Category: Forum General

Forum page for SHC members. General, everything and anything.

Tibet, Nepal anybody?

Hi folks at SHC.

I wrote a new post yesterday with the above headline but dunno how come it didn’t appear. I had to borrow Charles’ Laos thread to pose the question. Mr Terence Seah has advised me to try again. So here goes:

Wow! Rene Leong has gone to Nepal and planning to go to Tibet next. Lum Fook is planning to go to Nepal next year. Wee Jee is interested to go to these two places as well. It’s so exciting. Charles, Rene, why not plan to go to these places. I bet there’ll be more SHC members who are willing to come along. Right folks?

But a leisurely package lah. I’ve never done any trekking before. The only trekking I’ve done is up to Bukit Timah Hill and through MacRitchie Reservoir. emoticon

With warmest regards

Norhayati

OB Cha Cha starts – Sep 12, 2008

Dear dancers and those keen to join in the fun!emoticon

We are never to old to wriggle our hips! Our lives are what we made it out to be. When there are beautiful music being played let’s harmonise by expressing ourselves in dancing and swaying into the moonlight!

Our Elementary Cha Cha class end this Friday.

  • Starting next Friday (12/09/08) is the OB Cha Cha class!
  • Time: 7.00-8.00pm
  • Fee: $32.00 for member/ $35.00 for Non-member
  • Duration: 8 weeks
  • Venue: Clementi CC, Clementi Avenue 4 (8 minutes from Clementi MRT)
  • Coach: Miss Maggie Hoemoticon

Tour from Bangkok to Laos, Oct11th-20th.

Hi again,

Since our Malaysian East Coast trip was postponed to next year, we have found another trip up north.

Briefly, we will fly to Bkk on Oct 11 or earlier and start the tour on Oct 12th. There is a cruise upriver, followed by a van ride to Wangnam Keao, the ‘Switzerland of Thailand’. Next day we will go up to Korat and Khonkaen and really ‘makan angin’, at the ‘7th level of pure Ozone’. Day 4 will bring us up to Nongkhai, near the border between Laos and Thailand. We will cross over to Laos the next day and stay in Vientiane, Laos.

After that we will return to Thailand but will take a different route down south, but slightly to the west, again visiting towns away from the usual tourist joints, arriving in Bkk on Oct 19th. We fly back to Sgp on the next day

We aim to travel no more than 160kms per day so that we will have ample time to ‘absorb’ the ambience. As usual we intend to visit ‘non-touristy’ places, on a casual drive and eat whatever food the journey brings. The distance fom Bkk to Vientiane is say, less than 1000+kms, so you can estimate how leisurely it can be. FYI that’s about the distance from Sgp to Penang, but without the N-S highway convenience.

We are looking for another 4 to 6 persons, easy-going, with a spirit of adventure and cautious curiosity, preferably those who can sleep in the same room, ie couples or same-sex types. The cost will be the return airfare Sgp-Bkk-Sgp, plus tour at THB25000 to THB28000 plus meals and spending money plus tips for the tour guides. The tour fare is  inclusive of ABF (breakfast) in Thailand, lunch and dinner in Laos only, plus van, fuel and toll charges, accident insurance, an English speaking guide, and entrance fees in Laos. BTW THB 25k-28k approximates S$1000-1120. So perhaps S$1500 plus return fare is the ball-park figure.

Since there is not much time, we will appreciate a firm, commited response so we can tidy up the details with the tour coy. Payment will be required soon for the airtickets and a deposit. Both these items are non-refundable. I am also looking for a person who can help with the booking of the airtickets

All Singaporeans do not need a visa for either Thailand or Laos, but a Singapore passport with more than 6 mos expiry is standard.

I am sorry if this is a rush job but it is the dry season in Oct plus we are trying for that week as there will be a festival in Nong Khai then (Bang Fai Phaya Nark festival). I don’t know what the festival is but any festival is always a joyous and happy occasion.

Please register your interests or questions here first and sms or email me later.

Thanks and Cheers to all.

Monthly Cycling on Sat, 20 Sept’08

Sat, 20 Sept’08 from 4 p.m. at East Coast Park

Meet at rear of McDonald Restaurant Marina Cove (former East Coast Recreation Park).   Rented bicycles are abundantly available at reasonable rates.

Activity will not be cancelled even if it rains but will be brought indoor 2 turn into chitchat session.  We will go for dinner together after the session at the nearby hawker centre.  Pls come n join us.

Rain or shine, we will definitely be there 4 U. Look forward 2 seeing u guys.

Our Usual Program –

  • 4.00 – 4.30 pm : Gather 4 chitchating, if possible inside aircon McDonald Rest.
  • 4.30 pm           : Proceed 2 bike rental kiosk, Coastal Recreation, 2 rent bikes.
  • Rental Cost is between $5-$6 unless fuel surcharge is imposed, the cost may be bit higher.
  • 4.30 – 6.30 pm : Cycling ard East Coat Park.
  • Lily leads standard distance cyclists ard ECP (distance ard 6 to 8km).
  • Jade coach learners otherwise will follow the slow cyclists (distance will depend)
  • 6.30 – 7.00 pm : All cyclists ride bck 2 start pt 2 return bikes n go 4 dinner.

TQ, Cycling Group (Ah Nee, Douglas, Jade, Lily n Yew Kwong)

Who Are Coming –

  1. Lily
  2. Yew Kwong
  3. Jade
  4. Dolly
  5. Daniel Ong – joining the 3pm long distance.
  6. Veronique – joining the 3pm long distance.
  7. Andrew Thio
  8. Susan Tan
  9. Maureen
  10. Douglas* – leading long distance via Siglap Park connector.
  11. Caroline Gee
  12. Norlinda
  13. Lina Ng
  14. Sue Chang
  15. Ah Nee
  16. Laurence Lau – joining the 3pm long distance.
  17. Steven Chan – joining the 3pm long distance.
  18. Alan Bok
  19. Ann Bok
  20. Aaron How
  21. Chin Boon + Bam Bam
  22. Rene Leong – joining the 3pm long distance.
  23. Molly Chua
  24. Patsy Lim – joining the 3pm long distance.
  25. Shirleen Kao
  26. Lin Chuah
  27. Karen Thio
  28. Gingko
  29. Andrew Thio
  30. Albert  –  joining the 3pm long distance.
  31. Maggie Teo – joining the 3pm long distance.
  32. Agnes Seow
  33. Wana Tay
  34. Tim Liu
  35. Margaret Tian
  36. Daisy Yeo
  37. Ron Lee
  38. Charles Chua – joining the 3pm long distance.

So far, 10 out of 38 – going for the long distance.  Yeah,,,,,,"jia-you"   emoticon

What’s happening on 12th/13th September 2008?

There’s been a lot of buzzing & confusion going on.  Some members are clueless as to what’s going on.  Some are not even aware of this event.  It’s  a celebration of the mid-autumn Festival,  done the SHC style.  Make yourself free, do not miss out the fun.  Ron Wie has booked a chalet at the NSRCC, and members can choose to stay overnight.  If you wish to stay overnight, and wants to share a room, pls drop an email to Lydia Chin.  Alternatively, just bring along your sleeping bag or tent, or borrow Terence’s camping tent.  The event line up, as of today, is as follows.  This is still subjected to further changes.

Day 1  (Friday, 12th September 2008)

  • 1:30pm     First shuttle bus departs from Tanah Merah MRT Station 
  • 2pm          Proceed to check into chalet no 10
  • 2-3pm       Origami (led by Ron Koh) 
  • 3-4pm       Scrabble, board games or Mahjong or karaoke (free & easy)
  • 4-7pm       Nature Walk along the beach : includes intro to qigong & nature photography.                  If  you’re coming for this item, pls bring your walking shoes, umbrella, hat & camera.  
  • 7pm           Dinner –  Pot Luck session.  Each person to bring along an item of food, wine, juice, enough for about 15 pax.  If you’re coming for this session, pls let us know what food item you’ll be bringing.  Post your food item on this thread.
  • 7:45pm till late      Line dance Jam Session (led by Hamida, our dance instructor).  We will be polishing up our line dance item for the coming Oct 15th meeting.  If you want to be a member of the performing group,  do not miss this first practice, which will be held during this Jam session.

Day 2 (Saturday, 13th September 2008)

  • 8am       Breakfast for those staying overnight (or those who wish to come in early)
  • 9am       Beach Walk or cycling  
  • Noon      Lunch (menu & venue to be determined later)
  • 2pm       Hair Cutting demo cum Hair Workshop by Lisa
  • 4pm       Free and easy – games , walking, cycling , Karaoke etc
  • 6:30pm     Lantern Festival Pot luck – bring food and you own hand made lanterns.  Beach party   will carry on for those who enjoy sitting by the beach
  • 8:30pm till late  – Dancing till the wee hours of the night from specially selected CD music & guest singers.  If music & dance is not your cup of tea, proceed to a quiet spot for some romancing.     

Click here to view photos

8days Tour to Hainan Island 11DEC to 18DEC

Hi ,

I would like to recommend this cheap and worth going tour in December 2008

Hainan is located at south end of China, the average temperature is 16 C to 27 C,

China’s second largest island.

Price about $700 per adult(for early bird only), with air ticket, 4 star hotel, land tour and 90% food. 

Vivian Lai

RELATIONSHIP ADVISOR

This is meant for members to seek advice on relationship,friendship and even parent/child problems.While I do not claim to be Mr KNOW-ALL on every subject I have been analysed by the DISC system as being equitable ,fair and objective and  a good problem solver(in real life good at solving other people’s problems but not my own problems).I am not a qualified phsychologist but I do have good old COMMONSENSE to steer me through the minefields of different opinions and solutions.

 I may not be the best man for this job even though my buddy TIM voted me the champion writer(biased opinion since he is my buddy…blush ,blush) regarding the Tan Chin Boon debacle but I actually respected  and agrred that Charles Chua’s observations about polarisation into 2 camps was particularly succinct and spot on.Although I do not agree with his conclusion that the initiator is laughing at us at the ruckus he has made.In the words of Ronald Koh …right or wrong that is the beauty of SHC.While Charles Chua and myself do not agree on everything but at least we agree on the more important things and like TIM(we don’t always agree) we continue to  be mature about it and respect each other despite our opinions.

Perhaps my harsh criticism of the over the top responses may not be entirely(most were and deservedly spanked verbally) correct for all but for some  though harsh and biased may have been appropriate in that context with the benefit of hinsdsight and reflection.In the end I think both Charles and myself were wrong in our conclusions…I said he would disappear if he did not apologise and Charles on the laughing at the ruckus part.If I am not mistaken although he was a noshow in the forum by 24 Aug and I was disappointed he did not respond further in at least a limited apology that he is still attending functions with the support of some members(can anybody confirm?)

I have been fooling around and having FUN  with supposedly gambling(investment if you win consistently and definitely more productive returns than TOTO and 4D if you have the expertise.Tim I have a proposal for you… tip 4D consistently at least in theory on the forum and bet on your lucky numbers and see who wins more or looses less in the long run…hello must tip before draw ,OK?).In this post I would like to share serious workable advice and solutions to personal problems.

This is how this post should work:

1) somebody poses a problem(if you are shy you can also present it as a friend’s problem)

2) I give advice and offer a possible solution

3) other members(jury) offer their inputs and advice

4)Review and I will give final advice. Either I shift my opinion  slightly or entirely(not likely)to incorporate these inputs or if I disagree than I have to state why.

5) Initiator of the query has the option to comment and let us know whether he/she is taking the advice with a pinch of salt or implementing  it.Over time report back and review whether it has worked or otherwise

Remember if criticisms are shot like arrows (even at me) than we should all remain COOL and not take it personally for the sake and interests of our fellow members.Do not take this post too (hot under the collar or steam between the ears)or indulge in name calling. or 4 letter words.(no hints or codes also)Attaching a label or tag after backing up your point with reasoning should be the order of the day.

USEFUL TIPS

I have in mind for members to share a range of useful tips that SHC  members can find useful.No I am not talking about horse racing,soccer tips(which are my areas of interest)

An example is that my mother says when I do the washing I must  be turn the clothing inside out,zippers must be zipped up and buttons unbuttoned.How many of you out there who does not do it this way please own up and share how this advice has proven useful.

I have 3 travel tips to share ; when traveling always take the name card of the hotel when you go out as taxi drivers have a bad habit of sending you to the wrong hotel and then apologise profusely for hearing wrongly.With the card and name of the hotel written in the local language they will have less excuse of doing so.

The other tip when taking the MRT , METRO, MTR , the TUBE or the UNDERGROUND especially if the language is foreign as in France is to look for the end station when changing lines and not look for directions for the station you intend to go to.For example when going to Dover when coming from the airport do not look for directions to Dover but look for directions to Boon Lay,Of course you need a station guide or map as well!

Another tip is to learn a few useful phrases in the local language eg in France "ou er de toilette?(where is the toilet? How much? Where is the —— ?

If you are a sushi fan please take note that certain outlets(not restaurants) offer a 50% discount 30 mins before closing time.

I used to leave my battery in my laptop even when I was using the power plug connection.Now I know that u should remove the battery when using the power connection.You should also drain the battery as much as possible if u use the battery.In this way your battery life will be much longer.

When I find my notes I will share how certain stains are removed.

Members  can also  share survival tips ,camping tips cooking tips,how to get nice phone numbers without paying extra like 93833883 or 96998511,tips on weight reduction,how to stave of the onset of  wrinkles,special diet or healthy food programmes,cosmetic tips,travel tips,foodie tips on where the best is for certain types for certain types of food,how to travel with children,investment tips,business tips,where to get bargains,household tips,how to keep food fresh for a longer period  in the fridge,how to make things last longer,where to buy the best durians or where to get tasteful durians at decent prices,how to cut down your handphone bills when overseas.I cant possibly cover every subject so I leave it to members to create new ideas

Tips can also be negative: how to avoid getting ripped off,how to avoid bad situations,share bad experiences or knowledge of bad experiences so members can avoid falling into the same traps.

One tip when buying a car or something similar make sure before you sign  read the receipt  or contract as to whether it includes the GST or excludesand state so clearly.One conman try to con my friend out of an extra GST payment after the deposit was paid.Luckily she got out of a tight spot when I advise her to call their bluff as the road tax was expiring soon and they backed off.

Let this post also be an avenue for members to get advice on issues not related to friendships and relationships or personal issues.(this we can cover in another agony uncle post that I might initiate soon).So if you have a non personal problem or dilemna you can ask fellow members for advice!Caveat Emptor clause applies…use it at your own discretion.

I hope SHC members are willing to share and sometimes in the process embarass themselves(you can always say you were told by a friend…) and help each other by sharing our wealth of Silverhairs experience.

Illuminate each other with your glow , light the candle  and lift the darkness upon us!

NO MATTER HOW OLD WE ARE WE CAN NEVER STOP LEARNING PEARLS OF WISDOM!

I.T. – Important News 2 Share Wif U

The below article was published in Malaysian press yesterday. In case u hd encountered the same, there is no better solution than the one n only. Read on –

http://digital.asiaone.com/print/Digital/Digital.html

Curtains for pirated Windows

Those using illegal copies could find their screens going black and icons vanishing. -NST
STEVEN PATRICK

Wed, Aug 27, 2008
The New Straits Times

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA: From today, those with pirated copies of the Windows XP Professional operating system in their computers that are Internet-capable could find their screens going black and the icons vanishing as Microsoft Corp gets tough.

There are 8.6 million users of Windows XP Pro in Malaysia and about three million are expected to suffer the "blackouts", according to Microsoft Malaysia.

To continue working, users will need to reset the machine’s desktop background. All will return to normal, but only for 60 minutes before another blackout occurs.

The only "cure" is to get a licensed copy of the operating system from a Microsoft reseller or going online at www.microsoft. com/malaysia/genuine. Each licence costs RM580.

The initiative is part of Microsoft’s anti-piracy campaign, dubbed Windows Genuine Advantage, aimed at educating users on the benefits of using genuine software, Microsoft Malaysia client business group director K.T. Ng told The Star yesterday.

Dance Jam night @ Kembagan CC – 31 Aug 08 Sun

Calling all dancing enthusiast.  Social dancers as well as line dancers.  Come on down to Kembagan CC on Sunday, 31st August 2008, 7pm till 10pm.  We’re having a practice session for social dance as well as line dance.  This CC is just beside the Kembagan MRT station.  Walk along a canal and you will see it.

Ron Wie & I are trying to form a performing team for the meeting on 15th October 2008.  So if you’re interested to be part of this performing team, make it a date with us.  Come for the first practice. 

PS> There will be a small fee of $3 per head to use the CC dance studio, for non members of the Kembagan Dance Club.

Register your name here :

  1. Ron Wie
  2. Lydia Chin

Another men’s night – Tue, 02 Sep 2008 evening

Another men’s night coming up.  I am keen to have another men’s night.  There is a time slot for Tue, Sep 2, 2008.   Meeting time:  1830 – 1900 hrs.  Place:  Boat Quay.  I think it is a quieter day of the week.  Suggestions also welcome.  Would you like to join me?

Terence Seah

Interested:

  1. Andrew Thio
  2. Jeffrey Fong
  3. Terence Seah
  4. Dan Huang – coming to swim too.
  5. Jeffrey Lim
  6. Jonathan Ong
  7. Andrew Koh
  8. Yew Kwong
  9. Tim Liu -likely to join swimming in the Singapore River.
  10. Charles Chua – may join at dinner.
  11. Steven Chan

Wise Words

Here are some wise words I came across, would like to share, you may want to post some of the beautiful verses that you may have read some where.

Here it goes:-

Age is an issue of mind driven matter, If you don’t mind, it dosen’t matter.

The key to everything is patience. You get the chickens by hatching the eggs, not by smashing it.               

Life is journey, not a guided tour, never let fear of striking out to get in your way,when you lose, don’t lose the lesson.

Time is the coin of life, it’s the only coin you have, and only you can determine, how it will be spent, Be careful, lest you let others spend for you.

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

Yesterday is already a dream, and tomorrow is only a vision, but today, well lived, make every yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.

To handle yourself, use your head, To Handle others, use your heart.

Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.

Chance to win Vietnam air ticket

Make a date to meet Patrick Khoo from 2.00pm onwards at  Asian Civilizations Museum(next to Victoria Memorial and near the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles…for deatailed map log on to www.acm.org.sg or drop me an email at insiders111@yahoo.com.sg and I will send you an email with map and full day programme).

Besides the free ticket to HCMC  Lucky Draw(just fill form…don’t have to be present)I will give you(not me actually) free Milo welcome drink  for all and balloons for your kids.My booth will have a lucky dip where you will have a chance to win a exquisite Vietnamese embroidery painting,Vietnamese hats,caps (not those made in France)and T-shirts.The ?th (number connected with my date of birth)SHC member who visits my booth if he does get a prize in the lucky dip will be guaranteed (fixed legally) to win a Vietnamese hat from me.

This exhibit is the same as Steven Chan’s post in June but the programme for the whole day which starts at 11.00am is different. I would suggest you come from 2.00pm onwards to see the martial arts experts from Vietnam and they will be followed by 5 hot ladies from an all girl pop fusion band.Admission is free instead of the usual S$8.There will also be perfomances from award winning modern dancers,story telling for kids,Games for young and silverhairs,free lessons on how to make water fairy puppets and paper lanterns.

There will be a special preview of  a Silverhair HCMC/Nha Trang(no swimming in seas due Monsoon season)/Cantho City Tour with itinerary based on recommendations and input from experienced Viet Trippers like Kenneth Tan,Dee Ang,Lena Wang,Jassmine Teo and last but not least the effervescent Steven Chan(maps were useful).This tour is based on  clean and comfortable budget accomodation and outstanding exotic food like Tamarind Crab,Elephant ear fish,Vietnamese seafood dinner,BBQ dinner,Giant rice balls,gourmet lunch by hotel resort chef ,outstanding French restaurant and visit to ice cream parlour.Other highlights include visit to Hot Spring Mineral bath and waterfalls,a light sleeper luxury train overnight from HCMC/Nha Trang/HCMCvisit to Pearl Farm  and a chance to see the Ghe Cho Festival in Cantho where you will see the incandescent paper lanterns powered by burning oil careen into the air(yes these lanterns actually fly as seen in an Andy Lau movie).This tour is from 08Nov to 16Nov based on minimum 15 to go.(if numbers are less than 15 the rates will be higher with no Singapore Tour Leader Escort).Final pricing and basic itinerary will be posted in the forum when prices are finalised.This special tour is not  a typical standard tour but has been specially designed to meet SHC tastes and can be tailored to suit SHC members needs and budget eg Pearl Farm tour can be chopped if 100km travel from Nha Trang is considered too long a journey.Number of days can also be shortened if budget turns out to be high.

The other programmes at this "Vietnam experience" include Vietnamese food  and mooncakes , an outdoor  pop fusion concert  and other entertainment from  8.00pm to 11.00pm.Of course you will a  2nd chance to see the interesting museum exhibits from Vietnam if you missed it the 1st time with Steven.

If you are a CITIBANK clear card holder you will get a $60 per couple discount for our Vietnam Spa promotion.

If you drop a deposit for any of our other tours for that day you will be entitled to a $30 discount(normally given to travel agents) from our standard tour prices.

Bring your kids along and have a  fun time and get a chance to win interesting prizes(Anybody wants to baby sit the Big Baby and keep me company are welcome…will buy you a drink…not Milo of course).Cheers!

I.T. Learning – Sep & Oct 08

Hi Guys

We know u had waited long time for this. These classes are confirmed n opened to members of SHC & YWCA (in collaboration) –

(1) Venue : YWCA, Outram Road premises.

(2) Day & Time : Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

(3) Fee : $6 per participant per session of 2 1/2 hr. Example, 2 sessions of Movie Maker (1 & 2) = $12.

(4) Maximum Enrolment per class : 12 persons subject to 1st come 1st serve. Minimum 8 participants to start a class.

(5) Payment : By IB/ATM transfer to POSB Current A/C 796-03473-4 (Loh Yew Kwong)

Dates & Contents

1.   6 Sep 08 : Multimedia & Digital – Downloading of songs n video from Youtube through online conversion via Zamzar. Plus simple photo editing if time permits.

2.   13 Sep 08 : Class cancelled

3.   20 Sep 08 : Multimedia & Digital – Movie Maker Part 1 of 2 – Putting all your photo 2gether to make a movie.

4.   27 Sep 08 : Multimedia & Digital – Movie Maker Part 2 of 2 – Putting all your photo 2gether to make a movie.

5.   11 Oct 08 : Cancelled

6.   18 Oct 08 : Cancelled

7.   25 Oct 08 : Multimedia & Digital – Movie Maker Part 1 of 2 – Re-run.

8.   1 Nov 08 : Multimedia & Digital – Movie Maker Part 2 of 2 – Re-run.      

SHC I.T. Volunteer Group

6 SEP 08 – James Tan, Sally Kang, Shirleen Kao, Wee Chin, Aaron How, Lin Chuah, Ella Tan, Jennifer Lim, 3 (YWCA) Class Full House 

20 SEP 08 – James Tan, Jennifer Lim, Wee Chin, Lin Chuah, Ella Tan, King Seng, 2 YWCA (Left 2)

27 SEP 08 – James Tan, Jennifer Lim, Wee Chin, Lin Chuah, Ella Tan, King Seng, 2 YWCA (Left 3)

25 OCT 08 – Sally Kang, Judy Lim, Clara Chay (Left 9)

1 NOV 08 – Sally Kang, Judy Lim, Clara Chay (Left 9)

Monthly Walk – Changi Point Boardwalk, Saturday 13 Sep 08

Start Time: 4.30pm             
Duration:  about 2 hours / 4km.

Meeting Point : Changi Village Bus Terminal.

Getting There : Bedok or Tanah Merah MRT Station take No 2, 2A;
Tampines MRT Station/Interchange take No 29;
Bishan Bus Interchange/MRT take No. 59;
Serangoon Central Bus Interchange /MRT No. 109

For those who are driving, parking is nearby the hawker centre.

Leaders for this walk:  Mary Tan & ChristinaCL Chan

This time round, it is not just the Boardwalk that you gonna walk!  We have planned some extras so you will be stretched……….but it is easy for your feet, the route is beautiful and very scenic; lots of greenery and water…..

A favourite family and recreational destination since colonial times, Changi Point today continues to draw people with its idyllic setting and laid-back charm. With its lure of lush greenery, breezy corners, gentle seas and colonial charm, Changi Point provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A walk along the rustic Changi Point coastline is not to be missed!  A charming boardwalk takes you through lush greenery and undulating terrain along the rugged western coastline, while a meandering waterfront walkway along the eastern beachfront creates an interesting tropical experience of sea and sand.  Viewing decks and pavilions along the way enable you to pause, soak in the sea breeze and enjoy the excellent views out at sea.

The Changi Point Coastal Walk is divided into six segments, each with its unique experience :
–  Sunset Walk, has beautiful view of the sunset, hence its name
–   Kelong Walk, reminisce the good old kelong days as you tramp on wooden stilts
–   Cliff Walk takes you through the rugged western coastline
–   Sailing Point Walk, enjoy views of the sailboats and the expanse of the sea
–   Beach Walk, a relaxing coastal walk along sandy beaches,  along the way pause, soak in the sea breeze and enjoy the views out to sea  
–   Creek Walk, appreciate the views, sights and sounds of the bumboat activities ferrying the public to and from the offshore islands.

 

At the end of the walk there is —
1)  Changi Village hawker centre where there are various food stalls,  including the International      Muslim Food Stall at #01-57 for its famous Nasi Lemak and perpectually long queue.

2)  An International Buffet dinner with BBQ items, at the Saltwater Cafe in Changi Village Hotel.  
     Per head $37.70 after 20% discount (DBS credit card). 
If you wish to join in the buffet dinner, please indicate so that we can make reservations.

 

Register HERE!

See you at the walk! emoticon

 
Mary Tan, ChristinaCL Chan and
other Walk Team members:  CharlesWee, Veronica Wong & Jeffrey Lim

Members Confirmed Coming –

  1. Mary Tan
  2. ChristinaCL Chan
  3. Rene Leong
  4. Bobby Yee
  5. Bernie Chung
  6. Ah Nee
  7. Charles Wee
  8. Charles Chua
  9. Caroline Gee
  10. Judy Lim
  11. Lydia Chin
  12. Alan Bok
  13. Ann Bok
  14. Boon Liang
  15. Susan Tan
  16. James Tan
  17. Alice Seah
  18. June Chin
  19. Paul Leong
  20. Jenny Leong
  21. King Seng
  22. Helen Kuek
  23. Helen Wong
  24. Veronica Wong
  25. Daisy Phua
  26. Patsy Lim
  27. Kristin Leong
  28. Venika
  29. Daisy Yeo
  30. Aaron How
  31. Ivy Low SH
  32. Josephine Yap
  33. Eliza
  34. Lin

 

Click here to view photos

Horse Racing Advisory

My strike rate has taken a dip in form  and my R.O.I is in the red.However I still would like  to prove that horse investments can make money if one has the right skills ,experience and diligent homework(research).

After a 2 week break I ‘m back with a selection for today . Tim will like this one and he will likely not be a 1st favourite.Even if one wants to play an outsider he should play one of the top 5 favourites as they come in 80% of the time.The problem with rank outsiders is not because of the 20% chances only but which one among this lot? I have tipped  3 value bets of $35 to $40 in my 7naps tipping column previously since the start of this season.

My selection (medium bet confidence) for today is Race 8 nbr 3 Ace Armada.His main rival is nbr 8 with nbr 5 the likely favourite in close contention .The others in the frame are 1-4-2.

I recommend an investment of 50 wins and 50 places on Ace Armada.

  • Foe exotic bet play 3-8/3-8-1-5/3-8-1-5-2-4 and 3/8-1/field and 8-1/3/field
  • For forecast and place forecast 10 tickets @ on 3#8-1
  • For trio go for 3-8/3-8-1/3-8-1-5-2-4

I will do the R.O.I tally some other time.

Your horse racing reit investment pundit

P.S. Anybody thinks he can tip better please feel free to join in before the start of actual races

The Art of Being Well

If you dont want to be ill speak your feelings, but humbly
 
Emotion and feelings that are hidden, repressed end in illnesses
as gastritis, ulcer, lumbar pains,spinal. With time, the repression of
the feelings degenerates to cancer. Then,
we go to a confidante, to share our intimacy, our ‘secrets’ our errors.
The dialogue, the speech , the word, is a powerful remedy and an
excellent therapy.
Make Decisions,
The undecided person remains in doubt, in anxiety, in anguish. Indecision,
accumulates problems, worries, and aggresions. Human history is made of
decisions. To decide is to precisely to know to renounce, to know to
lose advantages and values to win others. The undecided people are victims of gastric ailments, nervous
pains and problems of the skin. Find solutions Negative people do not
find solutions and the enlarge problems. They prefer lamentation,
gossip pessimism. It is better to light a match that to regret the
darkness. A bee is small but produces one of the sweetest things that
exist. We are what we think. The negative thought generates negative
energy that is transformed into illness.

Dont live by appearances,

Who hides reality, pretends, poses and always wants to give the
impression of being well. He wants to be seen as perfect, easy-going,
etc. but is accummulating tons of weight.A bronze statue with feet of
clay. There is nothing worse for the health thatn to liveby appearances
and facades. These are people with a lot of varnish and little root.
Their destiny is the pharmacy, the hospital of pain.

Learn to Accept.

The refusal of acceptance and the absence of self-esteem, make us
alienate ourselves. Being at one with ourselves is the core of a
healthy life. .They who do not acccept this, becomes jealous,
imimitators, ultra competitive, destructive. Be accepted, accepat that
you are accepted, accept criticism. It is wisdom, good sense and
therapy.

Trust,
Who  does not trust, does not communicate is not opened
, is not
related does not create deep and stable relations, does not know how to
have true friendships. Without confidence, there is no relationship.
Distrust is a lack of faith in you and in faith itself.
 
Do not live life sad.

Good humour, Laughter, REst and happiness, These replenish health and bring long life.
the happy person has the gift to improve the environment wherever they
go."Good humor saves us from the hands of the doctor" Happiness is
health therapy.  Cheers

Salsa (Mambo) & Rock n Roll Class

Some of you have requested that Maggie Ho conduct a dance class in Hougang, here is it!

  • Salsa (Mambo) & Rock n Rollemoticon
  • Venue:     Aljunied CC at Hougang Avenue 1
  • Duration:  10 lessons
  • Time:     8.30-9.30pm
  • Course Fee:   $60/- for Member $70/- for Non-member.
  • Commencing Date:   7th October, 2008 (Tuesday)emoticon

EO, Danz

Those coming:

  1. Danz
  2. Andrew Thio
  3. Lily Ho
  4. Lee Ah Nee
  5. Susan Tan
  6. Stella Lee
  7. Lina Ng
  8. Susan Chang
  9. Mary Chan

Dream trip to Mae Hong Son & Chiangmai – Thu 20 Nov – Tue 25 Nov 2008

Here is the schedule:

  • ETA Chiangmai airport – Thu 20 Nov 2008 (1st flight in the morning.  Upon arrival at airport, we will head straight up to the mountain resorts.  If you cannot get a flight, you have to arrive on the 19 Nov 2008).  To include travel insurance with airfare.
  • ETD Chiangmai airport – Tue 25 Nov 2008  (Arr time in Chiangmai, around 12 nn.  If you stay in Chiangmai city for shopping, eating and massages, you may link up with Kenneth Tan.  I will fly off from Chiangmai on 25 Nov 2008).

Other details:

  • If you bring your own tent, great.  If you do not bring your own tent, we can rent from the resort for a fee.  You have to pair with your own partner.  Or else, you have to sleep in or outside my tent.
  • Food – all the way will be vegetables and fruits, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  No meat. Rice – yes.  You will notice your bowels change, after this trip.
  • Toilet – Yes.  Hot water – No.
  • Drinking water – we will buy along the way.
  • Cooking and fixing of tents.  I am considering have someone to come with us, to fix the tents and organise the cooking.
  • Swimming pool – no; aircondition – open air and a light jacket needed; shopping in the mountains – very traditional but yes and limited.
  • Television – No; radio – use your mobile phone.
  • Mobile telephone – works well 90% of the places we go to.
  • City shopping – Join Kenneth Tan in Chiangmai city, on or after 25 Nov.

More details as we go along.  Meantime, please go into airasia.com and plan your arrivals and departures.  Find a sleeping partner too.

Terence Seah

51% confirmed:

  1. Terence Seah – I shall meet you in BKK airport.  Bkk/CM FD3240 and CM/Bkk 3290 flights booked. (1)
  2. Annie Loh & Daisy Yeo, flights booked.  Plse supply fight numbers.
  3. Susan Tan & James Tan – tent mates, 20/11 FD3502 and 29/11 FD3507. (2)
  4. ChristinaCL Chan – SG/BKK/CM 20Nov FD3502 eta CM FD3240/16:30. Etd CM/28Nov08. considering a queen size bed installed, with solar hot water
  5. Helen Wong & Julie Yeo – 20 Nov : Sin/Bangkok Tigerairways TR102 (0710/0830). 20 Nov : Bangkok to Chiang Mai AirAsia FD 3234 (1250/1400).  29 Nov : Chiang Mai to Bangkok AirAsia FD 3239 140/1250), 29 Nov : Bangkok to Singapore Tigerairways TR 105 (1440/1805)
  6. Karen Thio
  7. Mike Tan & Alicia Soh – tent mates, 20Nov FD 3502, FD 3240. 29Nov FD 3235, FD 3507 (2)
  8. Anne To – 20 Nov SIN/BKK/CM FD3502, FD3240.  28 Nov 2008 – CNX/BKK, BKK/SIN (1)
  9. Janet Chan – not confirmed.
  10. Norlinda & Bira Bira – tent mates, tickets bought.
  11. Gingko Tay
  12. Charles Chua not confirmed.
  13. Pauline Chew
  14. Rene Leong & Cecilia Wee – 20Nov FD 3502, FD 3240. 29Nov FD 3235, FD 3507 (2)
  15. Gingko Tay
  16. Pauline Chew & Ella Tan – 20 Nov 2008: SIN to BKK FD 3502 Dep 1100 Arr 1215.  20 Nov 2008: BKK to CNX FD 3240 Dep 1520 Arr 1630.  28 Nov 2008: CNX to BKK FD 3239 Dep 1140 Arr 1250. 28 Nov 2008: BKK to SIN FD 3505 Dep 1645 Arr 2005
  17. Max, limited to 16 Pax only.

Philip Wong (Sydney) – Profile

Dear Members,

May I add my name to the member list. First of all, I want to tell you the reason why I have to join the club.

On my last "balek kampong" trip to Singapore, my teenage son accompanied me to have lunch with  five  of my long lost and  recently found schoolmates. I knew it was a mistake but my schoolmates insisted that they want to meet him. Anyway, it didnt bother him as he made himself occupied of his time with the help of his ipod and mobile phone. On the way back from lunch, nothing has prepared me for an off  the cuff remark from him. He said, "Gee Dad, you don’t have many friends left in Singapore, I can count them with one hand."  That’s hurt,  but dont feel sorry for me. I need your help. I have made a challenge with him that on the next luncheon not only he  has to use his other hands, he needs his toes to count the friends I have.

Let me briefly tell you about myself, Have been working away from Singapore for more than half of my life. Sydney is home at the moment. I am turning 60 in Oct. Still working as a support worker with the Department of aging and disabilities and Home Care in NSW. Went back to school 2 years ago just to embarass my teenage son. Manage to come out with an educational degree in May. (took me 40 years to obtained it.) Like the old Chinese saying says " There are many paths to the top of the mountain but the view is always the same." Many of you have finally reach the top but hopefully we can all still continue to make  new friends and enjoy the view. Thanks for having me.

Divorcees, Widows, Singles & Married Singles – Are they for real?

To all you cheerful (and grumpy if any) folks especially the ladies at SHC

Here’s a controversial topic which we talk about almost every day in private but never dare to bring it up in the open. I hope to arouse your interest and put on your thinking cap to openly discuss it.

It’s about the WOMEN of SHC.

As an observer and after a period of scrutiny since joining SHC 2 weeks ago, I note there are basically four categories of women here. Leaving the happily married aside, there are the divorcees, the widows, the "desperate"singles, and the married singles.

Now, what are the trademarks and characteristics of each category of these women, i.e. are they cheerful? Lonesome? Happy-go-lucky? Quarrelsome? Weird? Sporty (don’t play play)? Independent? Aggressive? Dominating? Swinging? Prone to and desirous of love (I love that hunk, if only he would talk to me first)? Hurtful? Are they really desperate (Men, BAH! Who needs them)? Married but single (Yabadabadoo! That louse hubby of mine is out of town for another 2 weeks)?  Sensitive (It’s all that man’s fault!)? 

You need only to write about your own traits and grievances to dispel any misunderstanding and misgiving about you. Alternatively, you could pick on and write about one of the 4 categories you are most familiar with. That way, we can cooperate and socialise as a happy family henceforth.

The whole idea is to better understand them in order that we can tread more carefully when socialising with them in SHC. Your comments, either 2 cents worth or million dollar opinion, are welcomed here. Happily married ladies, your contributions will be invaluable too to cheer up the aggrieved singles (Oh, they got all the good and handsome ones!), and share the laughter with the rest.

Guys, feel free to chip in your 2-bid worth of remarks too, but please, no vulgarities or name calling . This is a decent forum and the ladies deserve our respect. Agree. Mr. Steven Chan?

Not to worry, ladies, you will get your chance to "hantam" the men on the next episode after this.

May I invite our outspoken Ms Lina Ng (Ooo…, don’t you love it when they still address themselves as Miss?) to cast the first ROCK and start the ball ROLL-ing.

Soccer Investment Advisory-EPL

I am on a yellow card to do a max of 15 lines.My 1st prediction(a little biased but based on last season’s results with due respect to the newbie lady who is as yet untested) is that Gary Lim of the Newpaper will top the Newpaper panel and the locals will again outshine the expats).

One tip for SHC readers  is to use a results charts based on last season’s results on home games only and a separate chart on away games only .Good ref publications like Football Weekly and Newpaper are useful as a guide but I have one bugbear of their format of presenting info. eg in their head to head column they present actual  past results of matches between both featured teams with no regard to who is playing at home and who is playing away.The Hill  City vs Fulham match is a good example; 1 away win and 2 draws.As  a pundit I am not interested in past Fulham(at Home) vs Hull City(away) results.I would rather know more of the results in previous years when Hull City were playing at home.

Take Arsenal $30 on the 1.5 goals.Take Spurs  $30 to win on the 1 X 2 and Hull City vs Fulham take $30 on the draw.Take $10 on the draw-draw on the HT/FT on the Hull City match and $10 on draw/away on the Spurs match.Take into consideration that "artificial  bad luck " (clue – something to do with Kukup trip on 23rd Aug.)If anybody has a different opinion do post it in this forum before the start of matches.I will post my analysis of other matches later as on thin ice – – – 15 lines axe.Go slow on 1st weekend.Good Luck!!!$$$

Would you like to offer your services to other SHCians?

Many of us would like to do some part-time job, when we retire.  Here are some examples which have been discussed on this forum.  The examples of providing different services can be picked up on this forum, when discussing Blue Helmet projects.

  1. Walking a dog for a couple who is outstation.
  2. Baby sitting
  3. Guides needed to show visitors around a farm
  4. Running short errands to buy toto or 4D tickets
  5. Temp secretarial or administrative tasks
  6. Buying a gift for a friend
  7. Part-time tour guide for a small group of travellers
  8. Mahjong coach for a few days a month
  9. Assist with business meetings and conventions
  10. Teach swimming to children at a condo’s pool.
  11. Temporary telephone call operator, on a specific industry.
  12. Teaching home cooked food.
  13. Marketing errands
  14. Teaching music lessons
  15. Home based menicure and pedicure sevices
  16. Personal image consultant
  17. Supply of shepherd’s pies
  18. Temporary office relief
  19. Party clown or magician
  20. Escort and guide on a short holiday.
  21. Part-time book-keeper or accountant
  22. Relief driver for drunked diners.
  23. Any others, it is up to you.  Sexual, racial, political, religious and MLM are not permitted to be advertised under this project.

Here’s how the process works, if you are keen to provide any personal services to the public.  This service is available only to retired or semi-retired SHCians.  Strictly for members only.  Write down the service you would like to offer to the public (No more than 140 characters, including space).  The services would initially be made known to the other members of SHC.  If the service proves to be a success, this same set of services will be offered to the general public.

  • To start, write down the service you offer by sending an SMS to Blue Helmet SMS 9178-7097 in the following format:  BH <Providing dog walking services @ $20 per hour.  Min 2 hours.  Bedok area.  Dog must be well natured and kept on a leash.  Jenny Poh>. 
  • If a customer is interested in your service, you will receive an email alert to your registered SHC mobile telephone.
  • You can then call back to the customer, and take over from there.
  • We will not be responsible for any outcome or negotiations you may have with any customer.
  • You may be charged for the SMS @ 20 cents each, once the services are offered to the public.

This service is intended as a Blue Helmet project.  So, go ahead.

Terence Seah

Poems on love

    I am initiating this post to invoke and stimulate  the creative instincts among SHC members and make them aware that with our life full of rich experiences  we have a better awareness of Love and Life in general.    

"Poems can also include phrases,salutations on greeting cards,anecdotes, lyrics from songs,reflections and  similar thoughts.These can be original or discovered from somewhere( if willing and able try to identify source ).

Love can also mean friendships,   relationships ( can also include hate and our feelings when we are in a melancholy or even negative   mood    )    

I’ll kick off with a few corny (have a good laugh)ones that I remember from the past. The 1st  one is not original but copied from  a Hallmark card with a quote I believe from a Lady(I  think ) by the name of Kahil Gibran. 

"Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot help but keep it from themselves."

The 2nd is from a Beatles song called "In My Life" I can’t remember all the words  at this time…can anybody help to refresh?

The 3rd are lyrics from a Nat King Cole song called "When I fall in Love"…will it be forever?

"You are you and I am I,but together we make beautiful music   ."                

Watching Club, Boleh?

We have the Reading Club. Perhaps we can also have Watching Club. Actually I m talking about watching movies. I believe there is good potential here 2 start one. Members can come 2gether 2 share movie reviews, exchange movies or even watching movies 2gether.

For a start, I have 2 dvd movies 2 loan out –

  1. The Host, a Korean production (Mandarin with English subtitles)
  2. Salsa, The Motion Picture (English)

I m interested to borrow shows like CSI (Las Vegas, New York n Miami), if u do have.

 

“HEART” ROCK CONCERT – PT II

ATTENTION TO ALL PARTICIPANTS OF THE CAPTIONED CONCERT

  • DATE:           l6th August,2008
  • TIME:           8.00 PM
  • VENUE:        Marina Bay Floating Stage, next to Esplanade

Silverhairs around 40-strong, will converge to the Marina Bay Floating Stage in follow-up of celebrating this year 43rd National Day.

The first part of the show starting at 5.30pm will be songs and dances perform by school children from all over Singapore, ending at 7.30pm.

The second part of the show starting at 8.00pm is the main concert, featuring more than 15 well-known personalities, such as popular singer and entertainer ANITA SARAWAK, nominated member of parliament, EUNICE OLSEN and former Speaker of Parliament, TAN SOO KHOON, lasting up to 11.00pm.

Members may feel free to attend the first part of the show, if so wish, otherwise we will meet at 6.00pm at the Esplanade Waterfront, "MAKANSUTRA GLUTTONS BAY", the food centre besides the open-air Esplanade Stage, for dinner and interactions before the rock concert.

PLEASE BRING ALONG YOUR BINOCULARS AND PONCHOS.

Ron n Alice Lai

 

Click here for photos

 

 

 

Nancy Major Tan – Profile

Profile of a woman in the box

It took me months to write a little about myself on this site as I was having difficulties to log in to the post page, I thank the President and Founder of SHC Mr Terence Seah for creating this club and the website where every one of us could write about ourselves and comment on certain posts.

Well, I am a lady who is shy but was a successful business woman from the 1970s to 1990s, have seen lots of things in my life, not very active in outdoor space due to lack of time and commitment, had a little set back in my life but I believe it’s a plan by our creator for something better to happen may be.

Right now, I am a kindergarten teacher of 13 years after I became single again, a great career switch though but I feel great achievements when I see my weaker students became stronger and I have made a great difference in helping the families of my students to become stronger, too. I am still upgrading myself by taking up courses 3 times a week where there are exams and assignment, hope to come out from the kindergarten setting and set up my own tuition centre one day which is my dream.

I am a deep, no nonsense, introspective and analytical person, I can accept nothing to face situations & people, and I am fascinated by the mysterious and unknown. I enjoy periods of solitude in peaceful surroundings and need time to study and reflect. I love ocean, it has a powerful attraction to me but pity that I do not know how to swim.

The study of philosophy, psychology, scientific research, Meta physics or religion appeals to me and I am scientific in my approach to truth.

I have been to the monthly gathering once in May I think, I was overwhelmed by the large crowd, though I did not really know many of them yet except a few where we have exchanged our contact numbers. I met my long lost friend Mary Chan, it was nice to meet her, and I have met the founder Terence, too, he is a very nice man indeed.

Good-bye Dust

Good-bye Dust 

I have a robot to vacuum my house.  I’m not joking  .. it is the irobot Roomba model 550.  It vacuums my floors by itself and goes back to the dock to recharge when battery is exhausted. 

When the irobot went on sale last year in Singapore it was costly.  The features were quite basic and I did not think that it would work properly and expected frequent breakdowns. 

When I saw a more advanced model for US$225 at Costco in the States, I could not resist getting one to try out.  Tested it in my daughter place and found that it really works.  It meticulously gathers up specks of dust from everywhere it can access.  I have been using it for the last three months here, and there are no hiccups.  Touch wood.

For those of you who interested – a more expensive model is available in Singapore – Roomba model 560 with similar features – costs about S$930. Or you can get it on the internet for a much lower price. Those interested may want to explore further.  For your information:  Reviews: http://www.shopping.com/xPR-iRobot-iRobot-550-Roomba-Vacuuming-Robot-Black 

I add this here for the product details it provides.  You may want to explore ebay and amazon.com or other sites that ship overseas. 
Good wishes,

Ming Choo