Magazine
the
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
A bi-monthly publication by the Hollandse Club
2015 ISSUE
Visit us online @ www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Kids & Teens Colouring & Photo Contest Sleep Disorders in Children The Mystery of the Empty Shoes
Library Stefanie Mulder’s ‘Crescent’ ‘iPossible!’ by Benjamin Foo New Nov/Dec Library Books
Meet Howard Komproe, Dutch Comedian Off the Beaten Track Goes to the Movies A Singapore Season of Festive Fun!
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSORS
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Editor: Nina Gunasingham (editor@hollandseclub.org.sg) Writers: Claire Wintraecken Karien van Ditzhuijzen
Proofreader & copy-editor: Nedda Chaplin
Art & Creative Editor: Mohd Izzat
Photographers: Inge Kuipers 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, please email marcom@hollandseclub.org.sg Views and opinions expressed may not necessarily reflect those of the Club, its committee or editorial staff. Š All Rights reserved. MICA (P) 156/04/2009.
CONTENTS
4
5
6
7
President’s Message
GM’s Message
Facility Information
New Main Committee Member
10
16
19
20
8
9
Meet the Kids’ & Teens’ Committee Members!
Dutch Welcome Event
23
24
‘Wet Stuff’
Christmas Colouring Contest
Photography Contest
The Mystery of the Empty Shoes
Sleep Disorders in Children
Meet Howard Komproe, Dutch Comedian
25
26
28
30
32
36
Artists in Focus: Carol & Shipra
Off the Beaten Track Goes to the Movies
HOME Brings Christmas Cheer to All!
NCA Charity Christmas Fair
A Singapore Season of Festive Fun!
Nov/Dec Events Calendar
48
50
52
54
57
58
Reports for September Events
62
November Chef’s Specials
Swimming Report
Squash Report
64
67
December Chef’s Specials
Stefanie Mulder’s Crescent
Tennis Report
68
New Nov/Dec Library Books
ABN AMRO Wooden Shoe
F&B Promotion
70
iPossible! by Benjamin Foo
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 3
MAIN COMMITTEE President: Nienke Nauta-Kuipers president@hollandseclub.org.sg Vice-President: Anneloes van Haaren vicepresident@hollandseclub.org.sg First Secretary: Anne Zwart firstsecretary@hollandseclub.org.sg Second Secretary: Paul Roberts secondsecretary@hollandseclub.org.sg Honorary Treasurer: Jan-Willem Buist treasurer@hollandseclub.org.sg Member for Food & Beverage: fnbmember@hollandseclub.org.sg Member for Sports & Recreation: Patrice Plet sportsmember@hollandseclub.org.sg Commercial Affairs: Henk Jan Bakker commercial@hollandseclub.org.sg Ordinary Member: Cecile Sturm member.maincommittee @hollandseclub.org.sg
COMMITTEE MEMBERS Kids’ Committee Members: Patricia Joris, Alina Manicea Teens’ Committee Member: Maree Roberts Sports Committee Chairperson: Patrice Plet Library Committee Convenor: Hian Tan (6468 4004) Members: Susanne Westerbeek, Nina Gunasingham, Marijke van den Berg, Yvette Filipiak, Nihilan Finance Committee Chairperson: Jan Willem Buist Members: Then Wee Lin, John Williams, Wietske Helle, F&B Committee Member: Patrick Tan, Filip Olde Bijvank, Leonie van Willigenburg Kate Van Schuijlenburg Magazine Committee Members: Nedda Chaplin, Karien van Ditzhuijzen, Nina Gunasingham, Claire van Deur, Inge Kuipers, Bernhard Wamelink
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Fellow Members, Those of you who joined our AGM in March are aware that the Club has been facing some challenges in recent times with regards to the number of members leaving the Club, mainly through repatriation. The falling number of new members joining the Club has failed to compensate for this. In recent months, despite intensified commercial efforts by the Club’s management and Main Committee, this situation has deteriorated. After much discussion during the AGM, we all came to the same conclusion: we needed to improve the general standard of the Club in order to attract new members in what are currently very challenging market conditions. To that end, we have invested in the renovation of the Terrace, which I am sure you all agree is a significant improvement on what we had. We continue to look at ways in which we can make improvements that will invigorate the Club and attract more members, but we know that in order to do this, we need further investment in the Club. However, the reality is that, with declining membership numbers and a weaker monthly spend from our existing members, the Club faces some very real challenges in maintaining a positive balance sheet. The Main Committee has spent a great deal of time looking into possible projects that will inject the much-needed capital into the Club. We now have a shortlist of possibilities and these will be presented to Club members in the near future, as soon as there is clarity on the ability to execute, and all the final details are in place. In the meantime, we would very much appreciate you, the members and stakeholders of our club, working together with us and contributing to the continued success of the Club. It is you, the members, who make up the Hollandse Club, so your participation is paramount to ensuring that we remain the great club that we are. If you think you could assist the Club in these challenges, please do not hesitate to contact me. The Hollandse Club is more than just a club for members: it is a club that is owned by the members and, as such, we all have a vested interest in ensuring its continued success. Warm regards, Nienke Nauta-Kuipers President
CLUB MANAGEMENT
GM’S MESSAGE
General Manager: Daniel Van Dijk 6461 1103 gm@hollandseclub.org.sg Office Manager & HR Executive: Trecia Pang 6461 1160 hr@hollandseclub.org.sg F&B Manager: Alejandro Puno 6461 1136 fnbmgr@hollandseclub.org.sg
Dear Members, I hope that by the time this issue of The Magazine goes to print the haze will be clearing and we can all see patches of blue sky again! It was wonderful to see that during the haze everyone tries to make the best of a very annoying situation, and I would like to thank members, staff and all our partners for their patience, understanding and flexibility. I am looking forward to seeing you all enjoying our club and our new terrace, especially, to the fullest again. Please try our new smoothies, Business Lunch and Sunday Brunch and ask your family, friends or co-workers to join in. For the months of November and December, we have a lot of great events and activities planned. Of course, we will have our annual party to welcome Sinterklaas to our shores but we are also organizing a true Beerfest, with a wide selection of beers and ciders, and live music. We are also planning a Cheese and Wine evening, a Scuba Diving Experience, a New Year’s Eve Boat Trip, a Christmas Brunch and much, much more. Please have a look at our events calendar; I am sure there’s something lined-up for you and your family members to enjoy. In an effort to boost our revenues during off-peak hours, the Hollandse Club and the Japanese Association have entered into an agreement, on a trial basis, whereby members of the Japanese Association will have an opportunity to use some of our sports facilities during off-peak hours (Mon-Fri) as these are underutilised during certain hours of the day. The members of the Japanese Association will pay fees, and there will be a maximum number of people who can the use a facility at any given time. Precedence will always be given to members of the Hollandse Club who want to use the facilities. We will closely monitor the usage during this trial period and we will evaluate the arrangement with the Japanese Association in six months’ time. In November and December, we will have very tasty monthly specials again, and we are now offering Vietnamese for lunch and dinner from Tuesdays through to Sundays. Don’t forget we have happy hour in the Tradewinds Bar from Monday to Thursday from 5pm to 9pm, so please stop by for a drink or two with your friends. And, as an end of year treat, we will have traditional Dutch Oliebollen (dough fritters) available in December. I wish all of you a very happy and festive season at the Club. With kind regards, Daniel van Dijk General Manager
Banquet Sales Manager: Aafra Dikhoff 6461 1104 banquetsales@hollandseclub.org.sg Banquet Sales Executive: Mariah Said 6461 1112 banquet@hollandseclub.org.sg Banquet Operations Manager: Tan Boon Phang 6461 1137 banqmgr@hollandseclub.org.sg Sales & Marketing Manager: Marloes Schoonenberg 6461 1139 sales@hollandseclub.org.sg Membership Executive: Rex Gillera 6461 1111 membership@hollandseclub.org.sg Marketing Communications Executive/Designer: Mohd Izzat 6461 1117 marcom@hollandseclub.org.sg Sports & Events Manager: Marilou Groot Nibbelink 6461 1110 events@hollandseclub.org.sg Sports & Events Executive: 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
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 5
FACILITY INFORMATION
Club Opening Hours Sunday - Thursday: 7am - 11pm Friday - Saturday: 7am - 1am General Office Hours Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm Tel: 6464 5225 (Reception) Fax: 6468 6272
SPORTS & RECREATION
Lost & Found Items Please contact the Housekeeper on 6461 1114 or Reception on 6464 5225.
Library Tuesday - Saturday Facility information for the library will be different every week.
Gymnasium Monday - Sunday: 7am - 10pm
Multi-Purpose Sports Court Monday - Sunday: 8am - 10pm Please check availability with Reception before using.
FOOD & BEVERAGE OUTLETS Terrace Monday - Sunday: 8am - closing (Last food order for the kitchen 9pm) Beverages are available until closing. Serambi Bar Monday - Sunday: 6pm - 11pm (on request) The Lounge (Outdoor) Monday - Sunday: 8am - closing (Last food order for the kitchen 9pm) For reservations, please call Reception 6464 5225 or email reception@hollandseclub.org.sg Tennis Pavillion Monday - Friday: 8am - 12pm Tuesday & Thursday: 4pm - 6pm Wednesday: 6pm - 10pm Saturday, Sunday & PH: 8am - 12pm 4pm - 6pm For special events opening hours, please ask Reception. During opening hours a limited menu is served. Tradewinds Bar Sunday - Thursday: 11am - 11pm (Last food order for the kitchen 9pm) Friday - Saturday: 11am - 1am (Last food order for the kitchen 9pm) Eve of PH & PH: 11am - 1am (Last food order for the kitchen 9pm) Pool Bar Monday - Friday: 11am - 7pm Saturday: 8am - 6pm Sunday & PH: 9am - 5pm
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Squash Courts Monday - Sunday: 7am - 11pm For court bookings, please call Reception on 6464 5225 or email reception@hollandseclub.org.sg. Swimming Pool Monday - Friday: 8am - 10pm Closure times for competitive swimming: Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 5pm - 7.30pm (Two lanes will remain open) Last Friday of the month: 5pm - 7pm *At least two lanes will remain open on School Holidays between Monday to Friday. Tennis Courts Monday - Sunday: 7am - 11pm Booking is required. For court bookings, please call Reception on 6464 5225 or email reception@hollandseclub.org.sg. Childminding Service Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 12pm For toddlers aged from 1 to 3 years. Tel: 6461 1150 Kids’ Rooms Monday - Thursday: 12pm - 8pm Friday, Saturday & PH: 10am -10pm Sunday: 10am - 8pm For children aged 1 - 11 years. The Chillout Room Monday - Friday: 4pm - 10pm Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 10pm For children aged 11 years and above.
STAFF UPDATES FAREWELL
Yurni Hikmah our Sports Executive left the Club to pursue a career in the corporate world. We wish Yurni every success in her future role.
Edmund Leo, Banqueting Supervisor, has turned 70 and retired after 45 years of service at the Club. We would like to thank Edmund whole heartedly for his dedication during this amazingly long period of service and wish him many years in good health with his loved ones.
Dennice Young, Front Desk Officer, has left the Club after 3 years of service. We wish Dennice every success in her new job at the British Club.
VACANCIES Zhijun Tan, one of our Captains on the Terrace, also left the Club this month. We wish Zhijun all the best.
We have vacancies for a Front Desk Officer and a Sports & Events Executive. Please see the notice board in the lobby for more details and alternatively visit our website under career section.
NEW MAIN COMMITTEE MEMBER My name is Cecile Sturm and I have been living in Singapore for the last three years, along with my husband, Stefan Leenen, and our two sons, Teun and Sam. We have been members of the Hollandse Club since we arrived in Singapore. Coming from Geneva, without such a club, we really appreciate the fun and relaxed atmosphere, and all the social opportunities the Club has to offer. Among other things, I have been an active participant in Club hockey and tennis; I have also been a member of the Finance Committee for over two years. I have a financial background and have previously worked as a financial auditor and a business controller. By becoming an ordinary member of the Main Committee, my aim is to contribute to matters from a financial point of view. With the current number of memberships and monthly spending by members at worryingly low levels, I believe challenging times lie before us. However, I am sure that by working together, we can contribute to and ensure the future success of our Club.
WELCOME BACK BBQ What a great way to ‘open’ our new Terrace and welcome (back) members after a long period of renovation and anticipation! The kids had a blast on the huge float in the pool while parents chatted and enjoyed the scene from the poolside and lower terrace. We had a huge crowd on the Terrace and it was very rewarding to see how many members enjoyed the new Terrace set-up. WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 7
By Nina Gunasingham
MEET ONE OF THE KIDS’ COMMITTEE MEMBERS! The members of the Kids’ Committee have fun coming up with and organising activities for the smallest Club members, as well as keeping traditions alive, such as the Sinterklaas celebrations and Halloween at the Club. At the moment, Patricia Joris runs the Committee with Alina Manicea. I’m sure she would love some company and some help with putting together and running the events that keep our children entertained. Here is what she has to say about moving to Singapore and joining the Kids’ Committee. Hello, my name is Patricia Joris. Our family moved from Belgium to Singapore in the summer of 2014. It was our first assignment abroad, so we were absolute rookies. Thanks to our new friends we’ve met through the Hollandse School, the Hollandse Club and the BLAS (Belgian and Luxemburg Association Singapore), settling in was very easy.
A few months ago, I joined the Kids’ Committee after I saw the call for new members on the notice board in the hall. Joining a committee is a good way to get to meet new people. And, I love to organise events - not only for kids. But having three of my own gives me plenty of inspiration on that matter. The Kids’ Committee gathers about once a month to discuss the past and upcoming events. We also brainstorm about future events. It’s mostly about bringing in ideas, but some events also need volunteers, such as the Haunted Halloween Spooky Night. If you’d like to share some thoughts or ideas on kids’ activities at the Club, I’m always free for a chat. Or, why don’t you bring them to the table yourself during our next meeting? See you!
MEET ONE OF THE TEENS’ COMMITTEE MEMBERS! For the first time in a long time, the Club has a Teens’ Committee, which focuses on activities our older kids would like to participate in. Currently, the only Committee member is Maree Roberts, but I’m sure she would be happy to be joined by more volunteers! This is Maree’s story. My name is Maree Roberts. My family (husband and two sons age twelve and six-and-a-half) and I arrived in Singapore six-and-a-half years ago with my husband’s work. Like most expats coming to Singapore we expected to return home after two to three years, or alternatively to move on to another country. Seven years on and we are still here! I took a part-time job in Finance after the first year, as my youngest son was only five weeks old when we arrived in Singapore. As you can imagine, my hands were already full: not only with a young baby but settling in to a new country, new school for my eldest son and a new lifestyle for the whole family.
Now that my children are older and more independent, and it doesn’t look like we’re moving on anytime soon, I opted to do voluntary work. I love the feeling of worthiness and that is what voluntary work gives me. I joined the Teens’ Committee only a few months ago, as my eldest son is nearing his teens and I thought we could brainstorm together. The Teens’ Committee was established to give our younger members a voice in what they want at the Club, and to actively engage them in coming up with new ideas to promote greater inclusion on their part. Please do get in touch with the Club if you would like to become a member of the Kids’ Committee, Teens’ Committee, or indeed any of the other Committees that help make the Hollandse Club such a great place for everyone to enjoy.
DUTCH WELCOME EVENT On Tues 22nd Sep the Dutch organizations in Singapore organized a Welcome Event for Dutch newcomers in Singapore. This annual event is the perfect opportunity for new and not so new arrivals to get acquainted with the various Dutch organizations and the people behind them. The Hollandse Club, DutchCham, ADB, HSL and LanguageOne as well as the NCA and the Dutch Embassy were all represented and this year Dutch Drinks Singapore also joined in. We would like to thank the event sponsor, IPP Financial Advisors for their generous support.
As you may already know, the Association Française de Singapour (AFS) is now based at the Hollandse Club, next to the Library. The AFS celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. I dropped by the Hollandse Club to have a look at their Grand Rendez-Vous de la Rentrée fair on the 15th September and was amazed at the variety and number of businesses they support; the fair filled the main hall, the Tradewinds Bar and continued through the Lounge to encompass the Upper Terrace. Together with the French Consulate, the French Chamber of Commerce (business), the Lycée Français de Singapour (school), they form a support network for French and French-speaking families and businesses in Singapore, as well as anyone interested in learning more about France or the French language. Currently, they have approximately 2500 members, and they held 546 events last year, such as classes, sports events, networking events, dinners and visits.
Eighteen months ago, the Association created AFS Pro to support young expatriate professionals who have recently arrived in Singapore looking for work, helping them network in their new environment. The AFS also has a branch called YES (Young Expats in Singapore), which focuses on its younger members. YES holds events, such as after-work competitions, which are open to non-members as well. They want to expose people in Singapore to the idea that there are other regions in France to explore apart from Paris. At the moment, they are promoting Brittany, on the northwestern coast, and Savoie, in the French Alps. If you want to find out more about the AFS, pop down to their office at the Hollandse Club. Ou si vous voulez découvrir l’Association Française de Singapour, visitez leur site web http://afsingapour.com.
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 9
Wet Stuff AquaSpin
Water Slide / Kids Wading Pool
In late August, the management of AquaSpin notified the Club that after many years of conducting classes at the Club, AquaSpin will no longer be offering their classes on our premises. The number of locations where AquaSpin classes are being offered has been reduced due to logistical constraints. We look back on a very positive collaboration with AquaSpin.
The water slide and kids’ wading pool are meant for the younger children aged 0-6 years.
AquaDucks is now introducing a new adult program called AquaFit. Using the shallow end of the swimming pool, the classes are aimed at improving muscle strength, flexibility and overall condition. Aquafit is a combination of aqua aerobics, aqua fitness and aqua jogging. Please check out the schedule and sign up for a trial session.
Please ensure that you supervise your children in the pool area at all times. There are no lifeguards on duty.
Pool Towel Update Pool towels are available from the following locations: Pool Bar, Gymnasium, Squash Courts, and Reception (after 7pm). Please return your used towels by placing them in one the bins at reception, poolside, pool changing rooms, tennis pavilion, gym and squash courts.
For safety reasons, children taller than 1.5 metres are not allowed on the water slide. Hogging, going head first, and holding onto each other while sliding down is not allowed.
Swimwear Swim attire is not allowed beyond the poolside area. Adults and children are kindly requested to change into appropriate and dry attire in the pool changing rooms before entering other areas of the Club, such as the (Lower) Terrace, Serambi Bar, Chill Out Room, Lobby, Tradewinds Bar etc. Please also note that the toilets in the lobby are not changing rooms. Please use the changing rooms at the pool area.
DO YOU KNOW? • Do you know that outside food and drinks are not allowed? Please also remind your helpers of this when they accompany your children to the Club. • Do you know that our most popular Monthly Specials in September were: Tandoori Chicken, Ramen Noodles and Lemon Sole? • Do you know that we now have delicious, healthy smoothies? • Do you know that your friends can enjoy a free one-month trial membership and you receive attractive sign up rewards when they join the Club?
Dear Chill Out Crowd,
CHILL OUT ROOM
In recent weeks, the Play Station 4 equipment was severely damaged: cables were torn, remote controls found shattered, games are misplaced and chargers were thrown around the room. Some of you might have been a bit clumsy or worse but the result is the same: the PS4 is out of order until further notice. This is a pity as there are many of you who really enjoyed playing a game (or two) with friends. We also found inappropriate language and drawings on the black board. Please be considerate to others and respect club property. The Chill Out Room Rules are clearly visible in the room. Please read them carefully. In future, game consoles and games will have to be collected from and returned to the reception and signed for with your family’s account number. We will charge a penalty fee for unreturned or damaged items. Please have fun but don’t ruin the Chill Out Room for yourself and others. 10 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
MEMBERSHIP
welcome
EXTENDING A WARM
TO OUR NEW CLUB MEMBERS!
• Sam Bailey Belcher • Hedy Tan • Rein Graat • Geke A. Van Eck - Graat • Joost Allart Den Herder • Maria Herrera • Arnab Chakravorty • Shalini Chakravorty • Stephane Eglizeau
• Coralie Eglizeau • Laurent Antoine Gatignol • Anne Gatignol • Rene Marcel Hillig • Johanna Hillig • Nicolaas Thomas Verbree • Marjon Jolanda • Danny Withrington • Michelle Withrington
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 11
MEMBERSHIP
12 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
MEMBERSHIP
A Vision of Excellence
(International Pre-school Environment)
Learning Through Play
YOUR CHILD DESERVES THE BEST (18 months to 5 years) 35 Lotus Avenue, Singapore 277618 (Bukit Timah / Holland) Tel: 6467-9877 Email: unitededu35@gmail.com
www.unitededucare.com.sg
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 13
14 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
Philips Air Purifier with VitaShield IPS2 traps up to 99.7%3 of airborne particles. Healthier air is possible. #airmatters
AC4372/30
Christmas
Colouring Contest
Hey kids! Showcase your creativity by participating in this ‘Christmas Colouring Contest’ and stand a chance to win great prizes! Submit your entries at the Reception by 4th of Dec. Winners will be featured in the Jan/Feb 2016 issue. Good Luck! Name:_________________________________ Membership No.:__________________ Age:____________ Hp:___________________ Email:_____________________________ *extra copies of this colouring page also available at the Reception. 16 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
CHINESE-ENGLISH BILINGUAL PROGRAMME Equal Language Exposure
BOOK YOUR PERSONAL TOUR TODAY www.cis.edu.sg/bilingual
As an IB World School, CIS offers the PYP, MYP and IB DP. Canadian International School Pte. Ltd. CPE Registration No: 199002243H | Period of Registration: 8 June 2015 - 7 June 2019
Dutch education with an international dimension
IPC
The HSL is a thriving Dutch school with an international dimension. We offer an excellent educational program with a combined Dutch and international curriculum.
IPC is an integral, thematic and creative primary curriculum where children gain an international perspective while learning to work together, to investigate, to make connections and to find solutions. HSL is accredited at mastering level.
SCL Structural Cooperative Learning is an inviting, interactive and effective teaching approach, where students of different aptitude levels work together to achieve the lesson’s objective.
ICT Our program encourages students to manage, discover and create while using the computer and other digital media. This benefits our academic curriculum and helps prepare our students for secondary education.
English The English language curriculum runs concurrent to the Dutch language program and aims to teach children English as a first language.
65 Bukit Tinggi Road (65) 6466 0662 www.hollandseschool.org
Article provided by Tomato Photo
7 TOP TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER Preserving memories through family photography should be an easy peasy affair for the family to enjoy while providing beautiful and tangible images on your wall. Hart Tan, associate master photographer from Tomato Photo says these are the 7 top questions that you should ask your photographer in order to get the best out of your experience. 1. Will the photographer manage your children and family so they know what to do during the shoot? 2. Will the photographer offer flexibility to shoot 7 days a week, including Saturdays or Sundays? 3. Will the photographer offer an online viewing and ordering process from the comfort of your home? 4. Will the photographer offer complimentary delivery of the products to your doorstep? 5. Will the photographer offer you the option to select either black and white or colour images? 6. Will the photographer offer flexibility in regard to the location of your photo shoots (home, outdoor or studio)? 7. Will the studio offer 100% satisfaction guarantee?
If these are the boxes you need to tick, give Tomato Photo a call on 8858 0088 or 6440 7567. Our studio is open 7 days a week for your convenience where you can have a look at our work, products and talk to one of our friendly team members that will gladly answer all your questions. There is plenty of parking just in front of the studio.
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 19
THE MYSTERY OF EMPTY SHOES By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
Sweaty
Piet nudges Spicy Piet in the ribs. He points at three shoes standing in front of the door. Empty. Spicy Piet shakes his head. ‘What? No carrot for the horse? No apple?’ He turns one shoe upside down and shakes it above Sweaty Piet’s hands. ‘Not even one little spicy pepernoot biscuit for me in there?’ Sweaty Piet raises his empty hands in the air. ‘What should we do? Do these kids deserve a present? I did hear them singing earlier, but this …’ Spicy Piet whips out his phone and snaps a picture of the empty shoes. ‘Let’s consult The Boss.’ He sends the photo to Sinterklaas. Waiting for an answer, the two Pieten sit on the floor of the patio next to the empty shoes. They look around the dark garden. Large palm leaves sway gently in the wind, like big hands waving. A tree with tiny leaves rustles. There is a strange high-pitched sound piercing the black air. Sweaty Piet wipes his brow with his red velvet sleeve. ‘It’s scary here. Why do these people live in the jungle?’ ‘Crazy,’ Spicy Piet agrees. ‘There could be snakes here.’ At the word snake, Sweaty Piet jumps up and screams. ‘What? Where?’ Spicy Piet brings his gloved finger to his lips. ‘Shh. You’ll wake up the kids. I don’t see one. I just read that there are cobras in Singapore. And pythons.’ Sweaty Piet hops from one foot to the other. Spicy Piet looks at his phone. No answer yet from the Pietenhouse in Holland. Sweaty Piet pulls off his floppy hat and uses it to wipe his face. ‘Even at night, it is hot in Singapore. I wish Sinterklaas had posted us to Alaska.’ Spicy Piet nods. ‘The next place on the list is a condo with air-conditioning. If we hurry up we can cool down in the pool, too.’
They stare at the phone until a sharp ping brings the answer. ‘These are good kids. Give them some chocolate letters and pepernoten.’ Relieved, Sweaty Piet pulls the sweets from his jute bag. He pops them in the shoes and pulls Spicy Piet’s arm. ‘Let’s get out of here.’ The next morning Tijm, Linde and Jasmijn run out of bed to their shoes. They stop and stare. The shoes are empty - all three. Jasmijn starts crying. Tijm shakes his head. ‘We sang, didn’t we? We left a carrot and a rambutan for the horse. Why did we not get anything?’ ‘You have been too naughty,’ Linde points out. ‘No, I haven’t!’ shouts Tijm. Jasmijn sniffs. The next evening, they write a note to Sinterklaas. They tell the holy man they have been good this year. They did their homework, helped set the table. Did not fight and scream (well, not too much). And, they would really like some chocolate letters. The children leave not one, but two carrots in every shoe, for Sinterklaas’ horse. And a cup of water and some mangoes for the Pieten. You have to drink a lot in Singapore, Tijm says. That night, Sweaty Piet and Spicy Piet look at the three shoes. ‘Cheeky, setting out their shoes two nights in a row,’ Sweaty Piet says. ‘And again, with nothing in it.’ Spicy Piet picks up one of the shoes. ‘Look, there’s a note. But why is it wet? I can’t read it.’ Just next to the shoes lies an upside down cup and, around it, a puddle of water. Sweaty Piet wipes his chin and looks at Spicy Piet. ‘What do … ’ Then, suddenly, a racket erupts in the trees behind them. The branches shake with a swish and a swoosh. A small, dark shadow swings into the forest. A loud scream rips through the quiet jungle sounds. Spicy Piet quickly puts his hand on Sweaty Piet’s mouth. ‘Quiet! People are asleep,’ he hisses. He throws some pepernoten at the
shoes and pulls Sweaty Piet away. They run to the main road, where the streetlights break the darkness of the jungle. The next morning, the Pieten Skype with Sinterklaas in Holland to tell him about what happened. ‘Sint, what should we do?’ On the other side of the world, the old bishop strokes his long, white beard. ‘Something strange is going on there. We need to get to the bottom of this. Tonight, I need you to be detectives.’ At dusk, Sweaty Piet and Spicy Piet quietly climb into one of the large trees in front of the house. From there they can see the patio clearly. The tree’s large leaves hide them from view. Spicy Piet brings out a small bag of pepernoten. ‘Some snacks, for the wait?’ Sweaty Piet wipes drops of sweat from his neck. ‘No!’ he yells. ‘Put them away before the pythons smell them.’ The Pieten see the children bring out the shoes. They hear them sing their favourite songs about the moon shining though the trees. About the wind howling in the trees. The Pieten hum along. Then, Sweaty Piet pokes Spicy Piet in the ribs: ‘Look!’ They see Tijm put another note in his shoe, and a super-large carrot. Linde stuffs an apple in hers, and Jasmijn piles a whole bunch of bananas on top of hers. Spicy Piet rubs his tummy. ‘I love bananas!’ ‘Shh,’ Sweaty Piet shushes. The house turns quiet and the garden dark. Sweaty Piet is nodding off. Spicy Piet swings off his branch. ‘I am fed up. I am going to get those bananas.’ ‘No,’ Sweaty Piet hushes. ‘Wait.’ He points up. On the roof of the house scuttles a small, dark shadow.
Sweaty Piet squeezes Spicy Piet’s hand really hard. ‘That’s not a Piet.’ ‘No,’ says Spicy Piet, shaking. On tiptoes, the Pieten creep up to the patio. They hide behind a pillar. Sweaty Piet has to hold his own hand to stop it from trembling. The shadow swings down from the blind onto the patio. It aims straight for the bunch of bananas. Sweaty Piet squeals softly. Spicy Piet grabs his phone and fumbles with it. He points the flashlight at the shadow. In front of the door, peeling a banana, sits a large brown monkey. When he sees the Pieten, he grins his sharp teeth bare. Then, stuffing the bananas under his arm, he vanishes into the bushes. Spicy Piet tries to snap a picture on his phone. But the monkey is too fast. The picture only shows a long, brown tail. Sweaty Piet holds his tummy, laughing. ‘That’s not a python!’ That night, Sweaty Piet and Spicy Piet don’t leave any pepernoten. Instead, they leave the kids three presents that monkeys can’t eat. Tijm gets a book about snakes, Linde a new football, and Jasmijn a fluffy, stuffed monkey. On top of Tijm’s book, they stick a big note. Dear children. You are very brave to live out in this jungle full of snakes and Sint-knows-what. Some advice from Piet: next time, put your shoes inside, and not on the patio. Pieten can always get inside, but, thankfully, your jungle friends can’t. Smiling, Sweaty Piet and Spicy Piet hop back to the road. Spicy Piet texts the photo of the tail to Sint in Holland. ‘You’ll never guess what we found!’
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SLEEP DISORDERS IN CHILDREN By Dr Niek ter Mors
What is a sleep disorder? Sleep disorders in young children are disturbed sleep patterns that affect daytime functioning. Sleep disorders are common in children: up to 35% of children experience a sleep problem at some stage in their lives. Sleep disorders can be caused by behavioral issues (such as insomnia or not sleeping through the night) or parasomnia (night terrors, nightmares, sleepwalking, bed wetting, or teeth grinding). What is a sleep pattern? Every living creature needs to sleep. It is the primary activity of the brain during early development. Circadian rhythms, or the sleep-wake cycle, are regulated by light and dark. These rhythms take time to develop, resulting in the irregular sleep schedules of newborns. They develop at around six weeks, and by three to six months most infants have a regular sleep-wake cycle. Sleep is especially important for children because it impacts mental and physical development directly. When infants are put to bed drowsy but not asleep, they are more likely to become “self-soothers”, which enables them to fall asleep independently at bedtime and put themselves back to sleep during the night. Those who have become accustomed to parental assistance at bedtime often become “signalers” and cry for their parents to help them return to sleep during the night. Social and developmental issues can also affect sleep. Secure infants who are attached to their caregivers may have fewer sleep problems, but some may also be reluctant to give up this engagement for sleep. During the second half of their first year, infants may also experience separation anxiety. Illness and increased motor development may also disrupt sleep. Many toddlers experience sleep problems, including resisting going to bed and nighttime awakenings. Nighttime fears and nightmares are also common. Also, their ability to get out of bed, separation anxiety, the need for autonomy, and the development of the child’s imagination can lead to sleep problems. Daytime sleepiness and behavior problems may signal poor sleep or a sleep problem. With further development of imagination, preschoolers commonly experience nighttime fears and nightmares. In addition, sleepwalking and sleep terrors peak during preschool years.
What can we do about it? - Maintain a daily sleep schedule - Establish a regular “sleep-friendly” environment - Encourage a baby/child to fall asleep independently and to become a “self-soother” - Create a relaxing bedtime routine that ends in the room where the child sleeps - A child should sleep in the same sleeping environment every night: in a room that is cool, quiet and dark – and without a television set - Set limits that are consistent, communicated and enforced - Encourage the use of a security object such as a blanket or stuffed animal - No exciting games just before bedtime - Parents should leave the bedroom before the child falls asleep - Treatment with sedatives and antihistamines in young children is discouraged In some situations, behavioral treatment can be advised (only for babies over six months old). There are three methods: Extinction: The parents try to ignore the child. This method can be effective within a few days. A variant to this is “graduated extinction”. The interval at which the parents leave the child’s bedroom after reassurance is reduced weekly. “Modified extinction” can also be applied. Parents wait 20 minutes before checking on their child. The child is not taken out of bed. If the child does not fall asleep, the same procedure is repeated after 20 minutes. Scheduled awakenings: This method can be applied in sleeping through problems, where the child is woken up at set time intervals. The principle is to create a positive association between waking up and going to sleep again. Stimulus control: Parents try to associate sleep with a positive feeling via fixed bedtimes and rituals (for example playing games or massaging).
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FEATURES
MEET DUTCH COMEDIAN:
HOWARD KOMPROE By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
Howard Komproe knew he was meant to do this job ever since he was twelve years old. Although back then, he did not really know what ‘this job’ meant. Through a detour via youth-theater, ballet school and acting school he managed to find his own way to the stage. At the age of around twenty, Howard discovered stand-up comedy, and he has lived for his work ever since. His body of work is broad, from comedy to acting, and voiceovers in cartoons to cultural entrepreneurship. There is more to life than work; Howard is an inspired father to his thirteen-year-old twin daughters and got married last year to his love, Fien. He loves to travel - Asia being a favourite destination, and not only because of the great food. He visited Singapore in the nineties, and loved what he saw. Singapore’s vibrant nightlife blew him away - as Howard says, ‘Clubbing is something else there’. He is also looking forward to eating and shopping when he is back in Asia.
The only thing he does not like is when expats try to take him to a Dutch restaurant. When in Asia, do as the Asians do…
Getting on stage in front of an expat crowd is not new to Howard either, as he has good memories of making Jakarta, Bangkok, Nigeria, Suriname, Aruba, and Bonaire laugh in the past. He has high expectations of the audience at the Hollandse Club in Singapore, and says he might just bring some haring and paling (herring and eel, a Dutch favourite)!
The topics that Howard will cover in his show are not easy to pinpoint. Basically, he will just share his views on life: how we as humans interact. Together with Ruud (his right-hand man), his aim is to make sure people have a good time. And the next day, when it all sinks in, you’ll get the drift. So yes, we are gonna have a laugh, but we will also gain some new insights.
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ARTIST IN FOCUS: CAROL TOYE WOODROOFE
By Marilou Groot Nibbelink
I started my artistic journey in France, in the painters’ village of Barbizon. Originally drawing with pastels, my subjects were mainly wildlife, and particularly birds. Moving to Singapore almost six years ago provided a dramatically different environment to get inspiration from. Perfecting a distinctive style inspired by pop art, I seek to portray all the aspects that make Singapore unique using strong colours and contours. I find that the style suits the tropical colours and architecture. I attempt to show how Singapore gains from being a place of contrasts. Riding on the current momentum to preserve all aspects of its past, I enjoy painting scenes of everyday life as well as the iconic buildings of Singapore. I am gaining a reputation within the expat community, as my paintings provide a perfect memento of our experience of Singapore. I also enjoy working on a commission basis, which enables people to have a unique piece of art that is truly personal. I feel privileged to contribute a painting to a family’s décor, as it becomes part of their lifelong memories and their story. Having grown up as an expat myself, I know the place that art can take in a child’s memories of the countries he or she has lived in. After several solo exhibitions, I was selected to represent the celebration of SG50 at the Affordable Art Fair and the 100th feature exhibition at the Affordable Art Fair. I hope that the Hollandse Club members will enjoy exploring my art during the month of November 2015. Please let me know if you need any further information.
ARTIST IN FOCUS: SHIPRA GOEL, an artist since childhood My first drawing was Lord Ganesha, a piece of art that gave my parents the insight of the budding artist in me at the tender age of four. I have won many awards in drawing and painting competitions in Maharashtra, India; my very first award being the first prize in the West Zone competition of Mumbai, India, while I was still in primary school. I have also successfully completed the National Elementary and Intermediate Examinations for drawing and painting. Currently, I am spreading the talent of art by guiding each student by his personality. Being a Finance, IT professional for more than a decade, I imbue in the young artists the art of planning, spacing and taking decisions through the art of colours.
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OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
GOES TO THE MOVIES By Claire Wintraecken
Join me as I delve into the rich world of movies in Singapore. Watching movies is extremely popular in Singapore, and one of the favourite pastimes of Singaporeans. But I’ve always wondered why the films shown at film festivals never seem to appear in cinemas here. The recent documentary about Amy Winehouse brought me to The Projector. Tucked away in 26 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
FEATURES Golden Mile Tower, The Projector is a hidden gem. It is a cinema that beats the mainstream multiplexes in almost every way. I didn’t know about its long history, or anything at all about the stories it held. But there are certain, timeworn places that carry a sense of importance about them; the places that don’t require posters or placards to inform visitors of their vivid, rich pasts and this is one of them. The Projector used to be called the Golden Theatre. This was the largest cinema in all of Singapore and Malaysia upon its completion in 1973. It held an incredible 1,500 seats: all contained inside a single, massive, movie theatre. The Golden Theatre used to show the latest films in its heyday, but it lost out to newer theatres over time, and played host to adult films and Bollywood hits in the ’90s. The Projector reopened its doors in January 2015; it occupies two halls on the fifth floor, renamed the Green Room and the Redrum (pronounced “red room”, inspired by the film The Shining) and is now home to independent arthouse films. Arriving at the Golden Mile Tower (which clearly had its glory days in another decade) I was not sure what to expect. But my friend dragged me along and directed us to the fifth floor of the parking lot, where a hip, urban-style painting on the wall led us to the entrance of the theatre.
We have a drink at the theatre bar, and we enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The crowd turning up on this ordinary Tuesday evening is a nice melting pot; well-heeled ladies, hipsters, students, working guys from the CBD, and some forty-plus moms (yep that would be us). Even though there are several challenges they have to face, the folks behind The Projector are optimistic. They think that being independent and focusing on everything but the mainstream will be their biggest strength. It is a self-funded project and they get the money from crowdfunding and, of course, selling tickets. As you may have guessed, I found the place to be fascinating - perhaps even as captivating as the movies to be screened here. So whether you’re a film buff or a casual moviegoer, there’s bound to be something for everyone. So how about going to the movies this weekend? Check out their website for the programme www.theprojector.sg The Projector 6001 Beach Road Golden Mile Tower #05-00 Singapore 199589
All of sudden, I found myself drawn back to another world. The place has definitely kept much of its original design and a number of the ’70s-style stalwarts showed up, such as their iconic spiral staircase, the original old theatre doors and the notice boards on the wall. The interior has an old feel, but it’s not too old-fashioned. For example, the seats have been reupholstered but their old numbers and steel frames, with chipped paint, remain. The whole concept has been done with great aspiration and it shows. The programme booklet is done in bold colours and in boho-style, featuring Amy Winehouse on the cover.
“But there are certain,
timeworn places that carry a sense of importance about them; the places that don’t require posters or placards to inform visitors of their vivid, rich pasts and this is one of them.”
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BRINGS CHRISTMAS CHEER TO ALL! By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
If you have ever attended the Hollandse Club
Christmas Fair, you may have seen them: the HOME Christmas Carollers. These lovely ladies have been livening up the Christmas Fair with their performance for years, singing international festive classics that all visitors can relate to. Members of this very special carolling group come from different countries across Asia, mostly the Philippines, Indonesia and Myanmar. They are all residents of HOME’s shelter for domestic workers, who have been ill-treated by their former employers. They stay at the shelter whilst investigations into their case are being made. Being part of the HOME carolling choir gives these women a taste of the festive season, which they are forced to celebrate far away from family and friends. HOME’s Dominica Fitri has been managing and training the HOME carollers since 2009. Come September time, Dominica picks her ladies at the HOME shelter and starts rehearsing. The practice regime is tough: several times a week, up to every evening when the performances grow closer. The group performs at different locations, up to seven shows each year. While practising together can be fun and create strong bonds, the singing has other purposes as well. 28 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
Dominica tells us: ‘After the performance, I usually spend some time with the ladies. I ask them to share their impressions. They keep telling me they have never had the chance or courage to sing on stage. It has raised their confidence to perform in public. I can also see strong bonding amongst choir members, and we still keep in touch.’ Christmas is a great time of the year, but also one that can be lonely when you are far away from your family and loved ones. As Dominica confirms, ‘The joy and friendship they find in the carolling group can help the women forget the sadness of being far away from their families at this special time of the year. They find great solace in bringing the spirit of Christmas to the Singapore community, and taking it back to their friends at the shelter.’ When Bridget Tan, HOME’s founder, first asked Dominica to train the carolling group, she told her that ‘Singing is one of the ways for these women to release their pain and suffering after the injustice that has been done to them. Singing can be a great aid in self healing.’ Dominica adds: ‘Being part of this project also helps migrants integrate into the Singaporean community. Some even managed to get a job out of it: after the performance, an employer approached one of them and offered it!’
FEATURES
We asked Dominica how she would celebrate Christmas in her home country. Dominica, who is originally from Indonesia and a Catholic, told us: ‘In Indonesia, Christmas and New Year are like the same celebration. I used to be a member and trainer of a choir in my hometown as well. From September we were busy preparing for the choir. I used to sing solo or with my friend for the Christmas celebrations. Christmas itself was mainly the celebration in church. My family always has a large family reunion on New Year’s Eve, where we pray to thank God for blessings in the previous year and for starting a new year. We will light the candle and turn on the Christmas tree and light fireworks in front of our yard. Almost all houses do the same thing. From 1 January to 5 January, everyone visits each other to wish a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.’ Another member of the HOME carolling group is Ash, a domestic worker from the Philippines. Ash is part of HOME Musical, a group of domestic workers that comes together on their Sunday off, to sing and dance together. Ash has been involved with the HOME carolling group for the fourth year now. She assists Dominica with the choir, and supports the women staying in the HOME shelter with her experience. ‘I really like being a part of HOME carolling; it is fun, great and fulfilling. I can’t help the women staying at HOME shelter financially, so I help them by giving my time, and sharing my God-given talent.’
Like Dominica, Ash believes the HOME carolling group plays an important role: ‘It does not only help our fellow migrant workers to develop their talent but also to build their inner strength. Physically, emotionally and spiritually it can help the shelter ladies, as well as financially.’ Ash’s favourite Christmas carols are ‘Holy Night’ and ‘Give Love on Christmas Day’. Christmas is her favourite holiday, which she likes to celebrate with her son, daughter and other relatives in the Philippines. She also shares her blessings with other poor, indigent kids. ‘But here in Singapore, it is just work, work, work, and be with my HOME family.’ HOME offers more than just a shelter and helpdesk services for ill-treated domestic workers; it also offers a community, a family to thousands of domestic workers that live in Singapore, far away from loved ones. On Sundays, it runs HOME Academy, a special school that teaches domestic workers subjects like English, computer skills, dressmaking, caregiving, financial literacy and many more. The school is run by volunteers, most of which are domestic workers themselves. Apart from the Academy, HOME’s domestic workers run several other groups, ranging from online support groups, musical groups to ones visiting the sick in hospital and offering health education. HOME really is a home-away-from-home for foreign domestic workers in Singapore.
HOME is a Singaporean registered charity that works for the well-being, justice and empowerment of migrant workers and trafficked victims in Singapore. As a non-profit organisation, they rely on private donations to fund their work. Please visit www.HOME.org.sg for more information, or if you want to contribute by donating or becoming a HOME volunteer.
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FEATURES
19 November | 10 AM - 5 PM | Hollandse Club, 22 Camden Park Lucky Draw Grand Prize: win a KLM return ticket to Amsterdam! Buy your Lucky Draw tickets at the Fair or online: nca.org.sg/shop All NCA proceeds benefit local Singapore charities. With special thanks to our sponsors:
www.expatliving.sg
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FEATURES
Here in Singapore, we celebrate December in ways as varied and amazing as the city itself. We have our own traditions from wherever we hail. The festive season is a time when we gather together, enjoy delicious meals, gifts and celebrate the year gone by. Unfortunately, that is not the case for everyone living in Singapore. The Netherlands Charity Association (NCA) was founded in 1968 as an independent non-profit organization and raises funds to support local charities, projects and initiatives. The charities supported are HOME, Singapore Leprosy Relief, MINDS, Sanctuary House, the Breadline Group, Good Shepherd Centre, and Willing Hearts. So if you are stuck for gift ideas, or just looking for some festive fun, mark 19 November on your calendar and come to the NCA annual Charity Christmas Fair. The Hollandse Club will transform its main hall and outdoor space into a lively and heart-warming Christmas market as part of our celebration of the festive season.
You will find a wonderful combination of charities selling their unique hand-made holiday items mixed in with a collection of vendors selling seasonal gift items. The NCA will be selling home-baked goods and, of course, their extensive selection of greetings cards and other products. The choir from HOME will be singing Christmas carols during the day. And, of course, no event is complete without a lucky draw. The main prize is a KLM ticket to Amsterdam. And if you are not able to actually attend on the day, you can still participate by buying your lucky draw tickets through the NCA website (nca.org.sg/shop). All proceeds collected by the NCA go to benefit the local charities.
By Claire Wintraecken
MULTI LABEL STORE FOR WOMEN AND MEN 20 Amoy Street, Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm, Sat: 11am - 3pm
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A Singapore Season of
Festive Fun! By Karien van Ditzhuijzen
In multicultural Singapore, there are as many festivals and celebrations as there are cultures; actually, there are even more, as most cultures will have more than one. Some are religious, others traditional, and many a mix of the two. The upcoming months especially, leading up to the end of the year, are full of festive fun. With so many different festivals to choose from in November and December, do you just observe your own, or do you dive into the unknown and celebrate one that is new to you? On a closer look, you can ask yourself: are all these celebrations really that different? To answer this question, we first need to ask ourselves a few more. Why do people celebrate? Why do they do it now? And, of course, what do they do during the celebrations? Let’s look at the festivals that will be celebrated in the coming months in more detail.
Deepavali D ivali, or Deepavali, which falls around late autumn, is another festival of lights. Hindus celebrate it all over the world. Rows of small candles are lit around the house to signify the triumph of good (light) over evil (darkness). Families get together to celebrate and feast on delicious homemade treats, and there are new clothes for everyone.
The most well known story behind Divali is based on the Ramayana, the epic Hindu poem. Divali has been celebrated since ancient times, when it was held after the summer harvest was finished. The festival lasts for five days, and the most important night coincides with the darkest new moon night of the Hindu lunisolar month, Kartika.
Unlike northern countries, the weather in India is ruled by monsoons. Deepavali falls at the end of the wet monsoon season, when the rains have gone and the weather is nice and pleasant: a time for new beginnings.
Deepavali falls in the middle of November and, in Singapore, is mostly celebrated by the Tamil community. Not surprisingly, festivities centre around Little India, which, when lit up, can easily compete with the grander Orchard Road – and wins the prize for most colourful. There are bazaars, exhibitions, parades and concerts to attend, as well as great food to be eaten.
The origins of Divali, and how it developed into the current festival, are uncertain, and most likely steeped deeply in Hindu mythology, most particularly the Puranas.
Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is celebrated in North America in late autumn, as a day of giving thanks for the blessing of the harvest. Giving thanks after a harvest is common in all cultures and religions. Although Thanksgiving originated in deeply religious services, it is now a more secular holiday where families get together and give thanks for all the good things that happened over the past year.
Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie are all food that is traditionally eaten for Thanksgiving dinner, for which family members from all over the country (or world!) will congregate. In Singapore, Thanksgiving is mostly celebrated by North American expats and, if you want to join in, make some friends that hail from that part of the world and see if you can get yourself invited.
Sinterklaas In North Western Europe, a Saint rules the festive season: Saint Nicholas, Christian saint and bishop of Myra. He appears in different forms in different countries, from Belgium, Germany and France to parts of Eastern Europe and even, in a slightly different form, in the United Kingdom. In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas is the hero of all children: whereas in Anglo-Saxon countries, his cousin, Santa Claus, or Father Christmas, does the honours.In the Lowlands, the bishop still wears his traditional cloak and mitre, and rides around the country on his white horse on the fifth of December, the eve of his birthday, leaving presents for well-behaved kids.
For weeks leading up to the event, children can put their shoes by the fireplace, with a carrot for the horse and a song for the good holy man. Every year, Sinterklaas visits Singapore and the Hollandse Club. On November 21st, a crowd of Dutch children will welcome him at Bayfront South jetty (Singapore River Cruises) as he arrives by boat, after which he will come to the Club to meet the children. Do watch out for the Sint and his colourful Pieten on that day, and you might score some of the delicious pepernoten biscuits the Pieters throw around.
Christmas The most famous of the festivals this season is Christmas. In the Northern Hemisphere, December is a month of darkness. The days get shorter and shorter leading up to the winter solstice. The temperature drops; wind, rain, hail and sleet beat bare trees, and it is obvious that, under these conditions, people need some light in the darkness to avoid depression. Also, at this time of year in traditional, agricultural societies, the work in the fields is done; the harvest is collected and put away safely. Winter is a good time for reflection. It is not a coincidence that Christmas falls just after the winter solstice. Most European cultures celebrate the midwinter feast, rejoicing that the shortest day of the year is over. Since the Bible does not mention Christ’s actual birthdate, sometime in the 4th century, the midwinter feast became Christmas, and celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Many of our current Christmas traditions are later additions, mixed with old pagan rites and a rich Christian sauce to become what is now one of the largest celebrated festivals in the
world, by Christians and non–Christians alike. Christmas is also called the Festival of Lights, and lighting candles as well as warming wood-fires are important parts of the traditions. Depending on their religious beliefs, people will either attend church or go for a brisk walk in the forest, but what happens after is universal: families and friends gather to eat and celebrate together. There might be food, singing, prayer, games, decorations, a tree, the exchange of gifts; every family will have its own special habits that make its members feel special. In Singapore, one of the highlights of Christmas is the lighting up of Orchard Road with countless shimmering decorations. A new religion has hijacked Christmas: that of shopping. Singaporeans, expats and tourists alike prance about Orchard Road and Singapore’s shopping centres to buy presents for friends and family.
Hanukkah Hanukkah is yet another festival of lights, celebrated by Jewish people all over the globe to commemorate the rededication of the holy temple in Jerusalem. It lasts eight days and nights, and falls anywhere between late November and late December. During the festival, the eight candles of the Menorah, the special nine branched candlestick, are lit each night, one more every night. The ninth light is called a shamash, which is usually elevated separately from the other eight. The shamash candle is used to light the other candles and can also be used for other purposes; the eight menorah candles are holy and cannot be used for any practical purpose. Hanukkah was popularised by Jews in America, who liked to have their own celebrations that could compete
with the Christian Christmas, which is around the same time. The way in which the American Jews celebrate is not much different: getting together with family, just the food is different. It is customary to eat oily food that is deep fried, or made with cheese. Latke potato pancakes, jelly doughnuts and other types of fritters are popular choices. Singapore is not known for Hanukkah, although expats and Singapore’s small Jewish community celebrate it at home. For a taste of Hanukkah in Singapore, try Awafi restaurant on Waterloo Street, which offers kosher food supervised by the rabbi from a synagogue nearby.
We all celebrate!
Many festivals, one celebration
So what do all these festivals have in common? It is simple: coming together with family and friends, sharing good food and good company. Whether they are done in a religious setting or not, seasonal celebrations are a time for reflection together with the people closest to you, giving thanks for all the good that has been received, and processing the bad that could not be avoided. Shared traditions, such as those observed by whole cultures or smaller family groups, bind people together. Including others from outside the family or culture in these traditions will help to grow mutual understanding and affection.
Sharing your treasured traditions with outsiders means including them, rather than excluding anyone who can be perceived as different. Whilst family might be far away for expats living in Singapore, friends and good food are much easier to come by. Being forced to break with some muchloved traditions can be hard, but it can also be seen as an opportunity: a chance to forge new traditions and new bonds. Celebrating new festivals from other cultures gives you a chance to sample exciting new foods, meet new people and learn about other cultures. What’s not to like? In any case, who needs an excuse to celebrate anything, ever?
UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 6
13
Beer & Cider Fest
November
Fri, 7pm onwards, Indoor & Outdoor Lounge. (M) $70 / (NM) $90
13
November
Free Ballet Trial
November
Tues, 4.30pm-5.15pm, Rotterdam Room Free Admission (3-5 years old)
20
Free Tai Chi Trial
November
Weds, 8pm - 9pm, Rotterdam Room Free admission
Sinterklaas Arrival
November
Email Efficiency Workshop
November
Weds, 8pm-9.30pm, Indoor Lounge (M) $25 (NM) $30
27
22
November
Scuba Diving Trials
November
Sun, 1pm onwards, Swimming Pool (M) $10 (NM) $15
26
Kirti’s Curry, Kebab & Naan Cooking Workshop
November
Thurs, 10.30am-1.30pm, Indoor Lounge (M) $65 (NM) $75
Friday Kids’ ClubBaking & Crafts
November
Fri, 4pm-6pm, Brabant Room (M) $15 (NM) $20
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Friday Kids’ Club: Bingo & Crafts
Fri, 4pm - 6pm, Brabant Room (M) $15 (NM) $20
Sat, 10am-1pm, Bayfront South Jetty & Hollandse Club (Refer to poster for price list)
25
November
17
Friday Kids’ ClubGames & Crafts
21
An Evening with Dutch Comedian: Howard Komproe
Fri, 8.30pm-10pm, Main Hall (M) $40 / (NM) $50 (Dutch Spoken)
Fri, 4pm - 6pm, Brabant Room (M) $5 (NM) $10
18
at a gl
UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
DECEMBER
glance... 4
4-5
Sinterklaas: Leave your shoe out & watch a Sinterklaas movie
December
11
Baby Signs Playgroup Trial
December
Weds, 10.30am-11.15am, Rotterdam Room (M) $10 (NM) $12
13
Events not to be missed in the months of November and December! Please do remember to register early to avoid disappointment! Registrations can now be made online at www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Kids’ Pepernoten Tournament
December
Fri & Sat, 7-9pm & 2-5pm, Tennis Court Register to join
Fri, 4pm onwards, Chill Out Room (M) $5 (NM) $10
9
CALENDAR
AquaDucks Year End Pool Party 2015
December
Fri, 5.15pm-7.15pm, Swimming Pool Free for members only
31
Scuba Diving Trials
December
Sun, 1pm onwards, Swimming Pool (M) $10 (NM) $15
New Year’s Eve River Cruise
December
Thurs, Boat & Clarke Quay area (Refer to poster for price list)
*Events Cancellation Policy: For fee-based events, a request for cancellation (and refund) will be accepted up to 48 hours in advance of the event. The Hollandse Club must make commitments to suppliers at that time and making changes will result in additional labour, costs or penalties. If the cancellation request is received after the deadline, we cannot issue a refund and the event will be charged.
(M) Members (NM) Non-Members Social events Sports events
STEPS TO SCAN THE
QR CODE Download the FREE app“QR Reader”
Open app & place in-front of the code
It will scan & load to open source page
New URL page will open to view source
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
This workshop will be hosted by Email Handyman and will address issues like overflowing inboxes, time management, archiving and finding emails and communication do’s and don’ts. In addition, the workshop will provide many handy tips and tricks in how to use your email program!
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
“Talking to babies before they can talk”. Baby Signs Singapore’s mission is to teach parents the tools to communicate with your baby before they can talk.
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
You are invited to join Kirti for this very popular oneday cooking workshop to brighten up your day with the tantalizing aromas, flavours and bright colours of Indian cuisine! You will learn to make the most popular naan bread, kebab and curry.
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
What a great way to celebrate the start of the school holiday by throwing a big party at the swimming pool!
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37). 40 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
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UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37).
*Event Cancellation Policy applies (refer to pg 37). WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 45
SPORTS CONTACT LIST
CLASS
DAY
TIME
VENUE
POINT OF CONTACT
CONTACT
A Aerobics (Step)
Monday
2030 - 2130
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
Wednesday
0900 - 1000
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
B Basketball (7 – 10 years)
Sunday
1000 - 1100
Multi Purpose
Bernard Williams
9437 6252
Tuesday
1930 - 2300
Amsterdam
Franciska Ho
6259 3864
Bridge (Duplicate)
Friday 0900 - 1230 Amsterdam Franciska Ho 6259 3864 C Cardio Sculpt
Mon & Fri
0900 - 1000
Rotterdam
D Domestic Helper Swimming
Tuesday
1100 - 1200
Swimming Pool
H Hockey (Ladies)
Wednesday
2000 - 2100
CCAB
Ann Yang
9815 0239
hollandse@aquaducks.com.sg Cecile Sturm
9237 4415
Merel Schwaanhuyser 9237 4344
Hockey (Men)
Wednesday
2100 - 2200
CCAB
Titus de Greeff
Hockey (Youth)
Tuesday
1900 - 2000
CCAB
Su Yin Timp
9839 9771 9142 9233
Sunday 0900 - 1100 CCAB Wietske Teunissen
9423 6374
J Judo (Children Intermediate)
Friday
1700 - 1800
Rotterdam
Gerard Lim
9750 6305
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
Tuesday
1930 - 2030
Rotterdam
Peter Robertson
9681 1927
P Personal Training By Appointment Gym Ashraf 8180 6610 Youri Kruse 9739 7610
Pilates
Tuesday
1200 - 1300
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
Thursday
2000 - 2100
Rotterdam
Ann Yang
9815 0239
S Squash (Training)
Tuesday
1900 - 2100
Squash Court
Daniel Gelinas
9725 4198
Thursday
1900 - 2200
Squash Court
Daniel Gelinas
9725 4198
Saturday
1400 - 1700
Squash Court
Daniel Gelinas
9725 4198
Various
Swimming Pool
Squash (Social)
Swimming Lessons/Competition Mon – Sat
hollandse@aquaducks.com.sg
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 Duyverman
9750 7124
Tennis (Mixed Social)
Sunday
1600 - 1800
Tennis Court
Klaus Wulf
8118 0300
Tennis (Ladies Competition)
Friday
0900 - 1200
Tennis Court
Pauline Welton
8168 2084
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
Tinytots (18-36 months)
Thursday
1500 - 1600
Rotterdam
Fernando
8189 4205
Tinytots (3 and 4 years)
Thursday
1600 - 1700
Rotterdam
Fernando
8189 4205
W Water Polo (8 - 16 years)
Thursday
1800 - 1900
46 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
Swimming Pool
hollandse@aquaducks.com.sg
UPCOMING SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS
Monday & Friday Classes Term dates: Mon, 17th August to Mon, 7th December 2015 Fri, 21st August to Fri, 11th December 2015
Monday & Wednesday Classes Term dates: Mon, 17th August to Mon, 7th December 2015 Wed, 19th August to Wed, 9th December 2015
S START ASSES
Tuesday & Thursday Classes Term dates: Tues, 18th August to Tues, 8th December 2015 Thur, 20th August to Thur, 10th December 2015
!
SOON
L
NEW C
Thursday Classes Term dates: Thur, 3rd September to Thur, 26th November 2015
Friday & Saturday Classes Term dates: Fri, 14th August to Fri, 11th December 2015 Sat, 15th August to Sat, 12th December 2015
CLASSES
Tuesday Classes Term dates: October to December 2015 (Actual dates TBC)
Tuesday & Saturday Classes Term dates: October to December 2015 (Actual dates TBC)
CLASSES ARE PRO-RATED FROM TIME OF JOINING.
Sunday Classes Term dates: October to December 2015 (Actual dates TBC)
Sunday Classes Term dates: Sun, 18 October to Sun, 13 December 2015 th
th
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.
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 47
SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
How to become an
English teacher
Wed, 16th September
On Wednesday 16th September, the Hollandse Club invited the British Council Teacher Development Centre to provide a talk about how to become an English teacher. Lissy and Leslie informed the participating ladies about what teaching involves, to which target groups you can teach English, where you can teach English, and also when are you allowed to lecture and how you can get qualified. Since there are half-a-billion English language learners in East Asia, there is a big need for English teachers! We wish all the participants much luck with their teaching careers!
September Fair Fri, 18th September
On Friday 18th September, we held our second fair of the year. Between 10am and 5pm, both members and non-members could visit the 66 tables from 59 vendors selling all kinds of products and services. You could find nice dresses, beautiful bags and clutches, cute kids’ clothes and also travel agencies, furniture, art and charity. Something for everyone! The morning was quite crowded and we saw a lot of visitors leaving with bags full of goodies!
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SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
An Evening with Dutch Comedian,
Carolien Borgers
Sat, 19th September
Well-known Dutch comedian, Carolien Borgers, flew over to Singapore for a one-night performance at the Hollandse Club on Saturday 19th September. Together with guitarist, Onno den Hollander, she played her ‘Zeker Weten’ show, which contains hilarious stories about the way we can shape our life, framed by beautiful songs. Over 50 people came over to the Hollandse Club to enjoy the cabaret night. We would like to thank Carolien and Onno for the great performance! Save the date: on Friday 13th November, Howard Komproe will perform at the Hollandse Club!
LinkedIn Workshop Tue, 29th September
On Tuesday 29th September, Louise Phua from Thallo Partners, gave a lecture about using LinkedIn as part of your professional development. Participants became acquainted with LinkedIn and discovered all kind of tools. A group of four participants joined the workshop for different kinds of reasons, such as how to build a professional personal page, how recruitment through LinkedIn works, how companies are able to find you via LinkedIn and, of course, they were all curious about the tips and tricks for using LinkedIn. We hope that the participants received the answers to their questions and look back on an instructive morning.
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 49
SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
SWIMMING Dear Swimmers, Safety tips around the pool - Children should be supervised by an adult at all times. - One person at a time on the diving board. - One person at a time on the waterslide. - No running around the pool. - No glass items around pool area. Christmas Holiday As December/January is fast approaching, some members will be leaving Singapore or going away for a well-deserved holiday. If you wish to cancel swimming classes, please fill in the cancellation form on time on the Hollandse Club website. Please note that there is a onemonth cancellation notice period. Upcoming events: Dutch Dolphins: Neptune League Round 4 at the Hollandse Club: Sunday, 1 November 2015. Neptune League Round 5 at the Swiss Club: Sunday, 22 November 2015. Gold League: 30 October 2015. Diamond League: 4 December 2015. Award swimming: 30 November until 6 December Christmas Break (no classes): 24 December – 5 January. Classes will start again on Monday 5 January. Have a fantastic month ahead. Best regards, Aquaducks Team
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SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
No Place Like Home No Service Like Executive Homes’ Whether it’s a view of the sea or the easy convenience of the urban city, Executive Homes delivers a top class home search service tailored to individual priorities. Call us today!
t: +65 9011 8055 e: hestercalkhoven@ehc.com.sg w: www.ehc.com.sg
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 51
SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
SQUASH GOINGS-ON I think it is fair to say that our friends over in Sumatra have not only put the kibosh on virtually all outdoor activities in Singapore for the past five weeks, but they have also ruined my excuse for endless ramblings in my Squash Review. Those pesky farmers have a lot to answer for! So what bits of tantalising news can I regale to you all this time? Not much to be honest. The Cosmo has stuttered along with match after match being cancelled because of fog on the court, rendering the majestic game of squash a damp squid. However, the games that we have played have been truly unforgettable. Captain James has led boldly (and sometimes blindly) from the front, and using the seeding system that went totally against us last year to outstanding effect has us effectively leading the field. His cunning and guile sees us thus far undefeated and in rampant mood to seek revenge and havoc on those who belittled us last year. Hopefully, El Nino will get bored soon, leave and give Sumatra a jolly good drenching, which will allow us to march onwards and upwards.
So what’s on the horizon? (Not a great deal these days, since visibility of more than 50 metres is a challenge.) We have to take on the tennis section since they are no doubt itching to try and get the coveted but rather cheap looking trophy back for best-allround-racquet-bods at the HC and, with it, some decent bragging rights. The Squash section, although small in size (number of players rather than being vertically challenged) are strong in belief that we will, once again, prevail. Normally, I would now invite you all to come along and play a few games, join our motley crew and sweat more than you would in a Turkish bath. But, obviously, at the time of writing this, I cannot give that same advice, unless, of course, you bring your masks along with you and perhaps a spare oxygen tank. Contacts on the Squash Committee: Daniel: 97254198 Fred: 96151144 Ross: 97526040 Paul Roberts
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SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
CAREFREE MOVING To a new home across the world Are you and your family taking the plunge to move to another country? KHZ International Movers will make sure that your belongings will be moved to your new home as carefree as possible. No matter the destination and no matter the transportation: our reliable global network allows us to help you move from “K to Z”. Whether it’s by truck, ship or plane, KHZ is your trustworthy partner and solely responsible contact in the international removal process.
WWW.KHZ-MOVERS.COM
A. van Leeuwenhoekweg 50 | 2408 AN Alphen aan den Rijn | The Netherlands T +31(0)-172-449977 | E info@khz.nl |
35935 Advertentie KHZ Movers.indd 1
@KHZMovers
01-10-15 11:42
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SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
TENNIS HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO TRY TENNIS? HERE’S YOUR OPPORTUNITY NEW
Discover Tennis for Beginner Adults on Wednesday at 8pm-9pm This programme is ideal for those who are new to the game of tennis and want to learn the basic skills. Savitar’s elite team of tennis coaches will cover all the fundamentals of tennis including forehand, backhand, volley, serve, overhead, specialty shots and basic match play. Emphasis will be on enjoyment of the game and students will receive an excellent foundation to improve and develop. Discover Tennis is held over six weeks with 1 hour per week sessions. Ladies’ Tennis Clinic on Wednesday at 9am - limited spaces available, sign up now! The Ladies’ Clinic will focus on stroke production, doubles strategy, and games to keep the session fun, but also competitive. This class is a great way to interact with other players and learn how to adapt to different styles of play. Perfect for players with previous playing experience. Duration is two hours. For more information, contact the Tennis Director, Scott Johnston, on 9038 9348 or email scott@savitar. sg LOOK OUT FOR OUR JUNIOR TENNIS CAMPS IN DECEMBER AND JANUARY Savitar Tennis Camps are designed to teach the basic fundamentals of the game, while keeping the emphasis on enjoyment through dynamic drills, activities and games. Keeping the student teacher ratio to 6:1 and grouping the players according to skill level, our camps can cater to all levels. With our top tennis professionals leading the way, tennis camps are a great way to spend your school holidays. Camp 1: 15-17 December, Camp 2: 5-7 January. For more details, refer to page 56.
IMPORTANT DATES
• November 27th 2015 Friday Night Hollandse Club Under 12 Junior Team Tennis Competition Final • December 12th 2015 End of Term 2 Junior Tennis Lessons • December 15th -17th 2015 Savitar Junior Tennis Camp • January 5th- 7th 2016 Savitar Junior Tennis Camp • January 11th 2016 Beginning of 2016 Savitar Junior Tennis Programme To book or for any information regarding tennis lessons, junior programmes, or tennis camps please contact Tennis Director, Scott Johnston, on 90389348 or email scott@savitar.sg 54 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS COACH’S CORNER:
Return Serve This month, I would like to give you some advice on probably one of the most important shots in tennis … the return of serve. With a good return of serve, you are able to neutralize your opponent’s service and have a better chance of breaking their serve. If your opponent has a hard first serve, your first priority is to get the ball back. To do this effectively, use a very short backswing and simply “punch” the ball back. Do not try to change the direction of the serve and, if possible, lean in to land the ball deep in your opponent’s court. If your opponent is coming up to the net after the serve, try landing the ball short to give him/her a difficult volley. Footwork is also very important. Follow these steps to make you a lot quicker: Position yourself just behind the baseline. As the server tosses, move forward slightly. As the server makes contact, split step, hopping up onto the “balls” of your feet. Turn your upper torso quickly and then hit, remember to use a short stubby backswing.
SAVITAR COACHES WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL MEMBERS A HAPPY FESTIVE SEASON AND CONTINUE TO SEE YOU ALL ON THE TENNIS COURT OVER THE COMING MONTHS UPDATE FROM THE DOUBLE DUTCH WITS TEAM
Did you know that the Double Dutch tennis team has existed for more than a decade? So many players have come and gone, and we have won and lost many exciting matches. As a team, we moved up the various divisions (and came down again). We are happy to be in the A-division now and we have a great team with wonderful, motivated and involved ladies - every Tuesday is a fun day. It has always been quite a struggle to get a good bunch of nice players together, but this year it was particularly hard. Even after publishing a few desperate cries for help, we did not get a lot of response. In the end, we managed to get nine players and, so far, we are doing well. We even found a great sponsor, The Body Firm, who sponsors our outfit and more (don’t we look great?). If you’d like to join us, and enjoy some nice matches, contact us now!
Many big servers do not expect the ball to come back and are often not positioned well for their next shot. On a weak serve, possibly most second serves, take advantage from the start. Position yourself closer so you won’t be caught by the short serve and try hitting the ball either on the rise or at the highest point. This will give the server less time to get ready and recover after the serve, giving you the upper hand in that point. Good luck!
TENNIS COMMITTEE NEWS
Haze is most of the days the opening article in the Singapore ‘Straits Times’. Apps following haze patterns and concentration are downloaded by 80% of the Singaporean. Haze is a big topic and leading the news in Singapore. This haze was also the root cause of cancellation of two tennis events the last month at the HC. First we had to cancel the Davis Cup tournament on the first weekend of October. Eight (8) enthusiastic teams were ready to battle! These teams have to keep that spirit alive till the end of January so no haze or rain can have influence. Regrettably we also had to cancel the Pizza Youth tournament on the 23th October. Rescheduling will follow. New and rescheduled events for the coming months:
- “Sunday afternoon social” for adults 15th November; - “Pepernoten Tournament” for youth 4th & 5th December; - “New start Ladder“ Men single & Women double Jan 2016 – June 2016 - “Davis Cup 2015” for adults 29&30 January; - “Youth Pizza Tournament” every two months. More information will follow by mail. The tennis committee will continue with organizing events and therefore we need new committee members! Tennis is one of the fundamentals of our successful HC. When you like to organize tennis events, and want to contribute to the fun and tennis pleasure of a lot of members, please join us in the committee ! For more information please mail us: tenniscommittee@ hollandseclub.org.sg Are you interested in tennis events and not on the mailing list please sent us a mail, we will keep you informed about all coming tennis activities. Warm tennis regards, The Tennis Committee Annemiek van Leeuwen, Marina Aarts, Sheila Bouwman and Danielle van Wees WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 55
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SPORTS & SOCIAL EVENTS REPORTS
We would like to thank you for joining the 19th ABN AMRO Wooden Shoe Hockey Tournament! It was a really special day with 100 matches played! That means 33 hours non stop hockey. Hereby the winners of the 19th ABN AMRO Wooden Shoe Hockey Tournament: Men: Tornados | Boys U12: Stingers | Girls U10/12: Dutch | Women: SRC | Boys U10: Dutch Clun With special thanks to Bram Lomans and the Singaporean team for the hockey demonstration. We hope to see you all next year!
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Pick up a copy of our Christmas catalogue from our store or download it online.
www.hubers.com.sg
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CHEF’S SPECIALS
November
NASI TUMPENG SET $15.00 Traditional Indonesian set with chicken, tempeh, spicy coconut, and vegetables. Served with yellow rice & condiments.
ANTIPASTO SALAD
$15.00
Rocket and romaine lettuce, sliced pear, walnuts, Pecorino cheese, Italian salami, pine nuts, Parma ham, dates, and balsamic dressing. Photos taken by Bernhard Wamelink 62 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
FOCACCIA SANDWICH WITH PUMPKIN & FETA
$11.00
Rosemary focaccia, grilled pumpkin, feta, and caramelized onion.
BBQ PORK RIBS $16.50
Small pork ribs with BBQ sauce. Served with mixed salad and potato wedges.
SWEET & SOUR PRAWNS $13.50
Crispy prawns in sweet & sour sauce, with bell peppers & onions. Served with steamed rice and vegetables.
HAM & MELTED CHEESE PITA $9.50
Pita bread filled with smoked ham and melted, fresh Mozzarella cheese. Served with tomato salsa dip and cucumber sticks.
WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG | HOLLANDSE CLUB 63
CHEF’S SPECIALS
December PAD THAI $12.50
Thai-style fried flat noodles with chicken. Served with prawns, beansprouts, chives & peanuts.
CRISPY FRIED TILAPIA FISH
FESTIVE TURKEY SANDWICH
Hong Kong-style, deep-fried Tilapia fish with superior soy sauce. Served with steamed rice and vegetables.
Multi-grain toasted bread with sliced turkey, young spinach, cheddar cheese and cranberry sauce.
$15.50
Photos taken by Bernhard Wamelink 64 HOLLANDSE CLUB | WWW.HOLLANDSECLUB.ORG.SG
$12.50
GRILLED PORK MEDALLIONS WITH SAGE & ROSEMARY $13.50 Pan-grilled pork medallions with sage, rosemary and garlic. Served with potato gratin and fresh garden salad and potato wedges.
VIETNAMESE FRESH SPRING ROLL WITH BBQ EEL
$12.00
Rice-skin wrap with fresh lettuce, cucumber & BBQ eel.
TURKEY BURGER $9.50 Juicy turkey burger with cranberry mayo. Served with corn on the cob and fries.
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STEFANIE MULDER PUBLISHES HER FIRST BOOK, CRESCENT By Nina Gunasingham
Sixteen-year-old Stefanie Mulder was born in the Netherlands and lived in Seattle from the age of six until she moved here to Singapore, where she has lived for the past five years. She speaks both English and Dutch and is currently studying at the Canadian International School. She has just published her first novel, which she is understandably very excited about, and wanted to share her journey with us. Ever since she can remember, Stefanie has been a writer. She started with short stories as a hobby and realised, at some point, that she had a full-length story in her head. She wrote it out in her spare time and finished when she was thirteen years old, but she felt reluctant to share it with anyone, so it sat (as with other many famous manuscripts) in a drawer, until she mentioned it to her parents. Then, when Stefanie was in Grade 10, she had to complete a school project, which, she realised, was the perfect opportunity to get her book published. She found that it takes time to find an agent and then a publisher so, as she did not need to have it professionally published for the project, she decided to self-publish her book. In October 2014, she revised her original manuscript in order to publish Crescent. Although she was initially anxious about sharing her creation with others, now that it has been published, and she has proved to herself that she can do it, Stefanie has more confidence in her writing. It makes it feel more real to have a physical copy of the published book, she says, and the response to it has been great. Publishing her book has opened a new world for her and now she is more excited than ever about writing.
Crescent, a young adult fantasy, is set on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The protagonist, Renn, isn’t very happy to be living there, but she does have one best friend to help make it bearable - until she stumbles on his secret, and her whole world turns upside down. As inspiration for Crescent, Stefanie says she absorbed ideas from around her, including films and books she enjoyed, and wrote something that she felt she wanted to read at that point. She feels that, while none of her characters mirror her exactly, different characters did inherit different personality traits of hers. Read the book to find out more! (We do have an autographed copy in the Club Library.) Career-wise, Stefanie would like to continue writing. She has an, as yet, untitled sequel in the works; she spent the recent summer holidays planning it out, and there may be more to come! She has fun and enjoys the process of coming up with different ideas and working them into a plot, and also has ideas apart from the Crescent storyline that she would like to explore. You can catch up with her on her blog at www.stefaniemulder.com We wish Stefanie the very best with the success of this book, and with all her future writing. Continuing with our articles on the volunteers on the Committees, which keep the Hollandse Club machine moving smoothly, in this issue we highlight the Kids’ and the Teens’ Committees.
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 ___________ NEW ENGLISH BOOKS ____________
“The Girl in the Spider’s Web” by David Lagercrants
Continuing Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series.This is the fourth book after “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”
“Steve Jobs”
“Edge of Eternity” by Ken Follet
This is the final volume in “The Century trilogy”
“Paper Towns”
by Jessie Hartland
by John Green
A graphic biography. How did someone so rebellious become the world’s best businessman?
Not only clever and witty but also deeply thoughtful and insightful.
“Go Set a Watchman” by Harper Lee
Author of “To Kill a Mockingbird”
“Percy Jackson and the Greek Heroes” by Rick Riordan
Epic heroes and legendary adventures.
We do have Sint Nicolaas and Christmas books in the Library We wish our readers a happy and healthy 2016. See you in the library!
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____________ DUTCH BOOKS (ADULTS) __________
“Het Meisje in deTrein”
“Een Verzonnen Leven”
geschreven door Paula Hawkins
geschreven door Karine Tuil
Een spannend boek en totaal onvoorspelbaar.
Een rijke roman ,die niet alleen sociaal geengageerd is en dicht op onze tijd zit,maar ook reflecteert op de positie van de vrouw en die van de schrijver.
“De Beer” door Claire Cameron
Een krachtig verbeelde overlevingstocht gezien door de ogen van een kind,van 5 jaar,indrukwekkend
“Een Royale Portie Meeuwen” door Sylvia Witteman
Is de koningin van de geestige overdrijving.
__________ DUTCH BOOKS (CHILDREN) __________
“Zo Zijn Ouders”
“Het Wonder Van Baarn” “Computerheks in de Sneeuw”
door Peter Bentley &Sara Ogilvie
door Co de Kloet &Leo Boudewijns
Ouders kun je voor alles gebruiken.,in dit boek kom je erachter waar ouders allemaal goed voor zijn.
Magische reizen van Thomas en Sanne.
“De Kleine Heksenschool” door Maeve Friel
Jessica maakt toverdrankjes op een speciaal heksen school.
door Francine Oomen
Speciaal voor heksen wintersportplaats Hecksbruck.
“Spookverhalen” door Cordula Tollmien
Korte spannende verhalen ,durf jij ze te lezen?
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By Nina Gunasingham
Benjamin Foo, former Executive Vice President of the Singapore Exchange, has written a book, combining corporate and entrepreneur mindsets, to inspire people to reach further and achieve faster in life.
What inspired Benjamin Foo to write the book?
Life is full of challenges and often seems impossible, but Foo has an optimistic outlook and believes that there are limitless possibilities out there that we can all achieve. The book provides hope and practical steps to turn those challenges into positives, hence the title of his book.
Secondly, it enables me to draw from my wealth of experience to uniquely combine the power of both the corporate and entrepreneur mindsets into practical principles that will take people to higher levels of achievement.
There are four key ideas to the book. It encourages people: to think bigger again and not give up on their dreams; to get outstanding results by pushing their boundaries; to reach their fullest potential; and to transform their financial future by smart actions. Read more about Ipossible at http://blackcardbooks. com/authors/benjamin-foo/ and come down to the Library to borrow our autographed copy!
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Firstly, the book is driven by my vision and passion to build people, teams, businesses and organizations to achieve fulfilling personal and corporate objectives.
Thirdly, I wanted to create a powerful tool that can be a virtual mentor or coach to help thousands especially young adults with practical advice and insights that will change and empower them to reach their fullest possibilities.
RECIPROCAL ARRANGEMENTS AFFILIATE GOLF CLUBS
AFFILIATE SOCIAL CLUBS IN SINGAPORE
Hollandse Club members have privileged golf rates at golf clubs* in and around Singapore. Call the Sports department at 6461 1127 or email sportsrec@hollandseclub.org.sg for further information.
• NTU Alumni Club – www.ntualumni.org.sg • Changi Sailing Club – www.csc.org.sg
The following clubs are involved: • Orchid Country Club, Singapore (Weekdays) • Sembawang Country Club, Singapore (Weekdays) • Warren Golf & Country Club, Singapore (Weekdays & Sunday afternoons) • Indah Putri, Batam – Indonesia • IOI Palm Villa Golf & Country Resort, Johor – Malaysia • Horizon Hills Resort Berhad, Johor – Malaysia • Palm Resorts, Johor – Malaysia • Macau Golf & Country Club, Macau – China
RECIPROCAL CLUBS: INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATE CLUBS
Hollandse Club members can also enjoy access to all clubs under International Associate Clubs worldwide. Refer to www.iacworldwide.com for the list of clubs and services. *Terms & Conditions only.
RECIPROCAL CLUBS
Hollandse Club members enjoy access to premier international reciprocal clubs offering excellent standards of Food & Beverage outlets and recreational facilities (including golf). Feel free to contact the Membership department at 6461 1139 or email sales@hollandseclub.org.sg for further information. Australia
The Commercial Club (Albury Ltd) The City Tattersalls Club Royal Automobile Club of Australia (RACA) Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Tamworth Golf Club
Albury Sydney Sydney Melbourne West Tamworth
www.commclubalbury.com.au www.citytatts.com.au www.raca.com.au www.racv.com.au www.tamworthgolfclub.com.au
Brunei
The Royal Brunei Yacht Club
Jalan Kota Batu
www.therbyc.com
Canada
Hollyburn Country Club
Vancouver
www.hollyburn.org
China
Ambassy Club Almeria Private Clubs Old Chengdu Club Naga Club Han Yuan Club Stone Mountain Golf Club & Resort Placid Rivers Club
Shanghai
www.ambassyclub.com.cn www.worldclubnet.com
Hong Kong
www.fcchk.org www.butterfields.com.hk
Hong Kong Football Club United Services Recreation Club Pacific Club Macau Golf & Country Club
Central City TaiKoo Place, Quarry Bay Happy Valley Kowloon Kowloon Macau
India
Golden Swan Country Club
Thane
www.goldenswan.com
Indonesia
Southlinks Country Club Indah Putri Golf Resort
Batam Batam
www.southlinksgolf.com www.indahpuri.com
Japan
Kobe Club Tokyo American Club Yokohama Country & Athletic Club
Kobe Tokyo Yokohama
www.kobeclub.org www.tac-club.org www.ycac.or.jp
Malaysia
The Raintree Club Royal Lake Club Kelab Renang Pulau Pinang Horizon Hills Golf Resort 101 Palm Villa Golf & Country Resort
Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur Penang Johor Johor
www.raintreeclub.net www.royallakeclub.org.my www.penangswimclub.com www.hhgcc.com.my www.palmvilla.com.my
Netherlands
De Industrieele Groote De Witte Societeit
Amsterdam The Hague
www.igc.nl www.societeitdewitte.nl
Norway
Shipping Klubben
Oslo
www.shippingklubben.no
Philippines
The Manila Club Nomad Sports Club
Makati City Metro Manila
www.themanilaclub.com www.normadsportclub.com
Qatar
The Doha Club
Doha
www.doha-club.com
Singapore*
The Japanese Association*
Adam Road
www.jas.org.sg
South Africa
The Cape Town Club
Cape Town
www.capetownclub.org.za
Thailand
Banyan Golf Club The British Club
Hua Hin Bangkok
www.banyanthailand.com www.britishclubbangkok.org
United Arab Emirates
The Club, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
www.the-club.com
United Kingdom
St. James’ Club The Lansdowne Club
London London
www.stjamesclubandhotel.co.uk www.lansdowne-club.co.uk
*F&Batatthese these clubs only. *F&B clubs only.
Foreign Correspondents’ Club Butterfield’s
Chengdu Beijing Suzhou Dali Beijing
www.hkfc.com.hk www.usrc.org.hk www.pacificclub.com.hk www.mgccmacau.com
Tee off with ADB! AdB Golf tournament
Why should you join the AdB?
ADB invites her members to come play 9 holes for the afternoon; non-golfers are very welcome at our special golf-clinic. There will be a putting contest for all and of course we will end with drinks and some food at the pitoresque Picotin restaurant.
ADB offers not only a platform to share knowledge and experience of doing business in Asia, but also:
• Inspires through company visits, cultural visits and lectures;
• Encourages personal development through panel discussions held by members, prominent Dutch and non-Dutch business people and industry experts;
• Facilitates networking at our monthly events, annual dinner & dance and during casual drinks;
Date:
• Gives the opportunity to converse with Dutch
Friday 13 November 2015, 03:30 pm - 08:00 pm
politicians, visiting Singapore;
• Keeps you informed through our bimonthly More details on timing & venue will follow via email invitations and our website: www.adb.org.sg.
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ADB Magazine full of Dutch news with a Singaporean twist.
“Connecting Dutch business people in Singapore”
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