Thani talk 2015 october

N ONTHABURI N EIGHBORHOOD R EACH

O CTOBER 2015

Thani Talk Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994

Now online at: www.issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

Make a Dierence

Cover Story

Volunteeer!

Chari es & Volunteering Pages 9 to 15

Feature Breast Cancer Awareness Page 8

Feature Halloween Tips Pages 20 to 22

Culture 101 Temple E que e

Cliparthut.com

Page 39

Travel Korat Zoo Pages 42 to 43

Thani TalkTalk-October 2015

About NNR & Thani Talk

NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.

Connect with NNR NNR Guide

Facebook.com/nnrthailand

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Based on space availability.

Deadline for all ads is the 10th of each month.

Contact nnradverts@yahoo.com for more information

DISCLAIMER: The placement of advertisements and articles in this newsletter does not constitute or imply endorsement by the NNR of any product or service. The NNR accepts no responsibility for any claims made in any advertisement and the opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily the views of the NNR committee.

NNR BOARD 2015-2016 Chairperson

Mare Harvey

billandmare@mac.com

Vice Chairperson

Henrietta Bullinger

Hbullinger@gmail.com

Treasurer

Livonia Winkles

livoniawinkles@cox.net

Activity/Tour Coordinators

Jesmin Tarana Susanne Rodrigues

084-388-4457

tarana.jesmin@gmail.com

NNR Socials

Denise Warta

090-013-8490

cdwarta@yahoo.com

Charity and Volunteer Jennifer Skobel Coordinators Wanda Grove

jcskobel@gmail.com wandagrove14@gmail.com

Advertisements

Laura Sadowski

089-924-5306

nnradverts@yahoo.com

Thani Talk News Team

Liz Lu (Editor) Annette Long (Proofreader)

086-784-7171

nnrnewsletter@yahoo.com

Distribution Coordinator

Shana DeHaven

sdehaventhai@hotmail.com

Bazaar Committee: Barb Lewis (Coordinator), Mare Harvey (Sponsors), Tipwan Smagpong (Vendors), Natalie Lollback (Volunteers) 2

Thani Talk— Talk—October 2015

NNR Board Members 2015-2016

Volunteers are the backbone of Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach (NNR) Members of the NNR Board organize social activities and volunteer opportunities that bring our entire community together. (Above, lt to rt): VP Henrietta Bullinger, Tour Co-Chair Jesmin Tarana, Thani Talk Editor Liz Lu, President Mare Harvey, Tour Co-Chair Susanne Rodrigues, Welfare Co-Chairs Wanda Grove and Jennifer Skobel, Social Chair Denise Warta, newsletter Distribution Coordinator Shana DeHaven. Not pictured: Treasurer Livonia Winkles and Advertising Director Laura Sadowski.

Inside This Issue

NNR & Community Events

NNR Social: Evening at Le Bouchon

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NNR Tour: Ancient City

5

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

8

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteers

9-15

Community Fitness, Dance, Tutors

18

Halloween in Nichada

20

Grapevine Tips

24

Highlights: Welcome Back Coffee

29

Around Nonthaburi & Beyond

34

Asian Culture 101: Temple Etiquette

39

Travel: Korat Zoo

42

Highlights: NNR September Tour

46

Restaurant Review: SALT

49

Oct. 1-4

International Bike Fair at Impact, Muang Thong Thani

Oct. 3

Secret Garden at new Nichada Complex

Oct. 10

AWC Halloween Fundraiser at Amari Watergate Hotel

Oct. 11

Breast Cancer Exams for Local Workers

Oct. 12

Canadian Thanksgiving

Oct. 13

NNR Tour to Ancient City

Oct. 15

NNR Social at Le Bouchon

Oct. 17

Hong Kong Ladies Gala at Sheraton Grande

Oct. 31

Halloween.

Haunted House at new Nichada Plaza

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Thani Talk— Talk—October 2015

NNR Social

NNR October Social at the

Le Bouchon Sports Bar! Thursday October 15th 6pm Come play some pool or Catch up with friends or Watch sports on big screen TVs For more information please contact: Denise Warta at cdwarta@yahoo.com or 09 0013 8490.

Photo provided by Bruno Georges Marchal

Age requirement for Sports Bar.

Photo provided by Bruno Georges Marchal

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NNR Tour

Thani Talk— Talk—October 2015

NNR Tour: Ancient City

Google.com/Images

Google.com/Images

Allanrufustravelogue.com

An Outdoor Museum of Miniature Landmarks October 13

The Ancient City, a popular tourist attraction in Samutprakan, is both historical and entertaining!

This 32- acre outdoor museum is known for its miniature replicas of nearly 100 of Thailand's most important historical landmarks and monuments, including many palaces and temples.

The spacious park means that we can tour the tree -lined grounds by bike or golf cart. We will have lunch in a restaurant at a small floating market in the park.

Date: Tuesday, October 13th Time: 7:45 am Where: Meet in front of Chevron Theatre, the bus will leave on time, we aim to be back at 2 p.m.

Cost: Entrance fee for foreigners 700 baht; resident 350 baht (please bring your Thai ID/ proof of residency).

Transportation cost will be shared. Lunch to be paid by participants.

What to bring: Hat, Sunscreen, Water, Comfortable Shoes, Camera and Good Mood.

The tour is limited to 12 participants To Sign Up: Please Email: tarana.jesmin@gmail.com Please include your full name and cell phone number.

Susanne Rodrigues and Jesmin Tarana, NNR Tour Coordinators 5

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Feature: Breast Cancer Awareness

Thani Talk ~October 2015

October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month NNR Funds Exams for Local Workers October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual international campaign supports the awareness, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women worldwide.

Over 1.3 million cases of breast cancer are diagnosed every year, and about 450,000 women die each year from this disease (World Health Organization, 2015.)

Causes of breast cancer are not fully understood; so early detection and treatment remain the best option for a good outcome. The American Cancer Society recommends clinical breast exams every three years until age 40 and then annual mammograms from then on.

Most deaths from breast cancer occur in low

-income women who have limited access to testing, and this is true for Thailand. Perhaps you would consider taking your maebaan (maid) for a women’s physical exam as part of this campaign.

Monkutwattana General Hospital on Chaengwattana Road offers mammograms and breast ultrasounds for 2,000 baht. For more information, call 02-574-5000-9 ext 8138.

NNR joins the cancer prevention campaign by funding free exams for local women workers.

On Sunday, October 11th, medical personnel, volunteers from the NNR, together with the Bangkok Breast Cancer Support Group, and the ISB HS Breast Cancer Awareness Club are offering free clinical breast exams with follow-up mammograms to Nichada workers living at the Nichada work camp.

Spread the word! Early detection saves lives!

Laura Sadowski

Resources for Support & Informa.on In Thailand Bangkok Breast Cancer Support Group “After conducting research about breast cancer in Thailand, we were dismayed to discover that the majority of Thai women who were diagnosed with breast cancer were already in the advanced stages (3 & 4) of the disease, therefore leading to high mortality rates. This may have been avoided had they been diagnosed in the early stages and received correct treatment at the appropriate time.

The BBCs actively support early detection and breast cancer awareness, as this is first and best form of defense against this disease.”

BBC Website 8

Website: www.bangkokbreastcancer.com Email: bkkbreastcancer@gmail.com Tel: +02 256-4991-2 ext 1026

Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer Founda.on Website: www.qscbcfounda on.org Email: QSCBC@ELBKK.COM

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Save the Date!

Nov. 5th NNR Bazaar Funds Charity Work Even from the Nichada Bubble we can help make a difference.

NNR raises money through fundraisers such as its popular annual charity bazaar, raffles, parties, and ad sales from Thani Talk.

All proceeds are donated to local charities to help those in need.

In this month’s cover story, we introduce you to the many charities supported by NNR, as well scores of volunteer opportunities right here in our neighborhood, or just a stone’s throw away. Help out. Jump in. Make a difference.

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Thani Talk ~October 2015

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

NNR Welfare Commi)ee Puts Your Dona-ons to Work Meet the new Co-Chairs My husband and I moved to Bangkok at the beginning of 2015, and to Nichada in May. Before here, we were in Jakarta, Indonesia for about 3 years. As is the case here, Jakarta had so much poverty and it was in your face everyday. I started to almost become numb to it.

We had women’s/expat groups there as well, and I always wanted to get more directly involved in the charities, and I actually started to, but it was closer to when we were leaving. I did run the AWA Thrift Shop one year though!

When we moved to Bangkok, it became more forefront in my mind to actually do it, and not just talk about it. Of course Linda Feltham, the prior NNR Charity & Volunteer Coordinator, helped move that along when she asked if I would be interested in helping to take over her position in the NNR. Talk about diving in! I agreed, and luckily we made it a co-coordinator position with Wanda Grove. Thank you Wanda!!

We come to a foreign country, gain so much life experience and amazing memories, and need to do more than just take. There is so much need out there that it seems a bit overwhelming.

Hopefully we’ll be able to continue the great contributions of the NNR and find more ways to get everyone involved..

Jennifer Skobel

Moving from the Washington, D.C. area to Thailand brought changes I could not have anticipated from reading travel blogs or books.

We moved to Nichada in July 2014 and our family had never lived abroad. I first started volunteering with the orphanages nearby.

I helped take them on outings occasionally. It was such a rewarding experience to help these kids go on an adventure. They were so excited just to go for a ride in the car! And a movie or trip to Ko Kret was icing on the cake. It is nice to volunteer for these outings as a newcomer because I could just volunteer for each outing as it came along.

This past summer I decided to co-share the volunteer coordinator position with Jennifer because I had so much fun helping these local charities as well as working with Jennifer and the other board members.

I am able to help so many in little ways by matching volunteers with their interest and helping charities get the supplies they need to help each individual.

Watching children overcome adversity and maximize their potential is such a rewarding experience that inspires me and makes me very happy to be part of NNR! Wanda Grove

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994 10

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Thani Talk ~October 2015

A Look at Local Chari.es & Projects Supported by NNR

Baan Fueng Faa Orphanage for mentally and/or physically handicapped children.

Baan Rachawadee Ying Home for girls with disabilities Baan Rajawadee Home for boys with disabilities Home for the Destitute Home offering shelter and food to the homeless Sparrow Home Home for children of prisoners & other at risk kids Christian Care Foundation for Children with Disabilities Non-profit offering 8 projects for the disabled Thanksgiving Home Non-profit group serving disabled boys and girls San Tawan Children’s Home Foundation Christian-based home for abandoned children NNR also supports scores of other projects covering health & education. See following pages for more info.

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Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Thani Talk ~October 2015

NNR Matches Volunteers with Needs Interested in volunteering but don’t know where to start and not ready to commit to specific times? No problem! We can still use you.

FYI, Many of our volunteer opportunities are within about 20 minutes from Nichada.

Opportunities include, but not limited to: -Feeding the disabled at one of the many government homes.

-Chaperoning a monthly group trip to give kids from group homes a chance to go out and about.

- Teaching arts and crafts to kids and adults at group homes. Options available for once per

month volunteering. (Weekend slots are great opportunities to include your own kids.)

- Teaching basic English words that can be communicated with motion; think charades.�

Some slots only require one hour per week.

-Teaching a vocational skill such as cooking, beauty care, etc. You can teach disadvantaged women job skills and help them become selfsufficient.

These are just some of the volunteer opportunities available. If you have a specific area of interest, let us know. We can put you in touch with the right people.

Jennifer Skobel

Volunteer and Make a Posi-ve Change in the World Baan Rajawadee: A government home for physically and/or intellectually disabled boys.

Baan Rachawadee Ying: A government home for physically and/or intellectually disabled girls.

Both group homes provide basic shelter and care for disabled children ages 7 to 18.

Need Volunteers to interact with the children and stimulate their developmental skills. Also need volunteers to help feed the most disabled.

Contact Dorothy Klynstra at: dorothyk67@hotmail.com Photo provided by Dorothy Klynstra

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Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Volunteer Opportuni-es in Our Neighborhood Thanksgiving Home: Home for adolescent girls. Provides vocational training to prepare the girls for employment. Works with girls from the government orphanages.

Needs volunteers to teach English, computer, sports, cooking or other occupational training.

Contact Khun Wanchai at: wanchaialpha@yahoo.co.th

Phayathai Home for Babies: Home for orphaned and abandoned children ages birth to 6 years. Also has a unit for 36 HIV positive children who need care from volunteers .

Needs volunteers to play with the children to stimulate developmental skills.

Contact: Jennifer Skobel at jcskobel@gmail.com Wanda Grove at wandagrove14@gmail.com

CCD: Christian Care Foundation for Children with Disabilities is a care home for children with disabilities. It also has a day care center and encourages development of physical, mental, emotional and social skills. It also supports families caring for their disabled children at home by offering day care so parents can work.

Needs volunteers to play with the children.

Contact Tarn at international@ccdthailand.org Baan Feung Faa: A government orphanage for mentally and/or physically handicapped children ages birth to 10 years.

Need volunteers to play with the children Contact Dana Stehwein at djw1771@yahoo.com

Save the Date

Saturday, November 7 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Thanksgiving Home Fundraiser “Breath of Hope” at Duhrakij Phundit University Lad Yai Prison: Women’s Correctional Center Needs volunteers to visit and encourage foreign inmates.

Contact Susan Curtis at cscecurtis@gmail.com or Nicole Cano at njcano@aol.com

YWCA: Cares for preschoolers while promoting their development.

Need volunteers to teach English, do an activity or just help care for the children.

Contact Khun Saisom at 0807709335.

Brachabadee School for Disabled Children: School serving disabled children keen to learn English. Need volunteers to teach English. Would also like volunteers with physical therapy (PT) background to help train staff in use of simple PT aids such as walkers.

Contact Jennifer Skobel at jcskobel@gmail.com 13

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Sparrow Home: Provides a home for children of prisoners and other children in at-risk situations.

Sparrow Home provides a home-like setting and takes children to see their incarcerated parents in order to help them maintain a bond.

Need volunteers to teach and play with the kids.

Contact Monika Dettmann at: mbdettmann@yahoo.com

Sailom Project: Supports young men with intellectual disabilities by teaching them independent life skills.

Needs Volunteers to teach the young men how to cook, shop, take public transportation, and budget and manage money.

Contact Dorothy Klynstra at: dorothyk67@hotmail.com Photo provided by Dorothy Klynstra

Home for the Destitute: Offers shelter, food, medication and training to homeless adults.

Needs volunteers to interact with the adults, help provide 0irst-aid care, advise the crafts team and help market their products, play with Cambodian children detained at the shelter, serve food donated by NNR. Contact Marie Lewis at jalewis@yahoo.com

Soi Prasert Free English Class: Provides free English lessons to Thai children in the neighborhood just outside Nichada. One-hour Sunday class follows a free library hour.

Needs volunteer teachers of all ages to help speak with the Thai students and read with them.

Also looking for volunteers with art and music experience to lead crafts and music projects.

Contact Liz Lu at lizsiam@gmail.com.

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Thani Talk ~October 2015

Photo provided by Mary McCarty

Cover Story: Charities & Volunteering

Soi Prasert Free Library: Provides reading hour and books for neighborhood kids just outside Nichada. Need volunteers to help librarian, and to read stories with, and to children.

Contact: Liz Lu at lizsiam@gmail.com Thrift shop volunteers sort clothing for sale.

White Elephant Thrift Shop : A second hand store that donates all its profits to local charities.

Donations can be dropped at White Elephant: 2nd Floor, Oasis shopping center, on Samakee Road (by McDonald’s).

To Volunteer, contact: Patti Madigan at madigankolstad@yahoo.com, or Mary McCarty at ccartymaryb@gmail.com

Want to Help, but Short on Time?

Extra Halloween candies For orphans and other local Thai children.

Clothing and shoes, new or used For orphanages, homeless shelter & group homes.

Toys & Sports Equipment For local Thai schools and group homes School Supplies and books For children at YMCA, schools, and local library.

Nutrini food supplement For children with cerebral palsy.

To donate, contact: Jennifer Skobel at jcskobel@gmail.com Wanda Grove at wandagrove14@gmail.com

Photo of boys and shoes provided by Dorothy Klynstra

Recyclables (bottles, plastic, paper) For young men at Sailom project to earn income.

Google.com/Images

Young man at a group home shreds donated paper to earn money.

An egg seller buys the shredded paper.

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Community Fitness and Activities

Thani Talk ~October 2015

The Community Fitness and Activities page lists local classes/groups that meet regularly.

Some have fees associated with them, while others are free. Please contact each group leader for more information.

If you would like to list your group here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each month to nnradverts@yahoo.com.

Yoga & Meditation MEDITATION COURSES -Individual or Group Learn TM (Transcendental Medita on). Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athle c, and professional performance. Anyone can learn. Expert instruc on by a 35-year teacher of medita on.

Contact Ellie Edelhoff for more informa.on www.TM.org, www.tmeduca.on.org,www.DavidLynchFounda.o n.org

IYENGAR YOGA Iyengar yoga classes at the Regent, from Beginners to Advanced Asanas. Every weekday (Monday to Friday) from 08:00 am. to 09:30 am.

Contact: 0812853050, Juan Bodan, Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga Cer.fied. For more informa.on about Juan please visit hFp://kripa-yoga.com/

Sports BIKING Weekend bike rides, leaving from back gate at 7am, 50+km on mtn bikes.

Contact Chris: chris.oglesby@mubadalapetroleum.com Weekday rides leave the back gate at 7:30 a.m.

Distance and terrain varies with groups for both road bikes and mountain/hybrid bikes.

Contact Meg: megfarrellsine@gmail.com or 084-908-9388

MASTERS SWIMMING Nichada Pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30-8:30.

Every swimmer is welcome. Contact Kevin: ksypolt@gmail.com or Kers.n: kers.n.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750 18

KUNDALINI YOGA-Flexible Yoga for Mind and Body Beginners to advanced welcome! Tuesdays 9am10:30am or Fridays 8-9:30am Danicha Condo 39/289. Private classes available.

Contact Kers.n Wild kers.n.bangkok@gmail.com 086-372-9750

YOGA WITH NAPISA Monday, 8:45-10:15 am: All levels, Energize and Restora ve Yoga. Wednesday 7:30-9am: Level 2, Wednesday 5:30-6:45 pm: Level 1-2, Friday 7:308:45 am: Level 1- 2 @ Nichada Fitness Studio above Starbucks.

Contact Napisa C. Pant, 086-975-7187, napisapant.yoga@gmail.com, FB: YogaWithNapisa

RANGER BOOTCAMP: Come have fun and get fit at Ranger Bootcamp!

All fitness levels are welcome!

Class Times: 7:30am, Monday - Friday + addi onal day/night classes per demand Loca on: Varies depending on class and me Fees: varies Contact: Jack at rangerbootcamp@hotmail.com or 087-552-6007

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Community Fitness and Activities

Tutorials PIANO LESSONS FOR ALL AGES and ALL LEVELS By experienced professional with a Masters from University of Ariz. in Piano Performance and experience teaching at Westover School in Connec cut. Place: 39/891 Regent Price: 1000 baht per 30 minutes Contact Info: capricio310@gmail.com Tel: 091-878-6283

Dance Classes

BOLLYWOOD DANCE

SPIRIT DANCE

Bollywood dance is an exci ng and upbeat fusion of Western and Eastern dances with tradi onal Join the party in a dance fitness/wellness class. classical Indian dance styles. It’s funky, it’s sexy, it’s Swing and sway in a carefree and fun filled fun... and it’s a great workout! If you love to dance – environment, to great music from virtually every genre. Spirit Dance incorporates various dance arts this is for you! as well as movement from mar al and healing arts, Morning classes: Wednesdays or Thursdays 9:3010:30am and it embodies a holis c approach: Strength, Evening classes: Mondays 5-6pm mobility and flexibility for your body, with bliss, All classes held in Nichada. For loca.ons and further delight and ela on for your mind. Let your hair informa.on, contact Irit: 0860044840 down. Let your SPIRIT soar. Let your life DANCE. Classes are at a drop-in basis. Fridays, 9.30-10.30am, iritmike@gmail.com at Dance Studio above Starbucks For further info, contact Irit: 0860044840 iritmike@gmail.com

LATIN RHYTHYMS DANCE Improve your dance skills in different rhythms: cumbia, salsa, merengue, bachata, rock and roll, pop.

Mondays: 8:30-9:30 advanced Tuesdays: 8:30-9:30 beginners Wednesdays: 8:30-9:30 advanced One more day will be opened for beginners.

All classes held in Nichada Raintree 39/776 Contact: Blanca De la Vega Tel 0863483287

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Halloween

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Halloween in Nichada

It’s October, and that’s when nostalgia for fall in my home country sets in. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, the changing leaves, and a visit to the pumpkin patch--these are the things that those of us from the Western Hemisphere typically equate with the fall season. But after 15 years as an expat, I have become accustomed to life without fall as I knew it.

Actually, I can even say that I now appreciate the Nichada Halloween experience for what it is—a community-wide effort to celebrate the other part of the fall season by providing trick-ortreating, haunted houses, and the ghoulish fun of Halloween for all who wish to participate.

And, those who wish to participate often include people of all ages and backgrounds: infants, teens, and adults, from many different nationalities. Apparently, dressing up in costumes and walking around neighborhoods ringing doorbells is a popular way to bring people together!

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No matter what role you take, it is truly amazing to be a part of this event. For instance, some may decide to don a costume and follow their small children around as they ring doorbells and ask for a “trick-or-treat.” Others may decide to stay home and hand out treats, while their older children go out with friends.

Some may decide to forgo the trick-ortreating altogether and attend neighborhood haunted houses, or they may opt to stay home and avoid the crowds. If this is the case, one can simply turn off the outside lights and shut the door to keep trick-or-treaters away.

In the past, preparing for Halloween was a little daunting, but it has become much easier lately as the Thais have come to embrace this celebration. Decorations and costumes can be found in Chinatown on Sampeng Lane, or at department stores like Central and Emporium. It’s also easy to have costumes custom made from a

Halloween

Thani Talk ~October 2015

picture. Khun June, an English-speaking tailor located on the upper level of shops next to Subway outside Nichada, is highly recommended.

Candy can be purchased in bulk at Macro, Big C, and Lotus. Some neighborhoods pool their resources, and each participating household purchases candy for a big container. Then the neighbors sit and dole out candy at one central spot in the neighborhood.

The first trick-or-treaters usually appear just as the sun starts to set, around 6 p.m., and the doorbell ringing can go on until around 8 p.m. There is no need to feel obligated to have enough candy for this entire time. When the candy is gone, turn out the lights! Some neighborhoods will run out sooner than others.

Alas, there are no pumpkin patches to visit, but Villa Market started selling imported pumpkins a few years back. If you can’t afford the hefty price, it’s still possible to bring your children by to see what a western pumpkin looks like! Enjoy the season!

Laura Sadowski

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Thani Talk ~October 2015

Halloween

Halloween Tips Costume Sources White Elephant Thrift Store Costumes to be stocked beginning Sept. 28 (see samples on the right).

2nd Floor, Oasis Center Samakkee Road Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10am to 2pm (Wed. 10am to 4pm), Sat. 10am to noon.

Department Stores Central Dept. Store branches Big C branches Photos provided by Mary McCarty

Clothing Markets Pratunaam Chinatown Made to Order Seamstress Khun June (she speaks English) Near Subway sandwich shop outside Nichada Mobile: 081-497-3641 Thailand is hot and humid! Choose cool costumes in breathable fabrics.

Safety Tips Stay visible in the dark On Oct. 31, the sun will set at 5:51pm, shortly before the youngest trick-or-treaters start ringing door bells. Bring a flashlight/torch.

Add reflecting tape to costumes.

Chaperone little ones Keep an eye on the little ones. Popular venues such as Regent (known for American candies) get crowded. Trick-or-treating is hard work.

Chaperones may want to carry water to keep kiddies hydrated.

Watch out for cars and golf carts Main roads of Nichada will be lined with parked cars and golf carts. Keep an eye out for moving vehicles packed with revelers.

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Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Heard It Through the GRAPEVINE This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips that are helpful to others. If you have tips to share, please send them to Liz at nnrnewsletter@yahoo.com.

Hail Taxi Via Smartphone App basic Thai or have a Thai speaker available to answer questions from drivers, most of whom do not speak English. The drivers may call to verify your starting location. For example, they may ask what landmarks are nearby, and which house or building is near your pick-up point.

Grabtaxi is a free smartphone application that allows you to call a taxi straight from your phone here in Bangkok. You type your starting location and destination, and the nearest taxi driver will pick up your request. I used Grabtaxi a few weeks ago, just to test it out.

The application itself was user friendly and intuitive. The app is entirely in English, but I would only recommend it if you speak some

There’s an option to add tips to encourage drivers to accept your ride ‘bid,” but if you need a ride during rush hour, even tips may not offer enough incentive. Riders pay 25 baht above the metered fare for the service. Payments are made in cash directly to the driver.

Overall, Grabtaxi worked for me. If you would like to try it, be sure to have a Thai speaker available to answer questions from drivers.

Spencer Barnett

No need to pay for text messages or calls, now that there are so many free text services available. Newcomers may have noticed that in Thailand, the Line app, developed by NHN Japan, is wildly popular among Thais, who love to share cute stickers via the app. WeChat, developed in 2011 by China’s Tencent, is the app of choice for many in China. And there’s also Whatsapp, owned by Facebook and the most popular messaging app in the world. Download the apps and save a bundle on domestic and international calls and texts.

Liz Lu 24

Graphics on pp. 24 - 25 from Google.com/Images

Apps Offer Free Tex.ng & Calling Op.ons

Heard It Through The Grapevine

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Thai Costume Rental During my recent stay in Bangkok, trying a Thai costume rental service was probably one of my favorite experiences! The rental place is right next to the pier at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), just after you walk into the temple complex.

For only 100 baht, they let you wear traditional Thai clothing (you get to pick the colors) and then they take pictures for you on your camera or smartphone. The people who do it are very nice; they suggest different spots for you and give you different mudras/ positions to pose in.

Photo provided by Margaret Von Rotz

It's a cool thing for tourists, since there aren't a ton of chances to see traditional Thai clothing, let alone wear it! I appreciated the chance to be immersed in Thai culture, and at such a cheap price. It's great because you don't have to invest in buying Thai traditional wear, but you get to experience the culture in a unique way. I highly recommend it for anyone who would like to experience traditional Thai wear firsthand, and get a nice picture in front of the Wat Arun gate as well!

Margaret Von Rotz

Neighborhood Car Wash Offers Convenience In addition to car wash services at gas stations and in the parking lots of shopping malls, it’s good to have quality car washes available just around the corner.

Of the many car wash businesses on Samakkee Road outside Nichada’s main gate, my favorite is Like Car Wash next to the Oasis Center. There is a comfortable, air-conditioned waiting room.

Owner Khun Bae and his wife closely supervise their crew and use 3M cleaning products. Wash and vacuum cost between 170 to 200 baht depending on size of car.

Liz Lu 25

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Social Highlights: Welcome Back Coffee

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Highlights: Welcome Back Coffee On Friday, September 11 there was a packed house at the annual NNR welcome back coffee hosted by Shana DeHaven. A lot of new and returning residents enjoyed getting to know one another and catching up on summer events.

Representatives from several area clubs and organizations were also present so newcomers could learn what activities are available in the community. Bumrungrad International Hospital was also present handing out goody bags packed with lots of pertinent information.

Hostess Shana DeHaven

Thank you to Segafredo Zanetti for supplying and serving a wonderful selection of coffees. NNR also thanks Tops for supplying delicious pastries and breads. We would also like to thank all the ladies who brought homemade goodies to share.

Thank you, Shana DeHaven, for opening up your home for everyone to get back into Nichada happenings.

Denise Warta

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Around Nonthaburi and Beyond

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Events:

Worship Venues:

International Bike Fair Impact, Muang Thong Thani Oct. 1-4, 2015 10am to 9pm

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 50/33 Moo 4 Chaengwattana Road Sunday Worship Service--9 am.(in English) Family History Research Group--Mondays, 9-12 p.m.

Book Group--2nd Wed./month, 11 a.m.

“Foodie” Group--1st Tues./month,10 a.m.

Youth Group—Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Contact Marie Lewis (092-581-9606)

Thailand One Stop Shopping Expo 2015 Impact, Muang Thong Thani Oct. 10-18 10am to 9:30pm

Baan lae Suan Fair (Design and Décor) Challenger 1-3, Muang Thong Thani Oct. 31 to Nov. 8 9am to 9:30 pm

Chaengwattana Community Church Adult Sunday School—8:30am Sunday Service—9:30am Encouraging Women—Wed., 9am Men’s Meeting—Thurs., 5am Community Prayer—Tuesdays 7:30-8:30am Youth Alpha Group (high school) Sunday 6pm Youth Group (middle school) Thursdays 6:30pm http://www.cccthailand.org (02-911-6700) Catholic Mass in Nonthaburi Our Lady of Mercy Church 69/13 Moo 1, Tiwanon Rd. Ban Mai, Pakkred.

English Mass: Sundays at 5:15pm Contact us at: ourladyofmercyparish@gmail.com Discover the Rosary, contact Chris at hushh@hotmail.com Synagogue Beth Elisheva Synagogue, Mikveh & Jewish Center 121 Soi SaiNamThip 2, Sukhumvit Road, Soi 22 Tel: 02-663-0244; Fax: 663-0245 Mosque Soi Prasert Issaram Mosque 8 Moo 3 Soi Prasert Issaram, Pakkred, Nonthaburi Neighborhood mosque near Nichada Thani.

BIG + BIH Fair (gifts & lifestyle products) BITEC (BKK Int’l Trade & Exhibition Centre) Event Hall 101– 106 Oct. 22-23 10am to 9pm

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Buddhist Temple Wat Bua Khwan (วัดบัวขวัญ) 1 Moo 9 Ngamwongwan Road, Muang, Nonthaburi 02-952-8062; Watbuakhwan.com Popular local temple offering merit-making, prayer, blessings and funeral services. 15 minutes from Nichada. Go via Samakkee Road, on shortcut soi just before the expressway on-ramp near Ngamwongwan.

You missed the Start? No problem at all, please contact me!

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For Archive Copies of Thani Talk, Click: www.issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach

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Thani Talk ~October 2015

Asian Culture 101

Asian Culture 101 Temple Etiquette: Head, Shoulders , Feet and Shoes In Thai culture, etiquette regarding the head and feet are extremely important, so it behooves us to educate ourselves about the rules in order not to unknowingly offend our host country.

Head: It is considered rude to touch someone’s head, even that of a child. Young people generally lower their head as they walk past an elder. A Buddha head should not be used as décor (i.e. on a coffee table), and if it’s in a home, should have a place of honor.

Shoulders: Monks bare their shoulders, but when you’re visiting a temple, do cover up out of respect. At Wat Pho, underclad tourists (bare shoulders, cut-off shorts, etc.) are asked by staff to borrow a long-sleeved, almost floor-length green coat when inside the temple. The 200 baht borrowing fee is returned when the coat is returned at the end of the visit. The loaner coat is made of a synthetic material, so it doesn’t breathe and you’ll swelter. Better to dress appropriately to begin with.

Feet: Rule #1 before you enter an Asian home, and it’s even more important when visiting a temple, is to remove your shoes as a sign of respect. It’s also crucial NOT to point your feet at anyone. Inside a temple, when kneeling in front of a Buddha image, be sure to have your feet pointed away from the image, with your feet either directly under your derriere, or to the side.

Shoes: The no shoes rule was already mentioned above. Please know that removing one’s shoes is not only expected before entering an Asian home or a Buddhist temple, but it is also the etiquette at Thai mosques. For example, if you visit one of the mosques in our neighborhood (there’s one on Soi Prasert Issaram and one on Samakkee Road), you must remove your shoes before entering.

By observing these simple rules of etiquette, you will be welcomed everywhere in Thailand.

Photo above by Margaret Von Rotz.

Other photos from Google.com/ Images.

Liz Lu 39

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When Life Feels Overwhelming Reach Out for Help…

For more than 30 years, Carl Janowitz has provided therapy for adults, couples, adolescents and families. Carl spent most of his life in the US where he earned his Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and completed his internship before working in both residential settings and private practice. In 2003, he was offered a full time position as the only Western Psychologist at Bumrungrad Hospital where he spent five years in clinic before going into private practice. Now with offices in both Bangkok and Pattaya, Carl specializes in clients dealing with life changes, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety and stress and also focuses on both adolescents and adults with self esteem issues.

For a confidential appointment please call 089 680 3503 or counselor_cj@bangkoktherapy.com www.bangkoktherapy.com

Carl Janowitz Marriage and Family Therapist Circle One Building 1674 Petchaburi Rd. (Near Bumrungrad)

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Contact Liz at nnrnewsle)er@yahoo.com 41

Travel: Korat Zoo

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Korat Zoo: A Hidden Jewel Road Trip to Isan Province, Northeastern Thailand Approximately 260 kilometers and a 4- hour drive northeast of Bangkok, an under-appreciated treasure of Thailand lies tucked away in lush forest. Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, also known as the Korat Zoo, is an excellent choice for your next family trip. A long drive through the beautiful Thai countryside is all that stands between you and this delightful experience for the whole family.

transportation through the park. In addition to bike rentals including tandem bikes, visitors can also rent golf carts, or jump on a trolley. The zoo entrance fee is incredibly reasonable at 150 baht for foreigners and 100 baht for Thai residents. The zoo also has a sister attraction: a water park that many Thai families take their children to for the day.

Inbetweendreams.travellerspoint.com

Google Images

What really sets Korat Zoo apart from worldfamous attractions such as the San Diego Zoo is the intimate atmosphere of the park. Herds of exotic ungulates roam the zoo freely, and open air enclosures house kangaroos, hippos, elephants and many other fascinating creatures. New additions include habitats for camels and llamas. The animals all look well-cared for, and the enclosures are designed for maximum interaction (such as the specially designed giraffe-feeding towers.)

Vendors next to the enclosures sell bananas and vegetables (to feed deer) and long Thai string beans (to feed giraffes.)

The sprawling layout of the zoo is perfect for biking from one display or enclosure to another.

Elephant rides are no longer available, but the zoo still offers a wide selection of other forms of 42

Drink and snack kiosks dot the park, but for a good local meal, try one of the roadside restaurants just outside the zoo. We grabbed dinner at an outdoor restaurant and enjoyed a hearty meal of Isan favorites, such as grilled chicken, barbequed pork, sticky rice, and green papaya salad. We topped off the meal with homemade ice cream sticks in popular Thai flavors such as taro, Thai tea, and lychee.

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Travel: Korat Zoo Although visiting the Korat Zoo is a fantastic day trip, I recommend that you make it a weekend excursion so that you can rest up and stay the night at a local hotel after a fun day at the zoo. You may want to head to town and try hotels such as the Dusit Princess Korat or the Romyen Garden Place.

Downtown Korat, known for a popular shopping mall featuring a Flintstone-like exterior design, bustles with energy at night and is fun to explore.

Nakhon Rachasima is one of the "big four" cities in northeastern Thailand’s Isan province, Taking the family on a road trip to the Korat Zoo is an excellent way to experience a slice of rural, upcountry Thailand. Happy travels!

Amber Barnett

OneWeirdGlobe.com

www.travel.reperages-thailand.com

Another reason to make the Korat Zoo outing a 2-day trip is that the drive back from Korat to

Bangkok can be very harrowing for drivers if done at night. Most of the roads are narrow highways that often lack street lighting at night, so daytime driving is strongly recommended.

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NNR Tour Highlights

Thani Talk ~October 2015

Highlights from Sept. 23 Na-onal Museum Trip The tour with National Museum Volunteer guide Benedict was fabulous! I can appreciate the detail and understand the meaning behind Thai architecture and art so much more. She explained the dynamic relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in a way that really demonstrated how it is constantly evolving and captured your attention.

Thank you for accommodating me on the trip.

It was great!

Phoebe Bredin Benedict was a fantastic tour guide. She brought the history of the museum to life. I especially loved her descriptive narratives about the Buddha.

I participated in the museum tour today and was incredibly impressed with how knowledgeable the guide was. Benedict provided a great overview of the history of Thailand which was so interesting.

Many of the questions I had about the temples, Buddha and other Thai traditions were answered. I am now looking forward to bringing my family and friends to the museum so that they can also learn more about this amazing country that we live in. Thanks so much for organizing .... I can't wait for the next tour!

Cyndy Henry

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Patti Madigan Thanks for organising the Bangkok Museum tour.

It was great to have Ms. Benedict as our guide.

She shared her wealth of knowledge with us and provided such interesting insight in Thai history, in terms of religion and many other topics, which as a newcomer, we found very exciting and informative. Looking forward to the next one.

Shepali Jain Thank you so much for a great tour at the National Museum today. It was very informative and a nice look into Thai culture. And we had a lovely guide.

I'll go again with guests!

Raphaelle Fahmi It was a very enlightening tour. I enjoyed learning more in depth about Thai culture, what the paintings in the temples mean, what every part of the Buddha statues mean, Thai history. Benedict, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable and made the tour easy to follow.

Bertha Itinger

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Thani Talk ~October 2015

Restaurant Review

Photo: Kohspot.com

SALT: Eclectic Dining at Its Best a mushroom and pumpkin ravioli salad, grilled tofu with a spicy miso sauce, and Kurobuta (highly prized Japanese pork from the Black Berkshire pig) stuffed with foie gras. It all worked well together and was a wonderful meal.

Far from a trendy restaurant-of-the-moment, Salt is a longtime favorite that has developed a loyal following since it opened in 2011. This venerable eatery has maintained its status at the top of Bangkok’s dining scene through its winning combination of cuisine and atmosphere.

Located on Soi Ari 4, about 300 metres from the Ari BTS station, Salt is spacious, with floor-toceiling glass walls. There are tables in the industrial room near the bar, a large area for dining al-fresco, as well as tables in the wine cellar area. Salt takes great pride in its handcrafted décor.

As for the food, there is something for everyone.

The long menu, prepared by Thai chef Gog and his staff, features Italian (in particular their signature wood-fired pizzas), French cuisine (frog legs anyone?), and a sushi menu.

Normally I would be wary of a place offering such a variety food, but Salt seems to do everything well.

Don’t judge me, but at one dinner I enjoyed fresh oysters with uni, caviar, and a yuzu sauce,

Photo by Pannapa Na Nan

Perhaps it’s not often that the fine people of Nichada Thani find themselves in Ari - a hip neighborhood about 10 km north of downtown that’s full of restaurants, bars, and shops which offer a comparatively quiet alternative to Sukhamvit or Silom. But if you are in the neighborhood, I’d recommend a visit to Salt.

The pork, in particular was so succulent and juicy. I’d happily recommend it, however there is so much on offer you’re bound to find one of your favorites or something new and exciting.

Salt also has an extensive wine and cocktail menu, to ensure you can find the perfect beverage to pair with your eclectic meal.

The dishes at Salt are not cheap, neither are they very pricey, even by Bangkok standards.

Appetizers average about 200-300 baht and entrees are generally in the 400-600 baht range.

If you want to enjoy delicious food in a cool atmosphere, alongside the young and hip of Bangkok, make your way to Salt.

Address: Corner of Soi Ari 4, Phaholyothin Road, Soi 7 Photo by Pannapa Na Nan

John Marinos 49

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Local Business Bamboo Spa Bank Krungsri Blue Sky Café Bumrungrad Family Clinic Clark Hatch Fitness Center Crystal Holiday Travel Hair By Jib Happy Teeth Dental Clinic Great Massage ISB Le Studio Hair Nichada Customer Relations Pandit Carpets Panipa Pum’s Salon Rex Pharmaplus Rose Marie Academy Shawn Carpets Starbucks Twist Villa Market Wash-N-Dry 4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming

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