ACCESS May Newsletter

Inside Volunteer of the month

ACCESS Departments

Editor’s Note

Meet the Volunteers

Departmental News

International Recipe`s

Message board

Charity

Trainers’ Toast

ACCESS Volunteers in Action

What`s on in May

For Sale Something missing? Send your contribution to Jessie Blijden: [email protected]

Newsletter

May 2012

mailto:[email protected]


2 ACCESS for & by volunteers April 2012

Volunteer of the month

Congratulations to

Marcelle

Having joined ACCESS in September 2011 with a masters in

HR, Marcelle was fastracked into the volunteer resource

department at a time when the department was undergoing

internal changes. She settled into the department with ease

and quickly learned the ropes. In the last 6 months,

Marcelle has taken on every task expected of her with a

smile, performing each and every one with patience,

dedication and professionalism whilst applying her expertise

and creativity. When Marcelle is given a task, we can rest

assured that it will be precise and completed well before the

deadline. Thank you Marcelle, you are an asset to the

department and it's a pleasure working with you.

Thank you, congratulations and well done!


ACCESS Departments

Executive Director Deborah Valentine [email protected]

PR/Marketing Strategic Dev. & New Projects Lucy Bosscher [email protected]

Office Manager Qin Cai [email protected]

Event Management Roy Lie [email protected]

ADV - Advertising Anthony Nthenge [email protected]

CSD – Computer Services John Pellet [email protected]

Cancerlink Aine Campbell [email protected]

CSN - Counseling Services Network Jennifer Frank [email protected]

CEB – Baby courses Ally Coggar Sylvia Kiwanuka [email protected]

FIN – Finance Patricia Axelrad [email protected]

CED – Community Education Christine Fischer [email protected]

IRD - Information Research Alda Ntezilizaza [email protected]

Communications Carina Hyllested [email protected]

THD – Helpdesk Qin (Tba)

Editor (Guest Editor, Summer issue) Simon Andrew [email protected]

THD Training Queendolly Verhoeven [email protected]

ACCESS Guides Sabine Walsh [email protected]

THD Zeestraat Coordinator Andreea Ene [email protected]

Relationship Management Carina Hyllested [email protected]

THD Atrium Coordinator Annelies Ras [email protected]

Website Aidan Johnson [email protected] Georgia Muirhead [email protected]

VRD – Volunteer Resources Roxanna Boon [email protected] Volunteer Newsletter Editor Jessie Blijden [email protected]

























Editor`s Notes

» I would like to begin by saying what an honour it is to be part

of the ACCESS volunteer network, and for receiving the exceptional

opportunity of becoming the volunteer newsletter editor. I joined

ACCESS in January of 2012 and since then it has become dear to my

heart, the people, the laughs, the ability to help others through

similar situations that we ourselves have experienced and simply a

place where people from different parts of the world come together as

a team. It is the experience of being an expatriate, the feeling of

difference that actually draws us and keeps us together.

The life of an expat can often be daunting and challenging, that one often gets

overwhelmed on who to go to and even what questions to ask, well I like to think of

ACCESS`s second motto as “If we don’t know the answer we Will find out”. It is

wonderful to then have a team of people who are there to find the answer along with.

With the volunteer newsletter, I hope to keep inspiring our volunteers and

acknowledging the hard work that they provide for the expat community. This is why we

have also come up with new sections to get our volunteers further involved in the

creation and development of the newsletter. Some of the new additions are; “Meet the

volunteers” a section that highlights a few volunteers each month, their likes

(dislikes) goals and ambitions, “International Recipes” highlighting recipes from

around the world or just your favourite recipes, and “Our volunteers in Action”

highlighting events and activities that our volunteers have been involved in. Coming soon

we will also have written articles on issues that our volunteers are personally

interested in, such as the environment, charity or any other theme that comes to mind.

It is my hope that this newsletter provides volunteers with an array of helpful

tips, activities and that it captivates the imagination and enhances the world of

opportunities for our current and future volunteers. And so I would like to end by

thanking ACCESS and individuals (you know who you are ) within ACCESS over the last few

months who have helped me beyond my expectations. I hope you enjoy the newsletter and

remember it is a newsletter by volunteers for volunteers, tips comments and suggestions

are always welcomed.

Happy Reading!

Jessie

Volunteer Newsletter Editor.«


Meet The Volunteers

Nuria Garcia Saorin

Besides working with ACCESS volunteering at the helpdesk, Nuria is a good Samaritan through and through, someone who will always say; “You, don’t worry we will find a solution”. Nuria was born in Spain and has lived in The Hague for 3 years now, she volunteers at the helpdesk with ACCESS and recently was asked to be part of training department, helping new volunteers with different elements such as effective email writing and communicative skills. Besides ACCESS Nuria has been studying Shiatsu as part of her personal development and ambitions of becoming a shiatsu masseuse, she sees shiatsu as a tool for self-knowledge but also as an alternative means of treating patients with several health issues. On the more expressive side she enjoys learning the art of the Flamenco dance, she sees flamenco for more than the aesthetic elements it holds but most importantly as a profound way of self-expression. Nuria believes that there should be a balance in life between work and fun, a balance between the things that we do for personal growth and the things we do for pleasure, this is why she also runs and takes zumba classes and seeks pleasure in close friendships and creativity. Thank you Nuria for all you do within ACCESS and beyond!

Simon Andrew

I think everyone that has met Simon at ACCESS, would agree that he is a charming, upbeat and joyous person, that you can’t be around him without smiling. For ACCESS, Simon is more than a helping hand, he is also the person who will cheer you up regardless of the circumstances. Born in Fremantle Australia, he moved to the Netherlands in December 2011 and lives in Amsterdam, from where he travels once a week to be at ACCESS where he has been volunteering at the helpdesk since February 2012. With his infectious natural charm and abilities Simon has moved from helping with the helpdesk to becoming a Trainer for ACCESS and is currently the Guest Editor for the new Ezine, Summer Edition 2012. Besides ACCESS, he is an avid cook, who loves exploring new recipes. He also enjoys discovering the streets of his new city, Amsterdam, hopping on his bike and riding through different neighborhoods and the surrounding countryside. Simon`s profession is in Event Management and Marketing. He enjoys working with his hands and in the past has done many activities involving his creative side, including hat making (millinery) and antique furniture restoration. He hopes to develop further in this direction, career wise, as he feels he has had enough of the corporate world and sitting in front of the computer. Simon thank you for all you already do for us at ACCESS, for bringing us laughter and a smile when we most need it!


Departmental News

CANCERLINK CURRENT CANCERLINK CONTACTS Cancerlink contacts have risen since the ACCESS website launch . Also due to Mary Jane raising awareness via communications. Two active clients since January 2012. There have been a few questions requesting information but not leading to counseling session . Need to log all contacts stressed. The possibility of a men’s cancer group /network was suggested. We will look at developing list of contacts.

COMMUNICATIONS The ACCESS Style guide – for writers, editors and proofreaders has been updated and is available on our website (About ACCESS > Publications > Writing for ACCESS). A great guide for all ACCESS volunteers to the ACCESS House style. E-ZINE We are in the process of finalising the summer e-zine, to be published 1 June, and it’s going to be yet another amazing ACCESS lifestyle publication. The theme is the Floriade - and flowers in general with articles about fashion & flowers, flowers and stress management and edible flowers as well as an introduction to Venlo and surrounding areas (home to the Floriade), and much much more. Thanks to Simon for stepping in as Guest Editor on this issue. The theme for the autumn e-zine is Dutch Literature and Film. Have you read a Dutch novel translated into English or seen a Dutch film with subtitles? Or do you have input or ideas to this theme? Then we would love to hear from you! The same request goes out for the winter issue, for which the theme will be Digital Dutch – about the blooming gaming industry (PC games etc) in the Netherlands. [email protected] . E-zine themes 2012 Ideas and inputs for the remaining E-zine issues, Autumn and Winter 2012 are very welcome – and if any obvious advertisers come to mind please send your thoughts to Anthony: [email protected] Autumn 2012: Dutch Literature and Film Winter 2012: Digital Dutch – the gaming industry in the Netherlands WEBSITE Sonia is leaving ACCESS and the Netherlands in a couple of weeks, and we are truly sad to let her go. We wish her all the best and good luck on future endeavours – and we thank her for her invaluable contribution to ACCESS. The transition from the old to the new website would perhaps have been possible without her help – but not in the calm, steady and easy way she has conducted the process. ACCESS is truly grateful!

Aidan will take over as webmaster and Giorgia as web editor. Thank you both.




Departmental News

GUIDES Vandana is sadly also leaving ACCESS and the Netherlands. We also give her a huge THANK YOU and good luck on her departure. Vandana took over the coordination of the Guides team when Genoveva stepped down. Thank you, Vandana, for your time and contribution to ACCESS! Sabine has agreed to take over as ACCESS Guides Coordinator and she is in full swing preparing the Guides team for the changes of existing Guides to FAQ Guides. Thank you. DISTRIBUTION Please help in distributing the e-zine postcard according to the distribution lists in THIC and Zeestraat office. Also please help in spreading the word that this needs to be done. ACTIVITIES

Art therapy workshop: Kathleen reported that the feedback was positive, except that it was felt there was insufficient time to process the artwork. There were 10 participants. Initially it was targeting anyone affected by cancer but opened up to anyone interested to make up numbers.

Nutrition and Cancer: Kyrin Hall, who has a PhD in Natural Medicine, is willing to do a workshop for Cancerlink on Nutrition and Cancer (see www.kyrinhall.com) Possible at Den Haag or Amsterdam. Suggested dates: May 8th/9th or 15th/16th. Aine is to discuss with Kyrin. We will post article on Nutrition and Cancer in Feature section of website as fore-runner to workshop and advertise alongside.

Future possible activities: Vision Board - perhaps in Sept /Oct. Need to define the target group and build a base of clients.

OAD We’re still looking for an old bookshelf for the Helpdesk resource books, please donate it if you have an unwanted one sitting in the corner of your garage. I am still waiting for photos from some volunteers to complete the Volunteers’ Chart.

RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT Please see updated list of Partners and Associates on our website (> Helping ACCESS…) Can I please ask volunteers at THIC to keep an eye on the ACCESS stands –inside and just outside the THIC – we have experienced non-Partners/Associates/Trainers displaying their material at these stands.

http://www.kyrinhall.com/


Departmental News

THD ZEESTRAAT HELPDESK In April, 6 new volunteers joined Helpdesk: Christina, Joe, Susan, Bogdan, Jake and Gara. They’ve started to work at Helpdesk as from April 27th. More Helpdesk volunteers are being introduced/transferred to other departments to further develop their skills and expanding their experiences. Aidan has taken on the task of being the web master, while Giorgia will be web-editor, Simon the guest e-zine editor for the summer issue as well as a THD trainer, Nuria will also be volunteering as THD trainer, Sabine will be taking over the ACCESS guides. Volunteers are constantly encouraged to take more initiatives and be more involved with the whole organisation.

VRD

Information Morning

The next Information morning will be held 9th May 2012. All potential volunteers must first contact VRD before attending the information morning. Enquiries about volunteering should be forwarded to [email protected]. SOCIAL EVENTS Social Drinks TBA.

Pot Luck Lunch dates for 2012:

Wednesday 20 June Wednesday 31 October Wednesday 12 December @ Zeestraat 100 from 12:15 – 14:45 Save the dates! (It has been suggested at the last social drink that we may organise future gatherings on the beach including the young children of volunteers when the weather gets sunnier, warmer and longer… details will be informed in due time – Qin )



International Recipes

Bolivian Cuñapes Genoveva

1 cup of tapioca flour (you can find this at the Chinese supermarkets) 1 egg some milk 2 cups of shredded cheese (jong) Put the flour and the cheese in a bowl and mix them, then add the egg and add first two spoons of milk, then mix all together, try to have a dough which won´t stick in the fingers if it´s still dry you can add more milk. You have to make small balls and put them on a greased baking sheet Preheat your oven to 200C, when it is very warm you can put the balls in the oven for about 10 to 15

minutes till it has a little brown color on the top.

Greek Rice with Spinach and Chickpeas Deanne

2 cups brown rice 6 cups of water 1 large onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 teaspoons of oil 1/2 pound fresh spinach, rinsed and chopped into bite-size pieces 1/2 cup fresh dill, finely chopped 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 15 ounce can (or 1 1/2 cups of pre-cooked) chickpeas/garbanzo beans Salt and fresh ground white pepper to taste. Plain, low-fat yogurt and fresh dill to garnish (optional) Cook rice in water in a large covered pot over

medium heat for 45 minutes or until rice is done. Meanwhile, in separate frying pan, sauté onion in oil for 3 minutes. Add spinach, dill, and lemon juice. Stir fry for 3 minutes longer. Add chickpeas, cook briefly. Add cooked rice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well before serving. Garnish with a dollop of low-fat, plain yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Serve warm

Lemon Lamb Soup Christine

chopped lambs meat [hamburger can be used as substitute but lamb mince is better] garlic tomato paste boiled water olive oil miniature star pasta [some call it kid pasta] fresh lemons Fried chopped lambs meat in olive oil and garlic until cooked through (in a deep stew pan that can hold soup). Add tomato paste to this mixture stirring it in gradually. Add about a liter of boiled water to this mixture and mix as you pour. Once this state of the mixture is at a boil - add tiny star pasta. Cook until pasta is done Serve in small bowls…served with fresh lemon wedges.. Squeeze fresh lemon into bowl once soup is served

Thank you to those who submitted this month’s recipes, I am sure we all will enjoy making them. Looking forward to next month’s recipes as am sure they will be equally delicious! Bon Appetit!


Message Board

COUNTRY EXPERTS NEEDED

Our organisation (the Royal Tropical Institute) organises trainings for future expats to prepare them for their posting abroad for virtually every country in the world. Our customers can be found among Dutch medium to large-sized private and public institutions that operate internationally. Purpose of trainings for future expats is to create a bridge between the current and the new cultural environment and increase the success of the assignment abroad. Trainings are composed of different modules; a number of these modules are executed by our Intercultural Trainers and include topics like intercultural communication, effects of a prolonged stay abroad, return to home country, etc. The modules that require on the ground experience of the trainer are given by experts that lived and worked abroad. To have access to the latest, in-depth knowledge of living and working in a specific country we are constantly looking for Country Experts who enjoy supporting future expats in the process of change and adaptation of living and working in a new cultural context. If you are interested in this role, please visit our company web site or contact us via [email protected] /Royal Tropical Institute - http://www.kit.nl/-/INS/52859/Royal-Tropical-Institute

CAREER IN EU CIVIL SERVICE? Have you ever considered a career in the EU Civil Service? As a British national living, working or studying in the Netherlands you are already accustomed to an overseas way of life and you may have gained invaluable language skills. Therefore the EU could be the career option for you. If you would like to work for one of the world’s largest international organisations and impact on the lives of over 500 million people in 27 countries, then find out more about a career in the EU Civil Service at http://www.fco.gov.uk/eucareers/fs-video where you can also see a message from the Foreign Secretary, William Hague. /British Consulate-General


http://www.kit.nl/-/INS/52859/Royal-Tropical-Institute

http://www.fco.gov.uk/eucareers/fs-video


Message Board

Vincent van Gogh, a Life in Paintings

We would like to bring to your attention a very special cultural event which will be taking place in The Hague on the 14th and 15th of May. A cultural event very interesting for all English-speaking people living or staying in (the vicinity of) The Hague. It's all about a very beautiful theatre play dealing with the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, for grown-ups as well as for children from 10 years and up. The play, in English, will only be performed twice in Holland! The event lends itself for a group outing as well as for an individual visit to the theatre. Where: Theater aan het Spui, Spui 187 Admissions: € 10,- or buy 10 tickets and get 1 free Purchase tickets at: www.theateraanhetspui.nl or [email protected] [email protected] Frank Groothof on Facebook!

"Every dance for more than one dancer is a story, but a solo is a statement"

(George Balanchine) FIVE YEARS OF SOLO’S AT THE SEA The Hague Dance company De Dutch Don’t Dance Division (DeDDDD) offers talented young choreographers / dancers / actors the opportunity to present a solo or monologue in a special program named Solo’s@theSea. The performances are being held at the beach pavilion De Fuut which means the background is the ever changing view of the sea, the sky and the dunes. The minifestival (organized by artistic leaders Thom Stuart and Rinus Sprong) was presented in 2008 for the first time and was an instant success. During a three course meal the audience will enjoy a diverse programme. Currently Thom Stuart are also participating in the second edition of The Ultimate Dance Battle the spectacular dance reality program on RTL 5. When:May: Thu. 10, Fri. 11 - Wed. 16, Thu. 17 (Ascension Day), Fri. 18 - Tue. 22, Wed. 23 - Wed. 30, Thu. 31 June: Fri 1 Admissions: € 37,50 including diner, served during the performance Time: welcome at 18.30 , dinner starts at 19.00 hours Location: Strandpaviljoen De Fuut, Strandslag 10, Markenseplein, Den Haag (Last station of tram 12)

[email protected] Reservations: or tel.: 070- 3549074 For more information: www.ddddd.nu www.defuut.nland

http://www.theateraanhetspui.nl/




http://www.ddddd.nu/

http://www.defuut.nl/


Message Board

INVESTIGATION: PUBLIC ORGANISATIONS DON’T ALWAYS OFFER INFORMATION IN ENGLISH Have you experienced this yourself? You contact a public organisation and they only have information available in Dutch and hardly any information in English. For example: no English website or summary in English; automated telephone systems with no English option, or no-one able to respond in English, or forms which are only in Dutch – online or otherwise. The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA, www.nfia.nl) is doing an investigation about this and is looking for experiences from expats and foreign companies. They are also interested in the lack of International schools or schools teaching in your native language. If you have had such experiences, and have something to share, please email them with as specific as possible feedback to [email protected] /ACCESS

EXPAT OF THE YEAR 2012 I have voted for Deborah Valentine as Expat of the Year 2012- YOUR hand in The Hague and dear & treasured colleague at ACCESS! You can do the same here: http://www.expatoftheyear.nl/vote_person.php

/Carina

http://www.nfia.nl/


http://www.expatoftheyear.nl/vote_person.php


Charity

GESHE PEMA DORJEE VISITS THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF AMSTERDAM On the 16th of March 2012, Pema Dorjee, an Internationally acclaimed teacher of Buddhist philosophy attended the British School of Amsterdam. He shared some of the fundamental teachings of Buddhism as well as his current project, building a Girls School in Lumla, Northeast India. The event began with an all student hall meeting in which the Geshe began his lessons on “How to handle Life's Challenges” in which he emphasized the importance of having and developing many friendships especially sincere ones, having a positive attitude towards one another, remembering that everyone has something special, minimizing jealousy, remembering that we are all human beings irrespective of our backgrounds or situation, frequent meditation, to not perceive a problems without possible solutions, to smile and to Never look down at anyone, These are all aspects of truth, compassion and wisdom. The Geshe engaged the children by encouraging them to ask questions but also by giving them examples that would resonate with their age levels. During two smaller session divided into different age groups he addressed the following topics 1. Training the Mind to Choose Happiness (ages 11-12) and 2. The Concepts of Tibetan Buddhism (ages 13-14). During these session the Geshe spoke about the ways in which the mind can be trained to achieve happiness irrespective of the circumstances ,as well as, teaching the main concepts of the philosophy behind Buddhism. During his visit the Geshe focused his attention towards instilling the message of happiness, a positive attitude and mind-set as well as on the treatment of the fellow human being. This message is a reflection of his lifelong work helping others, like the current girls nunnery he is raising funds to build. While charities often promote the message of helping others through financial donations, the difference in the Geshe`s approach is the manner in which he teaches this message in others. He teaches them that helping others and self-fulfilment is a lifelong engagement and not a one-time act, you give and help because it is a part of who you are. In this way the Geshe not only talks about the good of helping others but helps the children understand from a young age where these feeling should come from. It is with such a message that the children and the British School of Amsterdam, will become involved with the all-girls school nunnery project. One of the first initiatives of the BSA, was to have a uniform free day in which students contributed 1-2 euros to attend school without uniforms and raise money for the project. A yearly follow up will be provided reporting the status of the project followed by a trip that will be organized, in which older grades can actually travel and help in the building of the nunnery. Getting involved: Many countries are part of projects organized by Geshe Pema Dorjee and many can find ways to contribute to the charity, not only financially but also by volunteering in one of the projects. The Geshe also travels to different countries, not only to promote the projects he has organized but also teaching the fundamentals of Buddhist Philosophy, having all proceeds go to the projects. To get involved in the Netherlands, a stichting has been created which host Geshe Pema Dorjee during his visits to the Netherlands and all projects related to his charities.

[email protected] Contact: www.pema-dorjee.org or, for more information about the different projects and more about Pema Dorjee`s work, visit

/Jessie


http://www.pema-dorjee.org/


Trainers’ Toast

FIRESIDE CHATS – FREE FOR ACCESS VOLUNTEERS IN 2012 FIRESIDE CHATS DAYTIME € 10 per person Weekly Discussion Group: Each meeting will cover a new topic on diversity ranging from racial identity, ethnic identity, racism, gender, orientation, accessibility, to power issues and much more. Daytime discussion groups are done on Thursdays at Bagels and Beans, but also can be done on demand at alternate locations.

Thu, May 3, 2012, 11 AM - 12 Noon

Topic – Similarities: Learning to focus on similarities rather than differences

Thu, May 10, 2012, 11 AM - 12 Noon

Topic – Definitions: Learning the terms of diversity

Thu, May 17, 2012, 11 AM - 12 Noon

Topic – First Impressions: How objective are you? FIRESIDE CHATS EVENING € 10 per person Weekly Discussion Group: Each meeting will cover a new topic on diversity ranging from racial identity, ethnic identity, racism, gender, orientation, accessibility, to power issues and much more. Evening discussion groups are done on Thursdays at Valkenboskade 131, but also can be done on demand at alternate locations.

Thu, May 3rd, 2012, 7 - 8 PM Topic – Similarities: Learning to focus on similarities rather than differences

Thu, May 10, 2012, 7 - 8 PM Topic – Definitions: Learning the terms of diversity

Thu, May 17, 2012, 7 - 8 PM Topic – First Impressions: How objective are you


Trainers’ Toast

(… continued)

FIRESIDE WORKSHOPS € 35 per person Workshop: Each meeting will focus on diversity issues that specifically affect expats and internationals. These sessions are created to help groups. Whether the group is composed of members of a board room or sports club, everyone benefits from learning ways of dealing with homesickness, stereotyping, difference, etc. Workshops are done on demand and can be held at the ACCESS office or at alternate locations.

Topic - Homesickness - How to keep your identity when your home keeps changing

Topic - Packing your bags - Preparing for your trip home - (Reverse) culture shock.

Topic - Globalisation is knocking, are you going to answer? - Workshop that focuses on helping people become comfortable with talking about diversity issues.

FIRESIDE SEMINARS € 280 per person Seminars: A deep exploration of the pervasive influence diversity has on one’s own identity. Seminars can be done on demand and at alternate locations. Each seminar will focus on a particular piece of research/ literature in the diversity field. Seminars are done on demand and can be held at the ACCESS office or at alternate locations.

This seminar explores the work: Understanding Race, Ethnicity, & Power. By Elaine Pinderhughes. Students are expected to order and purchase this item themselves. Delivery can take time so best to order this item at least two to three weeks in advance of the seminar.

/Christine Fischer

www.fischersfiresidechats.com

http://www.fischersfiresidechats.com/


Trainers’ Toast

ART AND ETIQUETTE FOR CHILDREN (GROUP 7 - 8, AGE 10 - 12) This six-week program provides a comprehensive coverage of aspects of decorum such as art and etiquette. Student will be introduced to the world of art and etiquette in a playful educational manner and learn to enjoy art and social skills. Student will learn the basics of painting and basics of etiquette:

Dutch art-hidden treasures in The Hague (student will learn basic paint techniques of the old masters as well)

Dutch kitchen

Etiquette

French cuisine

Mom as model (painting class)

High tea and little exhibition of work (to take home) Date/time: This program will be continued throughout 2012, please call for dates Venue: Christus Triomfator Church, Juliana van Stolberglaan 154, The Hague Cost: €250 (inclusive material, student will take home own canvas) For more information and registration, contact the Trainer: Marjolein van der Sluis (English speaking instructor) [email protected] Phone 06-52190872 www.vandersluis.com

OIL PAINTING AND FRESCO TECHNIQUES FOR ADULTS Learn how to develop your own style of painting in oil, learn the fresco techniques of the renaissance masters. After finishing these classes you will be able to make a composition, underpainting, use build-up technique (layering process) and finish the painting. Overcome fear of the empty canvas! Venue: Private classes in the convenience of your own home or at artist’s studio: Laan van Meerdervoort 52e, The Hague For more information and registration, contact Marjolein van der Sluis.


http://www.vandersluis.com/


Trainers’ Toast

HIGHTEA INVITATION, INTRODUCTION TO ART & ETIQUETE CLASSES Date: 30th June2012, 13:30 pm til 16:00 pm Free Details: Invitation for tea at the Christus Triomfator Church to meet and greet artist instructor Marjolein van der Sluis. She will give a small demonstration what her art and etiquette classes are about. Classes will start in September 2012. Price E 250 for six classes (2 hours, inclusive material) Location: Christus Triomfator Church, Juliana van Stolberglaan 154, Den Haag Contact: Park Avenue Art Studio Marjolein J van der Sluis [email protected]. www.vandersluis.com 06 52190872

ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Date: Ongoing Details: Private art classes! Great fun and playful learning, all materials provided. All ages, various programs possible. Great for birthday parties too! Location: Laan van Meerdervoort 52, The Hague or at the convenience of your home! Contact: Park Avenue Art Studio Marjolein J van der Sluis [email protected] www.vandersluis.com 06 52190872

ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS

Date: Ongoing Details: Private classes, develop your own style of painting, oil painting or techniques of preference. Location: Laan van Meerdervoort 52e, 2517 AM Den Haag or at your location Contact: Park Avenue Art Studio Marjolein J van der Sluis [email protected] www.vandersluis.com 06 52190872








Your fellow Volunteers

JOIN ‘ACCESS VOLUNTEERS’ GROUP ON

A Facebook group for ACCESS volunteers has been created, it is called ‘ACCESS volunteers’, search for it (ACCESS in uppercase!) or

use below link. Please do join!

www.facebook.com/groups/308062515897693

WELCOME TO: Anthony Maina Bintou Keita Christina Panagiotopoulov Joe Cosgrove Susan Gould

WE HAD TO SAY GOODBYE TO: Shivani Gupta Nicola Donnelly Huanhuan Mao Lai Yoke Vanderwalchow Liza Prichard We thank you for your time, energy and work, and we wish you best of luck

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 5

th May Geetha Rajasimha

17th May Sabine Walsh 26

th May Annalies Ras

ACCESS social media

http://www.facebook.com/groups/308062515897693

https://www.facebook.com/pages/ACCESS-Netherlands/152918631396814

https://twitter.com/ACCESS_NL







EXPATATION XXL On March 31st,Expats Events organized a big party called EXPATATION XXL. The party was especially organized for Expats for the likes of us at ACCESS. The event took place at Paard van Troje in two separate rooms, with music selection from the 70's/80's/90's. Entrance was only for those 25 and older so a small group from ACCESS got together for a night of fun. ACCESS attendees were; Joanna, Aidan, Klevi and myself, Krisztina. We had a lot of fun, and because we are ACCESS volunteers the entrance was free of charge. It is very useful to be part of a community, especially when moving to another country. I was happy to be with my friendly and cheerful colleagues. /Krisztina

BRUSHING UP YOUR PRESENTATION SKILLS’ WORKSHOP FOR ACCESS VOLUNTEERS On Monday, the 23rd April, some of our volunteers from THD and VRD had another wonderful opportunity to attend a workshop, ‘ Brushing Up Your Presentation Skills’, given by Angela Tait, one of the trainers from PowerTalk International. All the participants are part of ACCESS THD trainers’ team and presenters for Information Morning by VRD. Most of the participants have given some training and presentations since they joined ACCESS, some are about to start, some are reluctant to take on this challenge, but curious enough to brave themselves to come along to find out what the workshop is about. We had 15 participants, the conference room was buzzing with excitement when Angela closed the door, and stride slowly to the front of the room, and positioned herself in front of us, and stared into our eyes without saying a word, but, in that instance, she had commanded all the attention from us, we were eager to hear every word from her… After three hours’ practical instructions and interactive activities, we learnt new skills on how to handle the nerves, how to get the messages across, and how to control the time and pace in delivering. There were much laughter too, thanks to Angela’s wonderful sense of humour. By the end of the workshop, the volunteers who have done presentations felt better equipped, the new ones eager to start, and the reluctant ones felt encouraged and inspired. Many thanks, Angela, for your help and support. /Qin



ACCESS VOLUNTEERS POTLUCK LUNCH, 25th APRIL

On Wednesday afternoon, the 25th April, in the conference room of Zeestraat 100, we had our bi-monthly potluck lunch for ACCESS volunteers again. As always, much food and drinks on the table, more than 20 volunteers turned up, some even travelled as far as from Amsterdam for this social gathering, while others sneaked into the party to have a chat and a quick bite before heading to the schools to collect their little ones. This is certainly an occasion not to be missed! However, the potluck lunch on this day was even more special because this was the last day when Sonia was with ACCESS and all her friends at ACCESS. Sonia has been the web editor for the last few months. She took on the huge task of the transition of the old ACCESS website to the new one around the time of the Christmas holiday period last year, when at the same time her personal life was going through some changes – a new job assignment of her husband, the possibility of leaving the NL and moving to another country, and getting pregnant with the second child on top of taking care of their little boy. This was perhaps not the time when most of people would like a big challenge like the one Sonia had been encountered with, she could have easily said ‘No’ without a sense of obligation, but she said ‘Yes, I’ll do it’, and she said it with a calm and gracious smile, and this same smile remained with her during the transition period and after till the day of this potluck lunch, her last day at ACCESS. As Carina said in her speech during the lunch that ‘the transition of the website would perhaps have been possible without Sonia’s help, but, not in the calm, steady and easy way she has conducted the process.’ ACCESS is truly grateful to her invaluable contribution and wish her and her family all the success and happiness in their new adventures in Canada! Potluck lunch, together with our bi-monthly social drinks are the opportunities for all volunteers to meet and mingle, it is relaxed, social and fun, we always look for new ideas as for how to make them more enjoyable and better. If you have any, please send them to VRD [email protected] and we look forward to seeing more of you next time.



What’s on in May

28th May ALEXANDER CALDER This major retrospective of the work of the American artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976) contains examples of all his work, from the Cirque Calder, a miniature circus fashioned from wire, string, rubber, cloth and other found objects, to the abstract mobile and self-supporting static sculptures. Calder was influenced by the work of Mondrian following a visit to the Dutch painter's studio in the autumn of 1930. That studio is recreated for the exhibition complete with (reproductions of) Mondrian's paintings, his pipe, ashtray and spectacles.

Gemeente Museum, The Hague.www.gemeentemuseum.nl

May 9th until May 12thTHE DENTIST This solo performance by the Israeli actress Razia Israely received rave reviews following its appearance at the Toronto and Edinburgh Fringe Festivals. Israely plays Rosie, a doctor, who talks about the complex and loaded relationship with her father, an Auschwitz survivor who terrorized his family. Now 50, Rosie attempts to understand and redeem her father. It is inspired by the book We Wept Without Tears by Dr Gideon Greiff. Schouwburg, The Hague. www.theenglishtheatre.nl

May 8th until May 10thNETHERLANDS BACH SOCIETY Concerto for orchestra and violin by Pisendel features violinist Anton Steck. Also on the programme are cantatas by Bach with Pascal Bertin (contralto), Marcel Beekman (tenor) and Stephan MacLeod (bass).Concertzaal, Tilburg, May 8; Muziekgebouw, Amsterdam, May 9; Nicolaï Kerk, Utrecht, May 10. www.bachvereniging.nl Until May 20 CHUCK CLOSE: PRINTS The American Chuck Close (1940) has been making portraits of himself, family and friends such as composer Philip Glass and artist Alex Katz. He makes these portraits based on photos which he manipulates using printing techniques and new technology. The exhibition features 130 portraits, including his recently produced photo-realistic carpets. Kunsthal, Rotterdam until. www.kunsthal.nl

http://www.gemeentemuseum.nl/

http://www.theenglishtheatre.nl/

http://www.bachvereniging.nl/

http://www.kunsthal.nl/


What’s on in May

25 May-3 JuneOPERA DAYS ROTTERDAM Six locations in Rotterdam present operas old and new. One of the highlights is a performance of Philip Glass' Les Enfants Terribles, based on Jean Cocteau's infamous novel about the bizarre love between a brother and sister. It is performed by the Bordeaux National Opera and the Bilbao Teatro Arriaga. For the energetic, there is a walk through Rotterdam with stops at various points along the way for arias and music from various operas.

Schouwburg and other locations, Rotterdam.www.operadagenrotterdam.nl 13 May JOHN CALE & BAND The former Velvet Undergrounder plays numbers from his latest release, the Extra Playful EP which he is expanding into a full-length album which is one of this year's most anticipated releases. Paradiso, Amsterdam. www.paradiso.nl 12 May DREAMERSLAND The third edition of this indoor dance party features some of the Netherlands' best djs, including Funkerman, D-Rashid, John Dahlback and Nicky Romero. Beursgebouw, Eindhoven. www.dreamersland.nl 5 May NIGHTMARE Re-enter the Time Machine is the title for this edition of the hardcore event. Among those taking part are Mad Dog v Amnesys, Panic v Paul, Norize Suppressor and MC TMC. Nightmare has moved to the Sportspaleis where there are no sound limits and space for a spectacular light and laser show. Don't forget to take your earplugs. Ahoy Sportpaleis, Rotterdam. www.nightmare.nl

http://www.operadagenrotterdam.nl/

http://www.paradiso.nl/

http://www.dreamersland.nl/

http://www.nightmare.nl/


What’s on in May

May 2012 (annual)

ART AMSTERDAM Art Amsterdam, held at the Amsterdam RAI, celebrates its 25th anniversary by staging 120 solo shows. Leading national and international galleries exhibit paintings, photographs, sculptures and installations by exciting contemporary artists from around the world. All the major Dutch galleries are represented, along with premier European, South African and Asian establishments. Admission: €20; concessions €10; accompanied under 12s free Time: Wed 6pm-10pm; Thu-Sun 11am-7pm http://www.kunstrai.nl/

May 2012 (annual)NATIONAL WINDMILL DAYS More than 600 of Holland's 1000 windmills fly a blue pennant each year to welcome visitors on National Windmill Days. The event is a chance to visit Amsterdam's working mills, which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Many millers give demonstrations of their activities during National Windmill Days, so you are in for an interactive and fun day! Admission is free http://www.molens.nl/site/ 27 May (annual) DUNYA FESTIVAL The annual Dunya Festival in Rotterdam offers a wealth of arts and culture from around the globe. Approximately 200,000 people enjoy a day of action-packed fun in the open air near Rotterdam's

. EuromastActivities are spread over several stages, featuring well-known and lesser-known artists from the Netherlands and further afield. A wide variety of music, storytelling, poetry and performance is presented, along with a mini Dunya Festival for children. The different cultures represented include Antillian/Aruban, Moroccan and Indonesian. Admission is free

m. The heart of the festival is in the park at the Euromast and Parklaan in the centre of Rotterdahttp://www.dunya.nl/

http://www.kunstrai.nl/

http://www.molens.nl/site/


What’s on in May

30 April – 10 June, 9:00 – 20:00 JAPANESE GARDEN The magnificent Japanese Garden was created in the beginning of the 20th century by the former owner of the country estate of Clingendael, Marguérite M. Baroness van Brienen (1871-1939), also called Lady Daisy. Lady Daisy sailed off a number of times by ship to Japan and brought back to the Netherlands a number of lanterns, a water cask, sculptures, the pavilion, the little bridges and several plants. The original design with the serene pond, meandering brook and the winding pathways has remained intact all these years. Admission is free Japanese Garden, Clingendael Park www.denhaag.nl/en/residents/to/Japanese-Garden-open-in-Clingendael-Park-2.htm

Thanks to Rohini for sourcing & collecting these special events!

http://www.denhaag.nl/en/residents/to/Japanese-Garden-open-in-Clingendael-Park-2.htm


For Sale

ITEMS FOR SALE

: One of our volunteers Ponie is selling the following items

Selling a custom-made fabric upholstery 3-seater sofa + 2 spacious armchairs, all in good condition. For sale 250 euros.

Read the story, assemble the puzzle & find the clues. Solve the mystery of "The Case of the Missing Links" puzzle! A sporting challenge for the young Difficulty level : moderate For Sale at 10 euros

Contact Ponie Schurch at mobile no; 061 7057960

Thank you to all the volunteers who made the May Newsletter possible, until next time, Happy Reading!

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ACCESS May Newsletter