ISSUE 65 January 10 - 16, 2014
WK65A/MCI(P)060/08/2013
ISSUE 65 January 10 - 16, 2014
E N T E RTA I N M E N T T R AV E L AT I O N
reasons to travel solo in 2014
catch paul walker’s last movie P7 EVENTs
kidsfest! horrible histories giveaway P3 S P E C I A L F E AT U R E
Don’t miss study in australia & nz day P3
power 98’s shareen tells us why going solo is sometimes the best way to travel
BE HAPPIER
hot Joanne Peh is the new face of bella
foo d mania
FEASTS FOR THE FAMILY
WK65A/MCI(P)060/08/2013
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EVENTS
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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WEEKENDER
FUN-TO-DO
IDEAS now on
Check out these events over the next two weeks
as the California Isar Rucksack, Raw Canvas Spree Messenger and new Moselle Backpack. The pop-up store is a collaboration between Côte&Ciel exclusive distributor, eQuest International and lifestyle store, Cumulus and Nimbus. Visit www.facebook.com/CoteEtCielSG Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road,
Sketchy Histories By Discovery Kids Until 17 Jan 2014 Calling all budding Picassos! Sharpen your pencils and gather your paintbrushes for Sketchy Histories by Discovery Kids. Create an original picture portraying your favorite historical character, building or event. It can be painted, hand-drawn with crayons, markers or colour pencils, or even digitally drawn. Win tickets and prizes! www.dkids.asia/ sketchy-histories/ index.php
Titans Of The Past Until 23 Feb 2014, 10am–6pm, $25 (Adult), $19 (Child) Be transported back to a time where dinosaurs ruled the earth alongside other magnificent
prehistoric creatures. Titans of the Past is a unique presentation put together for the very first time to form a seamless story line of travelling through prehistoric times. See the rulers of an age past in their full glory as you witness to-scale replicas and fossils of these gargantuan reptiles, coupled with their animatronic counterparts from the Ice Age as well. Science Centre Singapore, 15 Science Centre Road
Construction of Sheares Bridge from A Changed World
Celebrate with the Goods of Desire this Chinese New Year Various dates & timings This Chinese New Year festive season, Goods of Desire Singapore ushers in the Lunar New Year the Singaporean style with Prosperity Duo Duo, which also refers to “An Abundance of Prosperity” in English. Various Chinese New Year goodies and merchandise are on sale so do visit the store, and to pre-order today! Goods of Desire, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, The Central, #02-08,
These world class theatre adaptations are great educational and family-bonding materials with lots of drama and laughs that will leave the imagination running wild. Tickets available from Sistic. Drama Centre, 100 Victoria Street; DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Rd, www.sistic.com.sg
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FREE! A Changed World: Singapore Art 1950s–1970s Until 16 Mar 2014, 10am–7pm daily A Changed World explores the development of Singapore art in light of the rapid changes that took place in Singapore after World War II. It charts the artists’ own engagement with changes in Singapore’s political, economic, social and urban landscape. Exhibition Gallery 2, Basement, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, www.nationalmuseum.sg
The Walking Dead Comes Alive: Andrew Lincoln & Norman Reedus Visit Singapore 11 Jan 2014, 11am Fox Movies Premium and StarHub TV have organised Andrew Lincoln and Norman Reedus of TheWalking Dead’s first visit to Singapore. Hear the stars share on their zombie experiences as well as their journey as actors. Visit the website for more details. Lasalle College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, www.starhub.com/twdlive
FREE! Beginning Of The Becoming @ Asian Civilisations Museum Until Jun 1, 2014 The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) presents over 80 Batak sculptures in the exhibition entitled “Beginning of the Becoming”. The various sculptures in wood, stone, and bronze will be on display at the museum. They shed light on the intriguing culture of one of Singapore’s neighbours – the Batak people of northern Sumatra in Indonesia. Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, www.acm.org.sg Beginning of the Becoming @ ACM
Goodfellas will perform at NAC-ExxonMobil Concert in the Park
FREE! NAC-ExxonMobil Concert in the Park 12 Jan, 4.30pm-6.30pm Treat your ears to harmonised and inventive vocals from two home-grown a cappella groups. Key Elements, MICappella, and crowd-favourite, Goodfellas, will get toes tapping with pop-rock songs. Singapore Botanic Gardens, www.nac.gov.sg/events/arts-for-all-events The Real Barcelona Until 13 Jan 2014, 11am-8pm (Weekdays), 10am-8pm (Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun & public holiday) Barnadas Huang, a gallery known for exhibiting the works of contemporary European artists, will be launched with an art exhibition titled “The Real Barcelona”. This exhibition focuses on realism and features works from artists who have established themselves in Spain. Barnadas Huang Gallery, 22 Dempsey Road, Tel: 6635 4707
Singapore Biennale 2013: If The World Changed Until 16 Feb 2014, 10am-7pm, $5 (Student & Senior Citizen), $10 This year’s Singapore Biennale features works with a distinct Southeast Asian identity by 82 artists and artist collectives regionally and beyond. Titled “If the World Changed”, it presents contemporary art’s propositions for our changing worlds, looking at how artists and audiences respond to their lived experiences. Bras Basah, Bugis Precinct; Our Museum @ Taman Jurong, www.singaporebiennale.org, Tel: 6332 3222
KidsFest! 2014 15 Jan – 9 Feb 2014, various timings, $35, $42, $52, $62 KidsFest! is back with nine live theatre adaptations of best-selling books that promise to thrill young book and theatre enthusiasts.
Cote&Ciel Pop-Up Store Until 14 Feb French brand Côte&Ciel brings their pop-up store to house their new collection that will showcase a few of the evolved originals such
One of the many works on display at the Singapore Biennale
Coming Soon Mark your calendars for these events happening in three to four weeks
Solo Exhibition By Tomoko Kashiki @ Ota Fine Arts 17 Jan – 2 Mar 2014, Tue–Sat, 11am–7pm; Sun, 11am–6pm, closed on Mon & PH. To inaugurate their new space at Gillman Barracks, Ota Fine Arts presents a solo exhibition by Tomoko Kashiki, the artist’s debut in Singapore. Reminiscent of Heian Buddhist paintings and bijinga, traditional depictions of beautiful women, the painter’s exquisite imaginings are derived from her original “poetic sentiment and emotion”.
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EVENTS
Experience studying in Australia or New Zealand Get all the information you need to study abroad in Australia or New Zealand at IDP Education’s open day If you are making your decision to further your studies abroad, check out the “Study in Australia and New Zealand Open Day” by IDP Education. With over 30 participating institutes, you can get information directly from the horse’s mouth as the institution representatives will be there. You will get a first-hand opportunity to break out of your comfort zone, adapt to a new environment and immerse yourself in a multicultural community experience. And, it is not far away from home. Direct from the Source The “Study in Australia and New Zealand Open Day” is organised in conjunction with the release of the IB and GCE ‘O’ Level exam results. It is also timely enough for GCE ‘A’ Level and polytechnic students to explore overseas options. With the representatives from over 30 institutions present, you can ask all the questions you need regarding courses, your interests as well as clarify queries regarding school fees and
accommodation. There will also be some professors present at the event and you can enquire about your relevant course information. Similar Yet Broader The majority of the professional degrees available in Australia follow the British system, such as Law and Medicine, which is quite similar to Singapore. However, there is a gamut of courses found in these universities which cannot be found in Singapore. Tutorial sessions in these universities adopt an openclass concept. Students are encouraged to discuss their difference in opinion to add flavour and value to the lessons. All general and nonprofessional degrees are recognised as long as the qualifications are approved by the Australian Government. Most professional degrees such as Medicine, Law and Dentistry have been accredited by the relevant professional bodies. There is also a myriad of electives available for picking. Students are able
Created through an elaborate method of painting, sanding and finely carving the surface of the panel, then repainting layer over layer, these screens open up an intimate world that suspends Kashiki’s subjects between dreams and desires. Ticket sales start from Dec 12. Ota Fine Arts Singapore, 7 Lock Rd, #02-13, Gillman Barracks, www.otafinearts.com/singapore FREE! Aliwal Urban Art Festival 18 Jan, 5pm-12am Party at the Aliwal Urban Art Festival as the Aliwal Arts Centre throws open its doors for this one-night only event, featuring an exciting line-up of Singapore’s most talented funk, rock and hip hop bands, DJs, artists and dancers. Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, aliwalurbanart.sg
to select from an extensive range of inter-disciplinary or non-related electives of their choice and interests, without any restrictions or an elective bidding system. Ample places are available to students who register their modules early in the semester. Who Will Be There Universities such as Macquarie University, The University of New South Wales, Queensland University, Murdoch University, The University of Melbourne, University of Auckland, Wintec, as well as multi-state universities such as Curtin Singapore and Taylors College will be present. Do ask them all the relevant questions so that they may advise you on your application success rate, and credit exemptions for those with polytechnic diplomas. Application for Mar and Jul 2014 and beyond will be considered. Advice on scholarships will also be provided. The IDP Education “Study in Australia and New Zealand Open Day” will be held on Jan 11 & 12, 2014, at Parkroyal on Beach Road, 7500A Beach Road, Singapore 199591, from 11am to 4.30pm. Visit www. singapore.idp.com to register.
Baoding Flowers Lion Dance Team, as they perform traditional acrobatics and Northern lion dance routines. Have fun for the whole family this Chinese New Year at Sentosa. Sentosa, Merlion Plaza to Beach Station, www.sentosa.com.sg Insta-Love with China One
HORRIBLE HISTORIES: TERRIBLE TUDORS Insta-Love with China One
NEW! FREE! Sentosa Celebrates Chinese 12 Feb, 8pm-10pm Riding the wave of this hip and trendy mobile photo-sharing service, China One will celebrate St Valentine’s Day with a Instagrambased match-making event entitled, ‘China One’s Insta-Love’. Follow China One on Instagram @ chinaonesg today and you will be invited to participate in this event. China One, Block 3E River Valley Road, #02-01 Clarke Quay, www.chinaone.sg
Sentosa Celebrates Chinese New Year
New Year 2014 31 Jan – 2 Feb, 11am-9.30pm Celebrate Chinese heritage and culture on Sentosa this Chinese New Year with two renowned performing troupes from China – Zhengzhou Star Acrobatics Troupe and
WIN TICKETS TO KIDSFEST! 2014
NEW! Romeo & Juliet: A Fresh Take On The Forbidden Romance 13–23 Feb 2014, 3.30pm & 8pm, $49, $59, $69 Dubbed as the greatest love story of all time, young love has never been more beautiful yet more tragic like the story of Romeo & Juliet. Set in a modern context, witness the romance unfolds before your eyes as we take you into the world of the star crossed lovers. Tickets from Sistic. 100 Victoria Street, #05-01, National Library Building, www.sistic.com.sg
Weekender is giving away 10 sets of 4 tickets (worth $62 each) to KidsFest! 2014’s Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors, on Feb 8, 2014. TO WIN, SIMPLY: 1. Like & share our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp 2. Drop us a private message with the words “Horrible Histories”. 3. In the message, include your particulars: Name, NRIC, E-mail, Mobile No. ONLY 1 ENTRY PER PERSON, PLEASE. DEADLINE: JAN 15, 2014 Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Survive the Spanish Armada as it sails into the audience! This live show with songs and participation is for children aged 7 and above, and their families. DBS Arts Centre 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035 *This contest is only open to residents of Singapore.
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Avril Lavigne Live In Singapore! 15 Feb 2014, time TBC, $99, $139, $159, $189 Avril Lavigne will be back in town after two years, for her long-awaited concert. Get ready for another round of her popular mindblowing, infectious tunes and also the latest hits off her latest self-titled album, Avril Lavigne. Ticket sales started on Nov 5, 2013 and can be purchased from Sports Hub Tix, Singapore Indoor Stadium box office and various Singapore Post outlets. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg/
Bruno Mars Live In Singapore 26 Mar 2014, timing TBC, $168, $188 (standing) $128, $188, $268, $328 (seated) + $4 booking fee Grammy Award-winning superstar Bruno Mars will be bringing The Moonshine Jungle Tour to Singapore. Enjoy this one-night only performance at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Ticket sales start on 12 Dec. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg
NEW! Eric Clapton Live In Singapore! 4 Mar 2014, 8pm, $108, $188, $228, $248, $298 Blues guitarist Eric Clapton is set to return to Singapore during his 2014 world tour. The legendary musician, singer and songwriter, famously known as “Slow Hand” will perform for one night only at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Eric Clapton is the only triple inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame (as a member of both the Yardbirds and Cream, as well as a solo artist). He has also won or shared in 18 Grammy Awards. Book your tickets today. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg/
The legend is back in Singapore
Disney On Ice Presents Treasure Trove 19–23 Mar 2014, timing & tickets to be advised Audiences will enjoy a gem for every generation when Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove skates into Singapore for 11 performances. Disney On Ice sets the gold standard with a magical medley of Disney tales spanning the years from the first animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, to the 50th film, Tangled. Tickets for performances at the Singapore Indoor Stadium will go on sale from 14 Dec at 10am. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.sportshubtix.sg/
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BE HAPPIER / Entertainment
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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New belle for bella Joanne Peh is still as ravishing
A
fter a seven-year domination by veteran star Fann Wong, Bella Skin Care has appointed a new Bella girl as its celebrity spokesperson. Enter popular actress Joanne Peh. We speak with the vivacious Joanne on her new role and the other things she has been keeping herself busy with.
How do you like your new role as spokesperson of Bella Skin Care? It is such an honour to be invited into the Bella family. I have heard of them since I was a student and wondered what it will be like to experience their treatments back then. When I first entered the industry, I didn’t use to see the importance of doing facials, and it was only until last New Year, I decided to set myself a resolution to take better care of myself, and then coincidentally this appointment came about. I am touched that they are willing to take care of me and my skin needs. Which are your favourite treatments from Bella? There are many different treatments catered for different skin needs, so it is important to not be misled to think that one type of facial works for everybody.
Social platform for urbanites launched
Bella Skin Care has appointed popular actress Joanne Peh as its new spokesPERSON By Cheryl Chia
Our skin at different periods will require different attention. Right now, I prefer hydration facials such as Bella’s Derma-Epi Glow Therapy because, recently, I have been spending long hours shooting in air-conditioned environments, so the facials help replenish the moisture lost. As an artiste, you are frequently exposed to cosmetics. Do you have any personal skin care tips? My biggest fear is pimples! But I’ve come to realise that sometimes the bumps on our faces are not necessarily pimples, even though they look like it. It could be our skin reacting to the cosmetics we use, so make sure the makeup you are using is not causing your skin to break out.
KalaClub was launched with an espionage theme
Classy & Stylish Launch The KalaClub web portal was launched on Nov 21 in a classy and stylish espionagethemed party at Bacchanalia. Guests were treated to a fashion show from out of a James Bond movie. The models paraded in Zardoze’s fashion and jewellery by Dagmar. The Sail Spin was also present, running a draw with the prize of a free sailing trip.
Another draw had the prize of being driven around in an exclusive sports car. Barbara Riedijk co-founder of KalaClub, shared that the idea of KalaClub was inspired by her experience of coming to a foreign country and attempting to seek useful information, as well as the need to network socially or for business. She added that her experience in working for a similar organisation had added to her experience and know-how. KalaClub aims to be Singapore’s leading purveyor of lifestyle requirements and to meet the ever-growing demand for modern luxury. Mythological Inspiration KalaClub is named after
Hawaiian King Kalakaua, “The Merry Monarch”. So dubbed because of his love of joyful elements of life, King Kalakaua had great passion for music, dancing, parties and the finest food and drinks. The closed-membership social portal caters to affluent urbanites whose enviable social lives begin when the sun goes down; indulging in all the dining, entertainment and nightlife the city has to offer. How it Works Members can share their KalaClub dossier with other members, join a clique and partake in activities with likeminded people, or navigate through the recommendations for wining, dining or partying. Feature events planned by KalaClub as well as the city’s most illustrious events partners push the boundaries of cutting edge lifestyles, taking members to some of the choicest dining, events and nightlife spots in town. KalaClub also intends to bring members exclusive access to the most exciting private events and parties in town. www.kalaclub.com
coffee caused most of the coffee to splash onto me instead! It went into my eyes, and stained my kebaya! Thankfully, it wasn’t hot! What would you like to do when you aren’t working? I am hoping to cosy up at home with my boyfriend [Ed: Joanne is currently dating fellow actor Qi Yuwu] and maybe cook a simple dinner together. Joanne was most recently seen in “The Journey: A Voyage”. Look out for her in her upcoming shows on Channels 5 & 8.
What have you been up to lately? I just wrapped up filming for a Channel 5 drama, “Code of Law 2”, and am working on the third instalment of the police drama on Channel 8, “CLIF 3”. Any funny moments on the job that you could share? I was trying to save Jeanette Aw’s character from a sleazy guy by throwing hot coffee on him. The swinging action of the can of
Chris Pine is the new Jack Ryan, with Keira Knightley as his fiancée
A new social platform for affluent urbanites aims to bring the best in lifestyle to members as well as allow them to network
KalaClub, a dynamic social platform that combines social media networking, events planning and online deals was launched in end-November. KalaClub members are able attend as well as host events, purchase KalaClub deals and even promote their own businesses.
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Espionage and conspiracy, a web of lies and deceit – that’s just a little taste of the most recent incarnation of the latest Agent Jack Ryan film, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit. Imagine uncovering a plot that threatens to destabilise your entire nation. Moreover, what if there’s no one to turn to because everyone you trust is actually in on the conspiracy? If you’re able to find a solution, you might actually be on par with Tom Clancy’s renowned character, Jack Ryan. The latest film in the Jack Ryan series is not an adaptation of a Tom Clancy novel but an original adaptation of the famous character. A Shadowy Past Jack Ryan, played by Chris Pine, looks like your everyday white collar worker but he harbours a dark secret that even his fiancée, Cathay (played by Keira Knightley), does not know about. Jack Ryan was enlisted into the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) years ago, as a brainy analyst who only had to crunch global data. However, his foray into the agency uncovers a meticulously-planned scheme to collapse the US economy and spark global chaos. Without sufficient intelligence at hand, he is promoted to the rank of Field Agent, and that’s when things start to get exciting as he’s posted to Moscow to be on the ground. He becomes the only man with the skill set to stop this massive terrorist plot. Jack of all Trades The action-packed and thrilling tales of Jack Ryan made their print-to-screen debut back in 1990 with the movie The Hunt for Red October,
Joanne is the new face of Bella
Jack Ryan:
Shadow Recruit
It’s a game of shadows with Agent Jack Ryan’s latest incarnation, and it involves a stellar cast starring Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin as Jack Ryan. The franchise continued, with Harrison Ford portraying Jack Ryan in the next two films, Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger. Ben Affleck took over the role in the last film, The Sum of All Fears. After more than a decade, and much accolades and acclaim for the films and character, the fifth instalment will capture a reality that resonates even more with moviegoers of today, given the conspiracy theories and espionage leaks that have been prevalent in our society in the past decade. OTHER FILMS & ACTORS AS JACK RYAN The Hunt for Red October (1990) Played by Alec Baldwin Patriot Games (1992) Played by Harrison Ford Clear and Present Danger (1994) Played by Harrison Ford The Sum of All Fears (2002) Played by Ben Affleck JACK RYAN: SHADOW RECRUIT [PG13] Director: Starring: Genre: Run Length: Release:
Kenneth Branagh Chris Pine, Keira Knightley, Kenneth Branagh, Kevin Costner Action, Thriller 106 min Jan 16
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JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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SPORTS
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Jack Wilshere has proven to be a rising star for Arsenal and England
David Silva is part of City’s formidable strike force
Joe Hart is a factor in City’s fine form
A twist
in the tale? Arsenal’s position in the league is at risk, with injury woes plaguing Arsene Wenger’s side once again. We take a look at a few teams By Brandon Era
I
t’s a weakness in the Arsenal camp that hasn’t been dealt with for years – the ability to reach the top of the table, and to stay there. This has to be remedied quickly, with other clubs nipping at its heels. Something’s Missing It’s not too much of a stretch to say that Arsenal probably has one of the strongest midfields in the English Premier League at the moment. With the likes of Jack Wilshere, Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey, (and
the list goes on), it’s surprising that they have not been able to perform against top-tier teams. In the match against Cardiff, Arsenal had to rely on two late goals from substitute Nicklas Bendtner and Theo Walcott to seal the game at home. An under-firing striker such as Bendtner had to step up to ensure that Arsenal had their noses ahead by a fraction, and, at what cost? A sprained ankle for the Danish international. It’s a problem that has yet to be addressed by “The Professor”, Manager Arsene Wenger. The lack
of depth of the Arsenal squad, especially on the attacking front, is causing issues for the team. This will have to be addressed come the January transfer window. Arsenal come into the New Year still topping the table but it is just a fraction ahead of London rivals Chelsea as well as the unstoppable force of Manchester City. The club will travel to Villa Park on Monday to take on Aston Villa, in the hope of securing three points and lengthening their stint at the top of the table. A Surging Tide Manchester City has been looking devastating in front of goal, and the points racked up in recent weeks prove the mettle of the team. Manuel Pellegrini’s men have a staggering 3.80 average of goals scored at home and have a goal difference of 34, currently the highest in the league. Manchester City is a mere point behind the Gunners but is ahead in goal difference by 13 goals. The strike rate of City only seems to improve, even with the recent injury to Argentinean striker Sergio Aguero. City travels to the Toon on Sunday to face Newcastle and will be looking
to carry their home form into their away games. A United Headache I mentioned in a prior article that this has been the worst start to a season for the Red Devils in years but Manchester United’s woes continue with recent defeats at home to Tottenham in the league and Swansea in the FA Cup. The shoes David Moyes have to fill have proven to be too big for him so far. Moyes had been unable to strengthen his squad in the previous transfer window but will be looking to do so this time, over the following weeks. The biggest blow they’ve suffered so far has to be the defeat at the hands of struggling Swansea, at Old Trafford. This ended the hope of at least an FA Cup triumph. With rumours going round about Chelsea’s interest in Wayne Rooney, as well as an injured van Persie, one can’t help but wonder how much longer Moyes has. Nonetheless, Manchester United has the opportunity for payback come Saturday, as it meets Swansea in the league this time, at Old Trafford once again. Here’s to the hope that the defending champs will be able to say that revenge is sweet.
One of the happiest days of a young father-to-be’s life spirals out of control when Hurricane Katrina hits New Orleans. Before sunrise on Aug 29, 2005, Nolan Hayes (played by Paul Walker) arrives at a New Orleans hospital with his pregnant wife, Abigail (Genesis Rodriguez), who has gone into early labour. What should be one of the happiest days of Nolan’s life quickly takes a turn for the worst when the delivery goes tragically wrong, and Hurricane Katrina ravages the hospital, forcing an evacuation. Told to stay with his child, who is on a ventilator, and await transfer by ambulance, Nolan and his new-born are soon cut off from the world by power outages and rising flood waters. When no one returns to help, Nolan faces one life-anddeath decision after another, fighting to keep his daughter alive, as minute-by-agonisingminute passes, becoming unimaginable “Hours”.
What will a man do for his daughter?
Genesis Rodriguez stars opposite Paul Walker
A story of life, death and birth in the midst of a disaster paints the swansong of late actor Paul Walker
Will David Moyes be the next manager sacked?
Hours is the last full film of the late Paul Walker
Tough Times & Tragedy Hours is the last full feature film of the late Fast and Furious star, Paul Walker. Producer Peter Safran was impressed by his performance as Nolan. “I was blown away by Paul Walker,” Safran said. “In the process of getting to know him on Vehicle 19, I saw
Hours: A Swansong
Will Theo Walcott’s injury affect Arsenal?
However the teams fare this weekend, this season has undoubtedly proven to be the most exciting in years. Left (clockwise): Vlad1988, Photoworks, mooinblack, Photo Works, Mitch Gunn Photos from Shutterstock.com
that he was incredibly bright, very articulate and had so much potential that had not been tapped into,” he said. “It’s very rewarding; a really great experience to take an actor who has those resources and tap into them, to let him use them,” he added. Filmed on location in and around New Orleans, Louisiana, Hours is a suspense thriller, inspired by true events about Katrina, with the hurricane serving as both a catalyst and the background to Nolan’s fight for survival. Walker, who left behind a teenage daughter after his demise, said that the film connected with him on “a far deeper level” than he originally thought. In Hours, Abigail dies during childbirth, of complications from preeclampsia, before the hurricane hits. A Struggle for Survival Nolan hears about Abigail’s death as the doctor walks him over to the maternity Intensive Care Unit, to look at his newborn child. Blindsided, Nolan looks through the glass at his fourpound premature daughter, in an incubator, with tubes running in and out of her impossibly small body. In that instance, Nolan’s life as he knew it had been transformed beyond recognition: becoming a shattered widower and firsttime father in one fell swoop. The doctor tells him his daughter is breathing with the aid of a ventilator but, in a matter of 48 hours, she is expected to be able to breathe on her own.
“Nolan’s life is shattered; his relationship with his baby is fractured,” Walker said. “It’s incomplete, because a key component in his life, his real partner, the one who gave him a sense of completion, is gone,” he said. And, in a few short hours, when the hospital is evacuated following the hurricane, Nolan’s world would be turned upside down once again. Moment by moment, as time passes and Nolan struggles to adapt, persevere and survive against all odds, one vital question looms: What would you do to keep your child alive?
“Nolan faces one life and death decision after another...” Hours [PG13] Director: Eric Heisserer Starring: Paul Walker, Genesis Rodriguez and Nick Gomez Genre: Thriller Run Length: 97 min Release: Jan 9
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FOODMANIA
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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your guide to
CNY eats usher in the Year of The Horse with Chinese New Year DELIGHTs. This is part 1 of our round-up
com/index.php/promotions for more, and reservations. Diamond Kitchen Consider having your reunion dinner at Diamond Kitchen with dishes such as their Signature Champagne Infused Pork Ribs, Golden Pumpkin Homemade Tofu and their Crunchy Chicken Coated with Salted Egg Yolk. There is, of course, Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng included in most of their reunion sets. Visit www.diamondkitchen.com.sg for more. Min Jiang This Lunar New Year, Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel introduces Snapper with Grilled Puffer Fish Yu Sheng and a Braised Chicken with Sea Treasures in Claypot. The former features grilled puffer fish and thin snapper slices with mesclun greens, sweet potato and yam crisps, preserved melon strips and prawn roe tossed in sweet plum sauce with crackers and peanuts and sesame seeds. The latter is a version of pen cai with pork belly, whole Australian abalones, dried oysters, flower mushrooms, black moss and broccoli. These are available from Jan 14 to Feb 14. Visit www.goodwoodparkhotel.com for more.
Lo Hei at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant at Carlton Hotel
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he Year of the Horse is fast galloping towards us. If you have yet to chose a place to dine with your family, we help you out with this round-up of Chinese New Year menus. If your appetite for New Year delicacies is growing, you can truly eat a horse. Not literally, of course. Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant Indulge in a festive meal at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant in Carlton Hotel with the new Hokkaido Scallops Yu Sheng and Braised Dried Oysters with Black Moss and Vegetables. They also have a Hamachi Yu Sheng “Shunde” Style, Abalone Yu Sheng, Longevity Poon Choi, Braised Shark’s Fin Soup, and Braised Sliced Abalone and Dried Oysters with Vegetables, as well as Roasted Whole
Boneless Suckling Pig. These are available from Jan 20 to Feb 14. Visit www.carltonhotel.sg for more. Azur Gorge yourself at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport’s Azur. Their buffet spread includes Fortune Pigs Trotter with Dried Oyster and Black Moss, abundant Steamed Seabass Fillet with Snow Fungus and Lily Flower, and Sea Cucumber with Chinese Mushroom Casserole. The carving station will also present more oriental flavours with crispy Roasted Duck and Roasted Pork served with Walnut Glaze and Ginger Mustard.
Cherry Garden Mandarin Oriental’s pen cai from Cherry Garden restaurant weighs more than 25kg and has a diameter of over 45cm. The pot is filled to the brim with superior items such as braised eighthead abalone, lobsters, scallops, sea cucumber, prawns, dried oysters, conpoy, dace fillet, roasted duck, soy chicken, crispy pork belly, waxed sausages, mushrooms, cabbage and black moss. E-mail mosin-dining@mohg.com for
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more, and for reservations. Hua Ting Hua Ting’s Chinese New Year special features braised abalone with fish maw, sea cucumber, whole conpoy with fa cai [prosperity vegetable, which resembles hair], shitake mushrooms and seasonal greens in superior oyster sauce as well as fresh salmon lo hei yu sheng. Other dishes include stewed venison and crispy roasted duck. E-mail huating.ohs@ milleniumhotels.com for more, and for reservations. Seafood Paradise Tuck into the Abundance Set Menu which offers the Paradise Prosperity Salmon Yu Sheng, Braised Shark’s Fin Broth with Conpoy & Crabmeat, Steamed Marble Goby with Supreme Light Soya Sauce, Black Mushrooms with Seasonal Vegetables in Superior Oyster Sauce, Traditional Ginseng Chicken, Poached Live Prawns with Chinese Wine, Fried Rice with Chinese Waxed Sausage served in Lotus Leaf, Sri Lankan Crabs, and Chilled Aloe Vera with Lychee Lemongrass. Visit www.seafoodparadise.com.sg for more. Pioneer Seafood Established in 1979, Pioneer Seafood brings their famous Pioneer Nonya Assam Sauce to their Steamed Garoupa dish as well as Steamed Superior Deluxe Pomfret in Teochew Style to the Chinese New Year Menu. Yam lovers can also enjoy the Pioneer Teochew O Ni with Pumpkin & Gingko Nuts. Do call ahead for the menus, and to reserve. 71 Pioneer Road, #0201, Tuas Amenity Centre, Singapore 639591, Tel: 6863 4750 Carousel Royal Plaza on Scotts crafts a yu sheng with eight herbal ingredients
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Yu Sheng This raw fish salad, also known colloquially as Lo-Hei in Cantonese,
to kick start the Year of the Horse. It includes panax quinquefolius jelly, codonopsis pilosula and ginseng candies to boost energy; crispy salsify to boost the immune system; Solomon’s seal rhizome candies to fortify the lungs and kidneys; red date strips and wolfberries to improve blood circulation and eye sight; and herbal jelly to lend its cooling properties. E-mail gourmet@royalplaza.com. sg to order at least three days in advance, before Feb 14. Street 50 Restaurant & Bar Have contemporary Asian fare such as smoked duck and salmon yu sheng, prawn tartare with rock melon and nuts, curry chicken with lychee tempura as well as a lionhead meatball. The Fortune of Flavours buffet also includes free-flow beer and drinks at $28++. Visit www.bayhotelsingapore.com/ dining for more.
Visit www.crowneplazadining.
Ever wondered why we eat what we do during the Lunar New Year? We break it down for you
he Chinese or Lunar New Year is coming soon, at the end of the month. You might have noticed that there are many menus carrying the same food items. Here we present a few common food items or dishes that are eaten during Lunar New Year, and why.
Fruits with crispy eel sliced silver cod fish Yu Sheng from Min Jiang
Street 50 Restaurant & Bar features contemporary Asian fare
tasty traditions Tang Yuan is a reunion must-have
Azur at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport has a buffet spread of interesting dishes
is predominantly eaten by the Chinese in Singapore and Malaysia, although versions of the dish have existed in China. Created by four master chefs back in the day, the dish has since gained huge popularity amongst restaurants and households alike. Tossing the salad while shouting various auspicious wishes is good fun at a gathering as well. Pen Cai Pen Cai was invented during the late Song Dynasty. During the war, the Emperor fled to Guangdong and the villagers, wanting to serve him well, gathered all their best food into a wooden basin for the Emperor’s consumption.
This tradition then evolved into the Pen Cai we know today, filled with expensive foods. These days, it is usually a symbol of opulence, and can cost a bomb. Nian Gao One legend about this “kueh” of sorts comes from that of the monster, Nian. Every year, the monster would terrorise villagers by eating them until a baker named Gao baked some pastries to distract the monster, thus filling its belly with the heavy cake. The monster then retreated back to the mountains without eating any villagers. This is how the kueh called Nian Gao supposedly came about. Nian Gao may be sweet or savoury,
depending if molasses are added to the preparation process. Dumplings Traditionally, dumplings are consumed in Northern China for good luck and fortune as the dumplings are said to resemble the shape of ingots. They are usually stuffed with pork and chives and can be steamed, boiled or fried, depending on your preference. Tang Yuan Symbolic of the Mandarin saying of “tuan tuan yuan yuan”, meaning “reunion”, Tang Yuan is traditionally eaten on the first day of the Lunar New Year.
These cute rice flour dumplings come in a syrupy soup to symbolise reunion and happiness. These days, they can be filled with peanuts, red bean paste, yam paste, sesame paste or even green tea paste. Pineapple Tarts This crowd-pleaser is also eaten during Hari Raya and is usually considered to be a festive cookie. For the Chinese, pineapples signify wealth and fortune. Nowadays, pineapple tarts in Singapore are available in many variations such as the Taiwanese fengli su.
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JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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Fancy $10 hotdogs?
RECIPE
Newly-opened gourmet hotdog stand The Mustard Incident serves its own unique hotdogs
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their garlicky sauce, stewed peppers and topped with crispy bacon. The garlicky sauce and stewed pepper cut through the salty hotdog, and the crispy bacon added to the smoky aroma. We also loved their classic Coney Dog ($9); a pork sausage smothered with their bean-less chilli, garlicky sauce and chopped onions. Please don’t ask them if the chilli is spicy. This is “ang moh chilli” with minced meat, which means it is not spicy at all.
Things Will Get Messy The Mustard Incident only has standing room, mimicking the typical hotdog stands in the USA. Cheeky shots of their patrons litter the mural as a little Wall of Fame, or infamy, depending of your position with the said hotdog. The hotdogs here are stuffed almost to the brim with condiments and toppings, making it a value-formoney purchase. We liked the Duck Can Fit ($10), a duck sausage with
Some Like It Hot Chilli fiends, and we are referring to the spicy variety, can enjoy the Hawt Dog ($9), a spicy pork sausage covered in hot sauce with tomato and onion relish. It packs quite a wallop. If you are having trouble deciding between pork or beef sausage, try The Frankenstein ($10) on for size. This ‘mutant’ dog is split right
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3-Melon Punch In this humid weather, we all need a cool drink. Try this recipe to feel refreshed
By Cheryl Chia nlike many hotdog stands, you don’t have to wonder what goes into the sausages at The Mustard Incident, a new hotdog stand that opened just about a month ago at Tangs Orchard, Basement One. Founders Kelly Koh and Willie Sng believe in high-quality meat. Thus, all of the sausages are tweaked to certain specifications at a local butchery with quality cuts of beef and pork. They also source their hotdog buns locally, from an artisan bakery.
FOODMANIA
Ingredients • 1 litre Greenfields Full Cream Milk • 100ml strawberry syrup • 1kg seedless watermelon • 1kg honeydew melon • 1kg rockmelon or cantaloupe • Some ice cubes
down the middle and is half pork and half beef. It is wrapped with streaky bacon and covered in hot sauce, bean-less chilli and sautéed onions. Have fun trying to eat this hotdog without making a mess. Throw your veneer of politeness out the window and get hands-on at The Mustard Incident. The Mustard Incident, 310 Orchard Road, Tangs Orchard Basement 1, Singapore 238864
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his Chinese New Year, impress your friends and family with this homemade dairy drink that’s not too heavy on the calories. Instead of the standard packet soft drinks, wash all those new year cookies down with this 3-Melon Punch recipe. This recipe is quick, easy and also tasty.
DIRECTIONS 1. Carve the fruits using a melonballer, into the punch bowl. 2. Pour in the milk and the syrup. 3. Stir gently until well mixed. 4. Add ice cubes as a cooler or put aside in the chiller. 5. Adjust the sweetness by adding syrup or milk. Note: Using low-fat or skimmed milk may reduce the sweetness. Tasting adjustment is necessary to get the balance of the flavour. This recipe is from Greenfields Milk.
New noteworthy dishes on a scenic island Osia in Sentosa unveils its new menu for the New Year
Grainage Black Angus Beef Tenderloin
Razor Clam, Atlantic Halibut & Hokkaido Scallop
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shering in the brand new year with a revamped menu, Osia on Sentosa island rolls out its new dishes in January with fresh ingredients sourced from all over the world. Chef de Cuisine Douglas Tay of Osia showcases Western dishes with natural flavours. He also prepares the stocks, sauces and bread dips from scratch. Osia is a partnership between Australian celebrity Chef Scott Webster and Chef Douglas Tay. Inspired by fresh Australian produce and combining Asian influences
and Western culinary techniques, you can expect a wide array of fresh seafood cured with citrus juices and spices from the ceviche menu as well as tender cuts of premium meat. Noteworthy Dishes Osia’s new menu has something for everyone. Cocktail and seafood collide in a myriad of flavours in the Seafood Ice Experience ($36), which includes Watermelon Raspberry Vinegar Amaebi, Calamansi Mojito Hokkaido Scallop, Sourz Apple Salmon Trout, Coconut Maine Lobster, Pineapple Rum Tuna and Lychee Martini Oyster. Jumping on the sous vide bandwagon with their Pasture
Fed Beef Short Rib ($66), cooked in a veal stock and sous vide at 85 degrees Celsius for 12 hours, the dish is paired with accoutrements such as sour compressed green apple, pulverised cider vinegar as well as a chestnut porcini mousseline. The resulting dish is soft and tender to the touch. Fresh and Pristine Other dishes on the menu include, Milk-Fed Lamb Short Loin and Breast ($70) accompanied with Swede carrot purée, Romanesco crumble, garlic cream spelt and tawny port jus as well as a Fjord Trout ($32) with 42-degree Celsius confit, spiced cashew nut, pineapple
Chef Douglas Tay
vanilla rum jelly and cilantro butter gel. Desserts are also a unique affair with twists to the typical dessert. Their Pumpkin ($20) is a lemon mousse, goat cheese and frozen red wine concoction while the Macadamia Souffle ($34) is a sweeter end with crunchy praline, banana custard and sour cream ice. Their new creations are nothing short of exquisite. Osia’s new menu is available from Jan to Mar 2014. Osia, Festive Hotel - Resorts World Sentosa, 10 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269, Tel: 6577 6560
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FOODMANIA
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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weekender.com.sg
Cooking with
vacuum Do you know the meaning of “sous vide”? Nevertheless, it is a growing trend. We find out from professionals if it is viable in the home
The proper equipment is required but there are sous vide machines for home use
This technique gives you more tender, juicy and flavourful food
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ake a cursory glance at almost any restaurant menu these days and you are bound to find an item with the word “sous vide” [soo-veed]. What exactly is this “sous vide” thing, and why is it so popular? We’ll tell you. Sous vide is a method of cooking which uses a vacuum-packed plastic bag cooked in a water bath, over a longer period of time, resulting in a more tender piece of food. The method helps the food to retain moisture. Both meat and vegetable can be cooked with this method. Great for Cooking Anything We speak with food consultant Audrey Yeong of Apple Pie Order and Jasmine Cheah of pop-up restaurant Gastrogig, as well as Chef Alexandre Lozachmeur of restaurant Fleur De Sel, about this technique. All three of them have recommended and used the sous vide technique in their kitchens. Chef Alexandre says, “I’ve used this method since 12 years ago when it wasn’t that popular; and you can cook basically anything.” “Meat, no problem… Fish is great as well. I’m doing an ocean trout cooked at 45 degrees
and it’s tender, juicy and flavourful. You can even cook vegetables with it,” he enthuses. More Moist, Tender & Flavourful Audrey offers a slightly more technical view by explaining how meat and vegetable lose up to 30 per cent water mass in traditional cooking. “A pan-fried steak sees significant shrinkage of the meat after it’s been cooked,” says Audrey. “With sous vide, you lose between 5 to 15 per cent with a vacuum-sealed, slow-cooking process at a much lower temperature. The ingredients are sealed in a bag, which prevents the loss of essential volatiles such as the aroma and flavour,” she says. Audrey usually advises her clients to get a sous vide machine when helping them to revamp their menu or kitchen. Point of Contention However, Jasmine points out the slight point of contention amongst professional chefs over the method. “From my observation, the professional chef world is split over the usage of sous vide in a commercial kitchen,” says Jasmine. “For some traditionalist chefs, they may
By Cheryl Chia view sous vide as a shortcut to gourmet cooking. Sous vide cooking is more like a practical science of balancing temperatures than an art of cooking,” she explains. How to Sous Vide at Home However, please note that not just any tub of hot water will do to cook using sous vide at home. You will need a sous vide machine, as there is no other way to regulate the temperatures accurately and reliably. There are nonindustrial home-use sous vide machines available. Chef Alexandre advises to always “test drive” your experiments to ensure that the methods are correct. “Start with your food; if it is old and contaminated it is not going to be good. Prepare your food as needed and cook at the proper temperature; either use it or cool it down in ice water to drop the temperature,” he says. “You have different types of bacteria but about 95 per cent need oxygen to live, so if you seal it properly and cook it, the food will be pasteurised. But, it’s better to cook and serve
“...a vacuum-packed plastic bag cooked in a water bath, over a longer period of time, resulting in a more tender piece of food.” immediately,” he cautions. Jasmine leaves us with this parting shot. She says, “There is an ease of usage for home cooks and it is a fun and experimental process. There is significantly less clean-up and it is a good way to impress guests!” Try this old-new technique and serve restaurant-quality food right in your own home.
weekender.com.sg
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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beauty
HEALTH & BEAUTY
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IN BRIEF
The long and short of the beauty industry for this week 4
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Maybelline Update your look without thinning your existing wardrobe, with Maybelline Color Show Nail Lacquer Collection. It is a dazzling palette of show-stopping colours that allows every nail diva to complete her runway getup with a quick coat of polish. Available in 40 shades.
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Ciaté British nail polish brand Ciaté will be launching their new Ciaté Caviar Luxe Manicure at Sephora in Jan. 3D nail art is achievable at home in three shades, lustre – yellow gold, gleam - copper and smoulder – silver. Available at Sephora from Jan.
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Laneige Get popping lips with Laneige’s new Serum Intense Lipstick. With 20 vivid lipstick shades suited for Asian skin tones, the lipstick pampers your lips with intense colours and a moisture-rich serum. Available at Laneige boutiques and counters from Jan.
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Vichy Better known for its skincare, Vichy now breaks into the haircare market. Based on a new fundamental discovery on the location of reservoirs of hair follicle stem cells and the development of a breakthrough patented molecule, Stemoxydine, Dercos Neogenic is able to recreate an environment ideal to preserve the functionality of stem cells and awaken the empty hair bulbs in dormant phase to promote hair follicular renewal. It comes in 28 mono-doses and an applicator good for a month’s use.
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Phyto Phyto’s Anti-Dandruff Range comprises a treatment shampoo and a regulating shampoo. The former is formulated for fast action while the latter is for maintenance and keeps the scalp balance. There is also an anti-dandruff lotion for instant anti-irritation action.
Nuxe French skincare brand Nuxe has launched its new Nivanesque range to treat the first sign of lines and wrinkles to help relax, de-stress and smoothen skin. Comes in an emulsion, eye contour cream, 1st wrinkles smoothing cream and 1st wrinkles rich smoothing cream. Available at Robinsons, John Little, Beauty By Nature and selected Watsons stores.
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fashion
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Fash Snips
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
weekender.com.sg
Stirrings in the fashion world that you would want, need and love to know about
Celebrity Sighting!
Modern Family actress Sarah Hyland made an appearance at the Hunger Games: Catching Fire premiere with Carrera y Carrera’s Granada ring, to adorn for a subtle sparkle.
STOLEN
NY
Roger Vivier
Singaporean brand Stolen debuts STOLEN NY. The campaign is a tribute to the label’s unforgettable first encounter with the Empire City. Revealing one campaign girl per week on Stolen’s Facebook and Instagram channels, the digital campaign will culminate in a miniexhibition to be featured at lifestyle store and Stolen stockist Nana & Bird from Jan 2014.
More French goods have arrived in Singapore with Roger Vivier joining the fray. Having opened its flagship store in Takashimaya in Nov, it stocks statement shoes, bags and accessories that easily allow your style to transition from day to night.
Tommy Hilfiger Eyewear
Tommy Hilfiger’s latest eyewear collection features both unisex and gender-specific styles. We like the ladies style Woody Effect - A Seasonal Evolution, with a softly-rounded silhouette and wood-effect temples. These acetate sunglasses bring a sophisticated twist for Autumn.
Edge of Ember Antidepressant
Local brand Depression has come up with a brand new diffusion line called Antidepressant. The street wear line focuses on men’s and women’s fast-fashion trends, with mainly graphicprint T-shirts and wardrobe basics in cottonlycra, 100 per cent polyester and mock leather combinations with a luxurious and premium finishing.
Philanthropy meets fashion at the Edge of Ember. This local jewellery online store sells socially responsible accessories obtained from the region. Each design is produced in fair-trade workshops in developing Asian countries and part of the money goes back to charities that support women. Visit www.edgeofember.com
Zadig & Voltaire Summer 2014
“This collection is all about contrast; the opposition between white and black, what’s delicate and romantic with what’s raw and tough,” says Creative Director Cecilia Bönström, of the Summer 2014 Zadig & Voltaire collection. Expect lots of black with deliberate textures and strategically-revealed skin.
weekender.com.sg
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
Babies - aren’t they the cutest things ever? That’s why Weekender dedicates a section to your adorable darlings in diapers. Send us your favourite photos of your newborn, so the rest of us can coo and ‘ahh’ over him / her too! What better way is there to celebrate your child than to share him / her with the rest of the world?
Chanel Rao En Xuan Oct 5, 2013
HELLO WORLD Ryan Wong Oct 21, 2013 Noelle Wong Le Xin Jan 10, 2013
Nathaniel Hoe Aug 5, 2013
Mathew Goh Kang Qi Jun 27, 2013
E-mail your baby’s photos to general@ weekender.com.sg . Please make sure to include your baby’s name and surname, gender and date of birth, as well as your own Name, NRIC and mobile number. We look forward to receiving photos of your beloved one!
Callista Wong Sep 13, 2012
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FRIENDS & FAMILY
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FRIENDS & FAMILY
weekender.com.sg
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
PAGE 14
S P E C I A L F E AT U R E
Freeze excitement in a snap Want to have exciting photos that will wow your friends? Guinevere Sofer shows how you can freeze the action
A need for speed? Try using Compact Digital Cameras’ fast shutter speeds
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hether it’s F1 cars zooming by or your kids playing on the swing, there are many opportunities to take exciting action or motion photos. To avoid being disappointed by the results, choose a camera that can keep up with the action. Freezing the action Unlike our eye, the Compact Digital Camera has the ability to “freeze” a micro-second of the action. Unfortunately, phone cams will not be able achieve this. The versatile Compact Digital Camera can.
Freeze the action with the right camera function
With a simple change in a few settings, you can capture awesome photos that are worthy of framing. Here are few important tips. Set to High Shutter Speeds On most Compact Digital Cameras, there is a shutter speed setting. The shutter speed simply refers to the shutters in the camera that open then close, allowing the light through. It has various durations from 12 seconds to 1/2000 of a second. Setting it to “2000” or “1/2000th” means it will capture the image in .0005 seconds.
To capture high-speed action, you’d want the highest shutter speed available in your camera – Typically 1/2000th of a second. Phone cams, generally, don’t have the option for shutter speed selection, while Compact Digital Cameras usually do. Beware of Shutter Lag There is time lag between when your finger presses the button to when the camera actually captures the photo. This lag causes problems when capturing action. For instance, when you take a picture of someone blowing out
Airborne action captured
candles on a cake, the picture captured on a phone cam is usually 1 to 2 seconds after the candles have been blown out – missing the magical moment. This is because phone cams are notoriously slow to capture the image when you press the button. A Compact Digital Camera performs faster, allowing you to capture the moment more timely. Multiple Shots with One Click Timing is paramount when trying to freeze the action. Improve your odds off capturing great action photos by using the multi-shot function.
CANON CAMERA GIVEAWAY
3
PowerShot SX270 HS
compact digital camera!
Cameras to be won!
Value :
$399 ea.
CLOSING DATE: 10 Feb 2014
HOW TO ENTER THE FINAL GIVEAWAY & WIN
*SMS to 9056 2958 with the message
<CanonWeekender> <Name> <Home Address> <Postal Code> <Age> <Gender> <NRIC>
Thank you for participating in our previous batches of giveaways. Congratulations to the winners! Here are the winners of the second batch of Canon PowerShot SX270 HS compact digital cameras.
THE 2ND SET OF WINNERS ARE:
Middle photo: Laszlo Szirtesi Right photo: Neale Cousland Photos from Shutterstock.com
See Page 4 for question.
Win a Canon
*Only ONE SMS per week is allowed. The winner will be notified by post. Terms & Conditions apply. Visit www.weekender.com.sg/terms for Terms & Conditions.
Bring your Compact Digital Camera Finally, you’ll never know when an opportunity for a great actionpacked photo will present itself. By bringing your Compact Digital Camera along, you’ll always have better options to choose from.
ANSWERS TO SPOT THE DIFFERENCE:
Weekender
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a 12.1 mega pixel CMOS image sensor, a maximum ISO speed of 6400, and a 20x Optical Zoom lens that allows users the versatility to zoom from a 25mm wide shot for near wide-angle capture to a 500mm telephoto shot for subjects.
Multi-shot allows a few successive photos to be taken with one press of the button, giving you options to select from later.
Veralynn Tan NRIC: SXXXX129C
Gary Teo
NRIC: SXXXX295Z
Photo B
The difference is as clear as night and day. Photo B was shot with the Canon Compact Digital Camera SX270 HS. With the Compact Digital Camera’s superior optical zoom, the details – down to the screws on the window – are clearly visible.
weekender.com.sg
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
2014 Resolutions:
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FRIENDS & FAMILY
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F OC U S O N TH E F A M I L Y T I P
It’s once again time to make New Year resolutions - We present a few quirky ones By Cheryl Chia
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know you probably didn’t keep your New Year resolutions from the start of 2013. Or, maybe you managed to accomplish just one or two on your list. Resolutions are hard to keep as you tend to forget what you promised yourself in the beginning of the year. Heck, you probably can’t even remember what you had for dinner two days ago. I’m usually not even bothered to make a list in the first place as I assume that like a fine wine, people just get better with age. Then again, look at Kanye West and the guy from the Duck Dynasty programme. Here are a few simple (or not) New Year resolutions to try to keep in 2014.
1. Write 2014 instead of 2013
Every year, this mistake is commonly made, especially in January. Part of the reason for making a resolution is to help you to become (or appear as) a better and smarter person. The first step is to get your dates right.
2. Drink less fancy coffee & get real coffee Enough with the frou-frou drinks with whipped cream. Get some real coffee instead of a ‘milkshake’ for a change. Your waistline will thank you.
3. Control public transport rage
The quote from The Devil Wears Prada, “By all means, move at a glacial pace. You know how that thrills me.” comes to mind each time it is peak hour. I can’t count the number of times I wanted to smack someone who was walking so slowly because he or she was absorbed in a smartphone. Resolve to be more patient with these slowpokes and smartphone addicts.
4. Shed some pounds
This might be setting yourself up for failure (and it is one of the most repeated resolutions), so just aim to lose enough weight so that your arms don’t jiggle when you wave. Or, to stop your thighs from chafing against each other when you walk.
Photo: Focus on the Family Singapore Ltd
Can you keep them?
5. Stop setting more than five alarms on your phone
The alarm is there to wake you. Get your lazy butt out of bed on the first one, or second one if you will. If you’ve got to get up, you’ve got to get up. Just sayin’.
The kids should always come first
Staying together Focus on the kids and your marriage is likely to come out stronger Are you and your spouse staying together “for the sake of the kids?” If so, then I’ve got some encouraging news for you.
6. Read actual books
Magazines and gossip blog sites don’t count. Neither does 50 Shades of Grey. Read a real book such as The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or attempt the 1,000-plus page Les Miserables. (Yes, it was a book first, not a musical with Anne Hathaway). Even if you don’t complete it, you’ll have a bookshelf that looks more intellectual.
7. Eat less junk
If you don’t buy it, you won’t eat it. Don’t sabotage yourself with chips, cookies and chocolates around the house. Ditto to fast food. Learn how to make your own “junk” food from scratch if you have a craving. You’re likely to consume less salt, oil and preservatives. It’s good to be healthy if you want to survive the zombie apocalypse.
8. Think before you Tweet
Or Facebook, or Instagram or Vine… whatever people do these days. Whatever you put online never really goes away, even if you delete it. So, think, would you really want your grandmother to see that obscene post of what your boyfriend or girlfriend and you do to amuse each other? I don’t think so.
9. Smile in photos
I’m talking about you, Miley. Seriously, no duck face, sparrow face or what’s-her-face in photos. Smile like a normal person. You don’t want your kids to go, “What was daddy/mommy thinking?”
Positive Statistics Did you know that research has proven that couples who stay together for the sake of their children usually end up being happily married a few years down the road? They’ve found that if couples will just stick together and move through the rough times, their marriages usually become fulfilling and strong. Unhappily Divorced They also found that people who get divorced because they’re unhappy, are likely
Good luck in trying to keep them!
Happy Ever After? Most say that their happiest years are when the kids get older and have families of their own.
So, don’t throw in the towel on your marriage too early; happiness and fulfilment is just around the corner. Brought to you by:
© 2013. Reprinted with permission from Focus on the Family Singapore. For more resources on parenting and marriage, please visit us at www.family.org.sg
LATEST AVAILABLE MARRIAGE FIGURES Males Married (per 1,000 unmarried resident males aged 15-44 years) in 2012: 44.1%, up from 43.7% in 2011 Females Married (per 1,000 unmarried resident females aged 15-44 years) in 2012: 41.6% up from 41.4% in 2011 Males Divorced (per 1,000 married resident males aged 20 years & over) in 2012: 7.1% down from 7.6% in 2011 Females Divorced (per 1,000 married resident females aged 20 years & over) in 2012: 6.7% down from 7.2% in 2011 Information from www.singstat.gov.sg
10. Lose the phone Not literally, but figuratively. This is probably the hardest on the list with phones being our multi-purpose everything these days. Not having it is like losing a limb. But, for your own good, put the phone away at least once in a while. The world is not going to end just because the #Igers (Instagrammers) did not see a picture of your fishball noodles.
to end up as unhappy divorced people – not to mention what it does to the kids. The reason is pretty simple. The things that cause most conflicts in marriages – things like money, depression or even unfaithfulness – tend to ease with time. Situations change, and people change with them. Couples who stay together when times are tough almost always come out the other side stronger and more in love.
Couples who stay together when times are tough almost always come out stronger
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Funky furniture From quirky items to modern-classic furniture to pieces by world-famous designers, you’ll never be short of brilliant home décor items here
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David Dear Duck Mirror
red Lives Here launched its new shop space in endNovember. The spacious showroom is filled with an abundance of home décor knickknacks as well as atypical furniture. If you’re looking for new ideas or new pieces for your home for the coming year, Fred Lives Here is a great place to have a look at brilliant options. Fred Lives Here mostly carries modern-classic furniture, collaborative works with designers, as well as furniture by world-famous designers. You can even find smaller knickknacks to perfect the look of your home. Here is a taste of the menu at Fred’s house. Fred Lives Here, Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #02-14, Singapore 238896, Tel: 6634 3733
Jacobsen Egg Chair, Studded [Collaboration]
Eyeball Chair, Graffiti-ed [Collaboration]
Sending Animals - Pig
Fred Lives Here
At Fred Lives Here, expect quality reproductions of modern-classic furniture or further modernised pieces that are even more extraordinary. Fred Lives Here also tours the globe, finding new and original, quirky designers to continuously add to its interesting range of furniture and lifestyle pieces. A few of the best original antiques and vintage-style pieces complete Fred Lives Here’s unique collection. Fred Lives Here is part of the PACT group, which also includes Kilo at PACT restaurant, K.I.N clothing and LIM hair salon. PACT is soon to further add to its family portfolio, with new brands.
The Niagara Falls on the Toronto side
About Shareen Wong Shareen Wong is Programming Consultant of Power 98FM, and a “travelholic”. Shareen caught the travel bug when she was three, and has travelled the world solo, visiting 15 different destinations around the world. She hosts a weekly show called “The Wong Way”, where she gives tips on where to find the best eats or sights, or just how to be a smarter traveller. Tune in to her on Power 98.
Part of the Fred Lives Here showroom
Top 5 reasons to travel solo in 2014 Many may be apprehensive about travelling alone but sometimes it’s the best way to have fun or to get the full experience By Shareen Wong
Shareen with huskies in Sweden
Hot air balloon experience in Dubai
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ravelling alone is likely to be something you’ve considered but put off because, secretly, you’re terrified. What if you get lonely? What if it’s not safe? Who will you talk to? Can you really stand your own company? When my marriage broke down, I thought, what better way to find myself than to take that trip I always wanted. Because no one else could take three months off work, I was forced to plan a solo trip. The thought of it terrified me and yet I felt empowered at the same time. Take that leap; it’s one of the best things I’ve done. Here’s why 2014 should be the year you go it alone. 5. Learn to Dine Alone Before the trip, I couldn’t even eat in a restaurant on my own. Now, I actually relish the chance to do so. You’ll be amazed by how much better the
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DESTINATION & CODE
JANUARY 10 - 16, 2014
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TRAVELATION
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NOMINATED TRAVEL AGENCIES & CODE 2 Nominated Travel Agents for Each Destination (Either or)
Australia (AU)
Qantas Holidays (QT)
Farmosa Holiday Tour (FA)
China (CN)
ASA Travel (ASA)
M-Asia Travel (MA)
Europe (EU)
CTC Travel (CTC)
EU Holidays (EUH)
Japan (JP)
Ho Wah Travel (HWT)
SingExpress Travel (SET)
Korea (KR)
S Travel (STR)
ASA Travel (ASA)
Malaysia (MY)
Konsortium Express and Tours (KET)
Five Star Travel (FST)
New Zealand (NZ)
Jetabout Holidays (JAH)
Diners World Travel (DWT)
Taiwan (TW)
Nam Ho Travel Service (NHT)
New Shan Travel Service (NST)
Thailand (TL)
Giamso International Tours (GIA)
Asia-Euro Holidays (AEH)
USA (US)
EU Holidays (EUH)
Chan Brothers (CHB)
Best International Cruise Line (ICL)
Costa Cruise (CC)
Star Cruises (SCR)
Best International Cruise Travel Agent (CTA)
Citystate Holidays (CSH)
Stamford Travel (STL)
food tastes when there’s nothing else to distract you. I also met many interesting dinner companions along the way, as it’s only natural that people like making conversation over dinner. Now I’m forever cured of my fear of dining alone as I see it as an exciting experience – I’ll never know who I’m going to meet. 4. Best Way to Meet People People all over the world are drawn to solo travellers. They want to know your story and they want to tell you theirs. Even on days when I didn’t feel like making small talk, I’d always be drawn in by someone sharing a bit of their life with me. A taxi driver pining for his late wife, who was the love of his life. An old couple on their first vacation. These are stories you probably would not have heard because you’d have been too busy
talking to your travelling companions. 3. Catch Up With Old Friends Got an old friend you’re only in touch with on Facebook because they live halfway around the world? This is the best time to catch up with him/her. I planned my trip around visiting friends so that every fortnight or so, I’d have someone familiar to talk to and catch up with. It’s not cheating; it’s a great way of easing you into travelling solo. Plus, did I mention free accommodation? 2. Be as Selfish as You Want No more waiting for that friend who needs to see that row of shops… again! Or, suffer through that museum you have absolutely no interest in. Travelling solo is all about you and what you
want to do. So, if eating a chocolate croissant in the sun and people watching is all you want to do for the day, no one’s going to stop you. See and do only what you want. Surely that must sound appealing! 1. Learning to Love Yourself When was the last time you spent some time on your own, without the TV or plugging in to social media? Travelling solo lets you do just that, to listen to that inner voice, giving you time to reflect and to think about where you’re heading. We all need a break from the noise, the distraction and the hectic lifestyles we have. You’ll be amazed how at peace you feel with yourself. A lot of our struggle in life is due to uncertainty. Going it on your own will help you to tune in to that inner voice that seems to
know what’s next for you and how to get there. Catch Shareen Wong on the only travel show on local radio, “Getaways”, on Wednesdays from 7pm to 8pm, on Power 98FM.
View from the Top of the Rock in New York City
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