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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4

The American Women’s Association of Hong Kong, Limited. Established in 1956A volunteer organization

of international women

supporting Hong Kong

charities and schools

through community service

and monetary grants, while

providing educational and

social activities for members.

AWARE PRODUCTION STAFF

EDITORFrancesca StephenTel: 9767 [email protected]

ASSISTANT EDITORSCarole AtkinLaura MetoudiLori DiCarloAngela Bellas

ADVERTISING MANAGERYana [email protected]

PUBLISHED & PRINTED BYR&R Publishing Ltd.2126 [email protected]

Membership Information 3

Board Nominations 4

Asian Tours 5

AWA Enjoys 6

Pub Quiz 8

Helping Hand for the Elderly 12

Second Impressions 13

Causeway Bay 14

Local Tours and Activities 21

Sporting Activities 25

On-going Activities 26

Contact Information 29

VISIT THE AWA WEBSITE: www.awa.org.hk FIND US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/awahk

Office is open from Monday-Thursday 9:30am-3:30pm

Any opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author only and do not represent the opinion of the American Women’s Association. Any reliance by the reader upon any recommendation or opinion in this publication is at the reader’s own risk.The AWA accepts no responsibility for any loss which may result from such reliance.Copyright 2014. The content of the Aware publication is the property of the American Women's AssociationReproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Information from within the publicationmay not be distributed without the express written consent of the American Women's Association.

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Contents

2 AWARE February 2014

One of the many wonderful experiences of living in Hong Kong includes the opportunity to celebrate both Western and Chinese holidays. As the West welcomes 2014, we also greet the Chinese New Year (the Year of the Horse), which is galloping in as the snake slithers away. I expect we will all enjoy the light

show on the ICC building as reindeers and penguins give way to snakes and horses.

AWA has launched the “Make a Difference” campaign. We ask that you donate directly to this fund so we can fulfil our mission of supporting local charities, disadvantaged students, and schools. The fees you pay for membership and activities run the

office/organization – and all the proceeds from the Bazaar and other fundraisers/campaigns go directly to the less fortunate in the Hong Kong community.

Every year we receive many requests for projects from small to medium charities that don’t have other major sources of funding. The Charitable Donations committee has the difficult task of choosing which charities/ projects to fund every year – but every year we have many more requests than we have funds. Susan Trebach, our Charitable Donations Committee Chairperson will share these requests over the next few months. As you know, the more money we raise, the more we can give, so please be as generous as you can.

Lastly, it is time to nominate the 2014/15 board. Read more about the experience of current board members on page 4. Please consider nominating yourself or someone else to serve on the board. You will work with fantastic women and contribute to our wonderful Hong Kong community.

Kung Hei Fat Choy, may the Year of the Horse bring peace, prosperity and good fortune to you all!

Eileen GlynnAWA President

It is February already and 2014 is in full swing. It was quite sad to pack away all the Christmas decorations and cease the festive indulgences, but now I am looking forward to a busy year. This year, my New Year’s Resolution is to spend some more time in the hidden corners of Hong Kong. It goes without saying that getting

fitter and drinking less wine are also on the list!

We have some wonderful new tours coming up, which will help you see a whole new side to Hong Kong (and in some cases, China). A particular favourite of mine, is the tour to the Mattel Barbie factory in China. That will provide a whole new insight into every little girl’s favourite doll and where she comes from. Barbie’s real home town is not a small fictional place in Wisconsin

but is closer to Hong Kong than you might imagine.

Some shopping highlights include a trip to a pearl jewellery sample sale, where you can add to your pearl collection. Another much anticipated trip is to an exclusive showroom, where you can find Wedgewood, Ganz miniatures, hand-painted bone china and more, at less than half the price you would pay at Shanghai Tang, Lane Crawford or Chinese Arts & Crafts.

We are also giving you the chance to pit your wits against some of the AWA’s finest. We are holding our first ever pub quiz to raise funds for our Make a Difference Campaign. The pub quiz will be your chance to show us that beer drinking and intelligence can go together! The venue is small so book now to secure your seats! We have some tips for quiz success, along with additional details inside.

May Your Lai See be very lucky this year!

Francesca StephenAWAre Editor

From the President From the Editor

W E L C O M E

February 2014 AWARE 3

M E M B E R S H I P

AWA is a dynamic, international community of women, with over 900 members from 36 countries. We are sure you will find your niche through our diverse range of activities, events and opportunities to volunteer. All women are welcome – do join us!

Current members – you are our best ambassadors. Please introduce new arrivals and old friends to AWA – over a wine at OWL, a Neighbourhood Coffee, or a working lunch with WOW. AWA’s vision is that all women can connect with us and develop a rich, satisfying and purposeful life in Hong Kong.

To join, please contact [email protected] or online at awa.org.hk

CHAT (Come Have a Talk)WHEN: Thursdays, 10:00 am – 12:00 noon (except

public holidays) WHERE: J.W. Marriott Hotel, 4th Floor, Lobby

Lounge (bar area), Pacific Place COST: No fee (all beverages & lunches at personal

expense – Note: the Marriott offers a 20% discount on their lunch menu to CHAT attendees!)

COORDINATOR: Susan Wallace CHAT is an informal gathering for members, newcomers, and non-members. In a friendly atmosphere, we share a coffee or tea and lively conversation. CHAT is a drop-in activity. No registration is required. Join us anytime between 10:00 am and noon. The group often proceeds to lunch to continue chatting. Adults only.

Owl (Out With the Ladies) Come join us any week or every week. Same time, same place (except public holidays). WHERE: Oolaa 20 Bridges Street, Soho WHEN: Every Tuesday, 5:30pm – 7:30pm COORDINATORS: Kathy Barber, [email protected] Julie Naughton, [email protected]

Foon YingWHEN: 12, 19 and 26 FebruaryWHERE: Meet at Admiralty MTR by Pacific CoffeeCOORDINATORS: Hildy Karev, [email protected] Kate Mahjoubian, [email protected]: No fee but registration is requiredFoon Ying means ‘welcome’ in Cantonese and what better welcome than to embark on a social adventure designed to foster new Hong Kong friendships. This informal program takes the guesswork out of finding your feet by designing fun activities for your group, sharing experiences and building your “guanxi” or ‘network’. Your commitment? Attend all three sessions over three weeks, be open to exploring your new environment and meet great people. Join and enjoy!

Neighbourhood CoffeesIf you live, work or play in any of the following neighbourhoods, join your local ladies for a monthly coffee. Meet new friends. Catch up with old ones. Discuss neighbourhood events and plan new activities. Please contact the coordinator for details of activities.

KOWLOON Jane Buck [email protected] and Susan Trebach [email protected]

POK FU LAM AND SHOUSON HILLAmita Gupta, [email protected]

DISCOVERY BAY Tracy Russell & Tina Volkman, [email protected]

SOUTHSIDE Anita Wilkinson [email protected]

CENTRAL Kathy Barber [email protected]

SHATIN, TAI WAI AND NEW TERRITORIESStephanie Bourque, [email protected]

Jane AdamczyhSusan BougherAllison ChurchmanPatricia CliffRobyn ConveryFiona CottonCaroline CramptonSophia DiasRoxann FilasetaMika FreelandSandra GallaudetRebecca GlickMarcie Ann Graefin LambsdorffAnjali Harjani-HardasaniHolly HuiTelina KiernanRachael KruegerCheng Hsing Lee

Aislinn MaloneLinda McCluskeySamantha MorrisCourtney MoskalLeila NachtigallBirgit OfnerSarah O'SullivanMartina RickHilary RoweClaire StewartMancy TangHelen ThornCynthia (Cindy) TuttleAmy Van LaakAlison WilsonLyndsay WinterElaine Yee Lin WongAnne Woo

Welcome New Members


M E M B E R S H I P

WITH NOMINATIONS for the Executive Board coming up, it is time to think about whether you would like to consider standing. It really is a great opportunity to work with an amazing group of women, learn more about how the AWA functions and make decisions, which benefit the organisation as a whole.

For those of you who are working, or looking for work, board experience is a fantastic way to improve your resume.

We’ve asked four of the current Board members to share their experiences.Eileen Glynn - President

“Being President of the AWA has been a rewarding experience since I have had the opportunity to work with so many wonderful women. Together we have accomplished so much, including the move of the office headquarters. Being on the board is an important responsibility, but with that responsibility comes a great feeling of accomplishment for what the team achieves throughout the year.

I have been very impressed by the tremendous commitment and energy of so many of the AWA women who work together to make this organization the exceptional association that it is…”Marcy La Ront - 1st Vice President-Fundraising

“The two most positive things I have experienced in becoming an AWA board member is in getting to meet and work with some great women whom I did not previously know. The other is that in my particular position, I have the opportunity to focus on the landscape of the needy in Hong Kong and some of the amazing organizations that exist to help people here. It is really something! I am so happy and proud of the work the AWA does and am glad to be a part of it.”Julie Naughton - 3rd Vice President-Activities

“The Board puts me in touch with smart, energetic, and creative women who believe in the mission of the AWA. We all work to provide numerous social and educational experiences for our members and also to give back to the Hong Kong community through our fundraising for charities, community involvement and volunteering. For me it's an energizing experience.”Susan Trebach - Charitable Donations

“This is my second year chairing the Charitable Donations Committee -- absolutely the best job on the Board! I have the privilege of working with two extraordinary groups of women.

The board members, who each bring special talents and energy to the organization. And my amazing colleagues, a mix of savvy veterans and eager newbies, whose common commitment is to make Hong Kong a better place for the less fortunate. If you are part of Charitable Donations you have the chance to identify and support programs that change people's lives. What could be better?

Please consider what you can do for the AWA Board and what the Board can do for you. Nominations are open!

Board Nominationsby Francesca Stephen and Shelda Chickles.

NOMINATIONSAWA Executive BoardNominations Open for the 2014/2015 Membership YearAll positions are one year terms commencing July 1 2014


M E M B E R S H I P

A S I A N T O U R S

All you have to do is pack your bags, get your visa and go – AWA’s Asian Tours are all-inclusive!

ASIAN TOURS 2013-2014

14 – 18 February Palawan Diving Sign-Ups On-going Kate Mahjoubian, 6462 65594 – 13 March India – Palace on Wheels Sign-Ups On-going Diane Lamboley 9020 93857 – 13 April Java – Yogyakarta & Mt. Bromo Sign-Ups On-going Natalie Hughye, [email protected] – 16 May Shanxi 3 February 2014 Amanda McGovern, 6200 397620 – 26 September (tentative) Nepal April 2014 Date TBA Betty Thai, 9386 2385October Mogao Caves April 2014 Date TBA Jane Buck, 9530 7957

For more information on any trip, please contact the trip leader. The AWA office will not have the information!

WOW has some great initiatives coming up in the first half of 2014...Don't forget to save the date!

How to navigate the Hong Kong job marketWHEN: Tuesday 25 February 2014 10.30am-12.30pm

Starting your business in Hong KongWHEN: Tuesday 25 March 2014 6.30-9.00pm

Social Media and YouWHEN: Monday 7 April 2014 6.30-9.00pm

Reinvent yourself in Hong KongWHEN: Wednesday 14 May 2014 10.30am-12.30pm

All events will be held in the AWA Office, 11th floor Arion Building, 2-12 Queens Road West, Sheung Wan.

Further details will be provided as each event draws closer on our AWA Hong Kong - WOW Facebook Page and via Listserve.

WOW (Windows on the Workplace) WOW is kicking off its activities for the year soon! Are You:

Kong?

WOW is a networking and support group for working and non-working women of all nationalities and backgrounds in Hong Kong. WOW offers professional workshops, seminars and informal networking opportunities. Through our community of business owners, industry professionals and knowledge seekers, women will be nurtured and inspired.

For upcoming events and information, check out the AWA website and AWARE magazine. We are also working on a new social media strategy and will be rolling out a Facebook group among others, so please look for that as well.


A W A E N J O Y S


A W A E N J O Y S


F U N D R A I S I N G

This History of the Pub QuizThe Pub Quiz, also called Quiz Night,

Trivia Night or Table Quiz, has its origins in the UK in the late 1970’s. Pub Quizzes have become very popular over the last several decades and are regularly held in cities and towns all over the world. Wherever there are pubs and quizzes, you can bet there is are groups of loyal players that attend regularly and are quite competitive. Today, by some reports, there are estimated to be more than 20,000 weekly pub quizzes held in the UK alone.

Pub Quiz teams are typically made up of tables, not to exceed a certain pre-set number (usually 6). The quiz is made of a series of rounds, each comprising 10 questions and covering different areas. A Quiz Master announces the questions to the players/audience, and often scores each team’s sheets. Typical quiz rounds cover history, pop culture, music, entertainment, “Who am I?” and even picture rounds using a screen. Players pay to play and small prizes and drinks may be awarded per round, or after several rounds.

The AWA Pub Quiz for charity will include a traditional pub meal, a cold pint, and prizes. The night will also provide the opportunity for us to highlight some of the charitable groups for whom we are working to raise money in the 2013/2014 season.

5 Tips for Putting Together a Great Team1. Diversity. For instance, picking a team

that is all American or all British, all female or male is a disadvantage. Having a range of ages is also a ticket to success.

2. Have an expert on your team who is particularly well versed in sports, entertainment, music or history.

3. Recruit a team member who likes trivia. Having a good general knowledge of many things is an asset.

4. Make sure your team can work together effectively to pick the one “right” answer for the team.

5. Play with friends. Even if you don’t win anything, you will have fun.

Don't have a team? No problem! Come along to meet new friends and a team will be assigned to you on the night.

The AWA will be hosting its first ever Pub Quiz for charity later this month. In honour of this event, we thought it might be useful to provide some background on the ever-popular Pub Quiz, with some helpful hints for putting together a great team. See you at Delaney’s on the 27thof February!


B O A R D U P D A T E

COMING SOON! A NEW AND REVISED AWA WEBSITE!!The AWA last updated its website in 2006. It is long

overdue for an overhaul! Last July, the Board invited AWA members to participate in a website survey. We'd like to extend a warm thank you to all 131 members who shared their thoughts and ideas with us. Learning how members used our website and what they did when visiting the site proved extremely helpful. Key takeaways from the survey were:

calendar and sign up for (multiple) activities

and vibrancy of its members

about AWA than they are

should be included

With this feedback, we formed a group of volunteers to work on revamping the website. Our goal and vision for the new website is to ensure we meet the needs of current and prospective members, improve information about philanthropic efforts and volunteer opportunities, and enhance our brand within the Hong Kong community. As one of the primary ‘calling cards’ of our organization, the website must represent who we are: an impressive organization of international women who are adventurous, interesting, and

connecting and contributing to the community of Hong Kong. In early November, the Board approved and funded the

project and a design firm was selected. Digital Butter, a full service digital agency will support all aspects of the re-launch including design, back-end technical and functional requirements, and reporting and intergrating with other communication platforms, including e-news and group discussions.

We welcome volunteers to help with this project as there are multiple work streams underway which need to be completed in advance of the May 2014 target launch. Stay tuned for more updates in future AWAre issues and in the meantime, please contact us and let us know if you would like to help the team.

Jennifer Schlueter, [email protected] Bellas, [email protected]

AWA Website to be Revamped!


C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E

FOR OVER THIRTY YEARS, the AWA has been a faithful partner in what has become a holiday tradition. The AWA Cookie Drive provides home baked cookies for Christmas parties, which are held at the eighteen Red Cross hospital schools across Hong Kong. Over 2,000 chronically ill and handicapped children enjoy these special festive occasions each year.

Chrysan Mok Oi Ling, a Red Cross Special Education teacher for over twenty years, explained that the home baked cookies were a special and much appreciated treat. As baking is not customary for the Chinese, they also represent a wonderful East-meets-West gesture of good will.

Kate Weisman, AWA’s chairperson for Community Service, experienced first-hand how much the cookies were appreciated and enjoyed.

After attending the Christmas party at the Duchess of Kent’s Children Hospital on December 12th, Kate noted, “Spending the morning with chronically ill and disabled children, left me humbled and honoured to be a part of an organization that is doing such good – both large and small - in the Hong Kong community.”

To mark the 60th Anniversary of the founding of their hospital schools, the Red Cross will be paying special recognition to the AWA with a Long Service Award. This award is in recognition of our committed and hardworking volunteers spanning thirty years and we are truly delighted to be recognised in this way.

A special thank you to Allied Pickford, for their continued commitment in helping both AWA and the Red Cross, and making the cookie drive run smoothly – from pick up to drop off.

AWA Spreads Holiday Cheer

3500 festively decorated cookies found their way to the Wanchai office of the Hong Kong Red Cross in early December. Catherine Greco, coordinator of the 2013 AWA cookie drive and Sue Chan, Red Cross Hospital School Administrator, were delighted to see the piles of treats that piled up in the office lobby.


C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E

HANDS ON HONG KONG (an affiliate of the global HandsOn Network) is a local NGO offering flexible volunteer opportunities. No regular commitment needed - just sign up online and turn up to the activity you have registered for. HandsOn's programs focus on helping those most in need in our city and include after school tutorial programs for disadvantaged children, outings for children with disabilities, playgroups, bread runs, dog walking, visits to the elderly and much more. Activities take place both during the day and evening throughout the week and weekend. The AWA will be working with Hands On Hong Kong to provide volunteer opportunities for AWA members.

For more information, and to sign up for activities, please visit www.handsonhongkong.org

HandsOnVolunteering

Opportunities

Central YWCA NOTE NEW TIMES Mondays 12pm, 6pm, (weigh in until 7pm)

Kowloon USRC Mondays 6.30pm

Pokfulam Kennedy School Tuesdays 3.45pm (open to public)

Sai Kung/Clearwater Bay – Hebe Haven Yacht Club Wednesdays 6pm

Southside – Hong Kong Cricket Club Thursdays 10am

Please check www.weightwatchers.com.hk for meeting details before visiting a meeting

**Show your Australian Association, America Women’s Association or YWCA membership cards

for registration discounts!**

Bring this advertisement in and receive a Weight Watchers® cookbook (while supplies last)

Karin Siegler - HK registered midwifemobile 9022 [email protected]

wellness & birthpre & postnatal homecare

We carefor youduringpregnancy, birth and nursing.


C H A R I T A B L E D O N A T I O N S

IN 2012, Helping Hand asked the AWA for ceiling-mounted fans to keep its residents more comfortable. Through funding providing by the AWA’s chief charitable partner, the American Chamber of Commerce, 35 fans were installed.

During a recent site visit to Helping Hand’s Siu Sai Wan location by an AWA Charitable Donations team, residents told us how happy they were to have the ceiling mounted fans, which meant they remained comfortable in their private living spaces. From talking to them it was obvious the fans really made a big difference in their day-to-day lives.

This year Helping Hand is requesting $43,200 from the AWA to purchase 18 dehumidifiers ($2,400 each) to replace outdated appliances, that are ineffective and inefficient. Anyone who has weathered a Hong Kong summer can appreciate the value of a properly functioning dehumidifier. Priceless!

The AWA's Charitable Donations Program provides grants, both large and small, to a variety of non-profit organizations throughout Hong Kong supporting projects that benefit women, children, the elderly, the disabled and those with other health and special needs.

Each year the AWA receives many more grant requests than we can fund, this year’s requests total close to $5 million. We are lucky to have partners, like the American Chamber of Commerce, who will fund projects that meet their guidelines. The AWA has a rigorous grant proposal review and vetting process that includes site visits by the Charitable Donations committee members.

The 2013-14 Make a Difference campaign is about raising money for charities like Helping Hand. If you haven’t made a pledge yet, please help us help them!

Helping Hand, a Hong Kong charity assisting more than 700 elderly residents with housing, nursing care and attention, is one of the American Women’s Association’s most frequent charitable recipients.


F E A T U R E

IT IS HARD TO BELIEVE more than a year has passed since I arrived in Hong Kong. What a year it has been! I have seen so much, explored the city and enjoyed the people. A year ago I had no idea how fulfilling life here would be.

For me, Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. In many ways it is an assault on the senses, the colour, the smells, the climate and the crowds are overwhelming while at the same time exciting. The glitzy designer shops present a modern, successful face to the world but behind this facade is the timeless city, the city with a history and culture. A city that constantly surprises and delights.

I recently entertained a friend from Vancouver for two weeks. This was an ideal opportunity to explore Hong Kong and also, to some extent, gain confidence in finding my way around. (I was definitely behind the door when directional skills were given out!)

We planned our itinerary and each morning donned comfortable shoes and we were on our way. The first discovery was how many oases of tranquillity are hidden in unexpected places. So many corners are adorned with trees and ponds, welcoming weary shoppers or people just needing a quiet place to think. I had expected a concrete jungle when I first arrived in Hong Kong but the trees and flowers are always around the next corner.

We wandered Hong Kong Park enjoying the natural beauty and admiring the birds, butterflies and turtles in the ponds. We learned that turtles are revered for their longevity and are also lucky. Also cherished are the lotus blossoms and these we found in abundance at Nam Lian Park at Diamond Hill.

It was interesting to find out the park dates back to the Tang Dynasty and the design remains true to that era.

History is never far away in this city of contrasts. There are the temples, wreathed in smoky incense and embellished with colourful images all under the watchful, and sometimes fearful, eyes of Buddha. A visit to the old fishing village Tai O revealed small temples alongside houses on stilts. A cruise to Stanley on a junk was a step back in time and although junks are now often a tourist attraction they still have a distinctive aura of the past. The way of life in Hong Kong also reveals much about the culture.

Families matter as is all too evident in the way children are

always willing to help a lost expat! Day to day business continues much as it did in the past. Fish can be seen drying in the sun or being descaled in the markets. Unusual vegetables are a staple food and bamboo scaffolding is a preferred construction material. People work hard and to my eyes, often seem to work well into retirement years!

In reflection on the past year, I find that life has been busy. I have made many good friends through AWA and my involvement in the organization has most definitely helped me settle into life here. It feels so good when I greet someone I know in Central! My life here is certainly different from life in Vancouver and yet somehow the same. People matter here as they did at home. I am often asked whether I feel lonely. Truthfully, the answer is sometimes “yes,” but then another day dawns and more exciting opportunities appear. Do I regret coming to Hong Kong? Never! Bring on the next adventure!

CITY OFCONTRASTS


CAUSEWAY BAY has the highest retail rents in the world, which explains the number of high end stores located here, but there is so much more.

Take the Island line to Causeway Bay, Exit D1, turn right, cross over Lockhart Road and walk through the archway towards the Excelsior Hotel. On your left, Matteo Party (1 & 3/F, 530 Jaffe Road, www.matteoparty.com) is a great (fixed price) place to swing by if you are having a party and need balloons, costumes or decorations.

Jardine’s Noon Day Gun is located in a small enclosure on the waterfront of the Causeway Bay typhoon shelter across the road from the Excelsior Hotel. Every day at noon, a Jardine Matheson employee fires off one shot as a time signal. You can get there by going to the World Trade Centre (280 Gloucester Road) basement car park B1 and walking through the subway.

For lunch you can walk back to World Trade Centre and go to Hooray Bar (Shop P502, 5/F, 280 Gloucester Road, www.jcgroup.hk) for a meal or a just a drink.

On Saturday and Sunday they have a great brunch (HK$298) from 12 – 2.30 pm with a large relaxing outdoor area overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Walk out to Great George Street as if heading towards IKEA but instead cross over the road to Windsor House (311 Gloucester Road). In typical Hong Kong style the best shopping is to be found by taking the lift up. On the 10th floor is Windsor Computer & Digital Mall (10/F) where you can find Camera Equipment (Leica), Computer Accessories & repairs and CD Express (1014) where you can purchase XB0X 360, Wii, PS3 computer games.

By now, after all that shopping, you may be ready for a snack and I love going to Din Tai Fung (G/F, 68 Yee Woo Street, www.dintaifung.com.hk). From Windsor House come back out left onto Great George Street, turning first left onto the pedestrianized street where HSBC is. Cross over Yee Woo Street, turn left, cross over Pennington Street and you will see a big sign advertising Din Tai Fung (in the same building as the Regal Hotel Hong Kong).

Chaotic Causeway Bay

by Frances Nicholls

F E A T U R E


This one Michelin star restaurant proudly displays a bronze plaque out the front with a review written by Ken Hom for the New York Times. A Taiwanese chain, they make delicious variations of Xiao Long Bao (steamed dumplings with soup inside).

After your snack, exit out to Jardine’s Bazaar. By now after all this shopping and eating it may be time for a foot massage for your weary feet. Causeway Bay abounds with local massage places and Greenwood Health Spa (1/F, 42 – 44 Jardine’s Bazaar), is a calm oasis in an otherwise chaotic Causeway Bay.

Continue right along Jardine’s Bazaar and when you see the Stewed Bird nest shop (35 Jardine’s Bazaar) turn left, walk down a bit further and turn right into Jardine’s Crescent Market. At the weekend this will be jam packed, but this is the place to go if you want scarves, stockings, hats, ribbons or hair accessories. Remember to bargain.

Once you exit the market, turn left onto Yung Ping Road and then first right onto Pak Sha Road. Paris Cotton Singlets Co.Ltd (1/F, 15 Pak Sha Road) which despite its name doesn’t seem to sell any singlets, but only yarn and knitting needles. They have free knitting classes (in Cantonese) Tues, Thurs, Sat & Sun 1.45 – 4.45 pm, although they assured me they speak some English and knitting is apparently a universal language.

Just on the corner of Pak Sha and Yun Ping Road is Homeless (1-3/F, 17 Yun Ping Road, Tel: 2890 8789. Open: Mon – Sat 12 pm – 9.30 pm, Sun & PH 1 pm – 9 pm. www.homeless.hk). It calls itself a lifestyle store selling fun, quirky presents that would be great for the person who is difficult to buy for.

Continue back down to Hysan Place (500 Hennessy Road) and surprisingly you will find a Sky Garden on the 4/F, perhaps

a pleasant reprieve where you can catch your breath from all the chaos and crowds that are Causeway Bay. Take your own drink though as it is only a sitting-out area.

Continue left on Hennessy Road, cross over and continue until you get to Needlework Club (Room 1402-03, 14/F, Kin Tak Fung Commercial Bldg, 467 – 473 Hennessy Road, www.needleworkclub.com). Here they sell cotton for quilting, yarn, embroidery threads and different coloured zips.

Cross back over Hennessy Road and carry on right along Hennessy Road until you get to the area under the Canal Road Flyover where you can find Hong Kong’s very own version of Voodoo. Old ladies (aka “devil-beaters”) offer “villain hitting services” in which they curse your enemies by beating pieces of paper representing them with a slipper (can be yours!). For these they use paper tigers (“villain paper”) and write the name of the enemy on the underside. If you want to try it, it costs HK$50 and takes 5 – 10 minutes.

Causeway Bay may be chaotic, but it is well worth the journey and who knows what else you might find.

F E A T U R E

Causeway Bay abounds with local massage places and Greenwood Health Spa (1/F, 42 – 44 Jardine’s Bazaar), is a calm oasis in an otherwise chaotic Causeway Bay.


THE ASIA SOCIETY of Hong Kong is a non-profit centre for the arts, housed in the old British ammunition depot, which was built between 1860 and 1907. The historic structure, blended with contemporary architecture, is a wonderful place to visit.

Abandoned in the 1980’s, the complex was designated a historic site and was ultimately leased to the Asia Society in 1999. The Asia Society was founded in 1956 by John D Rockefeller III in New York City, to foster links between the USA and Asia.

The site was in a state of disrepair when the Asia Society took over. The existing buildings had 17,000 square feet of space but they needed to be re-purposed. The rest of the site consisted of a steep tropical valley, which was a challenging site to build on.

New York City architects, Billie Tsien and Tod Williams did a superb job of inserting a new contemporary space onto the site. They chose to create new spaces which are essentially bridges over the valley. The building, which contains the entry, the restaurant, shop and meeting spaces, floats above the valley and barely touches it.

In the newly completed contemporary spaces you will find a 70-seat restaurant called “AMMO,” which is a great spot for lunch or dinner. There is also a museum store and meeting

rooms which are available for business meetings.The old and new sections were connected with a two level Y shaped

bridge, which sits high above the tropical forest and stream of the valley below. It becomes a delightful outdoor sculpture garden and viewing path as you wind your way to the historic buildings where the theatre, art gallery and administrative offices are housed.

The historic old Magazine buildings, which were used for storing ammunition, are fascinating to walk through. Magazine Building B was converted into the “Miller Theatre”. The new theatre has 107 seats and is used for showing movies and for live stage productions as well as musical performances.

The art museum exhibit space is also in the old ammunition storage facility. The architects were very careful to preserve the old walls. The new exhibit walls stop short of the floors and the ceiling so that the old stone walls are visible behind.

Asia Society

F E A T U R E


The cost of the new buildings, the rehabilitation and adaption of the historic structures was HK$385 million. The Asia Society was able to get funding from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust to help fund the project.

The Current Art Exhibit:The current art exhibit began on October 30, 2013 and will run until February 16, 2014It is called “NO COUNTRY” and features 18 works by 13 artists from South and Southeast

Asian countries. The theme of the exhibition touches upon spiritual and moral teachings as well as political expression.

One of the art pieces on display is a full size bed complete with a headboard and frame made entirely out of double edged razor blades and paper clips. The bed is finely crafted and beautiful but with an ominous message.

Another very interesting sculpture is the American style wooden

baseball bat which stands upright on display with an intricately carved Buddhist Monk surrounded by flames carved into the top of the bat. The story that is being depicted is of an incident of the self-immolation of a Buddhist monk who publicly protested lack of freedom and mistreatment by setting himself on fire.

This exhibit is being presented in conjunction with the Guggenheim UBS MAP Global Art Initiative Program. The art was shown at the Guggenheim Museum of New York City prior to coming to Hong Kong. The goal is to encourage cross – cultural dialogue about contemporary art and cultures. There will be a series of events which encourage participation and discussions.

Visiting:Visiting the Asia Society is easy. It is free to visit and to walk around and enjoy most of

the centre. There is a fee of HK$30 for adults to visit the art exhibition, but if you are 60 years or older, it is only HK$15. If you are 18 and younger, or a student, the admission to the exhibit is free. On the last Thursday of every month, it is free admission for everyone.

Visit the web site at asiasociety.org for details of the centre’s location and upcoming events.

In the newly completed contemporary spaces you will find a 70 seat restaurant called “AMMO,” which is a great spot for lunch or dinner.

F E A T U R E


F E A T U R EF E A T U R E

PART OF WHAT ATTRACTED our family to becoming expats was the opportunity to travel and see Asia. For our most recent trip we were looking for a vacation that met two criteria: a place to practice Mandarin and not too far away. Taipei beckoned.

Among the Locals Day one was a beautiful, clear day

and after scouring our Insights Guide to Taipei we set off on a short walk to the MRT. Our destination - Old Taipei Section of Datong. As shopkeepers and patrons went about their business, we were among only a few tourists in sight. We peeked into the Chinese medicine shops, took in the aroma of fresh herbs and dried flowers and inspected bags of dried mushrooms and other mystery offerings available for sale. Small temples abound and the gentle din of traffic transported us to life at a slower pace.

We next took a taxi to try Xiao Long Bao at the famous Din Tai Fung. We were not disappointed and the hour-long wait was a good excuse to casually explore the neighborhood, which included Sunmerry, a bakery where the aroma could simply be described as “happiness”. Bakery shops abound in Taipei, so be sure to stop in to try the famous pineapple cake and the white cake that will melt in your mouth. Lunch was delicious, as was the jasmine tea and well worth the wait.

Following lunch we returned to the hotel for a swim, foot massage and rejuvenation, before heading out to a Japanese dinner. The ambiance at Mitshui was posh, service impeccable and food fresh and delicious. We enjoyed watching the busy chefs work from an open kitchen and patrons talking in the low lighting. we heard languages from all over the world.

Must SeesDay two we ventured to the

National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park (also called Liberty Square) with the striking Main Gate (Gate o f Cent ra l i t y and Per fec t Uprightness) and lesser gates, all of which surround Memorial Hall. Housed under stunning blue glazed tiles, we watched the dramatic and precise changing of the guards that happens on the hour. We then went to the museum on the lower level that is filled with artifacts, proclamations, photographs and memorabilia, including Chiang Kai-shek’s Cadillac with the license plate 0888. We then proceeded to a very local restaurant for the famous beef noodle. After getting lost a helpful local not only helped

us find our way but recommended a better restaurant and then ordered for us! After lunch we headed to Longshan Temple and watched the locals throw divining blocks and seek advice from the gods.

A World Away in Less Than Two Hours


F E A T U R EF E A T U R E

On day three we headed to the National Palace Museum, arriving to join the daily English language tour. For 90 minutes, we learned about ceramics from different dynasties, saw the most famous exhibits including the Bell of Zhou, the Jadeite Cabbage, and the carved olive-stone boat, as well as ivory carvings, furniture and paintings and beautiful calligraphy with specimens dating back to the Tang dynasties.

When in Taipei …. On our final day, we had intended to take a short

excursion outside the main city to Ying Ge a small town famous for its ceramics and chinaware. Another half-day option was hot springs near the National Palace Museum. However, we felt lazy and instead headed to the Eslite’s flagship bookstore near Taipei 101.

We finished our trip with a spectacular lunch at Shin Yeh, a Taiwanese restaurant on the 85th floor of Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world. While the first few pages of the menu gave us pause (we are not very adventurous when it comes to Asian eating) we selected several dishes that were incredible, including BBQ pork ribs, sweet shrimp and chicken with peanuts, which according to my 13-year old was the best meal of her life!

Taipei is beautiful, accessible, friendly and a great place to put into practice the Mandarin you and your kids have been learning. Don’t forget to smile and take it in stride when locals helpfully correct your tones and pronunciation.

We finished our trip with a spectacular lunch at Shin Yeh, a Taiwanese restaurant on the 85th floor of Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world.


F E A T U R E

THE HONG KONG TRAIL meanders through Hong Kong island, passes through five country parks and boasts some of the most breathtaking views of Hong Kong away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is in contrast from the image of Hong Kong as an international business city. On the trail, you are negotiating stairs and rocky paths surrounded by foliage. Although the city sounds punctuate the silence, you are more likely to hear bird calls, the rush of water and the rustling of leaves.

Last December, I joined a few friends on a hike of Stage 1-4 of Hong Kong Trail. This was a “training session” to acclimatize myself to the terrain and length. Stage 1 to Stage 4 is about 25 km.

Stage 1 starts at The Peak. Lugard Road encircles The Peak and is the gateway to the Hong Kong Trail. Stage 1 starts deceptively with an easy, cemented, narrow vehicular path affording you views of Central and Kowloon. Stage 1 veers down to Pok Fu Lam and the fun starts. I manoeuvre over rocky steps, stairs and packed dirt paths. Victoria Harbour spreads below with huge container ships looking miniscule from this vantage point. Stage 1, 7km long and rated Fairly Difficult, can be hiked in 2 hours.

Stage 2 starts at Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road. You can opt to stop at this point and walk back up Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road to the Peak (making a loop) or continue on the trail to Stage 2. Note the signage to Peel Rise - the Hong Kong Trail has two people etched on it (very important to keep in mind). Stage 2 is also rated Fairly Difficult, but only 4.5km long. Stage 2 leaves the vehicular path and veers up to the left with stairs and meanders around Pok Fu Lam Country Park. Foliage envelops the path. Soon after passing a shelter, a great view Aberdeen, Ap Lei Chau and the outlying islands lies before you.

Stage 2 ends after a steep decent and a long walk along the catch water. The hike can end here by continuing down Peel Rise to Aberdeen.

Stage 3 starts with a brief ascent on Peel Rise, a narrow vehicular road, but veers off abruptly to the right. Again watch for the signage. Stage 3 is more like stage 2, pretty and shaded with lots of streams crossing around the slopes of Tim Wan Shan. This part of the trail is also rated Fairly Difficult at 6.5km long and can done in just under two hours. The sound of running water is very peaceful and the shaded rocky paths lend to the ambience. At the end of Stage 3, you can leave the trail and continue down to the Lower Aberdeen Reservoir via Aberdeen Reservoir Road. Another option is to continue uphill on Aberdeen Reservoir Road to Wanchai Gap for a taxi home. Watch for signs for Stage 4.

Stage 4 begins just like Stage 3, with lots of foliage and shade. It starts at Lady Clementi’s Ride (named after the wife of the 17th Governor of Hong Kong, Sir Cecil Clementi) and crosses many bridges and small streams. The trail joins Middle Gap Road, a vehicular road up to Mount Cameron. Although some of the views were spectacular during the

ascent, they could not compensate for the boringness of this part of the trail. There is not a lot of shade on this road which takes you to Black’s Link and ends at Wong Nai Chung Gap Road. Taxis and buses (No. 6 in particular) are plentiful at this junction. Stage 4 is an easy walk with the exception of the brief uphill climb (15-20 minutes). It is a 7.5 km walk and can be done in 2 hours.

Next issue: Stage 5 – Stage 8 of the Hong Kong Trail.

For more information about the Hong Kong Trail and other hikes in Hong Kong, check out www.hkwalkers.net . Download the app “Enjoy Hiking” which has information about the trails and has a Hiker Tracking Service.

Hong Kong Trail:

Stage 1 – 4

L O C A L T O U R S A N D A C T I V I T I E S


Emeralds, Rubies and SapphiresWHEN: Monday, 17 February, 9:45am –12:30pmWHERE: D’Alejo Jewelry, 9/F, On Hing Building, No 1 On Hing Terrace, CentralCOST: $170 members/$240 member’s guest CAPACITY: Minimum 6, maximum 10COORDINATORS: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484 Lisa Isley, 5597 6033Treasures of royalty and objects of thousands of years of global conquest, Emeralds, Rubies and Sapphires remain the most desirable of the world’s gemstones. Few consumers really understand these gemstones and some of the surprising relatives. To buy smarter and gain an appreciation from the gemmologist’s and consumer’s viewpoint, this seminar is a must. It will be conducted in the showroom by Celso D’Alejo, who is a certified gemmologist and appraiser. During this class, we will view a variety of beautiful gemstones and see the equipment that is used to test and grade them.

Heritage Festival Series: Bad Luck Disposal Rituals and Hung Shing FestivalWHEN: Friday, 14 February, 8:45am – 3:00pmWHERE: Meet in front of General Post Office, 2 Connaught Pl, CentralCOST: $300 members/$370 member’s guest CAPACITY: Minimum 16, maximum 22COORDINATORS: Regine Pocsatko, 6141 7061 Lena Zakharova, 9726 2378We will travel by minibus to Fanling and Kam Tin where professional Chinese photographer Kwok-Leung Paul Lau will provide insight into the historical background of some traditions surrounding this year’s Chinese New Year festivities. We will observe the scrambling for a chicken feather by the Peng Clan in front of the gate tower of their walled village, tour their temple and ancestral hall and witness their “Bad Luck Disposal” ritual by following a red paper boat in a procession around their village. Then we will move on to Kam Tin where we will participate in the Hung Shing Festival of the Tang Clan, visit their huge ancestral hall and see their large lanterns for the Lantern Lighting Ceremony. Don’t miss your chance to explore this guided local festival and take advantage of some unique photo-ops!

WHEN: Tuesday, 11 February, 8:45am – 12:00pmWHERE: Meet at Lok Fu MTR Station entranceCOST: $415 members / $485 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 10, maximum 18 COORDINATORS: Katherine Fenton, 9600 3197 Joy Murray, 6773 7036Kowloon City, the old district surrounding the old Kai Tak airport, has much to offer by way of local colour and historical interest. Yet the area remains little-explored. With few tourists and no touts, you’ll want to come back again and again to this fascinating corner of the “real Kowloon.” The old Kowloon Walled City, once a notorious crime-ridden slum, has been demolished and turned into a magnificent public park, which incorporates some of the nineteenth century Chinese Yamen (magistracy) buildings. Nearby Nga Tsin Wai is the last remaining walled village in the urban area. There are also interesting temples such as the Hau Wong Temple, vibrant street life and an historical rock carving – Hong Kong’s first historical monument – that dates back to the 12th century AD. Kowloon City is also Hong Kong’s “Thai village” and there are numerous good value cafes and shops – just the place to stock up on fresh ingredients at very reasonable prices. Lunch to follow will be at shared expense.

Exploring Kowloon City – A Walking Tour with Jason Wordie



High Tea at Café Gray, The Upper HouseWHEN: Tuesday, 18 February, 3:30pm – 5:30pmWHERE: Downstairs foyer of The Upper House,

Level 4, Pacific PlaceCOST: $70 members/$140 member's’ guestsCAPACITY: Minimum 6, maximum 12COORDINATORS: Melissa Azzopardi, 6345 3066 Joy Murray, 6773 7036Skip lunch and join us at the elegant and stylish Café Gray at The Upper House. Enjoy delicious savouries and sweet pastries served with coffee or varieties of tea, while gazing at one of Hong Kong’s most sensational views from the 49th floor of the Upper House. Cost of the high tea is approximately $220 per person at shared expense.

Time for Tea! Chinese Tea & French Dessert WorkshopWHEN: Wednesday, 19 February 9:45am – 12:00pmWHERE: Meet at Taikoo MTR Exit A1, street levelCOST: $320 members/$390 member’s guest. CAPACITY: Minimum 8, maximum 10COORDINATORS: Katherine Fenton, 9600 3197 Kathy Barber, 2530 2660Detailed and dainty are two features shared by Chinese Tea and French Dessert. Come and join this workshop where ‘Chinese Tea meets French Dessert’! You will discover how amazing they are when they meet and match with each other. Optional lunch at shared expense will be arranged after the workshop.

Behind-the-Scenes Mattel Barbie FactoryWHEN: Thursday, 20 February, 7:45am–5:00pm WHERE: Meet in front of General Post Office, 2 Connaught Pl, CentralCOST: $370 members (this activity is for AWA

members only) CAPACITY: Minimum 12, maximum 23COORDINATORS: Celine O’Connor, 6383 2508 Susan Wallace, 9783 3227; Jane Buck, 9530 7957A rare opportunity for this amazing tour – not to be missed! We will travel by private coach into China where we will visit one of Mattel’s Barbie manufacturing facilities. Upon arrival we will have a brief introduction; then we are off on our tour of the plant factory, staff dormitories and Mattel’s quality testing laboratory. Hear and see a true Barbie & Ken story! Due to the popularity of this tour, it is limited to AWA members only (including spouses and adult children over 18 only). Bring your passport with a current China visa and your Hong Kong ID (required). We will enjoy lunch at the Parkview Hotel at shared expense before returning to Hong Kong.

Intro to Belly Dance with Mey Jen of Oasis Belly DanceWHEN: Monday, 24 February, 10:30am –12:15pmWHERE: Meet in front of Dressed, Three Pacific

Place, Admiralty MTR Exit FCOST: $170 members/$240 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 8, maximum 16COORDINATORS: Lorrie Coleman, 9639 0296 Jennie Parker, 9860 5646Admit it; you have always wanted to belly dance! Tone up and improve your posture while learning basic techniques of this feminine dance with the very knowledgeable Mey Jen of Oasis Dance Centre. She will share with us the cultural meaning of songs and teach us the muscle groups needed for the moves. She will help us discover the “goddess within us.” After dancing the morning away, please join us for an optional lunch at shared expense.

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We Can See Forever – A Tour of New Fei Optical Eyeglass FactoryWHEN: Monday, 24 February, 9:45am – 12:30pmWHERE: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – Pacific

CoffeeCOST: $70 members/$140 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 10, maximum 30COORDINATORS: Jane Buck, 9530 7957 Debbie Allen, 6053 0158Order prescription glasses anywhere in Hong Kong and chances are your order will be sent to Mong Kok where the opticians at New Fei Optical will grind your lenses and fit them into the frame you have chosen. Today, we will get to see just what goes on at New Fei. With 1000s of frames to choose from at the best prices in town (even for designer frames), you might just want to buy a pair or two! You don’t even have to bring your prescription with you; the New Fei’s opticians will examine your eyes for free!

Ohhh, I Need Another Pearl Necklace!WHEN: Wednesday, 26 February 12:00pm – 3:30pmWHERE: Star Ferry Pier, Central, Upper Deck

TurnstilesCOST: $70 members/$140 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 8, maximum 12COORDINATORS: Susan Wallace, 2582 6948 Jane Buck, 9530 7957What is more fun than to find a “sample” sale whether it is jewellery or clothing! Join us as we spend a fun afternoon trying to decide which sample from Henna Pearl Co. we want to buy! Jewelry designs are constantly changing and someone “needs” to purchase the samples to make room for new merchandise in the showroom.Henna of Henna Pearl has invited us to do just that! Henna Pearl is a wholesaler of fresh water pearl jewellery. Her designs include necklaces, bracelets, earrings and pendants with 14k gold or silver findings. Many designs feature freshwater pearls and Italian silver chains. This sample sale is too good to believe! Sorry, only cash accepted for the sales. Optional lunch beforehand at shared expense.

Lesson in Chinese Dining and Chopstick EtiquetteWHEN: Wednesday, 26 February, 11:45am –

2:00pm Registration must be received by 12:00pm

on Wednesday, 5 FebruaryWHERE: Golden Bauhinia Chinese Restaurant,

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

COST: $350 members, $420 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 10/maximum 24COORDINATORS: Lori DiCarlo, 6136 9871 Lena Zakharova, 9726 2378This is the third in our lecture series of “Understanding and Appreciating Basic Chinese Culture.” Today’s lecture is being held at the Golden Bauhinia Chinese Restaurant so Christine Chan, our instructor, can teach us the proper way to use chopsticks, how to know where to sit at the table, the many do’s and don’ts of eating Chinese food properly, and the etiquette of formal Chinese dining. In addition to learning these important aspects of Chinese culture, you will enjoy a delicious meal of Chinese food (at shared expense, approximately $280/pp).

Bone China and More for LessWHEN: Tuesday, 25 February, 10:30am – 2:00pmWHERE: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – Pacific

CoffeeCOST: $70 member / $140 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 5, maximum 8COORDINATORS: Susan Wallace, 9783 3227 Jane Buck, 9530 7957Hidden away across the harbour is a one-room showroom laden with the collectibles you would most love to own. Imagine Wedgewood, Ganz miniatures, hand-painted bone china and more, at less than half the price you would pay at Shanghai Tang, Lane Crawford or Chinese Arts & Crafts. Yumiko of KY Network has agreed to open her showroom exclusively to AWA members and their guests, so sign up now to make sure that you don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Cash and checks only please, as credit cards are not accepted. Lunch (optional) to follow at shared expense.



Cycling Tour from Tai Po to Sai Kung with Michael HansenWHEN: Thursday, 27 February, 8:30am – 4:00pmWHERE: Meet inside Admiralty MTR – Pacific

CoffeeCOST: $320 members/$390 member’s guestCAPACITY: Minimum 10, maximum 18COORDINATORS: Lena Zakharova, 9726 2378 Regine Pocsatko, 6141 7061 Exploring the western and eastern shores of Tolo Harbour and Three Fathoms Cove, this 26-km ride will take you from Tai Po to Sai Kung. We start along the Lam Tsuen River to reach the calm waters of Tolo Harbour, passing a Norman Foster designed property development, the Chinese University and a marine police post to the stables at the Sha Tin Racecourse. Recharged after a short break at a little café on Wu Kai Sha Beach, we ride on to the waters of Inner Port Shelter. We should reach Sai Kung town in time for an early lunch. Please note bicycle helmets are not available for rental so you should bring your own, if needed. Please wear appropriate biking gear and a backpack. Bicycle rental is included in the price but lunch and refreshments will be at your own expense.

Real Italian ProductsWHEN: Thursday, 27 February, 9:45am –12:30pmWHERE: AWA Office, 2-12 Queens Road, Arion

Bldg, 11/F, Sheung WanCOST: $70 members/$140 member’s guest CAPACITY: Minimum 15, maximum 20COORDINATORS: Marybeth Coffer, 6624 4484;Ugo Uberti Foppa, the Director of Buonissimo Ltd, is going to take us on a journey to Italy as we have a chance to sample Italian food products, including fresh produce, cheese, and meats that are flown in twice weekly from Italy. We will learn about seasonal Italian ingredients, including beautiful Sicilian citrus, and how to showcase them in our home cooking. Ugo will provide recipes and some of his personal cooking tips. Of course, there will be Italian wine. Come, enjoy the tasting, and daydream that you’re on the Amalfi Coast.

Refund, Cancellation and Substitution Policies

Every activity includes an administrative fee of HK$70* Member/HK$140 Members Guest. This base fee is not refundable at any time, unless the AWA cancels the event. Charges in excess of the base fee are refundable if cancellation is received by the AWA office at least one full week before the activity date. For example, if the activity is on a Tuesday, cancellation must be received prior to midnight of the previous Tuesday. If the AWA cancels an event, the entire activity cost will be automatically credited to you. Credit notes are not transferable and must be used within 6 months from the date of issue or by the end of the AWA fiscal year (30th June), whichever is earlier. You may request a check in lieu of a credit at any time before the credit expires.

Owing to the popularity of AWA activities, many have a wait list and therefore substitutions cannot be accepted. If you are unable to attend an activity, please inform the AWA office to cancel your place and allow someone on the waitlist to attend.

Registration ProceduresLocal Tour and Activity (LTA) events are open for

registration as of the first of each month in which the activity will be held. Activities being held in the early part of the following month are open for registration on the first day of the prior month. Check the AWA website at www.awa.org.hk for the most up-to-date schedule and don't forget to register early as many of the events will sell out.

* The $70 registration fee is purely an administration fee. It is not donated to the Charitable and Education fund. Visit our website: http://www.theprivatewinecompany.com/

EVERYONE CAN HAVE THEIR OWN PERSONAL WINE

•‧Births•‧Weddings•‧Events and more

S P O R T I N G A C T I V I T I E S


I-HIKESCONTACT: Lori Wigmore, Sarah Rindlaub Cynthia Lackey, [email protected]: No charge. One-time annual registration.Are you amazed at how much space there truly is in Hong Kong? Join us for intermediate hikes in and around Hong Kong Island, lasting 2 to 3 hours, usually on Wednesday mornings. We hike various stages of the Hong Kong Trail, the Wilson Trail and many other trails that may not be as well known, but offer a challenge and a view. Occasionally we venture off of the island to the New Territories, Lamma Island and Lantau. These moderately paced hikes are recommended for beginner to intermediate hikers who love the outdoors. The next two hikes are scheduled for Wednesday, February 12 and Wednesday, March 12. DRAGON BOATIf you want to become part of a Hong Kong tradition, consider joining the AWA Globe Paddlers, winners of the Stanley International Ladies Cup for the last 3 years! The Dragon Boat Festival (Tuen Ng) celebrates an old Chinese legend by racing long narrow boats with 18 paddlers, one drummer and one helmsman.

The AWA Globe Paddlers Dragon Boat team consists of 24 dedicated women who practice twice a week. Our pre-season practices run from late October to early December on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Our regular season practices will run from January to June on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. We welcome women from all walks of life, as long as they demonstrate a strong fitness level, a commitment to attend practices, and an even stronger dedication to our Globe Paddlers family. We are all about working hard and playing hard, and we complement our dedicated work with plenty of team social events.

We are actively recruiting for paddlers. If you are interested in more information about joining the Globe Paddlers please contact the captains listed below. Elissa Imran, 9618 4700, [email protected] Bertino, 9666 4954, [email protected]

SOCIAL GOLFMAIN COORDINATOR: Lynda Coggins, [email protected] Social Golf is in full swing again!It's time to take out the clubs again, and come along to the AWA Social Golf Group's activities. Whether you are a member returning, or new to Hong Kong and perhaps even new to golf, we want you! The AWA Social Golf Group makes playing golf in Hong Kong simple, fun and stress free. We cater to all levels of ability from beginner to advanced or experienced golfers.

We play regularly each week on different courses, and we also organize golf clinics twice a month to help you improve your game. Every so often, we host golfing weekends or golf days further afield such as in Macau, and other one-off activities including quiz nights or simulator coaching, among others. If you like the competitive side of golf, we run a tournament each month, which is very popular.

You can sign up by registering online via the AWA Website. Simply go to "golf" in the sports section, complete the registration and you'll start receiving our emails, newsletters and other communications. There is no additional fee charged for this group and events are all open to AWA members and guests.

Weekly rounds: We have begun our weekly rounds of golf that you can sign up for as follows:

WHEN: Every MondayWHERE: Hong Kong Golf Club, Deep Water BayWHEN: 09:00 am tee-off on a roll up basisCOST: $550 for AWA Members – please bring

your handicap card and HKID / passport.COORDINATOR: Tessa Davenport, [email protected]

WHEN: WednesdaysWHERE: Kau Sai Chung Public Golf Course, Sai

KungWHEN: Tee-times are usually booked on request

and as the system allows (08:30 onwards)COST: $600 approximately SIGN UP: As reservations have to be made a week

in advance, kindly book your spot with the coordinator as soon as possible when the email is sent out advertising details about the round.

COORDINATOR: Candice Lee, [email protected]

Golf clinics: We will arrange golf clinics with our LPGA Pro, Jackie Johnson, on Fridays. All clinic details are advertised ahead of the booking time, and in the AWA Social Golf Group's newsletter, The Whack and Hack. For more information contact the coordinator, Jodi Jones, on [email protected].

Tournaments: Our tournament organiser, Lynda Coggins, will announce details about each event ahead of each competition. As always the format will be fun and participative with players of all standards welcome. Sign-ups will open approximately 2 weeks before each tournament.

O N - G O I N G A C T I V I T I E S


Ongoing activities are generally for AWA members only. An annual one-time registration is required to become a member of an ongoing activity group. To register, contact the AWA office [email protected] or register on the AWA website: https://www.awa.org.hk/activities_ongoing.php. GALLOPING GOURMETHong Kong restaurants offer an international gastronomic extravaganza which we explore by visiting different restaurants each month. A designated host couple selects a restaurant for the group. Contact: info@ awa.org.hk.

Gourmet Sunday Brunch at the Butcher's ClubDATE AND TIME: Sunday, February 23, 12:30pmPARTICIPANTS: Minimum 8; maximum 16 RSVP: [email protected] as soon as possible. Places will fill up quickly!We will start brunch with a seasonal and one-of-a-kind seafood platter, then move on to the Big Beef Experience which includes slow-roasted, 30-ay dry aged US Angus Prime Rib served tender and juicy medium rare to medium and carved tableside by the chef, as well as homemade sauces. A Cheese course is available for an additional $90/person. You may bring your own wines with no service or corkage fees. Dress is business casual – smart jeans are okay. Because this is a private kitchen, reservations must be made early and payment must be made in advance. Payments will not be refunded unless a replacement can be found.Save the date:Sunday, March 9: Shatin Races and Buffet Lunch

AFTERNOON BOOK CLUBWHEN: Tuesday, 11 February, 1:00pmWHERE: TBDCOST: No charge. One-time annual registrationCOORDINATOR: Catherine Greco, 9028 0873 [email protected] join our lively discussion of Gertrude Stein's Three Lives which was written in 1905 and was inspired by Gertrude Stein's painting of Madame Cezanne. Stein claimed that the writing style in Three Lives was attributed to the painting, which hung by her desk while she was writing the book. Three Lives in composed of three separate stories all set in the town of Bridgepoint. The stories are, "The Good Anna," "Melanctha," and "The Gentle Lena." The Good Anna is about a servant of solid lower middle-class south German stock. Melanchtha is a novella studying the distinctions and blending of race, sex, gender, and female health. The Gentle Lena is the story of a passive girl who marries a German immigrant.

Global Insights – A Look at Cultures Around the WorldITALYA Cultural and Economic Presentationby Alessandra Schiavo, the Consul GeneralWHEN: Wednesday 5 March 6.00 pm – 8.00 pmWHERE: AWA Office, 11th floor, Arion Building, 2 – 12 Queen’s Road West, Sheung WanCOST: Member: $200 Guest: $270 Drinks and Canapes includedCAPACITY: Minimum: 20MAXIMUM: 40CO-ORDINATORS: Stella Schumann, 2493 7114 Tracy Russell, 6921 4400REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 26 FebruaryItaly has drawn people in search of culture and romance for centuries. Few countries can compete with its Classical origins, its art, architecture, musical, and literary traditions, its scenery, or its food and wine. It has no single cultural identity. Between the snowy peaks of the Alps and the rugged shores of Sicily lies a whole series of regions, each with its own distinctive architecture and cuisine.



EVENING BOOK CLUBWHEN: Thursday, 27 February, 7:00pm-8:30pmWHERE: AWA OfficeCOST: No charge, one-time annual registrationCOORDINATOR: Julie Naughton, [email protected]'s book selection is The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton, winner of the 2013 Man Booker Prize and Canada's Governor General's Literary Award. It is 1866, and young Walter Moody has come to make his fortune in the New Zealand gold fields. On the stormy night of his arrival, he stumbles across a tense gathering of twelve local men who have met in secret to discuss a series of unexplained events: Moody is soon drawn into the mystery: a network of fates and fortunes that is as complex and exquisitely ornate as the night sky. The Luminaries is a brilliantly constructed, fiendishly clever ghost story and a gripping page-turner.

SPIRITUAL LITERACY BOOK/DISCUSSION GROUPWHEN: Wednesday 12 February and 26 February, 9:00amWHERE: Various VenuesCOORDINATOR: Kate Weisman, [email protected] is a gathering of interfaith, spiritually-minded women who celebrate unity in diversity and gather to foster spiritual literacy in every day life. The group often lingers on subjects of special interest sometimes spending more than a month on any given book. For this reason the book originally scheduled for November Towards a True Kinship of Faiths - How the World's Religions Can Come Together by The Dalai Lama (2010) has been rescheduled for February. The Dalai Lama shows how the challenges of globalization can move us to a deeper plane where nations, cultures, and indiciduals connect through their shared human nature. Tha Dalai Lama also explores how differences between religions can be genuinely appreciated without serving as a source of conflict. New Members warmly welcomed to join.

ART LOVERSWHEN: MonthlyWHERE: Various venuesCOORDINATORS: Kumiko Matsushima,

[email protected]; Cynthia Lackey, [email protected], 6200 3222

The “Culture Vultures” will explore the local fine arts scene. We will visit museums, current exhibitions, galleries, film festivals, the Hong Kong Arts Festival, and the Literary Festival with its numerous lectures by international authors. An optional lunch at shared expense where we discuss our opinions will follow.

BRIDGE AND LUNCH SOCIALWHEN: Mondays, 10:00am – 1:00pmWHERE: AWA Office, No. 5, 11/F Arion Commercial

Centre, 2 Queen’s Rd West, Sheung WanCOST: Free (Optional lunch at shared expense)COORDINATOR: Lisa Strunin, 6184 8370 [email protected] required for one-time only sign up for the entire 2013-2014 membership year.Note: This group is for players with a previous knowledge of the game.Make Monday your bridge morning! Come and enjoy social bridge at the AWA on Monday mornings. We rotate tables so there are plenty of opportunities to make new friends and enjoy the company of others who love playing bridge. Optional lunch at a local restaurant follows.

DOGGIE PLAY DATESWHEN: TBDWHERE: Various locations, TBDCOORDINATOR: Hilary Lincoln, 5597 9007 [email protected] your two- and four-legged friends and join us for a Doggie Play Date! If you are new to Hong Kong and looking for doggie playmates or if you just love dogs then come along! FRENCH CONVERSATION GROUPWHEN: TBDWHERE: Central and SouthsideCOORDINATOR: Barbara Markovits, [email protected] French conversation in a fun, casual group setting! The French conversation group meets once a month with an aim to socialize, have fun, and improve your conversational skills while gaining more knowledge about the culture. Activities are organized by rotating hosts. ITALIAN CONVERSATION GROUPWHEN: MonthlyWHERE: Various locationsCOORDINATOR: Patty Tarallo, [email protected] Italian conversation in a fun, casual group setting! The Italian conversation group meets once a month with an aim to socialize, have fun, and improve your conversational skills while gaining more knowledge about the culture. Activities are organized by rotating hosts.



ICC – INTERNATIONAL COOKING CLUBWHEN: Group meets every second Friday of each

month, 10:00am – 2:00pmWHERE: Various venues; TBA.CAPACITY: Minimum 6, maximum 8COORDINATOR: Sylvie Guyot, [email protected] Are you interested in learning how to cook international dishes that might bring a welcome change to your daily routine? Rotating hostesses will introduce foreign dishes and demonstrate how to prepare easy, family-oriented dishes in the comfort of their own kitchen. Lunch follows each class. We pick a new country monthly and share the costs for food and drinks (costs per person will not exceed $250). Each participant will leave with a printout of the recipes. The hostess will notify the group each month about the planned cuisine and the venue–first come, first in! LUNCH BUNCHWHEN: MonthlyWHERE: Various restaurantsCAPACITY: Maximum 20COORDINATOR: Marcia Hammelev Sander, 9868 4112,

[email protected] you enjoy gathering for lunch on a regular basis? The Lunch Bunch coordinator sets up a group of 12 to 20 members. Each member takes turns choosing the restaurant,making the reservation, informing the others, and hosting. Lunch is either at individual or shared expense as agreed upon on the day of the event. This is a great way to socialize with other AWA members while enjoying a variety of cuisines in Hong Kong. MAHJONG MADNESSWHEN: Tuesdays, 10:00am – 4:00pm (come

anytime)WHERE: The American Club, Fireside Lounge or

other location to be posted AWA, American Club or AMHH members

onlyCOORDINATOR: Katherine Fenton, [email protected] 9600 3197Come and play mahjong on Tuesdays with other AWA /American Club members. This activity is suitable for all skill levels, but players are expected to have a prior knowledge of the rules. Optional lunch at individual expense. Non-American Club members must settle their bills prior to departure by credit card only (no cash or checks).

MOMS & TOTS MORNING PLAY DATESWHEN: TBDWHERE: TBDCOST: TBDCOORDINATOR: Daryn Jankovic, 9688 4052Moms-to-be and tots up to 3 are welcome to join us for a morning of play, chatting, and coffee/tea! Please feel free to come in costume.

NEEDLE ARTSWHEN: Fridays, 10:00am – 12:00pmCOORDINATOR: Elisabeth Denys, [email protected] us as we work on needle arts projects – sewing, quilting, needlepoint, cross-stitch, knitting, and embroidery – while chatting about our common interests, exchanging new ideas, learning and getting advice from each other. This is not a class but an informal group. Members may bring an unfinished project to work on. PHOTOGRAPHY GROUPWHEN: Group meets at least once a month. CAPACITY: Maximum 10COORDINATOR: Becky Wong, [email protected] 9278 2727The AWA Photography Group is a social way to enjoy photography as a hobby while giving you a chance to practice your skills and explore Hong Kong. All you need is enthusiasm and a camera to join us as we capture Hong Kong's contrasting architecture and communities. All camera types welcome as well as suggestions for excursions.

C O N T A C T I N F O R M A T I O N


COMMUNITY

CHARITABLE DONATIONS [email protected]

Chairperson Susan Trebach [email protected]

COMMUNITY SERVICE [email protected]

Chairperson Kate Weisman [email protected] Partnering Susan Trebach [email protected] Chau Reading Program Ellen Albrecht [email protected] Pier Volunteers Carol Lampard [email protected] for Domestic Helpers Tammy Baltz [email protected] Society for the Blind Kate Mahjoubian [email protected] in the Home Jennifer Cox [email protected] Ronald McDonald House [email protected] Soup Kitchen Alison May [email protected]

EDUCATION & SCHOLARSHIP [email protected]

Chairperson Mary Barbara Hanna [email protected] Rosalind Keith [email protected]

Kowloon Marti Law [email protected] Chai TSKVS - Dale Biteen [email protected] Fu Lam Eileen Marion [email protected] Shui Po Lindy Vasey [email protected] Wan Rosalind Keith rmekeith@ yahoo.comAp Lei Chau Sue Cummings-Walder [email protected]

Dining Etiquette Heather Black [email protected] Pals Shibani Dutta [email protected] Interviews Bernice Lee [email protected]

FUNDRAISING [email protected]

1st VP Fundraising Marcy LaRont [email protected]

Public Relations [email protected]

Chairperson Jennifer Schlueter [email protected] Newsletter/E-Blast Coordinator Randy Prescott [email protected]

OFFICE

Phone 2527 2961/2Fax 2865 7737Hours 9.30am – 3.30pm Mon-FriAddress No.5, 11th floor. Arion Commercial Centre, 2-12 Queen's Road West, Hong KongWebsite www.awa.org.hkOffice & Website Manager Barbora Mayer, [email protected] Representative Joanne Lam, [email protected] & Database Manager Diane Li, [email protected]

SOCIAL

ACTIVITIES [email protected]

3rd Vice President Julie Naughton [email protected] Lovers Kumiko Matsushima [email protected] Cynthia Lackey [email protected], 6200 3222Asian Tours Jane Buck [email protected] & Lunch Social Lisa Strunin [email protected] Club - Day Catherine Greco, [email protected] Club - Evening Julie Naughton [email protected] Play Dates Hilary Lincoln [email protected] 55979007Dragon Boat Elissa Imran [email protected], 96184700 Sara Bertino [email protected], 9666 4954

Galloping Gourmet Hallie Cohn [email protected] Insights Stella Schumann 2493 7114, Tracy Russell 6921 4400Golf – Events and Lessons Jackie Johnson 9573 6116Golf – Social Play and Event Lynda Coggins [email protected] Lori Wigmore, Sarah Reinlaub, Cynthia Lackey [email protected] Cooking Club Sylvie Guyot [email protected] Conversation Group Patty Tarallo [email protected] Tours and Activities Jane Buck [email protected] Lunch Bunch Marcia Hammelev Sander 9868 4112Mahjong Katherine Fenton 9600 3197Moms & Tots Daryn Jankovic 9688 4052Needle Arts Elisabeth Denys [email protected] Group Becky Wong [email protected] Literacy Book/Discussion Group [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP [email protected]

2nd Vice President Nicky Cooper [email protected] Coordinator Susan Wallace 9783 3227Foon Ying Elise Van Stolk 9335 8985Membership Discounts [email protected] Night OWL Kathy Barber [email protected] Gina Franich, [email protected], 6129 9568Listserve Moderator Randy Prescott [email protected]

If you would like to join the AWA or if you have any question about the organization, please contact the office or any of the Executive Board listed.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

EXECUTIVE BOARD [email protected]

President Eileen Glynn [email protected] VP Fundraising Marcy LaRont [email protected] VP Membership Nicky Cooper [email protected] Vice President Activities Julie Naughton [email protected] Editor Francesca Stephen [email protected] Donations Susan Trebach [email protected] Service Kate Weisman [email protected] & Scholarship Mary Barbara Hanna [email protected] Relations Jennifer Schlueter [email protected] Recording Secretary Lisa Mar [email protected] Irene Chu [email protected] Media Angela Bellas [email protected]

Documents

BHB[JOF GPS UIF 8PNFO PG )POH ,POH t 'FCSVBSZ · board experience is a fantastic way to improve your resume. We’ve asked four of the current Board members to share their experiences