking, angrily shoving myself through, eyes closed, fingers crossed, hoping for the best. Because if you fail to make the turn? You will face the aforementioned drive to the U-turn, with an added drive all the way back to the next crossing to make yet another U-turn which will allow you to try again in maybe fifteen minutes time. That is, if it is not before nine thirty in the morning… www.hollandseclub.org.sg Hollandse Club 25
Members
Arnout Mostert: One Man Making a Difference After Typhoon Haiyan By Steven Groeneveld
T
he death toll from typhoon Haiyan, or Yolanda as it is called in the Philippines, has by now risen to more than 6,000 and more than 1,800 people are still missing. The devastation was immense. Whole communities were destroyed, land was flooded, thousands of buildings collapsed or were simply swept away. Dutch entrepreneur, Arnout Mostert (45), saw the images we all saw and was shocked. Arnout, who has been living in Singapore for 11 years, also witnessed the disbelief and fear of the family’s Flipino domestic helper, whose relatives live in the area that was hit. “You can say this disaster happened on our doorstep. I felt I just had to do something. I wanted to help, and by help I mean really helping with my head and hands,” Arnout says. This was not the first time Arnout reacted like this. Immediately after the 2004 tsunami, he travelled to Thailand with the same
“I felt I just had to do something.” purpose: just helping, and helping immediately. “In Thailand I learned that you can make a huge difference with immediate action,” Arnout recalls. “By gathering and distributing food, water and materials such as nails and other basic building materials you can help people immediately. This is of vital importance for people who often lose everything, and especially for those living in remote areas. Going the last mile for those people, who are often the last ones to get help, was my goal.” After reading an interview with her in the Dutch newspaper, De Volkskrant, Arnout got in touch with Maartje Ruijgt, a Dutch resi26 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
dent of Cebu City. He then flew to Cebu to meet her and she introduced Arnout to her colleague, Mylene Yanga, who was born on Panay island. Mylene told Arnout that things were quite bad on Panay and that there was little help. Then things really started rolling, and they are still rolling. Arnout and Mylene travelled to Panay and Arnout’s ‘Project Panay’ took off. They teamed up with the local police force, started buying rice, water, tents and basic building materials. With that, they got on the road and soon could help hundreds of people. By now dozens of expats, including the Club’s general manager Elmer van Loon, have followed in Arnout’s footsteps and joined Project Panay to help people get back on their feet. Arnout recalls: “Before I left, I sent the longest Facebook-post I have ever written, asking for help. The next day, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that more than $25,000 had been donated. That is one of the major differences now, the power of social networks.” Some people offered help in other ways, and so the website www.projectpanay.com was created. A big effect was that dozens of Dutch expats living in Singapore volunteered to join Arnout. All together, Project Panay has turned out to be much bigger than Arnout expected. On the website all the stories and events on Panay are documented. “I did not really expect anything,” Arnout says. “I only planned to go and help. It is incredible how things developed. I guess that there will be a moment when things have to be handed over to the local authorities and international aid organisations. I am just glad we could cover that very important early part, when people really need all the help they can get. That was my intention really.” He is very positive about the help of local people and especially the police: “There are some great people there who really helped
Members us to get all the food and materials to the right people and places. And I never felt unsafe, there was just a lot of gratitude and dignity from everybody we met. Of course we faced some dilemmas now and again, for instance if we should help rebuilding houses. It is fantastic to help somebody, but how do you know who to help first? That is why we decided to help rebuild community centres, schools etc. and only worked with the local community leaders. That was all done in public, so everybody saw and heard what we distributed and agreed upon.”
Websites www.therealsingapore.com this is no website for light entertainment and, as a matter of fact, it quite regularly causes a stir. The Real Singapore is a user generated platform where everybody can freely speak his mind about everything in Singapore. There is no censorship, and therefore you might run into some unpolished opinions. www.hungrygowhere.com we probably don’t have to explain why this website is so popular if we tell you that it provides an incredible amount of information and reviews about restaurants, cafes and bars in Singapore and Malaysia.
Arnout thinks that all the experiences of Project Panay can be of
“The power of social networks is incredible” great value for a lot of people and organisations, including the international NGOs. “We learned so much, and it is so clear that really being there as soon as possible after the disaster is of such vital importance. Those big organisations do very good and very important things, but we could see that it took them quite a long time to get people and goods in the area. For instance, it was both funny and sad that we met a Red Cross guy there, who had been waiting for 3 days for materials and instructions. In the mean time, we were helping hundreds and hundreds of people.” Arnout says he would love to discuss things with the NGOs and is sure that a lot can be done if things are organised in a more practical way. “I think it would be very interesting to see if you can set up groups of trained volunteers, who can send people to places like Panay, that were hit by a storm, earthquake, fire or whatever, and immediately start with the basic help work. What I saw on Panay, but also in Thailand, is that it may only take an hour by car to find places where you can buy all the water, food, blankets, tents and other materials that people 30 kilometres down the road need urgently. With my credit card and phone I was able to do a lot in a few hours.” He states again that it was incredible that he could do so much because he got so much financial support in such a short space of time. “We now have to make sure that we can show everybody how the money has been spent,” Arnout says. “I think we can present a good balance sheet.” Again, he receives help for this. “People are still eager to do something, and it helps a lot if they do that by doing what they are good at. That is fantastic,” Arnout says with a smile. “I feel very rich, while our money is being spent very fast on things that will help rebuild lives on Panay.”
Apps and Websites With Tips, Trips and More: Making the Most of Singapore By Steven Groeneveld
S
ingapore is one of the most online cities in the world. Wherever you go, you will see people using their smart phones, tablets and notebooks. And, knowing Singapore, of course there is a lot of digital information available to make living and getting around in Singapore even easier and more enjoyable. After our first edition of apps and websites in the previous issue of The Magazine, here are some more new tips for you. So get online and enjoy Singapore even more!
www.singpost.com how and when to send that birthday card for your nephew or the present for your friend, information on postage rates and delivery times, you will find all the postal information here. www.channelnewsasia.com all the latest news in the Asia-Pacific region, with a special page for news from Singapore. Business, sport, entertainment, health, weather and lots more to keep you fully updated on what is happening in the region. Apps @iChangi of course travelling in the region is a major part of the fun of living in Singapore. And how about those relatives you want to welcome at the airport? With this app you will always have real time information of all departures and arrival times at Changi Airport. @Go!Shopping what would Singapore be without shopping? The Go! Shopping app gives you accurate maps of all major shopping malls in Singapore. Find all the nearest restaurants, shops, cinemas etc. with information and promotions. @mytransport.sg waiting for your bus? Looking for a parking lot? Need traffic information? Want to find a cycling route? The award winning app @mytransport. sg is your key to travelling without any hassle. It provides all the up-to-date information you need. @hosay! this funny app helps you to improve your Singlish. Master this and feel like a true Singaporean! Do you have your own favourite apps or websites that you want to share with your fellow members? Then send your tips to pr@ hollandseclub.org.sg and you might find your tip in one of the next issues.
Have you checked out the Club’s new and improved website? Last November www.hollandseclub.org.sg had a full make over. To be honest, we are rather proud of it. Let us know what you think of it. We hope to hear from you soon!
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Members
Back From the Philippines, The Last Mile to Assist Recovery After Typhoon Haiyan. By Johan Schoenmaker
or to those who were unable to do so. The emphasis gradually shifted to the support of rebuilding boats and schools. Recovering the fishing boats (which soon became my specialty) meant that the people could start fishing again. These are mostly one-man boats, and for 3000 to 4000 pesos (S$100) you can repair a heavily damaged boat.
O
n Wednesday 20th November, I arrived in the town of Kalibo in the province of Aklan, Philippines. The airport had only re-opened the previous day. I honestly did not know what was waiting for me and I was expecting the worst. Despite all warnings, you are never really prepared for what you are going to encounter. The destruction was massive; whole villages virtually wiped off the map, schools destroyed, boats wrecked, infrastructure damaged, and electricity facilities paralyzed. Contact had already been made with the local people and first aid had already started, especially in villages that were more difficult to reach. As the food drops were for the women in the villages (they feed the family), the male population had hands free to work on cleaning up all the debris and repairing homes, schools and boats. Our approach was to help everyone and give priority to those who were able to actively participate 28 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Furthermore, complete recovery takes only a few days, when you keep some pressure on it. We worked, depending on the circumstances, with simple contracts, which were signed by boat owners. The village-chief (Chief-barangay) was also involved. Local police contributed to the formal side of things, to show the locals that we took things seriously and expected them to do so too. We also sourced materials. A Filipino member of our group would initially buy what we needed, in order to secure the best price; that way we had a good idea of the cost of materials such as plywood, nylon, bamboo, nails, epoxy and paint. Furthermore, we went to the village every day to monitor progress. It is great to see what can get done in a short space of time when you work with the locals. We needed the locals for the manpower and expertise, and they needed us to provide materials and keep up the pressure to stay motivated. The approach to schools was more or less the same. The schools deserve special at-
tention because, with so much devastation, it takes years before the government is able to help all schools. The advantage is that there is always a (female) chief who is in charge of the school, there is a clear structure and the school can provide the manpower, through their parents or teachers. Working this way, with the locals, also does something to the spirit of the people. They no longer feel abandoned because there is real help on hand. In other words, the impact goes far beyond the material support.
What really impressed me was the positive attitude of the local population. We experienced so much gratitude and warmth given the circumstances, and it was incredibly overwhelming. On Wednesday 21st November, I arrived back home in Singapore, safe and sound, and with a very special experience and a collection of mixed emotions behind and with me.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Kids & Teens
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Kids & Teens
30 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
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Kids & Teens
Teenage Talk:
Coco de Bock and Bastiaan Kleijn By Evelien Stoel & Maria van Dort
What should the club do to encourage you to come here more often? Coco would like more activities for teens. She also thinks it would be great if they could borrow footballs from the Club, so that they could play soccer on the multi-purpose court when it is not in use. Bastiaan adds that the Club should organize a mini, knock-out soccer competition on a Friday afternoon, and more movie nights only for the over-13s.
The Hollandse Club has approximately 1600 members from various countries. Most people do not know that we have many teenagers among our members. Unfortunately, we do not see them as often as we would like, so we thought this would be a nice way to introduce a few of them to you. This month, we have an interview with Coco de Bok and Bastiaan Kleijn; both are 13 years old and from The Netherlands. Coco has been living in Singapore for almost 6 years and loves it. She is currently attending United World College; previously, she lived in Sweden. Bastiaan, however, goes to The Overseas Family School and has lived here for 5 years. He also spent 3 years in Denmark. So, tell me, what do you do besides going to school and studying? “I love to play a lot of soccer,” says Bastiaan. “At school, I play during the breaks with my friends and I play in the school team. I am a member of The International Soccer Academy at Turf City. This means I get to play every Saturday and on Sundays when we have a competition.” “I also play field hockey through the Hollandse Club. I like sailing a lot, but unfortunately I don’t do it that often anymore. And of course gaming, chatting with my friends on Skype, Instagram and Facebook.” Coco also likes to play soccer but does not play for the same club as Bastiaan. She plays twice a week with ANZA, which is also based at Turf City. And she also attends Dutch lessons twice a week after school. What brings you to the Club? “My main reason is to hang out with my friends,” says Coco, “and to watch movies. For me it is also a great opportunity to hang out with friends from my old school as I do not get to see them very often. Bastiaan wants to meet his friends too, have a swim, play soccer on the multi-purpose court or go to a movie. He used to enjoy going to the bowling alley. Unfortunately it closed down a while ago.”
Do you have any ideas for the Club? “Yes,” says Coco. “Would it be possible for children to organize their own fairs at the Club and have a kind of ‘Queensday celebration’ every two months?” Bastiaan wonders if it would be possible to borrow good soccer balls & basketballs on your own account number. If you do not return them, you will be charged. Like the towels. Coco also agrees with this idea. And what about a tour behind the scenes of the Hollandse Club? So, the end of the year is approaching fast. What would you like to do differently, or is there something new you would like to try in 2014? Coco’s wish is to finish redecorating her room which she started some months ago. She would also like to start babysitting with some good friends from school, so that they could earn some money, and she would like to go to Cambodia to help the charity, Tabitha. Bastiaan would like to get better at soccer and start taking photos of his travels. Are you proud of a special achievement in 2013? Coco is proud that she earned S$440 for Tabitha, while Bastiaan is proud of the fact that his grades in school have improved. Do you spend a lot of time on your computer and phone? Fill us in, what are your most popular apps and games? Top 3 apps: Bastiaan: 9gag, Airplane, Eurosport Coco: Facebook, instagram & snapchat Favourite Games Bastiaan: Fifa 14 Coco: Red Crucible What is the best way to communicate with your friends? Bastiaan: Skype, Facebook messenger, Instagram, Snapshat, Ask.fm. Coco: Chatting at school, because my phone is usually not charged. When my phone is charged, I like sms.
NEW KIDS COMMITTEE: Evelien Stoel and Maria Dort About Evelien Stoel After working for 16 years in the marketing & communications field in The Netherlands, we moved to Copenhagen and lived there for 3 years. We have been in Singapore for nearly 5 years now. I spend my days volunteering for the Singapore Art Museum and trying to find funding in Asia for The International Holland Music Sessions (www.tihms.com). TIHMS is an organization that gives masterclasses to talented students from conservatories of music throughout the world. To keep fit, I play tennis and go to the gym. Finally the one thing I should have begin with: taking care of my two sons Bastiaan (13 years) and Olivier (11 years).
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Kids & Teens
EVENT REPORT: SINTERKLAAS 2013
WINNERS
KIDS COLOURING CONTEST November/December issue
Alexa (T382) 34 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Kids & Teens
Congratulations to the 3 winners of the colouring contest! Prizes can be collected at the reception. Take part in our upcoming colouring contest.
Nicholas Lawrance (L491)
Amber Lawrence (L491)
EVENT REPORT: Disco Swimming
Kids & Teens
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d ns oo tio
F o r om a Pr nu Ja
y
Teriyaki Beef Sandwich Marinated beef fillet, cucumber, rocket lettuce & ciabatta bread
$12.80
Indonesian Cuisine
Vietnamese Cuisine
Nasi Tumeng
Dry Seafood Noodle
Traditional yellow rice set served with chicken & condiments
$12.50
36 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Rice noodle with prawns, squids, carrots & beansprouts
$12.50
s
od ion ry Fo ot om ua Pr br Fe
Baked Honey Rib
Served with vegetable fried rice & baby carrots
$14.80
Indian Cuisine
Vietnamese Cuisine
Tandoori Set
Prawn Pomelo Salad
Roasted chicken prepared with yoghurt & spices. Served with dhal & naan bread
Cooked prawns, pomelos, carrots, onions & dry shrimps
$12.50
$12.80
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38 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
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Sports & Recreation
Aqua Spin
The Most Complete Form of Exercise in Singapore
N
ew classes available at the Hollandse Club! Due to popular demand, we have added Aqua Spin classes on Wednesday mornings, noon and evening. The Club is promoting free trial sessions for all members throughout January!
cally your thighs, bum and tummy? Decrease varicose veins? Reduce cellulite? Decrease water retention? Then Aqua Spin is for you! By far the most complete fitness technique for those looking to do all the above in one easy 45 minute session.
Experience Aqua Spin, underwater spinning, the popular European fitness craze now hitting Singapore! Our water-based fitness sessions are designed to provide a whole body workout experience.
The best part is that Aqua Spin sessions are fun, refreshing and they won’t leave you with that tight muscle soreness the next day!
Aqua Spin’s classes will have you spinning in a stationary position underwater, harnessing the intrinsic worth of water – buoyancy and resistance – to help you perform intensive yet gentle exercise motions.
The buoyancy of the water also provides a cushioning effect for the joints, which makes Aqua Spin extremely safe for any participant. Anyone who suffers from lower backaches, hip discomfort and even knee or ankle problems can participate.
If you are looking for a new exercise class, if you need something that is fast, complete and revitalizing…well look no further!
Session times: Wednesday and Friday mornings @ 8:30am, 9:30am and 10:30am. Wednesday @ 12 noon and Wednesday @ 7:30pm.
Are you looking to burn calories (800 per session)? Increase your cardio fitness? Increase your strength? Tone your body, specifi-
Contact Alicia: Alicia@aquaspin.sg or 96989202 to book in for a trial session!
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Sports & Recreation
Nutritional Advice
Following Christmas Blow-Out! By Youri Kruse, Personal Trainer We all know that Christmas is a period of festive indulgences and with all the parties and office lunches, generally speaking, food and drink consumption increases during the month of December. For those who find it difficult to be disciplined over Christmas, Youri, one of the personal trainers at the Club and currently studying for a Masters Degree in Nutrition, has given us an insight into diet and healthy eating for those who want to get back into shape as quickly as possible in the new year. What’s the best type of diet for weight loss? There are numerous diets and eating styles that work for some, not for others. However, there are some principles to keep in mind with regard to losing adipose tissue. Limiting of insulin levels and living within good leptin levels seems to be crucial for losing the weight. Some types of food may activate the different hormones in the wrong range. The best diet will this take into account. It is widely thought that eating a lot of carbohydrates is bad for you and can lead to weight gain. Is this true? The bad reputation for carbohydrates over the recent years is mostly based on the role of (simple) sugars on insulin and the way sugar bonds interact with proteins (advanced glycation end products). Although it’s true that some sugars are quite active in putting on weight (especially fructose), certain carbohydrates can be a part of any weight loss program. Distinguishing between valuable carbohydrates (nutritionally loaded) and invaluable sugars (nutritionally empty) is the way to choose. What’s the difference between good and bad fats, and where are they found? Fats are a necessary part of any diet and critical for health. The vitamins A, D, E and K need fat to play their role. Almost all foods items have a combination of saturated fat, mono-unsaturated fat and poly-unsaturated fats. It is not correct to view some types of fat as bad, and another type as good. For example, saturated fats have a bad name and are associated (according to some studies) to heart disease. Coconut oil is saturated and (90+ %) and is regarded as heart healthy! The combination and regulation of different kinds of fats is important. The only fat you want to avoid are the trans fats; these man-made fats have been shown in numerous studies to contribute to heart disease. Is eating too much red meat unhealthy? Eating too much of anything can be unhealthy. Red meat can be quite unhealthy when cooked at high temperatures (heterocyclic amines). On the other hand, red meat has lots of beneficial properties, such as:
• • • • • •
Zinc Vitamin B12 Vitamin D Magnesium Chromium Selenium
How important is nutrition during a training regime? Nutrition will make or break your trainings goals, as the nutritional aspect contributes tremendously to make gains. Proper nutrition will make you feel more energetic and ready to train. Studies show that a proper nutrition plan will account for up to 80% of a weight loss plan. What are the best things to consume on training days? Depending on your goal, your food items to consume on a training day should include some highly bio-available protein (whey, yogurt etc.) and some carbs and fats. This should be consumed directly after the training, while the body is still in a more receptive mode. What specific nutritional advice would you give to those who are training in the build up to competition? Training for competition usually involves trying to get an increase in strength to improve the sporting activity. In order to do this, athletes can consume up to 1.8-2.0 grams per kilogram of bodyweight. If you consume enough food and you are not making any gains, make sure you are not overtraining. What are the best sources of protein in a vegetarian/vegan diet? Can one still achieve muscular gains on a vegetarian diet? Many vegetarian foods lack the complete amino acids profile (in great quantities) that are needed to fuel the muscle for repair (building up muscle). In order to get these amino acids from vegetarian foods, the following items can be consumed: • Nuts and seeds • Beans and legumes • Kale • Spirulina Can the use of supplements (vitamins, oils, protein, etc) be part of a healthy, balanced diet or is it better to get these through natural food sources? Supplements can enhance our diets, but the problem is the isolation of a certain mineral/vitamin that does not occur in nature. The best way to get the nutrition would be through food items. Make sure that the real food is from a good source.
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Sports & Recreation
HOCKEY
members (and their partners) to celebrate (again!) with a typical Dutch hockey fest. On 10 January, all Hollandse Club hockey players – and their partners – will reflect on their sportive and less sportive achievements of 2013, with plenty of drinks and BBQ nibbles at the Hollandse Club in typical Dutch hockey ‘Thé Dansant’ style. Looking forward to 2014, the league for the highest Ladies and Men’s Divisions will start in March and continue until June/July. There is plenty to look forward to. Hollandse Club hockey is alive & kicking. New players are always welcome to join. Feel free to join a practice session on Wednesday nights and/or enroll your child(ren) in the kids’ league.
Report by Jeroen van Son It has been a phenomenal year for the Hollandse Club Hockey League. The ladies competed in the highest Division, the Men’s A team got promoted to Premier League after decisively winning the Division 1; the Bs played a productive season, ending in 3rd place in Division 2, and the Men’s C came 3rd in their first year playing together as a competitive team. Suffice to say the Singapore Hockey League took notice, and now Dutch hockey is well and truly taking centre stage in the Singapore hockey community. The kids’ league remains a weekly highlight in the lives of many little ones (and their parents). The Hollandse Club Kids’ League continues to attract a lot kids from different ages and nationalities to the hockey pitch on Sunday mornings. We ended the Annual ZOAT (South East Asia Tournament) in great shape with the Singapore Ladies taking home the coveted Cup. It was a wonderful combination of skill and perseverance, both on and off the hockey pitch, with an especially noteworthy party at the Sentosa beach club, Mambo, being an absolute highlight with plenty of drinks and the always amazing Hermes House Band playing like never before. So there will be plenty of reasons for the Hollandse Club hockey 42 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
SWIMMING
Sports & Recreation
Happy New Year to all members!
It is open to all members from the ages of 3 years to 100 years. The registration forms will be available from 1 February at the Club reception.
By David Verlinde (Aquaducks)
Swim Camp During the school holidays in January, there will be a swim camp on Wednesday 29 January for kids aged between 4 and 12 years. Come and join the fun! For registration, please check at reception.
Events in November/ December Award Swimming During the week of 18-23 November, all the kids received their reward for doing such a good job in 2013. There was award swimming for our Ducklings (children together with the parents), our Duckies (preschoolers) and Proficiency (technical strokes). Good job everyone! Let’s work together towards the next level. On 8 December, we had diploma swimming awards for the Dutch children. The ABC children got their zwemvaardigheid 1 and 2 as well. Great job everyone! Neptune/Triton League In November, we had the Triton League and the Neptune League. There were a lot of medals for our Dutch Dolphins; we won 21 gold medals in the Neptune League, and a special mention goes to our U6 and U8 Girls, and the U12 Boys who dominated in their age group. There were also many PBs. Great job everyone! Water Polo Our water polo players competed in their first official SSA water polo tournament, at Toa Payoh swimming complex on Saturday 14 December. We have water polo teams for the U10, U12 and U14 age groups. Events coming up
Event Dates Races Hollandse Club Championships: 23 March Club Nights (swim trials for the swim team) Round 1: Friday 7 February Round 2: Monday 14 April ABC – Swimming Awards 2014 Round 1: Sunday 16 March (9AM-12PM) Round 2: Sunday 15 June (9AM-12PM)
Football Every Monday, the little Dutch Lions get together to learn to play football at our court at the Club. Boys and girls, would you like to join? Come along for a free trial.
Hollandse Club Championships The Hollandse Club Championships will be held on Sunday 23 March 2014.
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Sports & Recreation
TENNIS
Coaches Corner
Add Some Variety to Your Game Report by Patrice Plet
We would like to congratulate Myrthe Oudejans, 9 years old, on receiving the December- January Hollandse Club Junior Player Award. This special award is awarded every two months to a junior tennis player who has excelled on the court during that month. Effort, commitment, skill, sportsmanship, dedication and motivation are some of the main criteria used when determining the Player Award. Congratulations to Myrthe!
Friday Night Social By Linda McGregor
The evening of Friday 8 November saw the long-awaited return of the Friday Night Social, a casual evening of mixed-doubles tennis, good conversation, bitterballen and a drink or two.
Many club players tend to play against the same opponents and, after a while, they get to know their strengths and weaknesses and they get to know yours. It is very easy to fall into the trap of playing the same sort of game over and over again and then find yourself wondering why you never seem to beat some players who you know you could win against. Chances are they can easily predict your type of play and therefore adapt their game to win. The first step out of this trap is to take a good look at the way you are playing. Are you always staying back on the baseline and missing the short balls? Or are you running up to the net and being passed or lobbed? To adapt and improve your game, we encourage you to have a complete repertoire of shots and be more versatile. Once you are varying your game, there is a greater chance that your opponent gets thrown off his/her rhythm. Moreover, it is a valuable strategy when you see your opponent is dominating the game. Variety comes in many ways, for example, changing the pace of your shot, mixing up the spin on your shot, hitting drop shots at the appropriate times, serve & volley every now and then or varying the trajectory of your shots. So be open and try adding some variety to your tennis and see the difference. Good luck! Junior Tennis Coaching Season 3 New Junior Tennis Coaching Season begins January 6th 2014. For more information please go to www.savitar.sg, click ‘Location’, ‘Hollandse Club’. For further enquiries, please contact Director of Tennis, Scott Johnston 9038 9348 or email scott@savitar. sg. KLM Junior Team Tennis League (JTTL) Season 1, 2014 KLM Junior Team Tennis League is a team tennis competition for junior tennis players that provide valuable match play opportunities by playing singles and doubles. Age groups are 10U, 12U, 14U and 16U including A and B grade. If you would like to play in a Hollandse Club team, then attend the HC Grading Day. For more information, go to jtt.savitargroup.com. When: 11th January 2014 Time: 12pm Where: Court 1 & 2 at the Hollandse Club Junior Player Award! 44 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
A strong turnout saw 20 players hailing from 5 countries and 4 continents playing a number of half-hour matches in rotating random pairings. All ability levels were represented, from beginners through to competition-level players. Matches were eagerly contested but not too serious, with the making of new friends more the order of the day. More than one husband versus wife match ended in what seemed to be well-contrived draws, making sure everybody could go home happy! The next Friday Night Social will be planned for January or February 2014, offering another great chance for an evening of exercise, fun competition and meeting new people. We hope you can join us for it.
Event
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46 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
SQUASH
Sports & Recreation
Cosmo and NSL Veterans Champions 2013 Report by Paul Roberts
able wins (Alan managed to give away 15 points so I hear). Heads held high and a spring in our step, we headed for the table tennis round and what a mess that was. It was as though most of us had never even picked up a table tennis paddle before. Needless to say, we quickly went from a commanding lead to an embarrassing loss, allowing our dear friends at the tennis club to take the first HC Racquet Trophy 2013. In our defence, our table tennis training consisted of a couple of stints on the OLD HC table which was as flat as a ball whereas as the tennis chaps were having daily sessions on Patrice’s spanking new table (it’s our excuse and we’re sticking to it). In all seriousness, it was an excellent event and obviously the brainchild of a true genius; inspiring, life changing are words that should be used to describe the idea, so well done to me.
W
hat a year it’s been for the Hollandse Squash Club. I remember when I joined the Hollandse Club over four years ago, it was a surprise if more than 6 people turned up for our social afternoons on a Saturday. The whole club consisted of no more than 12 people and subsequently we never managed to achieve much in the annual Cosmo and National Squash Leagues. Fast forward to 2013 and our Veterans One team managed to win the Singapore National Squash League with consummate ease at the first time of asking. Then, for the first time in the competition’s history, we also managed to win the Cosmo League having won all but one match in the process. The report sent in by the organisers was extremely apt when they said that the meek shall inherit the earth, because our dear merry band are known for our gracious manner and it says a great deal that a team of less than 40 players have managed to beat other teams who can draw from many more members. So congratulations go out to everyone who participated in making 2013 the most successful year thus far. The Hollandse Club Squash team are no longer the whipping boys but rather a tour de force in the Singapore squash fraternity. To our Captains for their tenacious game plans throughout the season and to each player who made this all possible. Thank you and well done. If only the same could be said for our trophy competitions. The Orange Bowl was an unmitigated disaster of the highest order with all but a handful of brave players falling woefully short of our expected standard. Having been dispatched with consummate ease by the Cricket Club earlier in the year, we felt confident that we could hold our own against the Hollandse Tennis Club in our inaugural Hollandse Club Racquet Championship. The event took in tennis, squash and table tennis with each sport going to 21 points. We started off with tennis which was a mixed bag, ranging from Geert as our top seed playing one of their top players and thrashing him, to some shocking 21-5 results. We made amends in the squash though, with all bar Alan having comfort-
So what next? Well we have the Hollandse Club Veterans’ Open in the early part of 2014, which is always good to watch. Last year a whopping 70% of players managed to finish their matches without major injury concerns, but with the introduction of an over 60 category this year we expect to see that figure plummet.
We also have to rearrange our inaugural annual trophy match with the Tanglin Club, after they failed to turn up out of sheer fear of our playing prowess. We are always looking to grow the club, so if you know of anyone keen to pick the sport up again then please send them our way on a Saturday afternoon after 14.00 where they will get to meet our ragtag group. The Squash Committee Daniel Gelinas: 9725418 - daniel.gelinas@sc.com Fred Saarloos: 96151144 - fredsaarloos@yahoo.com Paul Roberts: 84281793 - roberts@alcotra.ch Ross Stokes: 97526040 - mail@rossstokes.com
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Sports & Recreation
Club Activities Contacts
CLASS
DAY
TIME
VENUE
INSTRUCTOR
CONTACT
A Aerobics (Step)
Wednesday
0900 - 1000
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
Aqua Aerobics
Monday
1100 - 1200
Swimming pool
Marina
Aqua Spin
Friday
0900 - 1000
Swimming pool
AquaSpin
9815 0239 6461 1159 9225 7310 9321 6200
Friday
1000 - 1100
Swimming pool
AquaSpin
9321 6200
B Basketball (7 – 10 years)
Sunday
1000 - 1100
Multi Purpose
Bernard Williams
9437 6252
Bridge (Duplicate)
Tuesday
1930 - 2300
Amsterdam
Franciska Ho
6259 3864
Friday
0900 - 1230
Amsterdam
Franciska Ho
6259 3864
C Cardio Sculpt
Mon/Fri
0900 - 1000
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
D Domestic Helper Swimming
Tuesday
1100 - 1200
Swimming Pool Mauro Hernandez
9725 4198
H Hockey (Ladies)
Wednesday
2000 - 2100
CCAB
Clara Nieuwenhuijzen
8200 4783
Eveline van Aller
9146 5686
Hockey (Men)
Wednesday
2100 - 2200
CCAB
Egbert Abrahams
9235 4449
Hockey (Youth)
Tuesday
1900 - 2000
CCAB
Caroline Abrahams
9002 3632
Sunday
0900 - 1100
CCAB
Caroline Abrahams
9002 3632
J Judo (Children Beginners)
Monday
1600 - 1700
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Wednesday
1600 - 1700
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Wednesday
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Judo (Children Intermediate)
Friday
1700 - 1800 Youri 1700 - 1800
Judo (7 years & under)
Saturday
0930 - 1030
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Judo (10 years & under)
Saturday
1030 - 1130
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
Judo (10 years & above)
Saturday
1130 – 1230
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
K Karate
Sunday
1630 - 1730
Rotterdam
Peter Robertson
9681 1927
Kickboxing (Mixed)
Tuesday
2000 - 2100
Rotterdam
Peter Robertson
9681 1927
Kickboxing (Ladies)
Wednesday
1030 - 1130
Rotterdam
Peter Robertson
9681 1927
Tuesday
1000 - 1130
Rotterdam
Sports & Recreation
6461 1151
Gym
Ashraf
8180 6610
Youri Kruse
9739 7610
M Moms & Tots
P Personal Training
By Appointment
Pilates
Tuesday
1200 - 1300
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
Thursday
2000 - 2100
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
Prenatal Swimming
Monday
1200 - 1300
Swimming Pool
Marina Stuppacher
9725 4198
S Soccer/Voetbal
Monday
1830 - 1900
Multi Purpose
Marilou Rubio
Squash (Junior Training)
Saturday
1200 - 1400
Squash court
Yeo Kiang Bee
8147 8059
Squash (Training)
Tuesday
1900 - 2100
Squash court
Daniel Gelinas
9725 4198
Squash (Ladies Social)
Wednesday
1900 - 2100
Squash court
Daniel Gelinas
9725 4198
Squash (Social)
Thursday
1900 - 2200
Squash court
Daniel Gelinas
Saturday
1400 - 1700
Squash court
Daniel Gelinas
Various
Swimming pool
David Verlinde
9725 4198 6461 1159 9225 7310 9725 4198
Swimming Lessons/Competition Mon-Sat
T Taekwondo
Thursday
1700 – 1800
Rotterdam
Raymond Chin
9181 0827
Saturday
1500 - 1600
Rotterdam
Raymond Chin
9181 0827
Tennis (Ladies Social)
Monday
0900 - 1200
Tennis court
Maja
9750 7124
Tennis (Mixed Social)
Wednesday
1900 – 2100
Tennis court
Valdo David
9109 2856
Sunday
1600 – 1800
Tennis court
Valdo David
9109 2856
Tennis (Ladies Competition)
Friday
0900 - 1200
Tennis court
Natalie Grob
9272 0170
Tennis (Men’s Social)
Saturday
1400 - 1700
Tennis court
Patrice Plet
9833 4038
Tennis (Free Family Courts)
Sunday
0900 - 1200
Tennis court
Reception
6464 5225
Tennis Lessons (Savitar)
Mon-Sat
Various
Tennis court
Scott Johnston
9038 9348
Tennis Lessons (Mr Wee)
Mon-Sat
Various
Tennis court
Mr Wee
9673 4851
Swimming Pool
David Verlinde
9725 4198
W Water Polo (8 - 16yrs)
48 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Thursdays
1800 - 1900
Sports & Recreation
Classes: Children Beginners & Children Intermediate Term Start Date: 6th January Term End Date: 16th April
Term Start Date: 11th January Term End Date: 29th March
Term Start Date: 8th January Term End Date: 26th March
Classes: Ladies & Teens above 13 + Mixed Adults Term Start Date: 14th January Term End Date: 26th March
Start Date: 19th January End Date: 30th March
Classes: Ladies & Teens above 13 + Mixed Adults Term Start Date: 6th January Term End Date: 28th March
Term Start Date: 7th January Term End Date: 27th March
Classes: Ladies & Teens above 13 + Mixed Adults Term Start Date: 8th January Term End Date: 16th April
Classes: Age 7 - 10 & Age 11 - 13 Term Start Date: 12 January Term End Date: 13th April
Classes are pro-rated from time of joining. Register your interest via Reception. For new courses, you will receive a confirmation email three days before class starts to confirm the course is commencing. If you have specific questions about the class, please contact the respective instructor listed in the Activities Contacts page.
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Library
Featured Books Featured books for the months of January and February.
“We thank all our readers for their support and we wish you all a happy and healthy 2014.” The Library Team: Lisebeth, Cora, Joossien, Angela, Susanne, Nina & Hian.
The Labyrinth of Dreaming Books by Walter Moers More monsters than a Hogwarts menagerie, a sparkling treasure trove of bizarre encounters.
King and Maxwell by David Baldacci The 2 private investigators have their most surprising , personal and dangerous case ever.
Sycamore Row
Ruby Red Kerstin Gier Gwyneth Shepherd’s sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!
by John Grisham This novel is inspired by “A time to kill” a return to the courthouse in Clanton and Jake Brigance.
The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton Winner of the Man Booker Prize 2013,a novel about suchj unforgettable characters, ,all brought together where everything is connected but nothing is as it seems.
Empress Dowager Cixi by Jung Chang This is the story of the concubine who unofficially but effectively controlled the Manchu Qing Dynasty in China for 47 years, from 1861 to her death in 1908 and launched modern China.
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai & Christina Lamb This novel will make you believe in the power of one person’s voice to inspire and change in the world.
50 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg
The Fall of Five by Pittacus Lore The Fall of Five is the fourth novel in the New York Times bestselling I Am Number Four series by Pittacus Lore. The Garde are finally reunited, but do they have what it takes to win the war against the Mogadorians?
Anna and the French Kiss Stephanie Perkins Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris-until she meets Étienne St. Clair.
Wonder by S. McCoy If you read one book this year ,make it this one, a funny , emottional, brilliantly observed story - August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He’s about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you’ve ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be.
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52 The Hollandse Club www.hollandseclub.org.sg