Frontline Jan/Feb 2013 by HomeTeamNS

frontline The magazine for

JAN/FEB 2013

Two Home Team couples tell us why love is more than a walk in the park Shall We Dance?

Get groovy with some hip moves

Start 2013 with a Bang! What you can do in the new year

Off the Eaten Track Ulu eats that are sure to delight

SINGAPORE

frontline The magazine for

Feel the love in this issue of Frontline! Two Home Team couples share how they keep the flame of love strong and what keeps them going as partners – both at home and at work! Get groovy with your other half as you learn a new dance (or find a partner there), dress your home right for 2013, and have a fun start to the new year with activities for the entire family! Also don’t forget to check out great NS45 offers on page 16. Enjoy!

Jan/feB 2013

Two Home Team couples tell us why love is more than a walk in the park Shall we Dance?

Get groovy with some hip moves

Start 2013 with a Bang! What you can do in the new year

Off the eaten track

Ulu eats that are sure to delight

On the cover: Making love work as Home Team couples (L-R): INSP Jude Sherman D’Cruz, 31; SGT Diana Janelle Sumathi, 30; CPT Lillian Cheah, 31; and CPT (NS) Koh Chee Wee, 32.

– The Editorial Team

02 Cover Story

18 What’s On

04 Get Active

20 Birthday Treats

06 Tech Watch

24 Perks & Privileges

08 Young Talent 10 Food Spy

28 In the Force

Family Fun

32 Club News

Dress the Part

36 Shot-Sighted

Home Team couples share how they make love work

Courses and events at Balestier and Bukit Batok clubhouses

Get your groove on with these dances

Celebrate your special day with exciting privileges

Check out the best gadgets on the go

14 Happy New Year! The HomeTeamNS management and staff wish all our members a happy, healthy and prosperous 2013!

EDITORIAL ADVISORS PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT VICE-PRESIDENT GENERAL SECRETARY TREASURER GENERAL MANAGER ASST GENERAL MANAGER

Exclusive promos and discounts for members

Inspiring lads from the SCDF and SPF

What’s happening in MHA, SPF and SCDF

Ulu gems that are a little off the eaten track

Highlights of HTNS’ past events

Activities to welcome 2013 with a blast

Send us your best shot and win a prize!

Get a fresh home for the new year

CNY Clubhouse Closure Notice All HomeTeamNS clubhouses will operate till 1pm on 9 February and will be closed on 10 and 11 February. All chalets will be closed from 9 to 12 February. We will resume bookings on 13 February (Wednesday).

Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs Mr Ng Joo Hee, SPF Commissioner Mr Eric Yap, SCDF Commissioner DAC Manimaran Pushpanatan LTC Lee Bee Hong Mr Jeffrey Tan Ms Amanda Tan

Publishing Agent GEneral manager Business development Publishing services

Editorial director PROJECT EDITOR Senior designer contributing designer

Joui Ong Betty Liswanty Doreen Lau Rod Mackenzie Jeffrey Kong Stephanie Lim Sharon Ang

HomeTeamNS Editorial Committee CHAIRMAN SAC Jackson Lim EDITORIAL Priscilla Leong, Sun Weiying, Risdawatie Idris, Eric Yeong (HomeTeamNS), Diana Yuen (SCDF), Shanaz Thoufeekh (SPF) CONTACT NUMBERS Tel: 6665-4600 (main line) Fax: 6569-4453

Advertising Contact media Specialist Edwina Chan Tel: 6735-8681 (ext. 304) Email: edwina.chan@publicitas.com

HomeTeamNS BUKIT BATOK CLUBHOUSE 2 Bukit Batok West Ave 7, Singapore 659003 www.HomeTeamNS.sg

Publicitas Publishing Pte Ltd 21 Merchant Road, #02-02 Royal Merukh S.E.A. Building, Singapore 058267 Tel: +65 6735-8681 Fax: +65 6634-5433 www.publicitas.com/PublishingAsia Email: frontline@publicitas.com

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/hometeamns

MICA (P) 170/01/2013. Frontline is the official publication of HomeTeamNS. Published for HomeTeamNS by Publicitas Publishing Pte Ltd. (Co. Registration no.: 200715901E) All rights to this publication may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publishers. Printed by KHL Printing Co. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this newsletter is accurate and up to date, the editorial committee will not be responsible for errors made as a result of information received. Opinions expressed are that of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of the publishers.

COVER STORY

Love Starts at Home Two young couples share their journey in love

What’s it like for a couple to be both from the Home Team? Two young couples share with Frontline how they met, fell in love and what they do to keep their love going strong.

Partners at home and work Lillian and Chee Wee were from the same Basic Officer’s Course in 2005. It was only after the course, when Lillian had a short attachment at Paya Lebar Fire Station where Chee Wee was based, that they got to know each other better. “It was also around that time that we broke up with our respective partners then,” said Lillian. “So our relationship developed from there, and we finally got married in 2008.” Diana and Jude were in different squads at the Police Academy in 2001, and both were later posted to Clementi Division. “We

CPT Lillian Cheah, 31 Community Involvement Officer, 3rd Div Public Affairs Branch, SCDF CPT (NS) Koh Chee Wee, 32 Deputy Commander, Marina Bay Fire Station, SCDF Daughter Alicia, 2 and another on the way

dated for around a month and then went our separate ways,” said Diana. “But we got back again two years later in 2003 and we got married in 2007. It’s been five happy years and we now have two kids!” So how does it feel to be both from the Home Team? “We’re both proud to be doing our part for the nation,” said Chee Wee. “Lillian handles community involvement at the 3rd CD Division, while I serve as Deputy Commander of Marina Bay Fire Station as an ORNSman.” Being both from the Home Team has also helped Diana and Jude. “It’s easier for us to understand each other when we come back late or need to do shift work,” said Jude. “So we are fortunate that we do not have any disagreement when it comes to our work.”

SGT Diana Janelle Sumathi, 30 Personal Security Officer, Police Security Command, SPF INSP Jude Sherman D’Cruz, 31 Team Leader, Queenstown Neighbourhood Police Centre, Clementi Division, SPF Daughter Julia Shannon, 3 and son Joshua Sherman, 2

Making love work How do our couples keep the flame of love alive? It’s all in the little things.

WORDS JEFFREY KONG PHOTOS LONG FEI/T2 PICTURES

“We still hold hands (now together with our daughter) when we go out,” said Chee Wee. “Small gestures like hugs and kisses and saying ‘I love you’ every day let us know we’re here for each other.” A surprise every now and then also helps. “Diana will send me gifts out of the blue,” said Jude, “such as cards and albums she made herself. I would fill my office with them!” Time out as a couple is important as well. “Life has become more challenging since our daughter came along,” said Lillian. “When our girl is taking her afternoon nap or asleep at night, we try to spend some couple time just chatting with each other.” Diana and Jude make it a point to go on short holidays without the kids. “We ‘steal’ some time off when we can, such as going for a late supper when the kids are asleep.” Both couples also take part in HomeTeamNS activities and use the clubhouse facilities. “We attend the Home Team Family Day whenever we can, and we’ve taken part in the REAL Run many times,” said Lillian. Diana also brings her young ones to swim at the Balestier clubhouse. “We’re going to take up bowling next – the kids can join us when they’re older!”

Love bites Our couples reveal what they love about their other half! Lillian: Chee Wee puts up with all my complaints and he’s always there for me, no matter what happens. He also helps me with all the housework and taking care of our girl. Chee Wee: Lillian is thoughtful in taking care of our family and she always has kind words for me. She also gives me space to enjoy my favourite sports and pastimes. Diana: Jude is a cool dude who always has everything under control. He’s a doting father, the kids love him, and he always makes me smile. He’s also quite handsome. Jude: Diana is full of love for our family. They say there’s a woman behind every successful man, and she’s been really supportive of me. I also love her enchanting eyes.

GET ACTIVE

Shall We Dance?

Get your groove on and have fun at the same time! Move Like a Sir

Baby (Dance) Steps

Ballroom Dancing Singapore It’s sophistication and elegance at its best. Ballroom dancing dates back to the 16th century and is one of the most classic dances out there. Plus, the fact that you need someone to dance with means you get to spend time with your partner – or possibly find one during lessons!

Kids Performing Academy of the Arts This one’s for the kids! Specialising in courses just for children, Kids Performing Academy of the Arts offers dance courses where the young ones learn to dance to the music of their fave pop stars like Justin Bieber in “kiddy pop” class, pick up funky moves in hip-hop class, or even start young with one of the coolest forms of dance – jazz.

Aye Carumba, It’s Zumba A Swingin’ Good Time Zumba by 1fiesta at HomeTeamNS Zumba is a Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness programme pioneered by Alberto "Beto" Perez during the 1990s – he “accidentally” created zumba because he had forgotten to bring his music tapes to his class and ended up having to improvise using some old tapes he had in his bag! 1fiesta offers various types of zumba classes. With morning and evening options every day, you can join the party anytime.

Jitterbugs Swingapore Pick up cool, smooth moves with Lindy Hop, the original form of jive – a popular fast dance which was hot back in the 1940s and 1950s. For Jitterbugs Swingapore’s Lindy Hop classes, authentic jazz steps are the focus and lessons guarantee a swingin’ good time for you and your partner!

Do the K-wave

Dance Your Way to Bollywood!

Dance Factory Singapore If you’re crazy about K-pop or absolutely fascinated with their wicked moves, why not do as they do and get into the K-pop groove? Dance Factory Singapore specialises in K-pop and hip-hop dance classes. Located in the heartlands of Singapore, you can now easily learn popping, locking, krumping and many other techniques that’ll make you a pro K-pop dancer in no time.

Bollywood Dance at HomeTeamNS It’s fun, it’s expressive and it sure uses a lot of energy – Bollywood dancing is a wholesome activity that demands 100 percent of your body, mind and soul to really feel the rhythm and beats. Another great thing about Bollywood dancing is the cultural aspect. How many dances out there can help you drop the pounds and teach you a thing or two about a whole new culture?

Pole Groovin’ Bobbi's Pole Studio Pole dancing isn’t the easiest type of dance out there – take one look at the many different poses and you can tell this is not for the faint-hearted. But the feel-good factor and that extra boost of confidence really is priceless! Bobbi’s Pole Studio Singapore gives both men and women the chance to learn pole dancing from professionally trained instructors. So go ahead and let loose! www.bobbispolestudio.com.sg

tech watch

Gadgets on the Go All the tools you need to be cool when you’re out there!

Get connected Eye-Fi Wi-Fi SD Card Never run out of space with your digital camera! The Eye-Fi SD memory card automatically connects to your smartphone, tablet or computer and transfers photos (in batches) as you snap away. For complete peace of mind, you can subscribe to the Eye-Fi Premium service to back up the photos in the cloud. $116 for 8GB card at eXpansys (www.expansys.com.sg) www.eye.fi

Innergie Pocketcell Charger Out of battery while out and about? The rechargeable Pocketcell can charge most popular gadgets on the go, even the demanding iPad. The 3-in-1 USB cable included practically eliminates the need to bring separate charging cables – except for the new Apple lightning USB cable that’s currently exclusive to Apple. $79 at major gadget shops and electronics stores www.myinnergie.com

Get entertained Google Nexus 7 This baby is a sleek, lightweight tablet with a quality seven-inch screen and excellent build, all at an affordable price. Enjoy games, e-books, videos and surf away on the Nexus 7. Load it with educational games and cartoons and it becomes great entertainment for kids – perfect to keep them occupied on the go! From $349 (16GB, Wi-Fi only) at Challenger and other electronics stores www.google.com/nexus

Crabble Smartphone Stand Watching videos when outside? Go handsfree with this portable video stand for smartphones. Cradling a phone in a Crabble to take pictures of small objects will also minimise any shaking, resulting in sharper pictures. Great for tweeting or pinning that casual cafe food pic. $12 from Seskimo www.seskimo.com/crabble.php

Paperwallet A minimalist recyclable wallet that features designs from artists around the world, Paperwallet is made from Tyvek, a durable material used in construction that’s water and tear resistant and yet feels like paper. From $20 at Paperwallet and selected gift shops www.paperwallet.com

Cocoon Grid-IT Organiser Are things getting lost in your bag? The Grid-IT helps mobile warriors keep things tidy and accessible. The crisscrossing elastic bands lets you get a good grip on your stuff and organise them just the way you want it. From $15 at ESA Distribution (www.esadistribution.com) www.cocooninnovations.com/grid.php

WORDS Wl

Get organised

LaCie Xtremkey USB Drive Fancy a virtually indestructible flash drive? Then the sleek all-metal Xtremkey is for you. Resistant to heat, cold, water, pressure and falls, you can count on it to safeguard all your precious memories, such as that vacation video you just took. $48 for 16GB drive at eXpansys (www.expansys.com.sg) www.lacie.com

Apple 5W USB adapter This is a compact yet sturdy charger for your gadgets. Although Apple recommends it only for Apple devices, this would work with devices that supports charging through a standard USB port. The usual “do so at your own risk” applies. $28 from Apple resellers or Apple online store www.apple.com

Motorola S10-HD Bluetooth Earphones Whether you’re jogging or on a journey, these stylish earphones brings music to your ears and allows you to answer calls – all without any messy wires. The S10-HD connects via Bluetooth to most smartphones and tablets and is sweat resistant, which is great for us folks on the equator. $110 at Harvey Norman and other electronics stores www.motorola.com

SwissCard Lite by Victorinox Need a pen, scissors, tweezers or a screwdriver? Fit all these in the space of a credit card with the SwissCard. Whether it’s to pick out a splinter or tighten the screw of your spectacles, you don’t realise how handy a SwissCard is until you leave home without it. $57 at many DIY or traveller shops and department stores www.victorinox.com Note: Prices correct as at time of print.

young talent — sCDF

life on the line

LTA Mohammad Sayraz Khan has a burning passion for saving lives

This is a true story of how an obese recruit overcame the odds to become a top firefighter. LTA Mohammad Sayraz Khan tells Frontline why he puts his life on the line to keep us safe. What do you do in the SCDF? I’m currently a Rota Commander at the Fire and Rescue Training Centre, Civil Defence Academy. Here I train a platoon of around 30 recruits to be firefighters at our fire stations. I’m also the Course Administrator of the 50th Fire Fighter Course, where I plan and manage the training of 140 trainees. What drives you to excel in what you do? During my PTP phase as an obese recruit, my instructors motivated me to train hard. I lost 18kg and was selected to join the 5th Section Commander Course. I eventually got the “Best in Practical” award and achieved Silver in IPPT. When I was posted to Changi Fire Station as a Section Commander, I responded to fire and rescue incidents, and this made me realise the importance of SCDF in times of crisis. Then I was selected to cross over to the 4th Rota Commander Course, where I managed to achieve IPPT Gold and graduate as a Senior Officer.

Any advice for aspiring firefighters? Be fit in both body and mind. This is a job that demands both physical and mental strength – you’ll be entering a burning building when everyone else is getting out of it! Have passion in your work and realise that lives are at stake in every operation, every day.

LTA Mohammad Sayraz Khan Amiruddin Age 23 Appointment Rota Commander, Civil Defence Academy, SCDF Specialties Fire and rescue training, course management Achievements • Awarded Best in Practical in the 5th Section Commander Course • Awarded SCDF Service Excellence Award in 2012

WORDS JEFFREY KONG PHOTOs long fei/t2 pictures

What’s next in your career? I have a Higher Nitec in Mechanical Engineering, but I know a better qualification is important if I want to be a regular Senior Officer in the SCDF. So I got a place in Singapore Polytechnic to do a diploma in Aerospace Engineering, and I’m glad to have done well enough to go straight into the second year of the course.

young talent — spf

right on the bat SC2 (NS) Irfan Nasir bends it like Beckham on the cricket pitch

To SC2 (NS) Irfan Nasir, sports is all about perseverance and playing fair. The national cricketer is now a coach for several schools including Tanglin Trust School, National Junior College and ACS (International). What do you do in the SPF? I was an Assistant Finance Officer in the Police Technology Department. How did you get started in cricket? I started cricket when I was ten. My dad used to play for cricket clubs in Singapore, and he introduced the game to me. My elder brother was a national player for Singapore. So they influenced me to pick up the game. I am an off spin bowler, and my job is to make it difficult for the batsman to hit the ball. How did you become so good in what you do? I take cricket seriously and I train hard. I’ve always pushed myself as a player and I want to improve all the time. I train three times a week with the national team, and on weekends I play for my club, the SCA Colts. I also played for the police team during my NS days. What’s next in your cricket career? There’s still some way to go, but I’d like to be able to go overseas (England) and play professional cricket if given the chance. It’s always been my dream to play professional cricket. Any advice for aspiring cricketers? It’s important to train hard. Hard work always pays off in the end. Even if you don’t see the results now, it’ll pay off eventually. Don’t be disheartened if you’re not selected for certain tournaments and tours. Keep persevering. Finally, always fair and clean, as this is what sports is all about.

SC2 (NS) Mohd Irfan Nasir Madakia Age 23 Appointment Asst Finance Officer, Police Technology Department, SPF Specialties Cricket Achievements • Asian Cricket Council All-Star Team 2005 • U-23 team captain for Singapore national cricket team 2011 • Champion, ICC (International Cricket Council) World Cricket League Division 5 Champion 2012

food spy

Off the Eaten Track Check out these ulu eats with our resident foodie and the HomeTeamNS Auto Adventure Club

Where 340/342 Bedok Road Open Mon–Sun 10am–6am Prices $2.60 for golden sand bun (2 pcs), $3.50 for har kow (3 pcs)

(3) Nasi Lemak Kukus This place is known for its free flow of nasi lemak, but this is no ordinary coconut rice. The fragrance of the lemak shines through in the fluffy rice, which is painstakingly steamed instead of being cooked in water (hence “kukus”). Another winner is their delightful sweet and spicy sambal – also free flow – and the funky and relaxed setting makes it a great place to supper with family and friends. Wash it all down with their Vietnamese drip coffee. Where 908 Upper Thomson Road Open Tue–Sun 6pm–3am Prices $4 for chicken wing set, $2.50 for Vietnamese drip coffee

(5) Sunset Grill & Pub Known for its spicy buffalo wings, Sunset Grill has moved from Seletar Airbase to the slightly more accessible neighbourhood of Jalan Kayu (hurray!). Choose from levels one to ten for the buffalo wings, which go really well with the chile con carne, while mushroom lovers should try the deep fried button mushrooms. Where 259 Jalan Kayu Open Mon/Wed/Thu/Sun 4pm–9.30pm, Fri/Sat 4pm–10pm (closed on Tuesdays) Prices $18.70 for buffalo wings (6 pcs), $17 for chile con carne, $16.50 for deep fried button mushrooms www.sunsetgrillandpub.com

(2) Omakase Burger This is for real burger fans. Here they roll handmade US beef patties into a ball and then smash them penyet-style, which makes them crisp outside and oozing with juicy flavour inside. There’s also a Mini-Me Kids Meal to keep the young ones happy. A real gem of a find in the former Turf City. Where 200 Turf Club Rd #01-05 The Grandstand Open Mon–Sun 11am–10pm Prices $13.90 for Omakase Cheeseburger, $14.90 for Oven-Baked Parmesan Chicken, $13.90 for MiniMe Kids Meal, $4.90 for sweet potato fries www.omakaseburger.com

(4) Lim Seng Lee Duck Rice Eating House This is one of the best places to have duck rice in Singapore. The thinly sliced meat drenched in smooth braise sauce taste more tender than chicken, and the accompanying rice or porridge is instant gratification. The portions are not big, and the service can be lacking at times, but the taste alone is compelling enough for many to make the long drive down. Where 38 South Buona Vista Road Open Tue–Sat 10.30am–8.30pm Prices From around $10 for a duck meat platter for two Poison Ivy Bistro This is just about as far-flung as you can get in Singapore. At this homely restaurant at Bollywood Veggies, the food is picked right from the backyard, so it’s reassuringly fresh and free of pesticides. After a good lunch of curry and sweet potato leaves, you can have a free stroll at the back of the plantation and enjoy the fresh air. Parking is free. Where 100 Neo Tiew Road Open Wed–Sun 9am–6.30pm Prices $4 for starters, $6 for mains www.bollywoodveggies.com

Join the HomeTeamNS Auto Adventure Club! Hungry for more? Established in 2004, the AAC conducts regular road trips to Malaysia to explore popular local food, places of interest and shopping malls in different states and cities. We welcome you to join us! Email Eric Tan at eric_tan@hometeamns.sg to find out more.

WORDS WINNIE KOH, LOK WENG HOE, PAUL PHUNG PHOTOS WINNIE KOH, JEFFREY KONG, OMAKASE BURGER

(1) Enak Enak Hong Kong Tea House A surprise find in the enclave of Muslim restaurants in Simpang Bedok, this almost 24-hour place serves Western food, tze char and dim sum as well. The golden sand bun is satisfying enough, although it could have come with a little more filling. One of the few places where you can find halal dim sum in Singapore.

family fun

Activities to usher in the new year with a bang! Joy Ride

Skyline Luge Sentosa Have fun with gravity together! At Skyline Luge Sentosa, have the ride of your life downhill in a luge car, then soak in stunning sights as you go back to the starting point in the Skyride ski lift – and do it all again! It’s a breeze to steer and brake the luge, and the mandatory helmets and safety demo by the staff make this safe fun for the entire family.

Hit the Trail

NHB Fun on Foot – Civic District Walk Do you know what are the nine major faiths in Singapore? Learn about religious harmony the fun way with the “Fun on Foot – Civic District” trail marked out by the National Heritage Board. Go to the NHB Heritage Trails website for the list of worship landmarks, plan your route together as a family, mark it out on Google Maps on your mobile and hit the road – useful practice for future free-and-easy trips out of Singapore! When Anytime Where Around town Fees Free

Blast from the Past

Science Time Capsule Exhibition What better way to start the new year… than to look back in wonder at the past! Take a walk down memory lane with the Science Time Capsule at the Science Centre. Check out the cutting-edge technology from the 1970s and 1980s – cassette tape recorders, typewriters and film cameras – and find out how much an ice cream cost in 1973! This is probably the closest thing to a Time-Turner right here in Singapore. When Till 31 January Where Science Centre Singapore Fees $12 for adults, $8 for children (3–12 years) www.sciencecapsule.com.sg

WORDS WINNIE KOH PHOTOS JEFFREY KONG, CHINGAY 2013, WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE, SKYLINE LUGE SENTOSA

When 10am–9.30pm daily Where Sentosa Imbiah Lookout Fees $12.50 for one Luge and Skyride per person www.skylineluge.com/luge-singapore

Fire on Parade

Chingay 2013 Join more than 150,000 spectators in the multicultural extravaganza of the year! The theme for this year’s parade is “Fire in Snow”, where fiery passion overcomes the cold of hardship. Witness the procession turn into an ocean of fire as 3,000 performers light up their fire pots, with all races adding to the fun with their floats and colours. You can also contribute to the flames of hope by donating your used woks and pots at 30 community centres! Visit www.chingay.org.sg/2013/activities. asp for details. When 22 and 23 February at 8pm Where F1 Pit Building (next to Singapore Flyer) Fees From $28.50 at www.sistic.com.sg (PAssion Card holders enjoy 20% discount) www.chingay.org.sg

Catch a Block-buster

The Art of the Brick Exhibition What can you build with little plastic bricks? Plenty, it seems, if you’re a LEGO® expert like Nathan Sawaya. At the ArtScience Museum, catch his six-metre T-Rex skeleton and other thought-provoking sculptures that elevate the humble brick to the realm of art. You’ll also get to play with bricks of all colours and sizes at the Play and Build area. When Till 14 April Where ArtScience Museum Fees $13 for adults, $8 for children (2–12 years), $12 for senior citizens (over 65 years) www.marinabaysands.com/Singapore-Museum

Hello Panda

Kai Kai and Jia Jia at River Safari Singapore Now there’s no need to fly all the way to Sichuan to catch a glimpse of the giant panda – a poignant symbol of endangered species worldwide. You can get up close to the latest foreign imports from China in their cool $8.6-million home at the River Safari. While you join in the panda-monium, you can also say hi to the golden pheasants and red pandas that share their enclosure. When 8.30am–6pm daily Where Giant Panda Forest at River Safari Singapore (via Singapore Zoo) Fees Standard zoo admission plus add-on tickets to panda exhibit: $25 for adults, $16 for children (3–12 years) pandas.riversafari.com.sg

dress the part

Dress Your Home Right Start afresh for 2013 with these simple tips!

Spring cleaning may sound like a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Break the job into small parts by tackling one room at a time. It’s also easier if you resolve to clean your home for 15 minutes every day, instead of doing it in one fell swoop. Here are four triedand-tested tips to make your home new again!

Put like with like Streamline your belongings by ridding yourself of volume. Classify all items like wires, food types and clothing according to their function. You’d be surprised how many similar items you really have!

Settle it right here, right now Be brutal. Don’t put off deciding whether something should be done, such as filing some documents or repairing some items that you “haven’t had the time” to do so. Let’s not kid ourselves – you’ll never get around to doing it, so you might as well throw it all away.

Don’t keep it if you don’t need it Not sure whether to keep or throw something? Ask yourself how much you think you’ll use it in future. Does that justify the space it’s taking up now? Think of yourself as a landlord and your items as hoarders, and you’ll know who are the “freeloaders” to kick out. If it’s too good to throw away, donate it.

De-clutter in layers and laps When you clean your home, you’re also peeling back the layers of your life. When it comes to precious photos and documents, you’ll need a little more time to stroll down memory lane. Have a vision of the life you want, and the person you want to be. Does the item fit into that vision? If not, time to let it go.

WORDS MADELINE LIN PHOTOS FRANCFRANC SINGAPORE, HOWARDS STORAGE WORLD, IKANO GROUP SINGAPORE, MERGE LIVING, MOLECULE, MONOYONO

Zing Up Your Home! Make your home your own with colour, light and textures. When it comes to colour, do you prefer your home in analogous (similar) hues like yellow and orange, or complementary shades like red and green? Your choice of lights, be it fluorescent and LED overheads or floor and table lamps, can impart an industrial or cosy feel, so choose carefully. Curtains or a statement rug provide texture that add warmth and focal points in a room, while throw cushions give your room accent pops. 2

Furnish with Funk!

Bedroom Get that edgy industrial look with this mirror. 140cm x 140cm. 8

(3) Mirror Coccio, $1,650, Merge Living

Free up working space with this handy shelf-desk unit. W142cm x H75cm. (5) Fhu Desk, $1,609, Francfranc

Kitchen Keep your food fresh and found with these food and space savers. (4) IKEA 365+ food container, $2.90, IKEA (6) IKEA 365+ jar with lid, $5.90, IKEA (7) ISTAD plastic bag, $3.90 for 50 pieces, IKEA

Bathroom Stack it vertical with this compact and portable stand. (8) 4 Tier Bamboo Stand, $89.95, Howards Storage World

For the Living Room Go retro with these beautiful 1950s-style sofas. (1) Mini Mustang 2 Seater in baby blue with ivory piping, $228, Monoyono

Add a modern gothic charm with some cool bling. (2) Lamp Chandelier Gypsy White 6-Arms, $350, Molecule

what’s on

Celebrate NS45

Enjoy great offerings from HomeTeamNS!

n view of the recent announcement from MINDEF and MHA to reward all NSmen for their contributions to the nation, HomeTeamNS will be offering additional exclusive perks for SPF and SCDF NSmen! In addition to the entitled benefits which NSmen can enjoy, there will be another fabulous membership upgrading option for

NSmen to choose from. NSmen will benefit from remarkable savings when they opt for the longer term membership. All NSmen should expect to receive the notification letters from January 2013 onwards, informing them of their entitlements as well as the option for them to upgrade their membership. The details of the respective benefits and options are as follows:

Entitlement Your NS status

HomeTeamNS offer Remaining value of voucher

Membership package

Value of voucher

NSmen who had completed their ORNS Cycle

One-year HomeTeamNS membership

$100

NSmen who are currently serving ORNS

One-year HomeTeamNS membership

$80

Ex-NSmen who did not complete their ORNS

N.A.

$80

Upgrade to a 2-year HomeTeamNS-PAssion membership at $20

$60

NSF

N.A.

$50

N.A.

$50

Membership package

$60 Upgrade to a 5-year HomeTeamNS-PAssion membership at only $40 (U.P. $100) $40

Upon receiving the notification letters, NSmen who are not existing HomeTeamNS members can opt in for the membership through these channels: • Complete the enclosed opt-in form and fax/mail it back via the postage free reply service • Apply online via the HomeTeamNS NS45 web portal at www.HomeTeamNS45.sg • Walk in at our clubhouses at Bukit Batok, Balestier, Sembawang and Chinatown For NSmen who are existing HomeTeamNS members, the one-year complimentary membership will be automatically added to their current term of membership. For enquiries, call 6868-9234, fax to 6862-6601 or email NS45@HomeTeamNS.sg How to get your NS45 benefits! It’s as easy as 1-2-3-4 on www.HomeTeamNS45.sg:

Acknowledgement Get instant acknowledgement

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• The first 3,000 NSmen who upgrade to the 5-year membership will receive an exclusive gift. • There is a special lucky draw for NSmen who upgrade their membership by 30 June 2013 – there are 10 iPad Minis to be given away!

what’s on

Time to Transform We’re upgrading our HomeTeamNS clubhouses!

To stay relevant and to better serve our NSmen, we are upgrading our HomeTeamNS clubhouses in Chinatown, Bukit Batok and Balestier. This transformation is due to be completed between 2014 to 2015. The Chinatown clubhouse will be a social venue for networking, while the Bukit Batok clubhouse will be positioned as a family resort. The Balestier clubhouse will take on the role of the HomeTeamNS corporate headquarters. Also in the pipeline is a new HomeTeamNS clubhouse in Tampines, which is expected to be completed in 2016. These plans were announced on 4 December 2012 by Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Masagos Zulkifli at a graduation parade for almost 600 new police officers.

HomeTeamNS Membership Benefits – At a Glance

1. Periodic promotional tie-ups. Enjoy special discounts and offers from retail shopping outlets, hotels, travel agencies, medical institutions, food and beverage outlets, wellness and more. 2. Use of SAFRA clubhouse facilities at Mount Faber, Tampines, Toa Payoh, Yishun, Town Club (Carpenter Street) and Jurong. Access most of their clubhouse facilities (except gym and jackpot room) at members’ rate. 3. Subsidised golfing at Pulai Spring Country Club (Johor Bahru), Sembawang Country Club and National Service Resort & Country Club. 4. Receive regular updates via bi-monthly Frontline magazine, e-newsletters, website and Facebook. 5. E-rewards programme. Members can accumulate points when they patronise participating outlets within our clubhouses or when they use our facilities. These points can be used to redeem souvenirs and gift items. 6. Sub clubs/interest groups membership. (1) Fitness Workz (2) Air Gun Club (3) Archery Club (4) GolfLinks (5) Auto Adventure Club (6) HTNSpreneur Network (7) REAL Run Club and (8) Practical Shooting Club. 7. Discount shopping scheme. Simply flash your HomeTeamNS membership card to enjoy discounts and special offers at over 300 retail outlets islandwide. Visit www.HomeTeamNS.sg to view list of participating merchants. 8. Affordable low-cost NTUC Income Group Life Insurance Schemes 9. HomeTeamNS-Diners Affinity Card Programme. Enjoy benefits such as welcome cash, rebate on HomeTeamNS membership fees, cash rebate, reward points, 0% interest instalment plans, low interest loans and more. 10. Holiday chalets at HomeTeamNS Adventure Centre, Apartment Units at Port Dickson, Guest Rooms at HomeTeamNS @ Sembawang, HomeTeamNS @ Pasir Ris Chalets and SAFRA’s Bintan Lagoon Golf & Beach Resort Villas. 11. Corporate membership for places of interest. Singapore Flyer, Singapore Science Centre and Snow City. 12. Scholarship programmes with reputable educational institutions such as ACCA, MDIS, UniSIM and Shelton College International – for Ordinary members (PNS/CDNSmen) only. 13. HomeTeamNS birthday treats for members.

Additional Benefits with HomeTeamNS-PAssion Membership Card • Being an EZ-Link payment enabled card, members can tap onto all its payment-related benefits and make e-payment at over 8,300 transaction points, which includes transportation services via MRT and buses as well as retail purchases. • Members can enjoy a much wider range of benefits, as PA has linked up with over 600 PAssion merchant outlets islandwide to offer discount for members. • Enjoy special member rates for all CC courses, activities and facilities as well as at other PA outlets. A further 2% discount will be given if the member uses the PAssion EZ-Link card to make payment. • Earn rebates at retail outlets under Dairy Farm International Holding Ltd, which includes Giant, Shop N Save, Guardian Pharmacy and Cold Storage.

What’s on

BALESTIER CLUBHOUSE For courses at Balestier Clubhouse, please call Eddric at 6353-3131/6351-8139 or email events@hjc.org.sg

BALLET

Saturday Where Dance Studio Duration 10 sessions Tiny Tots (for age 4) When 9.45–10.30am Fees $105 for members $115 for guests Pre-Ballet (for ages 5–6) When 10.45–11.30am Fees $105 for members $115 for guests

Primary Ballet (for ages 6–7) When 11.45am–12.30pm Fees $105 for members $115 for guests Grade One (for ages 7–8) When 12.30–1.30pm Fees $120 for members $125 for guests

For details, call Ms Evangeline Chong at 9734-8983 or email dancingstar.sg@gmail.com

AIKIDO FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN

Friday For ages 5–12 When 7.15–8.15pm For ages 13 and above When 7.15–8.30pm Fees $135 for members $150 for guests Duration 3 months

MUAY THAI

LINE DANCING

Tuesday Beginner When 7.30–8.30pm Intermediate When 8–9pm Where Learning Centre Fees $100 for members $110 for guests Duration 8 sessions

Tuesday and Thursday When 7–9pm Where Dance Studio Fees $50 for members $55 for guests Duration 10 sessions

Aqua-aerobics YOGA

Wednesday When 7.30–9pm Where Learning Centre Fees $65 for members $70 for guests Duration 12 sessions

SWIMMING LESSONs FOR CHILDREN

Saturday and Sunday When Saturday 3–7pm Sunday 10am–12pm and 3–6pm Size 5–10 students Fees $120 for members $140 for guests Duration 10 sessions

Thursday When 7.45–8.45pm Where Swimming Pool Fees $45 for members $55 for guests Duration 4 sessions

For more details, call Ms Jean Tan at 9691-4973 or email jh_jean@yahoo.com.sg

BAZGYM GYMNASTICS SCHOOL Weekdays and weekends Gym Bears (for ages 3–5) Fees $280 for members $290 for guests Duration Minimum 11 sessions Gym Boys/Girls (for ages 6–8) Fees $280 for members $290 for guests Duration Minimum 11 sessions Physio Gym (for ages 5 and above with special needs) Fees $340 for members $350 for guests Duration Minimum 11 sessions

TAEKWONDO

Sunday When 11am–12pm Where Learning Centre Fees $80 for members $90 for guests Duration 10 sessions

JUDO

Sunday When 5–6pm Fees $100 for members $110 for guests Duration 10 sessions

Weekends Mini Bears (for ages 3–4) Fees $315 for members $325 for guests Duration Minimum 11 sessions One-time registration fee $25 for members $50 for guests

For more details on class schedules, call BazGym at 6256-8191

Aqua-Zumba

Monday and Saturday Where Swimming Pool When Monday 8–9pm Saturday 9–10am Size Minimum 6 participants Fees $100 for members $120 for guests Duration 4 sessions

For more details, call Ms Jean Tan at 9691-4973 or email aqua_4fitness@yahoo.com.sg

What’s on

BUKIT BATOK CLUBHOUSE For courses at Bukit Batok Clubhouse, please call Edi at 6665-4609 or email ediyamin@hometeamns.sg

SQUASH

Where Squash Court Junior Course Fees $190 for members $200 for guests Duration 10 sessions Beginner Course (4–8 pax) Fees $75 for members $85 for guests Duration 5 sessions Beginner Course (2 pax) Fees $130 for members $140 for guests Duration 5 sessions Intermediate Course (4 pax) Fees $180 for members $200 for guests Duration 8 sessions Intermediate Course (2 pax) Fees $240 for members $260 for guests Duration 8 sessions

For more details, call Mr Richard Koh at 9664-5536 or email kohxt@pacific.net.sg

Freestyle Rope-Skipping Saturday Children (for ages 7–8) When 4–5pm

Children (for ages 9–11) When 5–6pm Where Function Room Fees $100 for members $110 for guests Duration 8 sessions

For more details, call Mr Hansen Bay at 9793-9745 or email hansen@vitagefitness.com

BODY TONING Saturday When 10.30–11.30am Where Dance Studio Fees $90 for members $100 for guests Duration 10 sessions

For more details, call Ms Shirley Tan at 9744-1772 or email slq7277@hotmail.com

PERSONAL TRAINING

Where Gymnasium One-to-one Fees $20 for members $25 for guests Duration Minimum 5 sessions Group (2 pax) Fees $30 for members $40 for guests Duration Minimum 5 sessions Note: 1.5 hours each session. Prices quoted are per session

For more details, call our gym instructors at 6665-4637 or email fitness_workz@ hometeamns.sg

Tennis

Where Tennis Court Adult Tennis for Beginners Fees $188 for members $208 for guests Duration 6 sessions Tennis for Children Under 10 Fees $168 for members $188 for guests Duration 6 sessions Tennis for Family Fees $158 for members $178 for guests Duration 6 sessions Progressive Tennis Fees $190 for members $200 for guests Duration 6 sessions

BALLET

Saturday and Sunday Where Dance Studio Duration 10 sessions Tiny Tots (for ages 4–5) When Sunday 11.45am–12.30pm Fees $110 for members $115 for guests Pre-Ballet (for ages 5–6) When Saturday 4.30–5.15pm Fees $110 for members $115 for guests Primary Ballet (for ages 6–7) When Saturday 3.45–4.30pm Sunday 11–11.45am Fees $110 for members $115 for guests Grade One (for ages 7–8) When Saturday 2.45–3.45pm Fees $120 for members $125 for guests Grade Two (for ages 8–9) When Sunday 12.30–1.45pm Fees $125 for members $130 for guests Grade Four (for ages 10–12) When Sunday 1.45–3pm Fees $135 for members $140 for guests Grade Five (for ages 12–15) When Sunday 3.30–5pm Fees $145 for members $150 for guests

For more details, call Ms Evangeline Chong at 9734-8983 or email dancingstar.sg@gmail.com

For more details, call Mr Danny Yip at 9438-2951 or email whyip@uobkayhian.com

Swimming

Saturday and Sunday Where Swimming Pool Children Swimming Lesson (above 5 years old) When Saturday and Sunday 9–11am and 3–6pm Fees $170 for members $190 for guests Duration 10 sessions Special Tadpole Class (5 years and below) When Saturday and Sunday 9–11am and 3–6pm Fees $200 for members $230 for guests Duration 10 sessions

For more details, call Mr Bruce Ong at 6569-5509 or email bruce.ong@camelotsg.biz

ZUMBA Fitness

Monday, Wednesday and Saturday When Monday 7–8pm and 8–9pm Wednesday 7–8pm and 8–9pm Saturday 10–11pm Where Dance Studio Fees $40 for members $48 for guests Duration 4 sessions

Aikido

Friday When 8–9.30pm Where Multi-Purpose Hall Fees $135 for members $150 for guests Duration 3 months

For more details, call Ms Cheen Cheen at 6256-0111 or email hq@aikidoshinjukai.com

Kickboxing

YOGA

For more details, call Mr Edi Yamin at 6665-4609 or email ediyamin@hometeamns.sg

Saturday When 11.30am–12.30pm Where Function Room Fees $40 for members $48 for guests Duration 4 sessions For more details, call Ms Joey Ong at 9295-5569 or email kickboxzfitness@gmail.com

Wednesday When 8–9.30pm Where Function Room Fees $100 for members $105 for guests Duration 10 sessions For more details, call Ms Helen Goh at 9185-1417 or email zeehelen@gmail.com

Bollywood Dance BADMINTON Where Dance Studio Kids (for ages 4–8) When Thursday 5–6pm Children (for ages 9–14) When Friday 5–6pm Adults (ages 15 and up) When Tuesday 7.30–8.30pm Fees $100 for members $110 for guests Duration 8 sessions

For more details, call Ms Ranjani at 9674-4540 or email ranjuv@hotmail.com

Sunday When 2–4pm Where Multi-Purpose Hall Fees $80 for members $85 for guests Duration 1 month

For more details, call Mr Jack at 6561-7078

BIRTHDAY TREATS

It’s your birthday!

Enjoy the rewards of being a HomeTeamNS member with exclusive treats during your special month

SPA LE’ KRATON

HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6569-2515

Enjoy 50%+10% off on any face or body treatment (valid for one time only)

STARBOWL

HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6564-7500

Waiver of shoe rental

TANG SPORT SHOP HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6561-7078

$10 voucher

LASER QUEST HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6665-4632

Birthday package worth $180

BUKIT BATOK GOLF RANGE HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6567-4800

Free 50 balls

GUILIN RESTAURANT

EATZI GOURMET BAKERY (HALAL-CERTIFIED)

www.jpperperdine.com

15% off birthday cakes (minimum 1kg) for online orders only Terms and conditions: • Limited to one redemption on birthday month • Not valid for full-month cakes and wedding packages • Not valid with other vouchers, promotions, credit card offers and member’s discount • Print out the email order confirmation and present it with your membership card and NRIC during collection • Valid on eves of and on public holidays and special occasions

FIG & OLIVE (HALAL-CERTIFIED)

E-Hub Downtown East #02-119 and Jurong Point Shopping Centre #B1-62/63 www.figolive.com

HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6899-2588

Free Brownie Divine worth $8.90 25% off total bill

ART DE SPA

Terms and conditions: • Valid during birthday month • Discount applicable with a minimum spending of $100 on a la carte menu • Not valid with other promotions and discounts • Promotion valid at all Fig & Olive Singapore outlets • Present NRIC and membership card to enjoy the offer

20% off a la carte and set menu

HomeTeamNS-JOM @ Balestier, Tel: 6251-0058

50% off a la carte treatment

BAZGYM GYMNASTICS SCHOOL HomeTeamNS-JOM @ Balestier, Tel: 6256-8191

Free trial session worth $30 for the birthday child

JIMM’S PUB & KARAOKE LOUNGE HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, Tel: 6563-5231 HomeTeamNS @ Sembawang, Tel: 6758-0852

Complimentary bottle of red wine worth $60

TEN DOLLARS CLUB FAMILY KTV KARAOKE HomeTeamNS @ Chinatown, Tel: 6225-1231 HomeTeamNS-JOM @ Balestier, Tel: 6252-5508

$10 off with minimum spending of $50

KIND HEARING

The Heeren #12-09 and Novena Square 2 #B1-135 Call 6235-2425 for appointment

Free hearing test valued at $80

Terms and conditions: • Valid during birthday month • Not valid with other promotions or discounts • Please quote “HomeTeamNS” when making your appointment • Present NRIC and membership card to enjoy the offer

ME NUTRITIONS

OUR IN-HOUSE TREATS Terms and conditions apply For more details, visit www.HomeTeamNS.sg to print your birthday e-vouchers

For purchase, please call 9456-4537

30% discount on ME Nutrition Brand Terms and conditions: • Valid during birthday month • Not valid with other vouchers, promotions, credit card offers and member’s discount • Present NRIC and membership card to enjoy the offer

What’s on

9-Pin Bowling Tournament When 10 March (Sunday), 9.30am–2pm

Where HomeTeamNS-JOM Clubhouse Bowling Alley Fees $18 for members, $23 for guests • Registration starts at 9am, roll-off at 9.30am • There is a handicap of 15 points per game for women and children under 12 years • Cash voucher worth $240 to be given away!

Karaoke Contest 2013 When Prelims: 11 January (Friday) and 12 January (Saturday),

7.30–10.30pm; Semi-finals: 19 January (Saturday), 7.30– 10.30pm; Finals: 1 February (Friday), 7.30–10.30pm Where HomeTeamNS-JOM Clubhouse Ten Dollar KTV Club Fees $15 for HomeTeamNS/JOM members, $20 for Ten Dollar KTV Club member • Cash prizes worth $3,200 to be won! • Open only to HomeTeamNS/JOM and Ten Dollar KTV • Club members • Ten Dollar KTV Club members can register at any Ten Dollar KTV Club outlet • Visit www.tendollarclub.sg for more information

Will and Estate Planning When 12 January (Saturday), 10–11am

Where HomeTeamNS-JOM Clubhouse Learning Centre Fees Free • What happens when you pass away without a will • Advantages of having a will • Legalities in a will • Excuses given for not making a will • Estate planning

Street Soccer Tournament 2013 When 26 January (Saturday), 9am–1pm

Where HomeTeamNS-JOM Clubhouse Street Soccer Court Fees $45 per team of four players (HomeTeamNS and JOM members only) • Cash prizes worth $660 to be won! • Open only to HomeTeamNS and JOM members • Registration based on first come, first served basis

To register, call Eddric at 6353-3131/6351-8139 or email events@hjc.org.sg

What’s on

What Should You Invest In a Bull Market?

When 12 January (Saturday), 10am–12pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $5 for members, $7 for guests

Topics • Find out why we are now in a bull market • What are four major risks to avoid? • What are two major factors that makes investing profitable at all times?

Oral Health Talk

Dental Trauma Talk

Find out why oral health is important and how it affects the general health of your child. Get tips on how to improve oral health care at home, and learn how prevention can keep children free from pain and parents free distress. You are welcome to ask the speaker any questions on oral health that you might have.

Dental trauma is common in children between two and four, when they start to walk and run but are not too steady on their feet. The other group at risk are between eight and twelve, when they become more active. Learn about the different kinds of trauma and their consequences, and how to prevent and treat them.

When 20 January (Sunday), 10am–12pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $3 for members, $5 for guests

When 3 February (Sunday), 10am–12pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $3 for members, $5 for guests

About the speaker Dr Ng Jing Jing is a member of the Society for Paediatric Dentistry (Singapore) and the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry. She has been with the School Dental Centre for the past five years. She is also a visiting specialist at the National University Hospital Dental Centre and part-time clinical teacher in the Faculty of Dentistry, NUS. Dr Ng graduated from NUS with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2002 and completed her Master in Clinical Dentistry (Paediatric Dentistry) in London in 2007.

Immortelle Atelier Perfection Workshop

When 26 January (Saturday), 10am–12.30pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $5 for members, $7 for guests Take care of your skin at home with these easy steps and get fabulous eyelashes with your daily makeup! Topics • Skincare: Analysis of your skin type, how to cleanse and exfoliate your skin, mask techniques and how to tone and moisturise your skin • Makeup: How to apply primer, foundation, powder, eye makeup, fake eyelashes and makeup on cheeks and lips

To register, call Jonathan at 6665-4608 or email jonathan_chen@hometeamns.sg

Pain Management Made Simple

When 26 January (Saturday), 12.30–2pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $5 for members, $7 for guests

Excel Functions and Formulas

When 2 February (Saturday), 10am–2pm Where HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, CELL Room Fees $45 for members, $50 for guests Topics • Excel functions and formulas • Cell references in formulas • 3-D references within a SUM function • Transpose function • Data validation • Handling error displays in formulas • Auditing functions

Hatten Hotel Melaka Situated above Hatten Square, Hatten Hotel is a 22-storey business-class hotel in the heart of the city, with all the UNESCO heritage sites, shopping and major businesses within easy reach. Get a Junior Suite for just RM238* nett per room per night (with breakfast for two persons)! *Surcharge of RM58 nett applies for Fridays, Saturday nights and from 8 to 13 February. Valid for hotel stay from 2 January to 28 February 2013. Enjoy 20% off final total bill at Chatterz on level 11! Applicable for dine-in only (in one final total bill). For enquiries and bookings, email reservations@hattenhotel. com and quote “HomeTeamNS promotion Jan/Feb”. Terms and conditions: • Promotion is not valid in conjunction with other promotions or discounts and offerings for both rooms and food and beverage items. • Food and beverage discounts and room rates are not applicable for peak dates/blackout dates deemed by the hotel. • Prior reservation is required. Offer is not valid for walk-ins. • Dining discounts are not valid for alcoholic beverages.

It is estimated that one in five people suffer from moderate to severe chronic pain, and that one in three is unable or less able to lead an independent lifestyle due to their pain. When it comes to managing pain, we often think of painkillers such as Panadol, Ponstan, Tramadol, Voltaren, codeine – and in more severe cases, Pethidine and morphine. But are such painkillers a sustainable long-term solution? Find out how you can deal with conditions such as headache, migraine, neuralgia, arthritis, gout, backache, frozen shoulder, stiff neck and carpal tunnel syndrome. The first ten participants will receive free Energia beads and jug worth $99. About the speaker Veronica Ong is a nurse manager turned entrepreneur. She had worked in various hospitals and managed an elderly and day rehabilitation centre with The Salvation Army. In 2000, she was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and later, Grave’s Disease, an overactive immune condition where her body was unable to balance her thyroxin. At that point she decided to take control of her own health as opposed to relying wholly on modern medicine. She strongly believes that we all possess a powerful immune system that can heal our body naturally.

Travel with HomeTeamNS in March! Stay tuned for more adventures with us! Visit www.hometeamns.sg for updates.

Check out our exclusive offers for members

Health Screening Packages

Thomson Specialist Skin Centre Get an update on your health with health screening packages from Thomson Lifestyle Centre. Our doctors will go through the results with you and answer all your healthrelated questions.

Corporate rates are available (inclusive of GST): • Basic: $279.30 • Standard: $375.60 • Standard Plus: $500.80 ($404.50 excluding Blood Test C) • Executive: $597.10 ($500.80 excluding Blood Test C) • Executive Plus: $693.40 ($597.10 excluding Blood Test C) • Deluxe: $770.40 ($674.10 excluding Blood Test C) • Premium: $914.90 ($818.60 excluding Blood Test C) • VIP Corp: $1,203.80 ($1,107.50 excluding Blood Test C) Terms and conditions: • For appointments, call 6352-6550/6352-6559 or email lifestyle@thomsonmedical.com and quote “HomeTeamNS”. • Address: Novena Medical Centre, 10 Sinaran Drive, #10-14/15, Novena Square 2 www.thomsonlifestylecentre.com

We are a specialist skin clinic providing evidence-based and cost-effective outpatient medical services for a wide range of dermatologic conditions. This includes various skin, hair and nail problems, as well as the screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. Our experienced skin specialists are able to diagnose and treat skin conditions and perform aesthetic procedures. Corporate rates and services are available from just $91. Terms and conditions: • For appointments, call 6397-6006 or email contact@thomsonspecialistskin.com and quote “HomeTeamNS”. • Address: Novena Medical Centre, 10 Sinaran Drive #10-05, Square 2 www.thomsonspecialistskin.com

Trendy Rain Suit Good news for all our bikers! HomeTeamNS members can get this trendy rain suit for just $19.90 (U.P. $35).

Thomson Dental Centre Boost your confidence with a great smile. At Thomson Dental Centre and Thomson Specialist Dentistry, our multidisciplinary team of experienced clinicians ensure the proper planning and execution of all aesthetic dental procedures. Corporate packages are available for HomeTeamNS members and their immediate family. Terms and conditions: • For appointments, call 6255-0770 or email contact@thomsondentalcentre.com and quote “HomeTeamNS”. • Address: Novena Specialist Centre, 8 Sinaran Drive, Level 7 #08/16-19

Terms and conditions: • Sizes: S to XL • Colours available: Black/Grey, Black/ Red, Black/Blue, Black/Yellow • Available at Chong Aik International Pte Ltd, 45 Desker Road (Tel: 6294-2532) and Power Star Pte Ltd, 151 Jalan Besar (Tel: 6392-5803) • Promotion valid till February 2013 or while stocks last. • Maximum of two sets per cardholder.

Spa Le’ Kraton Get a 75-minute refreshing ginger massage at only $48! This comprises a 60-minute full body massage and a 15-minute ginger tummy wrap. Terms and conditions: • Valid only for first-time customers (male/female) 18 years and older. • Valid for weekday redemption from 11am to 8pm and subject to slot availability. • Not valid with other promotions, stamp card or vouchers. • Please call 6569-2515 to book at least three days in advance. • Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment as the treatment will end on time. • Offer valid from 1 January to 28 February. • Address: HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok, 2 Bukit Batok West Avenue 7, #01-04

RUN Singapore RUN Singapore is the definitive guide to running for everyone. Get the latest on running apparel and accessories, learn how to avoid injury and boost your performance, and compete in upcoming races at home and abroad! Packed with exclusive news and content, RUN Singapore is the complete resource to help you become a better and faster runner. Save 20% and get a complimentary past issue of RUN Singapore when you subscribe now! • Get a one-year subscription (six issues) for just $22.00 (U.P. $28.80)! • Subscribe with us at www.regonline.sg/runsubhometeamnspromo • For enquiries, call RUN Singapore at 6223-4258 or email circulations@boldinkmagazines.com

Car Sharing Made Easy

OMICAL Organic Milk calcium supplements Boost your calcium intake with the only organic milk supplement in the market. OMICAL is a milk mineral complex that mimics the composition of human bones, with key components such as magnesium, vitamin D, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc and copper. Get all the goodness of milk without the fat, steroids, antibiotics and hormones. OMICAL is safe for the lactoseintolerant too! The Health Science Authority has certified that OMICAL, which is derived from pure milk, contains no trace of toxic substances such as lead, mercury or arsenic. Available at Guardian, Watsons, Unity and selected retailers at $31.90 for a bottle of 60 tablets. www.omical.com.sg

Drive by the hour or by the day with Singapore’s largest car-sharing company. Book online and drive a car on demand at any of our 60 collection stations island-wide, 24/7! Enjoy the benefits of having a fleet of cars for travel in Singapore and Malaysia – without the hassle and costs of ownership. To sign up, register at the Car Club showroom at Esplanade MRT Station #B1-23 (near exit A) or call 6337-8098 and quote “HomeTeamNS”. HomeTeamNS members can get a Tom-Tom GPS for only $30 with every new registration. Terms and conditions apply. www.carclub.com.sg

PERKS & PRIVILEGES

$10 Indoor Tanning for Couples

Tiffany Alvord

Enjoy indoor tanning with no fuss! Within minutes you can achieve a healthy, even tan without harmful UV rays that will damage your skin. A perfect treat for Valentine’s Day!

Catch YouTube sensation Tiffany Alvord live in Singapore for her 2013 Asia tour! Date: 16 March 2013 Venue: SCO Concert Hall

Terms and conditions: • Present NRIC and HomeTeamNS membership card upon redemption. • Valid for first-time Fabulous Tan customer only. • Only valid for Singaporean/PR holders 18 years and older. • Cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions and special offers. • Advance booking is required. • Fabuous Tan reserves the right to provide alternative treatment(s) of same value, if deemed necessary. • Fabuous Tan reserves the right to remove, amend or change the terms and conditions of the trial offer without prior notice, and its decision will be final. • Purchase of tanning lotion is compulsory.

• HomeTeamNS members enjoy 15% discount for any tickets purchased before 15 January! • After 15 January, enjoy 10% discount for single tickets, or 15% discount for two or more tickets. For ticketing details, visit www.sistic.com.sg. Enter promotion code “8102” to enjoy discount.

Operating hours: Mon–Sun 11am–9.30pm For bookings, call 6735-5335 (Orchard)/6884-5455 (Bugis)/6464-8465 (Holland Village)

Changes to the Chalet Online Booking System With effect from 1 February 2013, chalet bookings are open three months in advance. All bookings are to be made online via http://online. hometeamns.sg on a first-come-firstserved basis. All bookings will be automatically released on the first of every month. If you log in on 1 February 2013, you are able to book for the current month, as well as for the next two months (March and April). See table below for example.

To view availability or make bookings, HomeTeamNS Ordinary/Associate members will need to pre-register online to get a password. We accept payment by Visa/ MasterCard only.

Date and time of release (0000hrs)

Current month booking window

Two months’ advance booking

1 February

February

March, April

1 March

March

April, May

1 April

April

May, June

1 May

May

June, July

1 June

June

July, August

1 July

July

August, September

1 August

August

September, October

1 September

September

October, November

1 October

October

November, December

With effect from 1 January 2013, all Deluxe & Superior rooms in Sembawang Resort Chalets are now rated as Superior & Deluxe respectively. At present, rental charges remains unchanged. Look out for a new room facelift coming soon!

in the force — MHA

Stories from the Heart The Home Team launches book dedicated to Home Team Volunteers Husband and wife CPL(V) Michael Kong and CPL(V) Melissa Han met while volunteering on the medical team at the Singapore Grand Prix 2008.

n the book Many Hearts for Home, 27 volunteers from the Home Team Volunteer Network (HTVN) tell of their commitment, their passion and the challenges they face in being a volunteer.

One story was of couple CPL(V) Michael Kong and CPL(V) Melissa Han, both 28, who volunteer with the Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit Emergency Ambulance Services. CPL(V) Kong once slipped into a week-long coma when he was 13, and this spurred him to save others just as others had saved him. “Volunteers play a big role in society, and every little thing we do can help or hurt others,” said CPL(V) Kong. “It is a commitment and a responsibility.” Volunteering together has also given husband and wife much to talk about. “We discuss our experiences after work, even make calls while on duty to talk about the emergency cases we attend to,” said CPL(V) Han, a full-time nurse. “This book is all about the spirit of volunteering. Although we are all in different schemes and agencies, we work for the same cause,” said Prison Volunteer Mohd Sinwan Bin Sidek, 54. “We all have our challenges, and I feel encouraged and inspired, knowing that I am not alone in this.” The heartfelt stories in the book will be added as part of a shared repository of volunteer experiences that will be collated and shared on the HTVN website and H3 newsletter.

HTVN Chairman A/P Ho Peng Kee places an origami heart on a board to mark the launch of Many Hearts for Home.

Many Hearts for Home was launched at the first HTVN Leadership Conference on 3 November 2012 by Associate Professor Ho Peng Kee, Chairman of HTVN, who presented the book with one origami heart – a symbol of love and care – to all the 27 volunteers featured in the book. The inaugural conference aims to be a platform for volunteers to share and discuss issues on volunteer leadership. Three thousand copies of the book will be given to volunteers. The book is available as a PDF at www.hometeamvolunteers.gov.sg.

WORDS JOANNE YAN PHOTOS KENNY LOH / article reproduced with permission from MHA Home Team News

The Home Team Volunteers featured in the book pose for a photo with A/P Ho Peng Kee.

in the force — sPF

Echoing the Call to Live Fit and Healthy

‘E’ Division organises health screening workshop for PNSmen

n 29 September 2012, the NS leaders of SPF ‘E’ Division held a health screening workshop for around 100 PNSmen. This was part of the Healthy Lifestyle Active Living Workshop series held twice a year, where PNSmen get to assess their health and fitness by measuring their BMI, bone mass, body fat and metabolic age, as well as advice on passing IPPT/IPT, recap on RT and some simple fitness exercises. These PNSmen were unable to pass their IPPT and had to attend 20 sessions of RT. Many of them were obese, smokers or leading a sedentary lifestyle. With the soft launch of the NS Health & Fitness Framework and collaboration with the Health Promotion Board, the NS leaders took the opportunity to include the HPB as a partner with three talks: “Manage Your Health”, “Introduction to iDAT” and “Smoking Cessation”. The “Manage Your Health” talk highlighted the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the link to top killer diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and cancer, as well as tips to “work out smart” through daily activities such as housework.

The SPF ‘E’ Division teamed up with Health Promotion Board to share tips on healthy living with 100 PNSmen.

The session ended with the “Smoking Cessation” talk, where the participants learnt how first-hand and second-hand smoke can harm people around them. They were also referred to the HPB QuitLine for advice on how to quit smoking. The talk also featured a free smoking breathanalyser test for participants to find out about their lung condition. The workshop has raised the participants’ awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle. These NSmen have taken the first step towards a healthier lifestyle not just for themselves but also by sharing this message with their family and friends.

The smoking breathanalyser test drew a long queue of participants who were eager to know their lung condition.

words JAI RAJ PANDAY, PNSD

Next, the PNSmen were introduced to a smartphone app called iDAT (Interactive Diet and Activity Tracker), which is designed to help track food intake, physical activity and calculate calorie balance for Asian users.

in the force — scdf

Connecting with the Force

NS KAHs join Crisis Volunteers at workshop for updates on SCDF developments and operations The three-wheeler Fire Bike, also known as the Red Scorpion, is the latest addition to the SCDF’s firefighting arsenal.

LTC Alvin Tan, Head Ops 2nd CD Division, shares insights on the fire rescue operations at East Village Hotel on 16 July 2012.

words LCP (NSF) HUANG LIHAO, NS PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT, SCDF

The workshop was a great opportunity for the participants to find out more about what’s happening in the SCDF.

n 1 November 2012, SCDF Key Appointment Holders and Responsibility Appointment Holders joined the Crisis Volunteers for the first time to learn about what’s happening in the SCDF. The “Connected and Connecting with SCDF 2012” workshop was a great opportunity for the NSmen to share their experience in SCDF operations and events, and to catch up with one another over the buffet reception that was held prior to the workshop. First on the podium was AC Chong Hoi Hung, Senior Director (Corporate Services), who updated the participants on the latest developments and new units formed in the SCDF, such as the Civil Defence Marine Command. The SCDF has plans to design and build more marine vessels to augment its capabilities and deploy NS personnel in marine operations. The NSmen also learnt about

SCDF rescuers search for bodies in wet cement at the Bugis scaffold collapse incident.

the three-wheeler Fire Bike (also known as the Red Scorpion) – the latest firefighting tool in the SCDF. Next up was LTC Alvin Tan, Head Ops 2nd CD Division, who shared his experience at the fire rescue operations at East Village Hotel. This was followed by LTA Huang Rong Sheng, a ROTA Commander from Central Fire Station, who recounted how his team extracted the bodies of two workers buried in wet cement at the Bugis scaffold collapse incident. Both operations serve as good case studies due to their challenging nature. The workshop ended with an update on upcoming changes to the Crisis Volunteer Scheme. “The presentation showcased the achievements that the SCDF has worked so hard to accomplish,” said participant MAJ (NS) Raizan Abdul Razak. “I am proud to be a part of this organisation.”

club news

Recognise, Reward and Support HomeTeamNS Children’s Education Awards 2012 Apart from recognising the contributions of our SPF and SCDF NSmen, HomeTeamNS also values the sacrifices made by their families. One way to acknowledge their sacrifices is to help them with their children’s education through our annual Children’s Education and Achievement Awards. These awards aim to encourage the children of HomeTeamNS Ordinary members to achieve excellent academic results and participate actively in co-curricular activities and community involvement programmes. The award amounts, which range from $300 to $1,000, help to reduce the financial burden of the parents. A total of $126,000 was disbursed to 230 children. The breakdown for each of the award categories is shown below: Level

Education Award

Achievement Award

Bursary

Primary

Secondary

Junior college

Polytechnic

ITE

Total

104

Award

Number of recipients

Total amount

Education

104

$65,000

Achievement

$44,800

Bursary

$16,200

Total

230

$126,000

Happy Anniversary Marking eleven years of serving members at HomeTeamNS-JOM

he HomeTeamNS-JOM clubhouse celebrated its 11th year with a dinner party on 2 November, with SPF Commissioner Mr Ng Joo Hee as the guest of honour. Entertaining the 280 guests were emcee Samson Zee and karaoke champions Mr Saifuldin and Mr Irwan, as well as thrilling acts from a contortionist and an escape artist, who hammered a four-inch nail into his nose.

The guests were also treated to a lucky draw, with a massage chair worth $3,800 as the top prize. The dinner ended with Mr Ng presenting the Most Supportive Organisation Award 2012 to the two divisions that use the most facilities in the clubhouse in the past year. The SPF recipient was Mr Lu Yeow Lim, Commander of Tanglin Police Division, while the SCDF recipient was Mr Chew Keng Tok from the Civil Defence Academy.

club news

Malacca on Wheels The Auto Adventure Club takes on the UNESCO World Heritage City

he HomeTeamNS Auto Adventure Club has done it again! Leading for the third time, AAC Chairman Mr Low Lai Choon and his committee brought 31 participants on a weekend road trip to Malacca on 17 and 18 November.

WORDS & Photos LOW LAI CHOON

After setting off from the Bukit Batok clubhouse, the first stop was Gelang Patah, where the convoy had a hearty breakfast of noodles and dim sum. Another two and a half hours later, the group arrived at the new and comfortable Hatten Hotel. After lunch at the Makko Nonya Restaurant, the participants set off on their own to explore the Menara Taming Sari (Revolving Tower), hop on a Duck Tour or relax with a river cruise. With Palawan Mega Mall and Mahkota Parade Shopping Centre next to the hotel, there was plenty of shopping to be done. There was also plenty of action in the shophouses along Melaka Raya, with gift shops, dining options and spas galore. That evening, Mr Low took the group to the Portuguese Settlement, where everyone feasted on seafood cooked in Portuguese style. The next day, the group visited the Tan Kim Hock Product Centre for biscuits, tidbits and local produce. After dinner in Gelang Patah, it was time to make their way home. All participants had great fun on this relaxing adventure!

club news

Shootout! HomeTeamNS Gun Club Biathlon Shoot 2012

n 16 September 2012, the HomeTeamNS Gun Club held its annual Biathlon Shoot at HomeTeamNS @ Bukit Batok. Gracing the event was MAJ (NS) Lee Chee Peng, Chairman of the HomeTeamNS Executive Committee and Gun Club HomeTeamNS. After an intense shootout, the top six shooters walked away with medals and attractive prizes. Congratulations to all our winners!

Biathlon Shoot 2012 Position

Shooter

Points

1st

Lim Chea Rong

168

2nd

Harry Wong

154

3rd

Loh Shu Heng

164

4th

Sandy Koh

159

5th

Logaraj s/o Raju

152

6th

Lum Yew Wing

149

Time for Tee! GolfLinks events coming your way in 2013 Monthly Golf Medal Date 17 January (afternoon tee-off) Venue Raffles Country Club, Lake Course Fees $130 for GolfLinks members, $140 for HomeTeamNS members, $145 for guests Fee includes green free, buggy, buffet dinner and exciting prizes! Closing date: 10 January (minimum of 40 golfers to play)

Loh Hei Golf Date 21 February Venue Sembawang Country Club Fees To be advised Fee includes green fee, buggy, buffet dinner and exciting prizes! Closing date: 7 February

Overseas Golf in Qingdao, China Date 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;14 April Venue Qingdao, China Fees To be advised Fee includes green free, buggy, meals, return flight tickets, transfers, accommodation (with breakfast) and exciting prizes! Closing date: 15 March (subject to slot availability) To sign up, call Sunarti at 6665-4606 or email sunarti@hometeamns.sg

SHOT-SIGHTED

Love in Bloom Send us your best shot today!

Last issue we asked you to send in your photos that best capture the essence of love. Here’s our selection of the best!

Spreading the wings of love: Lovebirds in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by Jeanette Sim

A surprise floral display adorns this waitress in a restaurant in Luoyang, a city in China known for its peony blossoms. Photo by Penny Zhao

Hugs and kisses mark the start of loving a new person in life. Photo by Zila Bt. Rosli Tan

Theme for March/April issue:

My Favourite Festival! Feeling feisty for some festive cheer? Send us your best shot at frontline@publicitas.com with your name, contact number, mailing address and a short caption of 20 words or less. To celebrate the opening of the new Red Dot Photo store at #02-K5 Funan DigitaLife Mall, all published photos will receive a specially commissioned BrickCam (SLR/ Rolleiflex/Polaroid) made of LEGO® elements worth around $20 courtesy of Red Dot Photo (www.reddotphoto.com.sg) and created by local toy designer BricksBen Creations (www.bricksben.com).

Fresh flowers on sale in Paris – a classic gift of love for that special someone. Photo by Fadli Shaiful