Batam Tour Itinerary – 7/8 July 2007

 REGISTRATION CLOSED  emoticon 

Batam Day Tour Itinerary (ST = S’pore Time / BT = Batam Time)

Day 1 (7 Jul)

08.30am ST  –  Meet at HarbourFront to collect boarding pass @ counter 02-22.

09.30am ST  –  Embark high speed air-con ferry to Batam

09.30am BT  –  Arrival @ Sekupang Int’l Ferry Terminal;  after immigration and custom clearance, meet local guide;  board air-con coach for tour of the day.

                                        City & Shopping Tour

  • Waterfront City  –  wide range of activities : go kart, board surfing, sailing, canoeing, jet ski, para-sailing, bungee jumping & other entertainment.
  • Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Laughing Buddha Temple  –  the biggest Buddlhist temple in S.E. Asia.
  • Lunch at Golden Prawn 933 Seafood Restaurant  –  a two in one restaurant complex built kelong style over the sea.  Sample variety of traditional Indonesian seafood with nice view of the N.E. Batam coast line.
  • Shopping @ GTS Local Product Shop & Bengkong Dry Food Stuff Market  –  local product such as coffee powder, batik, handy craft, ikan bilis, udang kering, kerupuk belinjo, etc.
  • Pondok Wisata  –  entertainment by local villager with traditional folk dance & performance.
  • Shopping @ Polo Shop  –  local branded product such as Polo shirt, bags, etc.
  • Toa Pek Kong Chinese Temple  –  the famous & oldest Batam Chinese temple was moved from Singapore Kusu island during the 1980s.
  • Shopping @ Batam Shopping Mall –  Batam’s largest & newest shopping mall.

17.15pm BT  –  Proceed to Sijori Resort Hotel for check-in.  Dinner @ resort.

 

Day 2 (8 Jul)

Breakfast @ resort.  Free & Easy the rest of the day.

SHC Calendar of Events – Events manager

A couple of times, Christina Chan had requested for an easier way to have a Calendar of Events, which can be easily seen by all members.  However, I have conveniently forgotten about the request each time.  Sorry about this.  With the current system, when events are posted, they are usually lost after a number of postings by members.

Well, we have just purchased a Web Calendar, latest Version 2.2c.  This is an online calendar which members can view, at the click of a button.

However, some work is needed.  We have to learn how to use it.  But, it’s easy.  So, I am looking for a SilverHairsClub member with a neck for playing with websites.  Someone who would download the file, learn how to set up events, and then upload the whole calendar to the internet.  You will be given a username and password.  Once you become an expert, you will continue to maintain the SHC Calendar of Events.

You will then have to teach all the Event Organisers how to use it and post their programs on this calendar.  If they cannot do it, and find such work too demanding, then you will have to do it, for all of them.

Would you like to do it?  Term of office: 2 years.  It’s fun, because you wont be paid.  Let me know if you are keen. I shall then give you the basic URL to start reading.

Terence Seah

SHC Monthly Walk in June

Date/Time: 9 June 2007.  4.30pm

Park:  Sembawang Park
Meet Point:   Sembawang Park terminal bus stop.(just next to park).
Going there:

  • By Bus:  SBS Bus 882 from Interchange, Sembawang MRT Stn.  Bus stop next to Sun Plaza.
  • By car: Ample Parking Space.

Leading the Walk:  SMLee has kindly agreed to help out.                                                            

Attraction:  Bottle Tree Village -The Bottle Tree Village is located at the end of   Jalan Mempurong and is famous for its Bottle Trees (Brachychiton rupestris)  which have been specially flown in from Queensland, Australia by the owner Mr. Alex Neo and Mr. Colin Chia. Apart from the unique trees, other Australian flora  can be spotted in the surroundings. An eatery, Sembawang Eating House, is located within this Village, serving traditional Chinese stir-fry dishes. (www.bottletree.com)
Sembawang Park, a 15 hectare. One of the few parks in Singapore with a natural beach, the Wak Hassan Beach, this park is a heaven for city dwellers who are tired  of the never-ending concrete buildings and sky-scrapers. It’s a popular spot for campers as well as families who wish to spend an idyllic day by the beach (Johore Straits)
One can dine at the Beaulieu House, built in 1910, which was the residence of  Admiral Sir Geoffrey Layton .  A wide range of fauna and flora awaits visitors, ranging from the spectacular Cannon Ball tree (Couroupita guianensis) to the many species of birds which have made the park their nesting grounds.
NB: Charles organized Sembawang Park walk in Aug. 2006. Some of the earlier SHC members have joined us in the walk.  Hope SMLee able to show us the Simpang Kiri connector or the Sembawang Hot Spring for good luck. Another good news is that the cyclist group and the walking group combine to have it on one day in Pulau Ubin.  Probably in August. We have unanimously nominated Yew Kwong to be in charge.  Look out for his  posting on SHC website. Akan Datang.  Also Akan Datang the photos for the walk in May.

Have given to Terence weeks ago to post on website.  He must be busy and excited with the Batam trip so a little delay from him.  We are a forgiving and understanding bunch.

Gingko Tay – Profile

Gingko Tay – Profile

Hello to all of you at SilverHairsClub.  I am a newcomer!
Please allow me to introduce myself. Briefly, I am a single lady (I mean, never been married :D) and in my 50’s.


I have been working all these years in the secretarial/administrative field, mostly with multi-national companies, including a couple of offshore banks. A whole part of my life has been dedicated to my job. Although I enjoyed my work very much, but unconsciously I had actually neglected much of my social life.
I have just been retrenched and am now very free and available. Nonetheless, the word “retirement” is far from my mind. I will always want to keep busy and continue to use my acquired skills, knowledge and experience.
With much free time on hand now, I hope to take this opportunity to make and meet new friends, and do some of the things that I have missed out, like going to concerts, musicals, travelling, social dancing, gardening, cycling and Singaporeans’ hottest favourite – makan-makan.
If anyone of you out there shares the same interest(s), please let me know. I will be delighted to participate and meet up with you.
You are welcome to contact me at:  gingko.nut@hotmail.com

Gingko Tay

Chris Sew – Profile

Just call me Chris. A nickname that I have been used to since 18 of age. I have just passed 51 years, still working full time as Procurement Manager with an MNC organization serving near to 24 years.

My fave pass time is going gym (1,3,5 weekly) tossing iron and practising Qigong at outdoor park every Saturday and Sunday morning as early as 6am. Having found the mix of East and West exercise has indeed bring me to a new height of lifestyle and enormous increased of energy.

In truth fact, I have been practicing Qi Gong since late July 2003. This span of time certainly allowed me to evaluate the result of this gentle "martial art", not only as stress management therapy but it has unbelievingly improves on nervous system function and, more impressively, with regard to its great effect on my physical health.

I would not hesitate to recommend Qi Gong to individuals to all mature persons who are seeking to maintain or improve their health system and to remain free of chronic pain due to the aging process. Do give it a thought.

I have a two beautiful daughters, 18 & 16, still pursueing their academic, enjoying life to the fullest, I believe, just like me.

I am an extrovert, like having people around me all the time, in order to get work done "on time". Being a part of SilverHairs Club could be an avenue for me not being lonely during the ageing process.

I like travel, hoping to find good kaki to go backpacking though have never try before.
In fact, prior to my Procurement role, I was a Regional Sales Support Manager for the company doing a lot of travel. I have been to places around S.E.A. a lot, short trips all time, strictly biz and then back home. Never bother to visit places partly most of the time I was alone and could never wait to get on the plane to home.  Just being homesick.

Lastly, my best pass time is having coffee and cake and talk sense at the walkway cafe,
looking at passers-by, enjoying the sun, and of course get lazy…

I look forward to attend the SHC activity soon.

In conclusion, am I a man or woman or an orge, continue to make that guess…

Cheerio!

Peter Lim – Profile

Hi Dear SHC members,
My name is Peter Lim. Just joined SHC recently. I am 63 and retired. My work experiences are mainly in manufacturing industries. I can relate with Terence because I spent 2.5 years working as an expatriate for a MNC in Bangkok.
These years were one of the enjoyable time I spent.  My wife Jennifer is a homemaker and together we spent time either travelling overseas or with our grandsons.  Personally I like to read thrillers, do some gardening and spent a lot of time on my PC.
best regds and thanks
Peter and Jennifer
email didoentp@singnet.com.sg

Chris Sew – Profile

Just call me Chris. A nickname that I have been used to since 18 of age. I have just passed 51 years, still working full time as Procurement Manager with an MNC organization serving near to 24 years.

My fave pass time is going gym (1,3,5 weekly) tossing iron and practising Qigong at outdoor park every Saturday and Sunday morning as early as 6am. Having found the mix of East and West exercise has indeed bring me to a new height of lifestyle and enormous increased of energy.

In truth fact, I have been practicing Qi Gong since late July 2003. This span of time certainly allowed me to evaluate the result of this gentle "martial art", not only as stress management therapy but it has unbelievingly improves on nervous system function and, more impressively, with regard to its great effect on my physical health.

I would not hesitate to recommend Qi Gong to individuals to all mature persons who are seeking to maintain or improve their health system and to remain free of chronic pain due to the aging process. Do give it a thought.

I have a two beautiful daughters, 18 & 16, still pursueing their academic, enjoying life to the fullest, I believe, just like me.

I am an extrovert, like having people around me all the time, in order to get work done "on time". Being a part of SilverHairs Club could be an avenue for me not being lonely during the ageing process.

I like travel, hoping to find good kaki to go backpacking though have never try before.
In fact, prior to my Procurement role, I was a Regional Sales Support Manager for the company doing a lot of travel. I have been to places around S.E.A. a lot, short trips all time, strictly biz and then back home. Never bother to visit places partly most of the time I was alone and could never wait to get on the plane to home.  Just being homesick.

Lastly, my best pass time is having coffee and cake and talk sense at the walkway cafe,
looking at passers-by, enjoying the sun, and of course get lazy…

I look forward to attend the SHC activity soon.

In conclusion, am I a man or woman or an orge, continue to make that guess…

Cheerio!

SHC website – making it run faster

Currently, the SHC website is moderated.  We get approx 5 spams a week, and usually, they are killed before you see it.  The spams are usually about viagra and online medical purchase.  With this change, spams will appear; but we will kill them, once we spot them.

"Comments" are moderated.  They make take between 1 minute to 24 hours, before they are approved to appear on this website.  Considering the type of comments we are getting so far, I am thinking of allowing Comments" to be approved in real time.  We skip the moderation process.  In other words, if you write a "Comment", and submit it, the "Comment" is automatically approved.  This will make the SilverHairsClub website fast and more exciting.

As for "Post", everybody can write a "Post".  If you have a record of keeping within the rules of the club on this website, your "Post" will appear automatically too.  If not, you can still write, but your "Post" will be moderated.

This means that username "Guest" will have to be deleted.  This also means that a published "Comment" or "Post" can be deleted by the administrator whenver it is found to be unacceptable.

For SilverHairs who have long stories to tell or share with other members, please use Pages "Non-SHC stories, jokes, info".  Do not write as a Post or a Comment.  This is space optimisation.

Effective immediately.  This feature may be withdrawn, if widely abused.  I hope not, as we are all SilverHairs.

(And, if this feature does not work today, I am sure I can get it to work by Monday.  I see a little snag.) 

Terence Seah

SHC logo

Chin Kim Sen & Michelle – Profile

Profile of Chin Kim Sen

Just call me Chin. I am 58 years old and can be considered as ‘Not retired
but  always taking 6 mths vacation twice a year’.  To some, may be
considered ‘sayang'(pity) not to be  working for the last 3 years but I felt
it is time to live for myself and for my spouse. Since my wife had a stroke
3 years ago, I stopped working to support her spiritually, emotionally and
mentally. I know she deserves my 100% attention after all these years of
marriage. She is much better now and we are enjoying each other’s company
and  of course, we have our fair share of bickering. This is marriage!

As for myself, I am still fit <grin>, considering that I go jogging and
exercising for 1 hour at the Woodlands Stadium in the last10 years. I used
to jog at 4.30 a.m. but now, at 5.30 a.m. to accompany my wife for qi-gong
after my jog.    Anybody keen to join us? Invigorating! We are also into
lawn-bowling lately instead of  the vigorous 10-pin bowling in the past.

Both my wife and I share the same concerns as our fellow silver hair club
members- retiring comfortably with S$500 stretched to its limit; going to
see the world as long as my kaki can carry my body- of course, sussing best
deals at travel fairs, airline offers, etc..;  living in retirement village
with people of same likes and sharing and exchanging our life experiences.

I look forward to see you all  at the next gathering and also the online
chit-chats.

Profile of Michelle Siew

Hi hi, great to be still alive and talking to you all on the web. I am still
young at heart tho’ not in age<grin>. I am 54 now but at least younger than
my hubby, Chin. I also retired from the workforce prematurely due to my
sudden illness. The haemorrghic stroke may have  partially incapacitated me
physically but not my spirit though. I want to live passionately, now that I
am given a second lease of life.  I am blessed with a devoted husband, 2
grown-up daughters, 1 son-in-law, 1 grandson and another grandchild on the
way…. Mmmm.. what more do I want!….

I used to enjoy cycling, 10-pin bowling, swimming, belly dancing and
line-dancing, but now I switch my interests to less vigorous activities  to
accommodate my physical condition like reading (which is still my first
passion), surfing the net, light exercises like qigong, travelling (free &
easy type), visiting the sick to comfort them, sussing  good and cheap food
(zi- char and the hawker fares and of course, still watching my waist line-
oops what waistline?)

My concerns also echo what you club members have! That’s why both my hubby
and I join the club. I  will definitely look forward to join the club’s
activities and see you all.

Car boot Sales – tentatively OFF

Let’s see if this idea makes cents.

Last Sunday, I was in Perth, and while looking around the city, I saw a group of SilverHairs, under some large trees.  They were having a car boot sales.  Various items eg unusused home items, small plants, Malaysian coffee, old pictures and books and clothes were placed at the back of the car or on small tables.  The items sell for a few cents to a few tens of dollars.  There were no commercial items.  No open air or cooking.  Maybe, some tightly closed bottles of curry gravy or home made chilli sauces.

Well, I was wondering if these SilverHairs really make any pocket money, selling their used wares.  In fact, they were having fun, and were chatting with one another, sharing their coffee which they had brought along in hot flasks and enjoying the morning sun.  They had become good friends.

The SilverHairsClub hopes to organise the 1st car boot sales, in a private car park or at a relaxing spot, under some coconut trees.  This could be a Sunday, say from 4 – 6pm.  Every SilverHairsClub member, with a car or pickup, can put items for sale at the the back of the car or lay them on a table.  All proceeds go directly to the individual SilverHairs.  Budget $3 for the use of the space and a classified ad in the Straits Times..  We need to look for a space.

Tentatively, Sunday, 22 July 2007, 1600 – 1800 hrs.   I guess we need to work the details.  But, if you are interested, please put your name here. 

I am also looking for an Event Organiser for the Car Boot Sales.  Please put your hands up.  The idea is to make this car boot sales a regular SilverHairsClub activity.

Participation:

  1. Lily Ho
  2. Dolly Lim
  3. Caroline Gee
  4. Yew Kwong
  5. Suzhang
  6. Charles Wee
  7. Joyce Kwik
  8. Veron Lee
  9. June Lim
  10. Joyce Kwik
  11. Ivy Low
  12. KT Wong
  13. Joy Chuang
  14. Chee
  15. Lee Ah Nee
  16. Strictly for SilverHairsClub members.

This carboot sales planned for 22 July 2007 is OFF for the moment, due to no approval for the use of the carpark space.  We will get back with other ideas, raised in this Post.

Terence Seah

Joyce Tan – Profile

Greetings…

I am Joyce, a commoner. Born in an attap kampong hut 50 years ago. Single parent with 2 grown up children. Used to practice Yoga but stop 10 years ago upon doctor’s advice after my neck injury. Not good in talking, feels more comfortable participating in physical exercise.

Begin to feel the ‘Empty Nest’ now. A nature lover, I missed those days when I sneaked out in an adult’s bicycle at the age of six, roaming alone in the greeneries of the kampong, racing with dragon fly and butterfly, and waddling thru rising water with sea creatures, like sea snakes; crabs; shrimps and plenty of fishes, to reach home during the 3rd & 18th day of the (chinese) month (due to high tide)…..

 As I’m working full time and due to my age, not sure if my muscles still can support me in activities like long distance cycling & hiking etc.  Hope to be able to join you guys in some activities some day when the timing match.

Cheers to all active SH

SHC Overnight Gathering @ Batam – 7/8 July 2007

Room Allocation – SHC Overnight Gathering @ Batam Sijori Resort (7/8 July)

REGISTRATION CLOSED emoticon 

Price Breakdown of price :

  • Departure fee : $11 (from S’pore & $3 from Batam)
  • Seaport tax : $7
  • Round trip ferry : $25
  • Room rates : $53 (twin) & $33 (quad)
  • Tips to driver & guide : $2

Twin Sharing @ S$101pp

  • Clara Chay / Mary Tan
  • Linda Chang / Annie Loh
  • Eyvonne Chew / Josephine Yap
  • Serence / Gary Ong
  • Philip / Priscilla Wee

    Quad Sharing @ S$81pp

    1. Lily Ho / Dolly Lim / Gingko Tay / Catherine Yeo
    2. Terence / Tim / Yew Kwong / Anthony / Dan Huang
    3. Ann To / June Lim / Lee Ah Nee / Norlinda
    4. Joy Chuang / Gwyneth Lee / Veron Lee / Eliza Chua
    5. Cheryl Ho / Elizabeth Hwang / Janet Ng / Agnes Tan
    6. Maria Tan / Lin Tan / Annie Young / Julie Guan
    7. Susan / Molly / Ann Lim / Bessie Lam

  • Calling SHC Musicians,

    Dear friends,emoticon

    Further to my forum posting for the sing-along session for 24/6/07 (Sunday).  I would appreciate ur feedback on the songs u are able/going to play for the day….

    With Reference :

    •    Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Old Oak Tree
    •    Close To You
    •    I’d like to Teach The World To Sing
    •    Knock Three Times
    •    Rhythmn of the Falling Rain
    •    Green Green Grass of Home
    •    Lemon Tree
    •    Those Were The Days
    •    Love Portion No. 9
    •    Blowing In The WInd
    •    Bridge Over Troubled Water
    •    500 Miles
    •    House of The Rising Sun
    •    Take Me Home Country Road
    •    All Kinds of Everything
    •    Corina, Corina
    •    Oh Susanna
    •    Oh Candida
    •    I’m gonna Knock On Your Door
    •    Beautiful Sunday
    •    Vincent " Starry…Starry Night"
    •    Streets of London
    •    Yellow Bird
    •    I started A Joke
    •    Puff, The Magic Dragon
    •    Your cheating Heart
    •    Let me be there…
    •    Leaving On a Jet Plane
    •    The Young Ones
    •    Song Sung Blue

    Thank You,

    clara

    SilverHairsClub 16 May gathering – Retirement issues

    Thanks to Terence for his arrangements and also for his views on retirement. I trust that most attendees had a great time of fellowship and apologise for any shortcomings.  Thanks also to all the speakers for their views. Please refer to the relevant forum posts for the Blue Helmet, now SOHO scheme and acupressure session. Also thanks to Oi Cheng who did the registration and sorted out the voucher payments. Let’s look forward to the next meeting.

    The monthly gathering is confirmed for Wednesday May 16 evening. 

    • Venue:  Pret A Manger, 35 Robinson Road, The Ogilvy Centre #01-02/06, Singapore 068 876.  Besides Lau Pa Sat market, between Raffles and Tanjong Pagar MRT.
    • Date/Time:  Wed 16 May, 1800 – 2030 hrs.  You may come at 5pm, for early birds.
    • Entrance:  Free.  This is a coffee/sandwich cafe.  From savings at the D&D, we have monies left.  A voucher of $3.90 will be given on this date, to registered participants list below.
    • Housekeeping – When you arrive, please see Oi Cheng.  Write your name on a label sticker, and place it on your blouse/shirt.  If you have the SHC name tag, do bring it along.
    • Toilets – Not in the cafe, but at Lau Pa Sat.

    This event is our monthly gathering.  Feel free to get to know one another.  Except for club taboos, go ahead and discuss whatever you love.  We shall also have one-hour discussion topics on retirement issues.  SilverHairs will be given the opportunity to speak on any of the topics below.  Let us know if you like to speak – 5 minutes.  These topics include:

    • Where do I plan to retire?
    • How much is it going to cost me per month to retire?
    • What am I going to do when I retire?

    Registration:

    1. Steven Chan
    2. Terence Seah – What do I plan to do when I retire?  My dream idea.
    3. Kenneth Tan – Event Organiser and moderator for evening.
    4. Lesley Ho
    5. Lilian Chan
    6. Edwin
    7. Melissa Khng
    8. Tim Liu
    9. Caroline Gee
    10. Maria Tan
    11. Rosalind Tan
    12. Shirley Wong
    13. Henry Lim
    14. Ho SC
    15. KC Lau
    16. Ronald Lee
    17. Chow Weng
    18. Ronald Wi – doing a 5 min presentation.
    19. Ann Lim
    20. Molly Chua
    21. Suzhang
    22. Jeffrey Wong – Sharing thoughts on retirement.
    23. Linda Chang
    24. Peggy Ho
    25. ST Tan
    26. Lisa Ong
    27. Ronald Lai
    28. Alice Tan
    29. James Chan
    30. Marie Lim
    31. Lynn Chua
    32. L H Jie
    33. Eileen Lee
    34. Christina Chan
    35. Bee Gek Hwa
    36. Pheng Sok
    37. Benson Koh
    38. Lily Yen
    39. Lynn Chua
    40. Oi Cheng – Registration
    41. Annie Loh
    42. Clara Chay
    43. Ann To
    44. Norlina
    45. Lee Ah Nee
    46. Rene Leong
    47. Robert Quek
    48. Kristy Quek
    49. Dave Tan
    50. Zahriah
    51. Joseph Tan
    52. Pam Ong
    53. CJ Ang
    54. Andrew Yeung
    55. Philip Ong
    56. Patrick Yeo
    57. Teresa Hwang
    58. SB Khoo
    59. Mary Tan
    60. Alice Teo
    61. Clarice Ng
    62. Eleanor Chan – Planned retirement in Canada
    63. Dee Ang
    64. Dan Huang
    65. Thomas Kuan
    66. Ella
    67. Richard Lee – Retirement idea
    68. We will stop at 60 pax. Closing date: 5 May. This cafe has a seating capacity of 80.

    Terence Seah, Kenneth Tan, Oi Cheng

    REPORT on Clubbing – 30 May

    Dear Fellow Clubbers

    I’m glad we had fun last night.  Thanks to the 3 guys who came along to chaperon us ladies.  Thanks to Ronald Lee for the supper followed by long chit chat.  But most of all, thanks to all those who’ve made this event possible. 

    The venue : Zouk  (No. 17 Jiak Kim Street)  next to Grand Copthorne Hotel

    Being eve of public holiday, everyone of us paid $12/- for 2 drinks and multiple entries to both Phuture and Zouk.  (Velvet was closed for private event.)

    We decided to stay on at Zouk for the music and the atmosphere.  The real dancing only kicked in at 11pm and the dance floor gets more crowded by the minutes.  We really had a good work out on the dance floor for 3 hours.  Also, it was fun watching the young people miming the lyrics on staggered platforms like some kind of a show.  And it was contagious too.!  I found myself and June mimicking these youngsters.  We finally called it a night after 2am.

    Cute     emoticon

    Eventhough reservation was non-existence, still, we would like to thank Susan for her initiative to check out details and made the reservation.  This is team spirit. emoticon

    Those who met up for dinner before Zouk : 

    1. Rene  
    2. Lily Ho 
    3. Ronald Lee 
    4. Yew Kwong 
    5. Susan
    6. Lee Ah Nee 
    7. Molly 
    8. June Lim
    9. Olivia Wong
    10. Ann To

    The rest met up with us @ Zouk :

    1. Catherine
    2. Andrew
    3. Dolly
    4. Nina
    5. Eliza Chua
    6. Gwenyth
    7. Gingko

    Those who went for supper :

    1. Ronald Lee
    2. Yew Kwong
    3. Andrew
    4. Dolly
    5. Lily
    6. Susan
    7. Molly
    8. Rene
    9. Gingko
    10. Ah Nee

    SHC members, if you have not been to clubbing since the disco days, you have really missed your chance to check out the clubbing scene with people of the same age group. 

    Come join us next time.  It will be for the fun of it. !  We will have a "Social Nite" in June.

    Lily Ho

    Lesley Ho – Profile

    Hi SHC members,

    I had just joined the club about 2 months ago but had been so busy that I have been missing out on all the wonderful activities.  I am currently freelancing with the Textile Fashion Federation Training centre as a trainer for the garment industry and finally have time to do the things that I have always wanted to do.  I have been working way too hard all my life and even though I am not of retirement age yet, it is time to put balance back into my life.  In the past , I was travelling between 60% to 90% of my time and was hardly home. 

    My hobbies are reading, computer games, entertaining at home and enjoying quiet evenings in the company of good friends.  I exercise 3 times a week at the SGCC gym to keep fit.  I hope to learn to cycle and perhaps someone from the club can teach me as I have noted there are in fact cycling activities in east coast park. 

    I look forward to meeting some of you some day.

    SHC’s Used PC Project

    Hi fellow members

    Appreciate your help to :

    1) disseminate info of this project to our members (especially those who dont have PCs or surf the SHC’s homepage)

    2) encourage those who need the PCs to come forward

    3) provide storage space of 5 sq feet (at least for min 6 mths) to store the donated PCs (top priority)

    Every little effort of yours counts. With your help, we hope to narrow the digital divide and bring up the level of IT literacy among our members and also the less fortunates in our community.

    I and my project members thank you very much.  

    Kim Leong – Profile

    Hi everyone

    My name is Kim and born in 1961.  I am a single parent with a daughter in primary school.  Currently working as a secretary in a German firm.  Not much into regular exercise regime.  Ocassionally I do visit the gym and gather for group cycling.  My favourite is going to the movies.  Hope to join in and take part in group activities with new friends.

     

    Ron Lai – Profile

    Hi All SilverHairs

    Let me introduce myself, some of you may have known me liao, Ronlai, just join SHC only a month’s away.  Am married for the last 44 years to a loving wife, Alice Tan, a half-blue Peranakan.  We have two daughters and five grandsons.  I was born in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, in a small town known as………………………… the name will scare you of……………….."Pontianak", haha, not "Pontianak" of what you see in film, but real life of things might had happened in the small town in the early days, that’s how the name derived, migrated to Singapore and settled down. 

    To reach the goal of being true SilverHairs, I exercise regularly, to keep my health in check, and make new friends to enjoy life, as time waits for no man. I go to Gym at my Condo regularly, doing the treadmill for half-an-hour daily (doctor’s order), and also do the light weight control.  More often than not, we are also at times at the SBG with a group of about 1oo, including European, early in the morning doing the Qi Qong exercise. The breathing  exercise helps us to control our Cholesterol, Hypertensionj levels and also Urine Incontinent, especially for people like us, the SilverHairs.

    My interests in life are dancing (to enjoy as well as to keep fit).You will be surprised if I were to tell you that I first started line dancing with a Japanese Instructor, by the name of Suzuki ( I think some of the SilverHairs lion dancers will know him) at the Aranda Country Club, in the early days, where not even one Community Centre was organising it. You can consider that I am one of the "pioneers" lah, but now is very "rusty", no doubt.  I also love Ballroom and Social dancing.  Singing (especially the Oldies), Bowling, in which during my hey days am in the "200" leaque, but now if I can hit "120" , "tao chiu" liao, as the balling balls are gathering dust.  Love fishing. Gardening, where I toil with my spouse, who also love gardening, she has "green fingers", mine not so green, but lighter shade.  We managed to have flowers like "Passion or Pasiflora" (blood red colour), "Catus Rose" (orange in colour), "Forget-me-Not" (purple in colour) "Bleeding Heart" (white,red and pink), "Cup of Gold" or "Golden Chalice" (yellow)as well as the "Golden Showers" orchids, all in all in a small garden space to call our own, and to enjoy the sight of sweet smelling flowers in our twilight years. appropriately called the SilverHairs.

    I love travelling too, travel at least once or twice a year, have been to the States with my spouse.  We stayed in our friend’s place at Los Angeles area a small town called Rancho Cucamango, where the temperature can reach 40 degree F. you cannot stand outside the roadside more than 10 min. from here  we went from West to East.  We had alsobeen to Europe, travelled from up north, Sweden, thru Holland, Belgium, West Germany, Yugoslavia, Italy, France, Manaco .In the middle East were Egypt, Turkey, Greece. In the far-east, or shall I say near-east, Korea, Central and south Japan, Shanghai, Vietnam, Phillippine, Brunei, Vietnam, Hongkong, Bali as well as NZ and Australia.

    Love good food, have been following the "makansutra" trial for quite some time, and now the "Lost and Found" To reduce weight,after following the trial, do brisk walk at the East Coast Parkway where am staying is only a tunnel walk to the East Coast Park. need no driving.

    Lastly, just to add a bit more of my humble self, worked two years as sub-editor in newspaper line and later shifted to banking as a Bank Manager inan International Foreign Bank, for the later part of my life, for a long 32 years till retirement.

    In July 17th this year, my spouse and I will be making a tour to Hokkaido for eight days to unwind, where you will find carpets of beautiful Lavender flowers, any SILVERHAIRS care to join us……….most WELCOME.

    REGARDS

    RONLAI

    Managing SilverHairsClub T-shirts

    Hi, I need some help with the SilverHairsClub T-shirts.  I have a number of T-shirts to be given out to SHC members who have participated in some of our programs.  However, I have not been able to keep track of the names and sending them out to the right persons and address.  Basically, my travelling makes it difficult for me to keep track of this process.

    If you would like to help me manage the club’s T-shirts, I would appreciate it.  Essentially, I would send the stocks to your house, probably 50 – 100 T-shirts of different sizes at a time.  I shall also bring along the brown envelopes, for you to insert in the T-shirts.  You have to keep track of the stocks, and I shall replenish them every few months. 

    Preferably, you should live near a post office.  Club shall pay for the postage.  I have a preference for T-shirts to be sent via mail-order, registered.

    Key issue is to manage the address, as the address has to be correct, or else they dont reach the individuals.

    If you like to volunteer with this task, please let me know.  Thank you.

    Terence Seah

    Blue Helmet project – update

    The Blue Helmet project has taken a new ange, and undergoing new developments.  A few SilverHairsClub members have taken this project to new heights.  Blue Helmet is being developed as a separate entity, and is likely to be renamed.

    The group is looking to complete a team with the following skills and background.  Let me know, if you would like to join the team.  You should preferably be retired, or about to be retire.

    1. HR manager, with experience in organising training programs, recruitment, staff surveys, recruitment and profiling.
    2. Training manager, with experience in training, courses, career path planning.
    3. IT manager, with experience in personnel database, web integration, portals
    4. Interior designer, with experience with club houses, office space.
    5. Exhibition organisers, with experience in exhibition space (sales and marketing).

    Please indicate the postion interested, and add a comment here.  We will get in touch with you.

    Terence Seah

    SilverHairs running small business

    Recently, we had Shirley Wong who shared with us her idea of a Hot dog outlet.  Following which, we had supportive feedback from Lily Ho on the different licences, Tim on tenancy agreements and Guest on type of flooring to be used.  Last year, we had a session on small business ideas, and we had participation from 28 members.  Last year, some members ventured into the idea of an internet cafe along Holland Road.

    I feel we should keep the small business ideas moving.  As you see from my earlier comments, I am a firm believer that SilverHairs should  continue to maintain their SilverHairs years physically and mentally active, while still able to financially support the many years ahead.

    Of course, there are also many SilverHairs who treasure their retired and non-working lives, and would dread the idea of doing any business.  30 years of working is enough.  At the same time, there are business risks, and parting with hard earned money after 45 years can be an equally dreadful idea.  One SHC member with experience in financial accounting for small business wrote to me last year, saying running a F&B cafe is a sure failure.

    I am more optimistic.  What do you think?

    Terence Seah

    SHC overnight gathering in Batam, Sat/Sun, 7-8 July 2007

    We have some response to the idea of an overnight gathering.  We have interests from:

    1. Maria
    2. Joy
    3. LH JIe
    4. ann
    5. Terence
    6. Tim Liu
    7. Rosalind
    8. Lily Ho
    9. Kenneth Tan
    10. Ronald Wi
    11. Venika Leong
    12. Eyvonne
    13. No limit, except room subject to reservations.  Please indicate your room share partner.

    Ideas for places include Batam (Bagus Hotel), Pengerang (Desaru) and Kukup (Tanjung Piai Resort.  This could be a bungalow or hotel rooms, near the beach.  Some SilverHairs have suggested this would be an idea to get to know one another, plus add on a couple of knowledge sharing.  Hot water is a must.

    If you have a contact with a travel agent, able to organise for 20 people, please drop a line here.   We need your help to start the process here.  Please share your ideas.

    Read earlier post.

    We can now confirm the place at Batam View Tourist Resort.  Click here for info.

    The rates are: 

    • SGD 98 per person, twin sharing – standard room, breakfast and ferry two-way.
    • SGD 133 per person, in a 2 Bedroom villa (can take 4 persons), breakfast and ferry two-way.

    And, anybody, who can get a better package, please raise your hands.

    The original intention for this overnight gathering was not shopping or sightseeing.  Really, more for SilverHairs to get to know one another better, learn some yoga from one another, sing some songs with inhouse guitarists, chat or just drink some beers togethers.

    This program is confirmed.  Can I have a volunteer for an Event Organiser?  Lily Ho has volunteered to be the Event Organiser.  Thank you.

    Terence Seah, Lily Ho

    SHC’s Used PC Project

    Hi fellow members

    My sincere apology for keeping you guys in the dark since the first meeting was done on 14 Apr 07. We had our 2nd meeting at a member’s place this afternoon. My apology again for not broadcasting this information on the SHC’s webpage because of space constraint. 

    We are now firmed to kick off this project. We want your help –   

    1) To give us your name if you need a set of used and working Computer. Priority will first be given to those who cant afford to buy.

    2) To donate your unused, spoilt or unwanted Computers to our Project. They will be refurbished to working condition or salvaged for parts for future use.

    3) To conduct lessons for members and / or assist in helping out during the session.

    4) To help in refurbishing the donated Computers and / or in writing courseware.

    Collection and delivery – Fixed on 1st Sat of the month.

    Pls contact via email or sms or call to : Bernadette Chung at rosycute@gmail.com / 91172778 or Yew Kwong at lohyks@hotmail.com / 97892492.

    Members in this Project –

    Yew Kwong, Chan Kwong Wah, Timothy Liu, Shirley Yeo, Serene Tay, Gary Ong, Pheng Sok, Bernadette Chung, Ronald Lee, Chow Weng and Andrew Yeung.

    Annie Loh, Dolly, Ronnie, Mary Lee, Jade, Charles and Dennis Har.

    Tea Party

    Hi SHCians. I will be holding my tea party as promised. The venue is
    open air so no air con so very hot lah. So I would like to have it from
    6pm to 11pm. Ang Moh Carrot cakes, various types of cakes and kuehs,
    pies and BBQ chicken wings will be served with coffee and tea. Wines and
    Beers not on the menu so BYO. It is actually a tea party so chicken
    wings (Caroline’s recipe) is a bonus  . As the place can only hold
    limited no of people, so it will be 30-40  30 guests on a first come first
    served basis (sorry about that)  Those attending who wish to take a dip
    before the sip and eat can come earlier. There is an open air Jacuzzi
    and a big swimming pool. All rounder and Andrew, if you are coming, you
    could bring your "girlfriends" and we can have a mini sing a long – a
    prelude to our coming singalong session. 
     
    Date: 26 May 2007 (Saturday)
    Time: 6pm-11pm
    Venue: 37 Jalan Sempadan, Villa Marina BBQ Pit 3

    Confirmed Guest List – Limited to 30paxs, so hurry to register and chope a place to avoid disappointment – First come first serve

    1. Tim Liu
    2. Rene Leong
    3. Andrew Yueng
    4. Shirley Wong
    5. Catherine Yeo
    6. Joy
    7. Ron Lai
    8. Alice Lai
    9. Peggy
    10. Ann Lim
    11. Susan Chang
    12. Molly Chua  Pheng Sok
    13. Oi Cheng
    14. Ronald Wi
    15. Linda
    16. Dee Ang
    17. LH Jie
    18. Ronald Lee
    19. Lisa Ong
    20. Eileen
    21. Benson Koh
    22. Eliza Chua
    23. Veronica
    24. Jenny
    25. Lina Tan
    26. Jade Phua
    27. Melissa Khng
    28. Robert
    29. Kristy
    30. Clara Chay

    Closed for registration….. Job Done….

    Posted by Caroline Gee

    Henry Lim – Profile

    Hi All SHC Members,

    I have registered many mths ago and have posted a few comments. I have found it to be very interesting and sharing concerns of interest to most pple here.

    Allow me to introduce myself. I hope to retire in 2 years time but otherwise work to 62. I studied in Perth in early 70s and qualified as a psychologist which i am currently doing. My clients are pple with relationship issues, work/career, mild emotional problems eg anxiety, depression, stress, etc. I get immense satisfaction when my effort thro psychotherapy, counselling, family therapy, etc, results in their improvement and help them to move on. i am married and wife is a hsewife and only child just started his career after NS. My interests include jogging, table-tennis, fishing, cooking, self-development talks/training, and travelling.

    My retirement plans include doing free-lance counselling work as a psychologist, spending more time lazing ard in OZ (say 6mths per year) and looking fwd to be a grandparent.

    I welcome comments and other possible retirement plans from members. Hope to join some of the activities soon. will be attending the mtg on 16 May so hope to meet u pple there!

    Cheers! Henry