May 2018
N o w o n l i n e a t : w w w. i s s u u . c o m / n n r t h a n i t a l k
Thani Talk NONTHABURI NEIGHBORHOOD REACH
Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994
Cover Story:
Travel:
Community:
PEOPLE:
Farewell Messages from Neighbors
Sukhothai First Thai Kingdom
New Businesses in Nichada & More
Mare Harvey NNR Charity Co-Chair
Pages 10-16
Pages 28-29
Thani Talk is generously sponsored by:
Pages 24-26
Pages 38-39
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 by hosting the NNR Annual Charity Bazaar. Additionally, NNR hosts monthly socials and organizes monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.
Connect with NNR
facebook.com/nnrthailand
issuu.com/nnrthanitalk
Unofficialnichada.com
Thani Talk Ad Rates 1 page
19x28 cm.
3000 baht
1/2 page
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1,800 baht
1/4 page
9x14 cm.
1000 baht
• • • •
Rates per issue, discount for 8 and 4 month contracts Based on space availability Deadline for all ads is the 10th of each month Contact nnradverts@gmail.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 2017-2018 Chairperson
Henrietta Bullinger
NNRThaiChair@gmail.com
Vice Chairperson
Sally Elliott
sallyelliott@me.com
Treasurer
Sandra Wilson
nnrthaitreasurer@gmail.com
Activity/Tour Coordinators
Susanne Rodrigues Pascale Kervyn
NNR Socials
Chantal Bremner
nnrsocial@gmail.com
Charity & Volunteer Coordinators
Mare Harvey Cyndy Henry
nnrcharity@gmail.com
Advertising Director
Ginny Condra
Thani Talk News Team
Liz Lu (Editor) See below for Thani Talk Team
Distribution Coordinators
Alyson Espinoza Diaz Birgit Sund
Communications Director
Kiki O’Connor
092-458-3505
suratoru@yahoo.co.uk nnrtour@gmail.com
095-247-5692 nnradverts@gmail.com nnrnews@gmail.com 090-656-9930 alysonespinoza@gmail.com nnrcommunications@gmail. com
Thani Talk Team: Advertising Director and Proofreader (Ginny Condra), Graphics Consultant (Bill Fear), Restaurant Reviewers (John Marinos, Vara Sumetanon, Barb Lewis), Grapevine Leads (Susan Yates), Distribution 2 May 2018 Coordinators (Alyson Espinoza Diaz, Birgit Sund). T h a n i Ta l k
Letter from the NNR Chairperson Thanking Departing NNR Board Members & Welcoming the New This is the time of year we start saying goodbyes. Every year about 30% of our community move on; some to return home, others to new and different adventures and locations. To all those who are leaving this wonderful life in the bubble, NNR would like to wish you bon voyage and all the very best. To those of you leaving for the summer, we look forward to seeing you after the break. If you are staying here, please keep cool and enjoy the peace and quiet of our neighborhood. Several of our NNR board members are also moving on. I would like to wish them safe and easy transitions and thank them from the bottom of my heart for their dedication and service to our community. Mare Harvey – Mare has worn several different hats during her time in Nichada. She has been NNR Chair and for the last year, the joint Charity Coordinator. Her dedication to our community and the needy of Pakkret, is second to none. She is always positive and generous. We will all miss her energy and hard work. Susanne Rodrigues – Susanne has been the NNR Tour Coordinator for several years, she has not only shown us some unique and wonderful parts of Bangkok but has also always encouraged new neighbors and
community members to join the excursions and feel comfortable in Nichada. Alyson Espinoza Diaz - As coordinator of Thani Talk distribution, Alyson has ensured that we all receive the paper edition. She has had the foresight to make sure that inclement weather does not leave us with soggy copies. Alyson is a great organizer and has kept adding efficiencies to the TT distribution. She has also been an integral member of the Running Dinner team. Cyndy Henry – As Charity Co-Coordinator, Cyndy has helped grow the charity program, including establishing close collaboration with ISB faculty, and increased volunteer coordination in our community. She has been a wiz at bringing our charity work into the digital age. I will truly miss these amazing women, not only their contribution to NNR and our community, but also as friends. It is the cost of the global and transient lives we lead, that we regularly say goodbye to good friends. The reverse, of course, is that we have a global network and are fortunate to welcome new friends into our lives. Please join me in welcoming some of the new NNR team members: Birgit Sund, who will take over Thani Talk distribution; Liz Garrigan and Imogen Lee, who will be the new charity coordinators. Have a wonderful summer! Henrietta Bullinger NNR Chairperson
Inside This Issue
Calendar of Events
NNR Social
Letter from the NNR Chairperson NNR May Social NNR May Tour Cover Story Fitness & Activities Community News Travel Heard it Through the Grapevine PEOPLE Charity News Restaurant Review
3 4 5 10 22 24 28 34 38 41 49
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach May 2018
May 1: Labor Day May 11: NNR Tour - Flower Workshop, p. 5 May 12: Father Daughter Dance, p. 24 May 18: NNR Social - Mini Bazaar, p. 4 May 18, June 1: Comedy Den Pakkret, p. 20 June 2: Nichada Thani Anniversay, p. 18 Through June 10: Mon Voyage Sale, p. 9
Cover photo by Piercarlo Abate “Departure from Bangkok” Photo taken at Hualamphong train station Bangkok, Thailand www.updownallaround.com
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NNR May Social
NNR Mini-Bazaar FRIDAY, MAY 18 10 AM - 2 PM 39/761 Veranda Sponsored by:
Join us to pick up last minute gifts and items at this unique NNR Social event. This year various vendors and charities will be on hand to offer interesting and fun items for your shopping pleasure! Come grab a cup of coffee and some nibbles provided by Vapor and Billy's Bites and peruse at your leisure while chatting with friends before the summer break. Veranda is located beside the Starbucks. #761 is the last house on the right; there will be plenty of parking. Vendors will include: * Carry On selling beautiful rice bags and accessories * SALA Stainless Steel offering a vast variety of stainless steal items * TOM K Just B handmade genuine Silver & Gold jewels Charities will include: * I-Care boys offering pretty papier-mâchÊ vases, hand-woven keychains, and some painted Buddhas and animals made from concrete molds * I-Care girls with gorgeous pillows, keychains, bags and woven wreaths, all made from donated and upcycled materials * Home for the Destitute offering rugs and bags made from upcycled materials * Beautiful Thai skirts & trousers with silver belts will be available for purchase * The Weighted Blankets which can be calming and therapeutic and help reduce anxiety For further information, please contact Chantal Bremner (nnrsocial@gmail.com).
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NNR May Tour
The Floral Arts in Thailand:
A Bespoke Flower Arranging Workshop There is a rich flower arranging tradition in Thailand. Indeed, the Floral Arts epitomize the glorious intersection of nature and stylized beauty. This year we are able to offer this wonderful workshop one more time due to the kindness of Khun Pichada of Asian Tigers who organises and sponsors the event. NNR invites you to attend on Friday, May 11 from 9 am -12 noon. Participants will learn to fold the lotus flowers and have the opportunity to create their own bouquet of folded lotus, as well as learn about the history and symbolism of flowers in Thai culture. In this way, we will be granted insight into a fascinating aspect of the culture in which we are fortunate to live. You will of course be able to take it home at end of the workshop! Pascale Kervyn and Susanne Rodrigues, NNR Tour Coordinators
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
When: Friday, May 11 Time: 9 am - 12 noon Light refreshments included Where: Home of Henrietta Bullinger 39/666 Bay View Lot 3, Nichada Thani Cost: 300 baht To sign up: Please email nnrtour@gmail.com The tour is limited to 14 participants.
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Cover Story
Annual Farewell Edition As June approaches, countless neighbors are getting ready to leave Thailand. Some are heading back to their home countries, and others are embarking on new work assignments in different foreign cities. Each May, Thani Talk offers some of our readers a chance to share a farewell message
with friends and neighbors. This year I’ve also included one “Leaver” who will stay in Thailand but is leaving our Nonthaburi neighborhood to move to downtown Bangkok. Liz Lu Enjoy their stories and advice. : ) Editor, Thani Talk
Naomi Lapine, British: Headed to Michigan
Nationality: British Hometown: Ann Arbor, Michigan (at least that is where our house is!) Years in Thailand: 3 Company that brought you to Thailand: Ford Motor Company Previous postings: We have lived in Paris, Kansas City, Boston, New Jersey, and Michigan...three times!! Number of children: Three children, ages 13, 18 & 20 Moving to: We plan to return to Ford headquarters in Michigan, USA. Plans: Return to work at least part time in education or travel. Memories of Thailand: I have loved every moment of my time here and have many wonderful memories... From coconut ice cream and weekly massages to volunteering at Bumble Bee Free Library to get my teacher fix and at the Booster Hut to support the various sports and arts at ISB. Feeling like I have been living in a National Geographic magazine as I travelled to incredible places in Thailand and beyond. Advice to Newcomers: Get involved in the school and community. Take advantage of this time to travel in Asia and absorb the culture. Make the effort to learn Thai!! Don't focus on what you miss back home but rather on all the amazing things you are able to experience here.
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Cover Story
Patricia Madigan, American: New Home in Namibia Nationality: American Hometown: Concord, Massachusetts, USA Years in Thailand: 4 Organization that brought you to Thailand: USAID Previous postings: Cambodia, India, Zambia, Egypt Number of children: Two sons, one at university in the US, the other, Will, at high school at ISB. We moved to Nichada so he could experience riding his bike and some level of independence, which he hasn’t had in any previous country we’ve lived. Moving to: Windhoek, Namibia Your plans after Thailand and at your new post: I’m the trailing spouse, so I will unpack and figure out the logistics of Windhoek, as well as hire help. We’ve traveled throughout Namibia and Southern Africa in the past, but I look forward to reconnecting with safaris and the outdoor life—including living in temperatures where you want to be outdoors. All in all, it will be a great next adventure. Memories of Thailand: We last lived in Southeast Asia (Phnom Penh) in the late 1990s with babies, so being in Bangkok has been hugely different. I’ve made some great friends here and done some wonderful traveling. In particular I’ve loved exploring Myanmar and Laos. I also never tire of Bali, Hanoi, Chaing Mai...the list goes on and on! Advice for newcomers: Get out of Nichada! Take advantage of being close to two airports for easy regional travel. Say “yes” to every invitation and offer that comes your way and sign-up for as many trips/ visits/opportunities as you find.
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Cover Story
Shreejana Gautam, Neplali: Bound for Singapore Nationality: Nepali Hometown : Kathmandu , Nepal Years in Thailand: 2 years Company: Sports Radar - a Swiss-German sports management company where my husband works currently in Singapore Previous postings: Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur and Hyderabad Number of childrens: 3 Moving to: Singapore Plans : Get involved with some social welfare and community activities, besides continuing to take care of the family Memories of Thailand: Living in Nichada Thani was a very joyful experience for me and my family. Our kids loved ISB and St Andrews Samakee schools. We enjoyed the relaxed and informal atmosphere of the local and expat communities. I will miss Nichada, Bangkok and Thailand generally, and look forward to visiting again.
Mare Harvey, Canadian: New Adventures in Jakarta
Nationality: Canadian Hometown: Calgary, Alberta Other postings: Perth, Australia Company: Chevron Number of Years in Thailand: 6 Number of Children: 2 Moving to: Jakarta, Indonesia Plans: To keep having new adventures Memories of Thailand: I have so many favourite memories which include all the wonderful people I have met and the outstanding adventures I have had. The best thing I did was get involved with the NNR, especially getting to interact with all of the charities the NNR supports. Advice to newcomers: Live in the moment and get out there and have adventures! 12
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Cover Story
Christine Platou Bjornsen, Norwegian: Returning to Oslo
Nationality: Norwegian Hometown: Oslo Years in Thailand: 2 1/2 years Company: dTAC / Telenor Previous postings: Thailand in 2000-2002 Number of children: Two. Karoline (15) and Christoffer (19). Moving to: Oslo, Norway Plans: We will move back home to our house and are looking forward to do some refurnishing after tenants have lived there in the time we have lived in Thailand. Our daughter will start high school (the last 3 years in Norway) and our son will begin his international business degree at ESSEC just outside Paris, France. My husband is already back in Norway working for Telenor. We are looking forward to four seasons and enjoying outdoor activities, both in our area and also at our cabin in the mountains. Memories of Thailand: Wonderful weeks filled with activities and good friends like biking with Pathum Thani Jakayans on Monday mornings, yoga several mornings per week, golf with Mare on Friday morning and my weekly book club excursions. Biking a week in Laos with Henrietta and Mare. Travelling in Thailand and family trips to Australia, India, Japan, Cambodia and Bhutan. The Booster Club and Spirit Tent at IASAS and other sport events. The ISB community, varsity sports and travelling to IASAS to support my kids where I got to see new places and make new friends. The Scandinavian community and how we get together to pull off the Viking room for the Intercultural Day at elementary school and the Scandinavian Bakery at IFF. Or just walking around the lake enjoying the warm from the sun and all the different flowers and colors and sounds. And I know I will miss Khun Nongs´ 2- hour massages... Advice for newcomers: There are so many things to do and see in Bangkok, Thailand and Asia. Make a list of what you want to do and start crossing things out. Time flies! The ISB and Nichada Community is great there are so many nice and friendly people so everyone should be able to find something and someone to spend the days with. There are so many things to get involved in - do not wait to get involved. The PTA´s Adult education is a great place to do something you like and meet likeminded people. Sign up for the NNR monthly tours - a great way to explore new things and meet new people. Get involved. If you have active kids in arts, academics or sports join the Booster Club - either to work at the Booster Hut on Fridays or sign up for an hour at Spirit Tent at Spirit Night and BISAC/ IASAS. May 2018 Thani
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Cover Story
Alyson Espinoza Diaz, American & Mexican: Packing for Tanzania Nationality: USA & Mexico Hometown: Houston, Texas Number of years in Thailand: 6 Company: Blue Energy Consulting Co., Ltd. Previous postings: Stavanger, Norway & Monterrey, Mexico Number of children: 2 Moving to: Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania Plans: Enjoy Africa and our new adventure Memories of Thailand: Thai food, foot massages, walks around the lake, and pool parties with friends are some of our fondest Nichada memories. We have also enjoyed the Thai beaches, diving, snorkeling and inexpensive travel throughout South East Asia. We appreciate the freedom a large gated community has provided for our children. Most of all we are grateful for the friends we have made. They will truly be missed.
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Cover Story
Cyndy Harvey, Canadian: Back to Work as Mountie in Ottawa Nationality: Canadian Hometown: Ottawa Years in Thailand: 3 Organization that brought you to Thailand: Government of Canada Other postings: This is our first international posting Number of children: 2 boys; Luke (16) and Jake (15) Moving to: Back home to Ottawa, Canada Plans: After three years of enjoying myself here, I will be returning to work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Memories of Thailand: Some of the highlights of my time here include all the amazing trips and exploring we were able to do as a family; meeting such interesting and wonderful people both in Nichada and the surrounding communities; watching how much my sons enjoyed their time here at school; volunteering; and hanging out with friends. I also really enjoyed my time as Mare’s “side-kick” (NNR Charity Cocoordinator) and seeing what a huge positive impact our generous community has in supporting all the local charities that NNR is involved with. Advice for newcomers: Explore, explore, explore……there are so many things to see and do in our neighbourhood, Bangkok, Thailand and South East Asia. Take advantage of every opportunity to travel and experience all that Thailand and Southeast Asia has to offer. Get involved and make a difference. There are so many opportunities to volunteer, donate and support the many worthwhile charities in our area. Try to fit in some time to really make a difference and I guarantee it will change your life!
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Cover Story
Staying in Thailand But Downsizing Sandra Wilson, American: Exploring Life Downtown Nationality: Born and raised in Germany. Became an American Citizen in July 2004. Hometown: FĂźrth, Bavaria in Germany and Bel Air, Maryland in USA Number of years in Thailand so far: 2 1/2 years Organization that brought you to Thailand: US Embassy Previous postings: None How much longer will you be staying? 18 months Number of children: One girl who is a senior at ISB Moving to: Downtown Bangkok Reason for downsizing: With our daughter leaving for college in August, the house we live in is too big for two people. Reason for leaving Nichada (though still in Thailand): Shorter work commute for my husband and more opportunities to establish my new home-based business. Plans: I will continue making delicious Bavarian Specialties that are well known or almost forgotten. Memories of Nichada Days: Loved the golf cart accessibilities to all local stores and the time we were partying with family and friends. Established great friendships in this neighborhood. Advice for newcomers: Read the Thani Talk!!! This magazine and the Unofficial Nichada web link provide a lot of information for newcomers and neighborhood veterans.
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Cover Story
SopMoeiArts
&
Brings the shop to Nichada
(Wed)
May 16 to 19
(Sat)
ϭϬĂŵ ƚŽ ϰƉŵ ;>ĂƐƚ ĚĂLJ ϯƉŵͿ
Ăƚ ϮĨů EŝĐŚĂĚĂ WůĂnjĂ ĂďŽǀĞ sŝůůĂDĂƌŬĞƚ
ŶƚŝƋƵĞ &ƵƌŶŝƚƵƌĞ͕ sŝŶƚĂŐĞ ĠĐŽƌ /ƚĞŵƐ
ZƵŶŶĞƌƐ͕ ƵƐŚŝŽŶƐ͕ tĂůů ,ĂŶŐŝŶŐƐ͕ ^ŝůŬ ^ĐĂƌǀĞƐ ĂŐƐ ǁŝƚŚ >ĞĂƚŚĞƌ ĂŶĚ ŚĂŶĚ ǁŽǀĞŶ ĨĂďƌŝĐ
^ŽƉDŽĞŝ ƌƚƐ ŝƐ Ă ŶŽŶ ƉƌŽĨŝƚ ŽƌŐĂŶŝnjĂƚŝŽŶ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ ƐĞůĨͲƌĞůŝĂŶĐĞ ŽĨ <ĂƌĞŶ ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ ŝŶ DĂĞ ,ŽŶŐ ^ŽŶ WƌŽǀŝŶĐĞ͘ We thank the Shaman Board shop for its generosity ŝŶ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ^ŽƉDŽĞŝ ƌƚƐ ďLJ ĂůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚŝƐ ƐĂůĞ͘
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Fitness & Activities
Nichada Neighborhood Neighborhood Nichada Community Fitness & Activities Listings Community Fitness & Activities Listings Yoga Classes
Ashtanga Yoga with PanZen PanZen, 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com http://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen
Alignment Based Yoga with Napisa Napisa Pant, 086-975-7187 napisapant.yoga@gmail.com FB: yogawithnapisa
Power Vinyasa Yoga Kelly Poret, 061-872-7534 yogaporet@gmail.com FB: kellyporetyoga
Iyengar Yoga Juan Bodan, 081-285-3050 http://kripa-yoga.com/
Monday Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Restorative 8:45-10:15 Napisa Evening 5:30-6:45 pm
Yoga Schedule Wednesday
Tuesday Power Vinyasa Yoga 7:45-9:00 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Kundalini Beginners 9:30-11:00 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45 Power Vinyasa Yoga 5:30-6:30 pm
Kundalini All Levels 7:45-9:1 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Level I-II 8:45-10:15 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45
Thursday Power Vinyasa Yoga 7:45-8:45 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:15 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45 Napisa Teen Yoga 5:00-6:00 pm
Pilates
Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Beginner I-II 8:45-10:15
Learn TM (Transcendental Meditation) Expert instruction by a 35-year teacher of meditation. Â Contact Ellie: eedelhoff@hotmail.com www.TM.org www.DavidLynchFoundation.org
Dance
Zumba Chaengwattana Community Church Mon, Wed & Friday FB: Zumba Nichada Thani Class fee donated to charity!
Friday
Meditation
Das PowerHaus Pilates Mat Mon-Friday - See link on FaceBook to register online Joanna Brittingham, 089846-6610 Joanna.brittingham@gmail.com FB: DasPowerHaus Nichada
Bollywood Dance Suitable for all levels! Wed & Thurs 9:30-10:30 Afternoon Classes: Tues or Wed 5:00-6:00 Contact Irit: 086-004-4840 iritmike@gmail.com
Kundalini Yoga Kerstin Wilde, 086-372-9750 kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com www.yoga-of-awareness.com Private classes available
Sport Masters Swimming - Nichada Pool, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30. Contact: Catherine Miller, solviken66@hotmail.com Biking - Meet at Seechaitong gate! Weekday rides on Mon & Wed at 7:30 Contact: Henrietta Bullinger, hbullinger@gmail.com. Weekends at 7:00 am. Contact: Chris Oglesby, coglesby@hotmail.com Tennis with Coach Sagi - Nichada tennis courts. Contact: Sagi Luft, 092-271-2110, sagiluft@hotmail.com
Tutorials World English - Oral English & composition instruction, 30 yrs exp Deborah Funthorn, BA, MFA, TESL, 083-055-9785, debhata@yahoo.com Piano Lessons - Exp. professional from Westover School in Connecticut capricio310@gmail.com, 091-878-6283
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Nonthaburi & Beyond
Nonthaburi & Beyond International Bangkok Bike Bicycle exposition featuring bikes, components, biking fashion apparel and gadgets. May 3 - 6 At Challenger Hall 1-2 Muang Thong Thani Tel: 02-203-4241 Email: bangkokbike@ qsncc.come
Architect â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18 Beyond Ordinary ASEANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest building technology exposition May 1 - 6 At Challenger Hall 1-3 Muang Thong Thani 10 am - 8 pm Tel: 02-717-2477 Website: www. ArchitectExpo.com
Harry Styles Live on Tour May 7 At Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani Ticket prices: 18,040 (VIP Pack 1) / 14,540 (VIP Pack 2) / 10,540 (VIP Pack 3) / 5,040 / 4,040 / 3,040 / 2,040 THB Ticket available at: Thaiticketmajor Tel. 02-262-3456 Website: www.thaiticketmajor.com Email: callcenter@thaiticketmajor.com
Furniture Livng & Design 2018 May 26 - June 3 11 am to 9 pm At BITEC (Bangna Trad) Exposition of furniture and decorations (sofas, dining sets, office sets), electronics, appliances, etc.
Want to Reach Thani Talk Readers? Print Edition reaches 1,300 local households. Online edition offers unlimited reach. New! Includes listing on new community website.
May 2018
Interested? Contact:T Ginny h a n iatTnnradverts@gmail.com alk
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Community News
May 12: Girl Scouts Father Daughter Dance “Under the Sea” at the Peninsula Hotel Ticket Sales End May 10
The Girl Scouts of Thailand are hosting their Annual Father Daughter Dance on May 12 at the Peninsula Hotel! It’s a Girl Scouts of Thailand event, but all girls are welcome. Tickets are 1,700 baht per person through May 7, then increase to 2000 baht. Ticket sales end May 10. Questions? E-mail: Mary Ann at maryannbanker1@ gmail.com
American Women’s Club
Casual Connections Nichada May 3rd Farewell Luncehon On Thursday, May 3rd, the American Women’s Club’s Casual Connection Nichada invites everyone to a farewell lunchon hosted by Melody Herber at her home near Nichada Thani. The going away party themed “We’ll Be Blue Without You” will be held from 11 am to 2 pm. Melody’s home (22/80 Soi 3, Samakkee Place) is on Soi Prasert Issaram, past Que Pasa restaurant. Let’s dress in blue to bid farewells to our dear friends who will be leaving Thailand this summer and to make new friends from around the world. Please bring a dish to share as we have enjoyed doing so for many years. Everyone is welcome! AWC members and nonmembers alike. Please email suchadasmith@hotmail.com if you have any questions. Very much hope to see everyone before we part. Thank you. Suchada Smith 24
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Community News
Multiple Garage Sales May 5! Many Nichada neighborhoods will hold garage sales on Saturday, May 5, from 7:30-9:30 am. In addition, Mare Harvey of NNR’s Charity Committee will be collecting donations for a sale held at the Chaengwattana Community Church on the same day. To donate to the NNR sale, message Mare on Facebook or e-mail nnrcharity@gmail.com.
OC Organic Farm Opens Shop in Nichada Napis “Jum” Chemnasiri, owner of OC Organic Farm, has opened a shop in Nichada. It is located opposite the Muay Thai studio. Jum started OC Organic Farm in honor of her late father; O.C. are her dad’s initials. Her mom Khun Da often helps out at the shop. Vegetables are grown on the family farm in Pakchong. Jum is working with makers of other natural products, such as cheeses, soaps, and shampoos, to stock her shop. For more info, contact Jum at: 083-604-8333.
New Aetna Family Clinic Opens in Nichada The Aetna Family Clinic in Nichada (the first in Thailand) opened on April 2nd in the same building formerly occupied by the Bumrungrad Clinic. Nichada resident Nick Potter is the CEO of Aetna in Thailand. Last July Aetna International acquired Bupa Health Insurance (Thailand), the largest health insurance company in Thailand. As with Bupa, Aetna specializes in healthcare insurance across the globe, focusing only on healthcare. As part of its global expansion strategy, Aetna is expanding its healthcare services across Asia, with a focus on Thailand. Dr. Thanes Choonchuachan, a general practioner based at the local Aetna Family Clinic, states that one aspect of this wider drive into healthcare services is the provision of primary care, both physically and virtually, in addition to health insurance. Currently, the Aetna Clinic is maintaining the same type of medical services that the Bumrungrad clinic had provided, including handling minor ailments and acute care. Dr. Thanes said that soon the Aetna clinic will also offer specialist sessions in pediatrics, wellness programs and checkups. May 2018
For cases requiring hospital treatment, the clinic is not tied to any hospital but works in partnership with all the hospitals in Bangkok. Doctors will advise patients on where to go to receive the most appropriate treatment, said CEO Potter. Aetna is working closely with the World Medical Center on Chaengwattana Road due to its proximity to the Nichada community which is especially important in emergency cases, he noted. The Aetna Family Clinic in Nichada is currently open Monday-Friday from 10 am to 6 pm. It is closed on weekends but may increase service hours beginning in August depending on the needs of the community. . Liz Lu
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Community News
Girl Scouts Clean Up Beach: Islands Trashed by Plastics The 7th and 8th grade Cadette Troop at ISB sailed from Siracha to Koh Kram Island with Big Outdoor Thailand on an overnight trip. It was fun for the girls to learn to sail and explore this area of the Gulf of Thailand. One thing that stuck out was that all the undeveloped islands were full of trash. The girls did a beach clean up on a small beach on Koh Kram Island not far from Pattaya and picked up over 1,000 pieces of trash in one hour. It was heartbreaking but easy to understand how all this trash ends up in the ocean and on these beautiful islands. Plastic water bottles, straws, and plastic cutlery were the biggest culprits. Plastic waste is a huge problem here in Thailand. This experience is another reminder to please turn down plastic straws, bags, and bottles when you can. Get in a habit of carrying around a water bottle or cup for your beverages here. Every bit helps as we all share this beautiful planet. I also highly recommend Big Outdoor Thailand for group and family adventures. I have used them three times, and Tony and his wife Lek are great. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been kayaking, sailing, and caving with this group. If you like outdoor adventures and want a guide to take you to some spectacular places not too far outside of Bangkok I recommend this company. The website for further information is bigoutdoorsthailand.com. Kelly Poret
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Travel
Exploring Sukhothai First Thai Kingdom
I have wanted to visit Sukhothai from the moment I first saw an image of the giant Buddha at Wat Si Chum. When I learned about the zebras and giraffes at the airport and the ease of riding bikes through all of the ruins, it became an “easy sell” to the rest of my family. We all really enjoyed our long weekend there during the March Makha Bucha weekend. Many people make the six-hour drive to visit the two other associated parks (Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet) which, like Sukhothai, are also deemed UNESCO world heritage sites. In the interest of time, we took the only airline that flies to Sukhothai, Bangkok Airways, which flies out of Suvarnabhumi airport. Like the airport in Koh Samui, Bangkok Airlines built and owns the Sukhothai airport and surrounding development which aims to promote sustainable tourism. The flight took one hour and 20 minutes. The airport is about 40 km from Old City, and as we deplaned, we decided to rent a small car for the weekend which was about 2,000 baht. The rental car company is called “Eddy Rent-A-Car” and we were able to easily rent a 28
car upon arrival using a credit card, US state driver’s license and passport. There was not much traffic, and the car was a nice fallback in case we got too tired or too hot on bikes. One of Bangkok Airways projects is the Organic Agriculture Classroom where visitors can participate in rice planting and buffalo riding. We had also heard the food there was amazing, and although the restaurant itself isn’t well promoted, it’s next to the airport and makes a perfect place for lunch! The food was organic and primarily grown in and around the project. Our family shared many dishes which were all amazing and cost about 500 baht total. A friend recommended Sriwilai Hotel, which is only 2 km from the sites. The hotel has its own bikes for guests to use at no additional charge and a very nice pool. We quickly checked in, regrouped and started off on our bikes to see Old City and watch the sunset behind Wat Mahathat. We then discovered a cultural night market with hundreds of food and craft stalls operated by a cooperative effort. It was a festive scene with all sorts of visitors and locals simply walking around enjoying food and various entertainment. The next day we started out after breakfast seeking another bike route to the north that follows quiet roads to ruins outside the gates. The hotel provided bike maps with the highlights, but with more time, it would have been interesting to expand our route to other spots not on the map but were pointed out by the signs along the bike routes. Sukhothai was a Khmer outpost before it became
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Travel
a regional capital and the “First Thai Kingdom.” Its re-founding in 1238 is considered the beginning of the Thai nation by some historians, and its expansion was accomplished by enveloping nearby towns. The third king of this dynasty, King Ram Khamhaeng is credited with the creation of the Thai alphabet and the establishment of Theravada Buddhism as the state religion. He also conducted trade with China and ruled during a time when it appears the community prospered. The political and administrative systems, and economic prosperity of Sukhothai inspired advancements in architecture, art, language, writing, religion, law and engineering. Sukhothai grew to rule much of what we know as today’s Thailand before slowly succumbing to the rising forces of Ayutthaya. Top highlights: The sun setting behind Wat Mahathat, the big Buddha at Wat Si Chum, riding outside the city walls on the quiet rural roads, the ruins of the kilns, and seeing a mural in a contemporary wat depicting how they used the kilns in the firing methods (or lost wax) of Buddha statues. I recently read in the Bangkok Post that the Tourism Authority of Thailand wants to transform Sukhothai into another featured cultural site for visitors in the country. However, I think it will be remain a quiet and relaxing getaway for the foreseeable future! Kelly Kabat May 2018
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Heard it Through the Grapevine
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 nnrnews@gmail.com.
First Serve Sports Club Just outside the Seechaithong gate there’s a sports club worth checking out. If you’ve driven toward the mall, you’ve probably passed First Serve Sports Club. Use fees are low, the courts are new, and we play there when we can’t get on the Nichada courts. Bathrooms are nice and they have a pool too! GREAT Party Place.
Khanitta Sritawan
Raye Drury
Soi Chaengwattana-Pakkret 24 Facebook: FirstServeSportsClub Tel: 0868858799
Golden Axe Throw Club
Susan Yates
After following the club online for a while, I checked in with the owner about the sanity of taking my kids to throw axes. We went recently and had a blast! Our 4-year-old had plenty of room to play safely behind the activity zone while the owner coached the 9 and 11-year-old and parents in how to throw. We were the only guests at the time so we even got to pick the music. Hourly rates for throwing includes coaching. Drinks are available. We had so much fun we hardly noticed the lack of air conditioning. There were tons of fans and cold drinks and blocks of ice to axe, too. Golden Axe Throw Club is perfect for private parties, walk-ins, date night, team building, anything goes! Susan Yates Lat Phrao Wang Hin 67 Alley, Lat Phrao Facebook: axethrowingbangkok Tel: 063 654 0600 34
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Heard it Through the Grapevine
Addicted Car Wash A coffee shop and an extensive bar (Guiness on tap!) with a restaurant menu and music WHILE your car gets cleaned inside and out? And it’s close to Nichada! Just down Pracha Chuen. If the Western menu at Addicted doesn’t float your boat, there are six other restaurants in the same small plaza including Japanese food and a bakery. Susan Yates
Levi Renno
Thanon Pracha Chuen Bang Talat On Facebook: addictedcafeandcarwash Tel: +66 2 984 5251
Srisuwan Fabric Shop There are many small shops in our area with fabric and craft materials, and there are many shops downtown with endless choices. But Srisuwan is the best shop I’ve found that has a LOT of variety and choice that isn’t all the way downtown. The building is six floors high and three of the floors are accessible to shoppers. If you’re looking for something specific that you don’t see on display, it’s worth asking at the front desk because it could be hiding on one of the other floor. There’s usually at least one person at the desk who speaks English. They stock all sorts of fabrics including Thai silk, satin, denim, linen, cotton prints, felt, vinyl, and apparel fabrics. Also trims, zippers, buttons, thread, batting, stuffing, various hardware...they have a lot to choose from. Two doors down they have a sister store with craft tools and materials including paint, clay, yarn, crepe paper, glue, etc. Park at Tesco across the street or in the gravel lot around the corner. Open seven days a week.
Susan Yates
Susan Yates Srisuwan Fabric Shop 22 Pracha Chuen Rd Tel: 02 911 4219 May 2018
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Writers & Photographers Wanted
Got a flair for writing? Good with a camera? Good at meeting deadlines? Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com May 2018
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PEOPLE
Mare Harvey: Wonder Woman with a Heart of Gold Shortly after moving to Nichada I attended a coffee event being held by the Canadian PTA representative and that is where I first met Mare. From that moment, I knew that Mare was a special person. Her warm, welcoming manner was so appreciated as I was still trying to navigate my new life in Thailand. I quickly realized that Mare was very involved in both the school and community because it seemed that every event I attended Mare was there helping. Over the last year I have had the pleasure of working with Mare as an NNR Charity Co-Coordinator. Right from the start, Mare said that she wanted to look for opportunities to really broaden the assistance we, as a community, could do to support local charities. Mare came up with a full list of activities and initiatives that we could do to involve the charities and open new and interesting opportunities for their residents. Mare was directly responsible for many highly successful initiatives through partnerships with Becky Hansberry of ISB and representatives from other community groups. As an example, Mare reached out to Anthony Giles to ask about the possibility of bringing residents from the charities to ISB arts performances. Many of the residents of the orphanages and government homes do not have the chance to have excursions and this seemed like a great opportunity for everyone. It was incredibly successful and has now become an ongoing initiative. Another very successful initiative that Mare was responsible for was having residents from the charities attend the IASAS basketball tournament that was hosted by ISB earlier this year. It was such a wonderful idea because it gave the ISB athletes a bunch more fans who enthusiastically cheered them on and the residents also had a fun outing. Mare, her family and visiting friends were on hand to help enjoy the fun and make sure everything ran smoothly. Mare was also responsible for initiating many collaborative projects with community groups. One such partnership was with the Boy Scouts. For 38
several years, Mare and her family have been heavily involved in planning and supporting a Children’s Day party for the Nichada Worker’s Camp children. Mare approached the Boy Scout leadership to see if they would be interested in taking on this event. They enthusiastically agreed and as a result, took over organizing duties to host a successful event this past January. These are just a couple of examples of the many projects and initiatives that Mare was directly responsible for getting up and running; there are many, many others. All of Mare’s efforts have enriched the lives of the residents of the charities that NNR supports and have also provided meaningful and rewarding experiences for everyone involved. One thing that always stuck with me during the time I worked with Mare is how generous and caring she is, always ready to help when there is a need. Many times, as we visited the charities we would hear about specific issues or challenges that they faced and without fail, Mare was always ready to contribute to find a solution. Whether it be assisting with medical expenses, buying needed items, providing rides, paying for lunches and drinks for charity representatives at the Bazaar or providing moral support and encouraging words, Mare was there.
I know that I am not alone in appreciating everything that Mare has done for our community over the years, the following are some contributions from others who have had the pleasure to know Mare: Henri Bullinger - NNR Chairperson “One of my very first memories of arriving in Nichada was meeting Mare: I met her at the orientation for new parents at ISB, she took the time to talk to me to tell me about the community, but also to listen to me and my story. I met her again and again… at the Welcome Wai organized by the PTA, at the first NNR Welcome Coffee, walking her dog, at “After The Boxes” where she introduced NNR, at Spirit Night
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volunteering at the Booster Spirit Tent, and riding bikes with Pathum Thani Jakayans (the local group of MTB riders). Mare gave me such sound advice (try everything but don’t commit until you feel settled); she made me feel so welcome and always remembered my name along with all the names of all the other people who had just arrived; she had such an understanding how things work and who is responsible for what; and she has such energy and dedication to her family, her friends and the community.” Sally Elliot - NNR Vice Chairperson “Having lived next door to Mare for 4 years, sharing NNR, Church, biking, social times and travelling to India with her, it is very special for me to call Mare my friend - and am super sorry to see her move on.... I know everyone who has met her, cannot help but be touched by her huge heart and good will, not to mention the enormous capacity she has to help others. Her involvement with NNR Charities is second to none - alongside Cyndy Henry - another Super Woman who is also leaving Thailand. Together they have galvanized the interface between NNR's charitable organizations and the community. Determined, dynamic, big hearted, adventure junky, travel enthusiast, gentle and committed to helping those less fortunate than herself are all expressions which cover some of Mare's character. Nichada will be losing a very special, and hugely involved member of its community, and I am delighted to be able to contribute to this page honoring her.” May 2018
Liz Lu - NNR Board Member/Thani Talk Editor "Mare has boundless energy, incredible organizational skills, and a generous heart as big as all outdoors. She's the best "followupper" in the world -- if she promises you something, she delivers. Jakarta's gain is our loss. Thank goodness Jakarta is only a 3-hour flight from Bangkok. I'm looking forward to her visits back to Thailand. Can't wait for Mare to share with us her new adventures in Indonesia. : )” Chantal Bremmer - NNR Board Member/NNR Socials “Mare was one of the first people I met when I arrived in Nichada. I came in November of last year after all the various organizations had hosted their welcome coffees and such, so I felt a little out of my element. The day after I arrived, being Canadian, I ended up at a Canadian Coffee Morning very last minute and that's when I met this lovely lady with a bum knee and an unmistakenly Canadian accent. After one quick conversation, I was registered for the Running Dinner (even though it was last minute for the organizing team) and aware of all the upcoming activities Nichada had to offer. I felt so welcomed and aware of the fact that if I needed anything I had met the best resource out there. The community will not be the same without Mare. She truly is a gem and it will not be the same around here without her!" Angela McNally - I-Care (NNR-supported Charity) “Mare was outstanding in her support of our activities. She was always all the way in. Whatever it took to help a situation, she'd see it through until the goal was met. Her sincerity in helping the needy, her enthusiasm and wholehearted efforts went a long way in helping so many and was a great source of inspiration and moral support for us! Mare, you have touched countless lives during your time here in Thailand. Your kindness will live on in all our hearts and will most likely multiply as it inspires us to continue reaching out to others! We wish you and your family Godspeed!” There is no doubt that Mare will be missed, but I know that she will be equally passionate and involved with her new community in Jakarta as she was here.
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Charity News
Spotlight on Volunteers: Mary Kocsis Mary Kocis, co-president of The White Elephant Thrift Shop, volunteers at Pakkred Babies Home, Home for the Destitute, and Baan Kredtrakarn Shelter for Trafficked Women. She has two sons at ISB, in kindergarten and Grade 5. Her family is originally from New York City but have most recently come from Singapore. They have been in Nichada for two years. Here, in her own words, she shares her experiences helping others. I visit the Pakkred Babies Home and the Home for the Destitute. Pakkred Babies Home is an orphanage, and Home for the Destitute is a homeless shelter for Thais as well as for Cambodian women and children who have entered the country illegally and are being processed to be sent back home. My hope is that my weekly visits let them know that someone cares for them, and the children at the shelter get a respite and some fun from what must be a difficult situation. I have been visiting the same girl at the Babies Home for over a year, and my hope is that she benefits from someone coming to see her regularly and who gives her some undivided attention. I don't go to Baan Kredtrakarn on a regular basis but Imogen Lee and I organized a western cooking class there a month or so ago that seemed to be a hit with the girls. We are in the planning stages for another class, pizza, per their request. :) Aside from my duties at the White Elephant which involve working at the store, going thru donations, helping with events outside of the store and making donation visits to different charities, I spend about two to two and half hours each week at the Babies Home and Home for the Destitute. At the Home for the Destitute, we play with the children and have a snack and maybe spend a little time visiting with the other residents. They like to look at the books in the Bumble Bee Free Library branch there and now they will be getting their very own Khmer Kiosk which is exciting. Every week is different there, May 2018
which is nice. At the Babies Home I play with my little girl and feed her lunch before she goes down for a nap. Its amazing to see the changes from when I first met her. She is fun and smart and loves to play with dolls and organize toys. I have all boys and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to get a little girl time. I really look forward to seeing her each week. Its funny, once you volunteer at one place you find more opportunities! I started volunteering at the White Elephant in January of 2017, and my first shift was with my now co-president Erika Yepes. We started talking about the Babies Home, she had been going there a while and she ended up taking me. There are a number of volunteers who head over from Nichada, probably someone you already know or ask me! With the classes at Baan Kredtrakarn, I went on a donation trip with Eirka Yepes and Tipwan Lekky and in conversation with one of the teachers there she mentioned the cooking classes they take and they would like to learn some Western options. I followed up with her and we ended up organizing the classes. It worked out great. For Home for the Destitute, it was my friend Liz Kennelly who mentioned it. I tagged along with her, met Rebecca Armstrong and Amy Dent who organize the group every week and the rest is history. I have met so many wonderful people of Nichada from doing these things, its amazing. So the moral of the story is, volunteer at the White Elephant! :))) I definitely get more than I give at all the places I volunteer! My ego is checked at the door and I am just there being with people who are happy to see you and you are happy to see them. The children at all of these homes have been in difficult prolonged situations but are still full of life and fun. I find just being with them terribly satisfying. At all places I visit I feel refreshed when leaving. My main goal is to let others know that someone cares about them! Mary Kocis
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Charity News
Passing the Baton: New Charity Team many of which gave way to others. Personally, I was very grateful for Cyndy’s great computer skills and for always being available to text, email, or speak as needed. For months we connected pretty much every day. Thanks, Cyndy, for being involved in the NNR this year, and we all wish you and your family all the best as you return to Ottawa, Canada. Mare Harvey
Welcome to Imogen Lee
(Above): NNR Charity Co-Coordinators Cyndy Henry and Mare Harvey, who have done a fantastic job raising NNR’s charity involvement to a new level, are leaving Thailand this summer. Their talents and dedication will be missed. Liz Garrigan and Imogen Lee will work together as the new charity team.. (Front row, lt to rt: Liz, Imogen. Back row, lt. to rt.: Cyndy, Mare.
Farewell to Cyndy Henry When I needed volunteers and supplies to help set up a new day care, Cyndy Henry joined in. When I needed families to to run a game at the Nichada Worker’s Camp Children’s Day Party, Cyndy said yes. When the boys at the Baan Poomwaet Home needed toiletries, Cyndy and her family stepped up to purchase, package and distribute them. When Bumblebee Free Library needed more English teachers, Cyndy and her family all went. You can see the trend here! Cyndy has a big heart and has always been ready to help local charities when asked. Which is why it’s so hard to say goodbye. Cyndy Henry, her husband Ray, and sons Luke and Jake are returning to Canada this summer after three years in Bangkok. Cyndy and Ray are both Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers for the Canadian government. Cyndy was the trailing spouse for this assignment, so she jumped right in and got involved in our community. I first met her at a Canadian Club morning coffee, and we hit it off right away. I was lucky enough to have her join me as the NNR charity co-coordinator this last year. Cyndy is a project manager by nature, and as such, she is very organized, creative, and energized to see projects through to their completion. Over the past year the two of us created, managed, or facilitated about 24 different projects, 42
Imogen Lee is from London and has been living in Nichada for nearly two years with her husband Peter and daughters Beth (9) and Ginny (6), who attend ISB. She has been an expat for seven years. Before moving to Bangkok, Peter’s job with Chevron took the family on assignments to San Ramon, California, and Houston, Texas. While living in the UK, Imogen worked in mergers and acquisitions and corporate strategy. Since then she has enjoyed being a full-time mum. She is active in the local community, volunteering weekly at Sparrow Home (a small children’s home caring for children whose mothers are in prison), serving as secretary of the ISB PTA, and taking part in the school road safety initiative. She is also taking courses in Thai Studies at Chulalongkorn University and singing in the Community Chorus. Imogen is joining Liz Garrigan as charity cocoordinator, and the two are replacing the outgoing Cyndy Henry and Mare Harvey, who have accomplished so much in their roles over the past year. “I am so excited to have the opportunity to continue the fantastic work that Mare and Cyndy have done building relationships with and supporting local charities, and forging the community links that make it easy for people to contribute,” Imogen says. “I am looking forward to getting to know the charities that NNR supports and to working with Liz and the rest of the NNR board. We Nichada residents have the time and resources to make a real difference to people in our broader community, and I am very happy to have the opportunity to contribute.” Liz Garrigan
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
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Charity News
NNR Funding Allocations Your Generosity at Work
Thanks to all of you who support NNRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Charity Bazaar and other events, who raise money for us, and who donate privately. NNR has just finished another giving cycle for the worthy local charities weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re honored to support. Here are some of the wish list items we were able to fully fund:
Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach
Bumble Bee Free Library, an all-volunteer initiative that offers both library access and Englishlanguage lessons to local children and adults: Two full scholarships for students who are library members and another 30 partial scholarships, in addition to 500 self-adhesive library book pockets. Christian Care Foundation for Children with Disabilities, an NGO that helps disabled children learn life skills: A drum kit, two water filter machines, a tabletop oven, an electric digital cooking ring, a small gas cooker, a large wok, and new kitchen utensils. Home for Hope, a residential home for as many as 90 children who have no parents or whose families are unable to care for them: School fees and supplies for all the children and 12 Mac laptops, as well as household cleaning supplies. Home for the Destitute, a government-run facility that houses up to 400 adults and operates a secure detention facility for Cambodian women and children who will be returned to their home country: A storage cabinet for toys and sports equipment, adult diapers, storage bins, a set of musical percussion instruments, and fruit for resident lunches. I-Care Girls, which shelters girls who have been victims of human trafficking or other abuse and offers education and vocational training training for reintegration into society: A shampoo chair, hood dryer, massage chair, massage bed, and deodorant. I-Care Boys, which shelters boys who have been victims of human trafficking or other abuse and offers education and vocational training training for reintegration into society: Shoes, backpacks, uniforms, and socks for attending school, and food supplements such as milk and eggs. One Step, Two Step, which works in partnership with Ban Feung Fa, a government facility for boys and girls with physical and intellectual disabilities: Support for Disney on Ice tickets, various medications, padded trolleys, a microwave, and a television. SaiLom Project, which works with physically and intellectually disabled boys and young men to assist in developing life skills: A kitchen storage cupboard, blender, clothes drying rack, weight scales, soccer equipment (goalie gloves, balls, cones), and first aid/CPR training for 10 staff/ volunteers. Thanksgiving Home, a residential home providing care for approximately 25 disabled children and youth: Full school tuition and school uniforms for 11 students. May 2018
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Charity News
Kids from Local Charities Enjoy Service Celebration The ISB High School Service Celebration took place April 24 from 3-7pm. The first part of the event involved high school students and parents enjoying some playtime with kids from three NNR charities. Sixty children from Baan Poomwaet (with I-Care Thailand), Home for Hope, and Thanksgiving Home came to play soccer in the gym, field games, as well as paint some artwork and play on the playground. The kids all had so much fun, and then we all shared a wonderful supper together. The second part of the evening involved ISB recognizing the service contributions of some amazing students. Many students were recognized for giving their time and energy to the local charities. Ken and Becky Hansberry thanked all of the participants for coming and interacting with the charities just for the sake of having fun and giving back to their community. Congratulations to the Service Council and the Hansberrys for such a great first event. Mare Harvey
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Charity News
Charity Team Delivers Community Donations
NNR raises money through the Annual Charity Bazaar and through the sale of advertisements in Thani Talk magazine. All proceeds are donated to local charities. In addition, NNR receives countless in-kind donations from many in the community. Our hardworking charity coordinators Mare Harvey and Cyndy Henry collect, sort and deliver these in-kind
May 2018
gifts to our local chariites. (Above, left) Father Paolo of Home for Hope receives funds to buy educational games and toys for 90 kids housed at the home. (Above, right) Nicola Anderson of 1 Step, 2 Step receive purchases from NNR, including a microwave,T.V. and medicine.
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Restaurant Review
B-STORY Café & Restaurant Relaxing Ambience, Plus the Most Talented Barrista Ever
If you happen to be in the Siam Square / Pratunam area and are looking for a fun place to take your kids (or yourself), I think you would enjoy B-Story Café. Located at the Ratchatewi BTS station, this fun little restaurant is a great place to take the family. Firstly, the place looks really cool. It is decorated in a kitchy, antique, fairy tale style that is hard to describe but easy to appreciate. There are countless nick-nacks and nooks and crannies to explore and photograph. On the second floor there are many large stuffed animals to meet, along with plants, mirrors and other assorted goodies. As for the food, their menu includes both Thai and Western dishes. There is a range of food at reasonable prices. While there is nothing, I would consider gastronomically innovative, there are some interesting things to try, as well as dishes that any kid would love. Kid friendly dishes include mac-and-cheese, French fries, fried rice, burgers, pasta, fish and chips, smoothies, etc. I ordered the Quesadilla (THB 150) with chicken, mushroom, spinach, cheese and a homemade pizza sauce. It was fine. Next came a spicy salmon salad (THB220) which was really delicious. It was light and fresh with good amount of spice. Finally, I had the Crispy Chicken with lime sauce (THB 180). It was also surprisingly yummy. Lightly fried chunks of May 2018
moist chicken with a tangy lime sauce for dipping. I would definitely rate the food as better than average. For drinks, they have a full range of coffee, shakes, and smoothies. They have a limited beer menu, but it includes Brother premium cider from the UK. One of the highlights of the meal will be when you order a cocoa or coffee with a foam bear. I’ve never seen any barrista make anything close to the foam panda bear which was sitting on top of my iced chocolate. It is sure to put a smile on the faces of children of all ages. The café is directly in front of the Ratchatewi BTS station. It is reasonably close to both Siam Square and the Pratunam area. There is parking there, as B-Story is part of a larger complex, called Cocowalk, which includes several other restaurants, bars, pool halls, live music and even a rehearsal studio. If you’re in the neighborhood, I wouldn’t miss out on this fun little spot. John Marinos
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Delivery Restaurant
Phone
Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai Cuisine
02-952-0031
Burger King/Pizza Company
1112
Cafe Kabul (Indian & Afgan)
Local Business
Phone
Bamboo Spa
02-583-9871
Bank Krungsri
02-582-2669
02-960-3368
BeWitch Salon
087-099-4569
Cherry’s Cakes
080-070-0180
Blue Sky Cafe
081-811-8455
KFC & Pizza Hut
1150
Clark Hatch Fitness Center
02-960-4326/27
Le Bouchon Food Delivery
02-038-3020
Foot Heaven
061-541-6353
The London Pie Shop
02-381-5818
4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming
084-424-6545
McDonald’s
1711
Hair by Jib
085-115-3093
Happy Teeth Dental Clinic
02-960-3988
Mr. Enzo’s
02-960-0412
Great Massage
02-960-3691
New York Diner
081-624-2099
ISB
02-963-5800
Pinocchio’s
02-573-5646
Le Studio Hair
084-022-9928
Que Pasa
02-960-3821
Nichada Customer Relations
02-960-4300
Salad Factory
02-001-5659
Pandit Carpets
081-828-2562
Panipa
02-960-3934
Scoozi
02-715-8555
Rex Pharmaplus
081-834-1306
Subway
02-960-3232
Rose Marie Academy
02-960-3663
Sudhathai
02-583-2694
Shawn Carpets
090-564-8927
Slider Shack
086-773-4140
Starbucks
02-967-9686
Vapor Restaurant
02-832-0055
Villa Market
02-960-3585
Wash-N-Dry
085-945-4132
Xuan Mai Restaurant
087-077-0605
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