Thani Talk 2015 May

Thani TalkThani TalkThani TalkThani Talk NONTHABURI NEIGHBORHOOD REACH

Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994 MAY 2015

Thani Talk is generously Thani Talk is generously Thani Talk is generously Thani Talk is generously sponsored bysponsored bysponsored bysponsored by

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FarewellFarewellFarewellFarewell ToToToTo

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2

About NNR & Thani Talk Thani TalkThani TalkThani TalkThani Talk----May 2015May 2015May 2015May 2015

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by the NNR of any product or service. The NNR accepts no responsibility for any claims made in any advertisement and

the opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily the views of the NNR committee

NNR BOARD 2014-2015

NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of

volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local

charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly

magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity

bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no

membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.

Facebook.com/nnrthailand

Issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

https://sites.google.com/site/

nnrguide

Connect with NNR

NNR Guide

Chairperson Mare Harvey [email protected]

Vice Chairperson Vacant

Treasurer Val Mowat [email protected]

Activity/Tour

Coordinator

Jesmin Tarana

Susanne Rodrigues

084-388-4457

NNR Socials Denise Warta 090-013-8490 [email protected]

Charity Socials and

Volunteer Coordinator

Linda Feltham 091-095-0457 [email protected]

Advertisements Laura Sadowski

089-924-5306

[email protected]

Thani Talk Editors Liz Lu (Co-editor)

Monique Langer (Co-editor)

Annette Long (Proofreader)

086-784-7171

[email protected]

Distribution

Coordinator

Heather Powell

083-293-2169

Bazaar Committee: Jo McGregor (Coordinator), Charlotte Sanders (Raffle Prizes), Mare Harvey (Sponsors), Tipwan

Smagpong and Kris Smuts (Vendors), Linda Feltham (Volunteers)

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President’s Letter, Contents, & Calendar Thani TalkThani TalkThani TalkThani Talk————May 2015May 2015May 2015May 2015

NNR and

Community Events

Inside This Issue

May Social: Farewell Coffee 4

NNR Tour: Aranyik Village 5

Cover Story: Farewells 8-14

Community News: Sports Center 20

Community News: Youth Center 21

Community News: Le Bouchon 22

Around Nonthaburi 34

April Coffee Highlights 36

Recipe 37

Travel: Medical Mission in Myanmar 42

Charity: Award & Donations 46

Restaurant Review 49

Community News: Profile 29

Grapevine Tips 24

May 8 NNR Farewell Coffee

May 9

Nichada Lake Condo Grand

Opening Party

May 9 ThaiCraft Sale at ISB

May 11 NNR Tour: Aranyik Village

May 23-24;

30-31

Jack and the Beanstalk, by

Bangkok Community Theatre

May 29-30 Sop Moei Arts

May 30 Secret Garden Night Market

June 11 Combined Women’s Lunch

Another school year has flown by and now we are looking forward to summer

vacation, and for some, another adventure in a new place. To those who are

leaving we all wish you well and are sad to have to say goodbye. I would like to

say a special thank you and goodbye to Linda Feltham, Monique Langer, and

Heather Powell for their contributions to the NNR Board.

To those going on vacation, have fun and see you in August. The next Thani Talk issue will be in

September. If you want to share your summer vacation, contact editor Liz Lu with your travel story.

Our first big event in September will be our welcome coffee. Please bring some of the new people

you will meet along to get connected into the community.

Letter from the NNR PresidentLetter from the NNR PresidentLetter from the NNR PresidentLetter from the NNR President

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994

Safe travels,

Mare Harvey,

Chair NNR

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NNR Social Thani TalkThani TalkThani TalkThani Talk————May 2015May 2015May 2015May 2015

Farewell Coffee Morning: May 8

It's that time of the year again! End of school,

planning summer holidays, and saying goodbye

to friends. Every year you think it will get

easier, but it doesn't. This month the NNR

coffee will just be a casual social. The coffee

will be a good time to connect with friends old

and new. Everyone is invited.

Date: Friday, May 8

10 a.m.

Where: Home of Aisling King

167 Natakorn

Please bring a small plate of goodies to share.

Any questions, contact Denise

at [email protected]

Let’s Catch Up !

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NNR Tour Thani TalkThani TalkThani TalkThani Talk————May 2015May 2015May 2015May 2015

NNR Tour: May 11

to Aranyik: A Village of Steel Forges

This short tour to Ayutthaya Province, north of Nonthaburi, takes us a day's march away from the

ruins of the former Siamese capital to a small rural village on the banks of the winding Pa Sak River.

Here, in a workshop, a community-centred enterprise makes high-quality stainless steel

tableware. Production of steel and iron artefacts is centuries old in this village, and this local group has

adapted their skills for a wider, contemporary marketplace.

We will visit this production group and also explore the tradition of steel making from

agricultural tools to domestic knives and even ceremonial swords, all using hand-skills inherited from the

ancient days of hand-weaponry and elephant chains.

During our tour, you will observe how the fine tableware is crafted and finished as you can see it

displayed at the popular ThaiCraft Fairs (ThaiCraft will be at ISB on May 9). Stephen Salmon, a

co-founder of ThaiCraft, will join the trip and introduce us to community leaders. Plenty of time will also

be available for shopping!

Date: May 11th

Time: 7:50 a.m. in front of Chevron Theatre, ISB

(return by 2 p.m. depending on traffic)

Cost: 900 baht (transportation, tour, lunch)

To Sign Up: Please Email: [email protected]

(tour limited to 14 participants)

Susanne Rodrigues and Jesmin Tarana, NNR Tour Coordinators

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Cover Story: Farewells Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Time for Farewells

For this year’s Farewell issue, we say goodbye to three NNR Board members, as well as some

impressive figures in the local community. They are among the more than 200 expatriates in our

Nonthaburi neighborhood who, each summer, leave our community for other parts of Thailand, or

overseas. Some return to their home countries and brace for reverse cultural shock. Others pack up for

a posting in another host country.

The three NNR Board members leaving us are: Linda Feltham (Welfare Committee

Chairperson), Monique Langer (Thani Talk Co-Editor), and Heather Wyn Powell (Thani Talk

Distribution Coordinator).

We wish all the best to Linda, Monique, and Heather, plus all the other friends and neighbors

who are leaving Pakkret, including several ISB teachers who are retiring after decades of service. To

all who are moving to other parts of Thailand or leaving the Kingdom of Smiles, bon voyage, and

come back to visit soon!

Nationality: USA

Hometown: Sacramento, California, USA

Other postings: We consider Texas our first expat experience :)

Company that brought you to Thailand: My husband works for

Chevron. I always knew a fantastic job would allow me to see the

world – I just didn’t think it would be my husband’s!

Number of years in Thailand: Just over 2

Number of children: 4 boys, toddlers to teen

Moving to what city and country: Houston, TX, USA

Plans: We are moving back to the US for a couple years, then who

knows. We are happy to be closer to friends and family (only a 3-hour

plane ride away instead of 24!), but we got a taste of this wonderful

expat experience and hope to come back to it very soon.

Memories: Too, too many to list! The beautiful Thai beaches. Tuk tuks and motorcycle taxis and BTS

– oh my! Chatuchak every chance I get. Spicy khao soy in Chiang Mai. Never tiring of hearing “gaeng

maak!” when speaking my paltry Thai. Celebrating Thai holidays, especially Songkran and Loy

Krathong. The wonderful ISB community. The sincere reverence and respect Thai people have for

their His Majesty the King. The warm and welcoming Thai spirit. Sharing our amazing adopted

country with friends and family from back home. The fabulous melting pot that is Nichada. The

indescribable electric pulse that is Bangkok. Friendships forged in Nichada that will last a lifetime.

Taking pictures of people taking pictures of my kids. The extremely talented and selfless group of

women I had the pleasure of working with on NNR.

Advice for newcomers: Learn the language. Eat the street food. Get involved (I know of a wonderful

local expat magazine looking for an assistant editor!). Shop till you drop. Travel! Leave the bubble –

often. Learn to cook Thai food – I wish I had taken more classes! Try to approach situations with “jai

yen” (cool heart). Learn to say “mai pen rai” and mean it!

Monique Langer

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Nationality: Welsh

Hometown: I was born in the United Kingdom and my hometown for

many years was Llangefni, North Wales.

Other postings: USA – California and Texas

Company that brought you to Thailand: Chevron

Number of years in Thailand: 5 very happy years

Number of children: 2

Moving to what city and country: Jakarta, Indonesia

Plans: To get us from “here” to “there” in one piece and probably in a

very short time frame! Not having ever visited Indonesia before, I find

the prospect of a new “home” city (Jakarta) is a little daunting, but past experience tells me that it will

all shake out well, and in twelve months we will have a new rhythm and pace. Already people are

welcoming and sharing information before we even touch the soil.

Memories: Many of my memories are wrapped around our family and the shared experiences we have

had whilst living here in Thailand. I never imagined when we left the UK 10 years ago (for a short 18

month assignment) the scale of our experiences and the opportunities that would come our way! Pretty

soon our children will be taking their own paths, and so to be able to flick through the photo album

and see what memories we have made so far makes my heart swell. This particular assignment though

has been an amazing chance for me to keep my brain ticking over. It has been just great taking on new

projects and meeting so many people. I have been taught new skills and have enjoyed being useful in

my own right whilst having the added bonus of being an “at home Mum and Wife.”

Advice for newcomers: Be kind to yourselves and don’t expect everything to fall in place at the

beginning of your assignment. Expect that things will be “different” to where you came from –

sometimes for the good, sometimes the “not so good.” Remember that it has taken many of us time to

relearn the rhythm of “day to day living” in Asia and especially in Nichada. Say “yes please” to as

many offers or invitations as you can to start with so as to get a taste for what is on offer. The Thani

Talk is a great start to find out what is happening in our community. And on the days when you think

that people are too busy with their own set of established friends to include a “newbie” then haul

yourself to Villa or Starbucks, smile and start a conversation with the person next to you or join the

fabulous Facebook group Expats of Pakkret and ask a question – a sure fire way to get some chat

going! If possible, soon after you arrive at your new home book a long weekend at a beach resort,

splash some cash, and on the tougher days of settling in you will know that you have this chance to

chill once the boxes have been unpacked. Go ahead … you deserve it!

Heather Wyn Powell

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Candace Ball

Nationality: American

Hometown: Vancouver, Washington

Other postings: Bangkok is our first and only overseas assignment

Company or organization that brought you to Thailand: ExxonMobil

Number of years in Thailand: 2

Number of children: 4

Moving to what city and country: Houston, Texas, USA

Plans: We plan to stay in Houston indefinitely and finish raising our kids

there.

Memories: We love the genuine smiles that come easily from Thais!

I also love the diversity and friendliness of fellow Nichada residents /

ISB parents.

We have had unique family trips and experiences while living here. We

loved exploring and seeing the beautiful countryside in Thailand, Hong

Kong and Cambodia, including ancient temples, mountains, jungles,

gorgeous beaches, waterfalls, rice paddies, lotus fields, and more. We've tried lots of different modes of

transportation: ATVs, horses, tuk tuks, taxis, motorbikes, zip lining, songthaews, bicycling, and just the

regular crazy Bangkok traffic. :)

We will always remember that people loved to stare at, talk to, and/or want to touch our youngest son

who has blue eyes, fair skin and lots of freckles.

Feeding the orphans at Baan Rachawadee and visiting with residents of the Home for Destitute was also a

favorite. We will miss the tropical flowers, trees, and animals. Most of all, we will miss our new-

found friends from all over the world!

Advice for newcomers: Learn the language! Thais are so generous with even the

lamest attempts :) It's fun and rewarding to be able

to communicate. Explore and get to know people and

places outside Nichada.

Find a way to volunteer. Be balanced - there are many

opportunities for activities, so take advantage of them. But

give yourself time to get settled and take it slowly if you

need to.

Enjoy your time - it will be over before you know it!

Nationality: Indian

Hometown: Lucknow, India

Other postings: USA

Company that brought you to Thailand: Colgate Palmolive Ltd.

Number of years in Thailand: 3 years

Number of children: 2 - Daughter, 13 and Son, 10.

Moving to what city and country: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Plans: Not sure how long we are going to stay in Vietnam but I am

hoping to pursue my hobbies and to learn about another culture as long

as we stay there.

Garima Joshi

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Nationality: American

Hometown: We come from Greenville, South Carolina but I am an

Okie at heart (Bartlesville, Oklahoma).

Other postings: Clermont-Ferrand, France (pre-kids)

Employer: Michelin

Number of years in Thailand: 3 ½ years

Number of children: I have 2 children, 7 and 11 years old

Moving to: We are heading back to Clermont-Ferrand, France

Plans: My plans for our future move are to continue our kids’ worldly

education. We have been so lucky over the past several years to open their eyes to the people,

experiences, and culture of Asia. Now we are in hopes to do the same on our next continent. We look

forward to exploring as much as we can. Watch out Europe, here we come!

Memories of Thailand: I will always remember the Thai slogan “Amazing Thailand.” It is quite fitting

in so many ways. The sounds, the smells, the tastes, and the people are all amazing. The can do attitude

and positivity are endless. Anything can be done if you know who to ask. I will miss the exquisite

beaches and the fantastic holiday celebrations. I will mourn the Thai lifestyle here. I will miss the ease

and convenience of a school with so many amenities right at our

fingertips. I will miss Nichada, and the feel of community. My

take away memories of Thailand, are of the fun times with

friends who have been my extended family for the last 3 ½ years.

Advice: My advice to newcomers to Bangkok….Jump In With

Both Feet! My motto has always been -- Just Say YES! Yes to

new experiences, Yes to volunteering and helping where needed,

Yes to traveling, Yes to going to lunch with people you might not

know…. The list is endless. Expat life is an interesting one. If

you wait around to figure out what it is you want to do, those

opportunities might be gone. Get out of your house and explore

the community. There is no time to be timid, just jump in and

you will find yourself surrounded by fun, interesting people that

you will cherish forever.

Kristen Garrett

Memories: When I first moved to Bangkok,

I was a little skeptical about it. But on the

contrary I found this place very warm and

welcoming, especially Nichada Thani and

ISB. My kids had a very smooth transition

into the community. Right from day one, I

felt at home.

I enjoyed learning about Thai heritage and

culture. My family had fun holidaying in

Thailand’s beautiful beaches, as well as the

historical places and astonishing temples.

I made some beautiful friends and have fond

memories with them which I’ll cherish life

long.

Advice for newcomers: Just come with an

open heart, this city will embrace you.

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Sue Chandler

Nationality: USA

Hometown: New York, USA

Other postings: York High School, York Maine;

American Community School, Athens, Greece

Organization that brought you to Thailand: ISB

Number of years in Thailand:29

Number of years at ISB:29

Number of children: 2: Sierra is 23 and working in NYC

for BBC America. Virginia is 25 and finishing up 2 years

in the Peace Corps in Mongolia in August - I really look

forward to spending time with my girls!

Moving to what city and country: Will remain in

Thailand about half the year and will be spending the other

half in Lake Tahoe, California

Plans: Active retirement. I want to try to give back. I

would like to volunteer in schools for underprivileged

youth in Thailand. I would like to work as a mentor to

students through the Boys and Girls Club in South Lake

Tahoe and possibly do some volunteer work in New York

City. I also have started work on a book that I would like

to complete within the year, It will be a source book of the

big ideas of science that kids (and teachers) need to understand in order to make them scientifically

literate. And on top of that, there is time with my family and on the ski slopes!

Memories: It has been great to spend 29 years at ISB. I thought I was coming for about 4 years

but ended up meeting my husband at the sailing club in Pattaya. He is a longtime Bangkok expat. We

decided to marry and raise a family here. While here I helped to form the middle school

and played an important role in the transition from ISB’s Sukhumvit Soi 15 campus to Nichada.

The career highlight for me was being able to take about 650

students over the course of 21 years to the U.S. The trip was

based around a week at Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama

and then finishing with a week visiting science and nature

attractions in Florida. It was codenamed "Operation

Starship" and ranks high on the list of all who had the

opportunity to attend.

Advice for

newcomers: ISB is like

a web that can totally

absorb you. Make sure

that you realise that

there is life away from

the school and Bangkok

and take advantage of

those opportunities!

13


Chris Tananone

Nationality: USA

Hometown: Cranston, Rhode Island

Other postings: Chiang Mai, Thailand; Newtown, Pennsylvania;

Chicago, Illinois

Company or organization that first brought you to Thailand:

Christian Volunteers in Thailand (as volunteer English teacher in

1972)

Number of years in Thailand: 33

Number of years at ISB: 29

Number of children: 2: Brinya - ISB

class of 2000, and Malai - ISB class of

2003

Moving to what city: Chiang Mai

Plans: Renovate and settle into our new home as first time homeowners,

travel, scout out volunteer opportunities in Chiang Mai, join a book group,

make new friends, stay in touch with old friends

Memories of my time at ISB: Going home from the old Soi 15 campus

via klong boat, the emotional move to the new campus in 1992, Habitat

builds, trips to Bang Saen with the kids from Baan Rachawadee, the flood

relief effort in 2010, GCW trips, the 2009 Global Issues Network

Conference and 2015 Bangkok ServICE conference, watching my children

compete in IASAS, engaging students in the classroom, meeting some of

them again as adults!

Advice for newcomers: The best way to understand a culture is to learn its

language. Try to learn some Thai; it will make your experience so much

richer.

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Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Cover Story: Farewells

Linda Feltham

Nationality: British and American (became a US citizen

whilst living there so I could vote!)

Hometown: Difficult to say as I had a dad in the forces and we

moved every couple of years. The longest I have lived in one

place was 14 years in California before moving to

Thailand.

Other postings: This was our first one although moving to

California from the UK was a big change for me!

Company that brought you to Thailand: Chevron

Number of years in Thailand: 3 years

Number of children: One daughter graduating from ISB this

year and one son who is a junior at San Diego State University

Moving to what city and country: Back to Danville,

California

Plans: We will be empty nesters and will enjoy having more

free weekends to explore California. Our daughter will be

starting college in Washington State, it will be good to easily

attend events there and at our son’s college, not too many of course!

Memories: We have been very fortunate to travel to many different countries during our 3 years in

Thailand, all were memorable for different reasons. Favorites include Luang Prabong in Laos, Sapa in

Vietnam, Sydney and Doubtful Sound in New Zealand. Spending Christmas in Melbourne with family

that I hadn’t seen in many years was a definite highlight, as was showing them around when they came

to visit us here! I have made many friends here from all over the world, it is so easy these days to keep

in touch that I know our paths will cross again.

Advice for newcomers: Reach out to people, don’t be afraid to ask someone to meet for coffee, attend

NNR socials, it is a great way to meet people. Sign up for classes through adult education, try

something you always wanted to do. Sign up to volunteer for something, there are so many different

opportunities to give back. If it’s not for you that’s OK. Try something else! Enjoy the sights and

activities that Bangkok has to offer, leave Nichada at least once a week! Embrace the Thai culture,

tolerate the traffic (take a book in the car if you have a driver) and travel! I feel very fortunate to have

called Thailand “home” for the last 3 years.

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Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Community Fitness and Activities

The Community Fitness and Activities page lists local classes/groups that meet regularly.

Some have fees associated with them, while others are free. Please contact each group leader

for more information.

If you would like to list your group here, please submit your announcement by the 15th of each

month to [email protected].

VINYASA YOGA Develop strength, flexibility, balance, focus, and awareness coordinating movement and breath. Thursdays

8.15-9.45 am in my home studio at 39/184 Natakorn Park. Space is limited so please call for availability.

Private classes available for physical alignment, breath work, Vedic chanting, yoga philosophy, and meditation.

Contact: Ellie Edelhoff at 087-000-2464 or 02-967-9677. Email:[email protected]

MEDITATION COURSES -Individual or Group Learn TM (Transcendental Meditation). Relieves stress and anxiety. Improves health, academic, athletic, and

professional performance. Anyone can learn. Expert instruction by a 35-year teacher of meditation. Contact Ellie

Edelhoff for more information www.TM.org, www.tmeducation.org,www.DavidLynchFoundation.org

BOLLYWOOD DANCE CLASSES – (Beginners/Advanced) Bollywood dance is a fusion of Western, Eastern and Latin Dance with traditional classical Indian dance styles.

It’s funky, it’s sexy, it’s fun... and it’s a great workout! If you love to dance – this is for you!

Bollywood Dance for Beginners

Tuesdays 9 am or Thursdays 10:15 am, Regent Dance Studio, Nichada

Bollywood Dance, Advanced:

Tuesdays 10 am or Thursdays 9 am, Regent Dance Studio, Nichada

For further information, Irit: 0860044840, [email protected]

NIA DANCE Nia Dance is a holistic fitness form, for the body, mind and spirit. It emphasizes various dance arts and movement,

while combining healing and martial arts. This will be a playful dance workout to increase your body’s fitness,

flexibility, toning, strengthening, and mobility, delight your mind and boost your spirit – in a really fun way!

Classes are at a drop in basis.

Fridays at 9-10am, Dance Studio above Starbucks, Nichada

For further information, Irit: 0860044840, [email protected]

YOGA WITH NAPISA

Monday, 8:45-10:15 am: Alignment and restorative yoga, All Levels Wednesday 7:30-9am: Level 2, Wednesday

5:30-6:45 pm: Level 1-2, Friday 7:30-8:45 am: Level 1- 2 @ Studio above Starbucks, Nichada.

Contact Napisa C. Pant, 086-975-7187, [email protected], facebook.com/yogawithnapisa

KUNDALINI YOGA-Flexible Yoga for Mind and Body

Beginners to advanced welcome! Tuesdays 9-10:30am or Fridays 8-9:30am Danicha Condo 39/289. Private

classes available. Contact Kerstin Wild [email protected] 086-372-9750

VINYASA YOGA

Beginners to advanced, Mon-Fri 8:00-9:30am; Mon, Wed, and Fri 9:45-11:15 alignments and techniques of

Iyengar Yoga; ProClub (200 meters from front gate). Juan Bodan, visit www.kripa-yoga.com for more info!

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Community Fitness and Activities Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

RANGER BOOTCAMP: Come have fun and get fit at Ranger Bootcamp! All fitness

levels are welcome!

Contact: Jack at [email protected] or

087-552-6007

Class Times: 7:30am, Monday - Friday + additional day/night

classes per demand

Location: Varies depending on class and time; Fees: varies

DOUBLES TENNIS Join us for night tennis! All tennis levels are welcome!

No partners needed.

Contact: Garima Joshi [email protected]

085-218-8904 Monday: 7pm-9pm , Wednesday: 7pm-9pm

Location: ISB Old Courts, Fees: Free to play!

MASTERS SWIMMING

Nichada Pool, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30-8:30. Every swimmer is welcome. Contact Kevin:

[email protected] or Kerstin: [email protected] 086-372-9750

SOCIAL SQUASH NETWORK

Great year-round sport for fitness and fun.

If you play; have played and want to get

back into it; want to play and never got

around to it; and need someone to play with

join this network. Males and females of all

levels welcome.

Contact Geoff and Rosemary Lindsay

email: [email protected] or

phone: 092464 9205

BIKING

Weekend bike rides, leaving from back gate at 7am, 50+km on mtn bikes. Contact Chris Oglesby:

[email protected]

Weekday rides leave the back gate at 7:30am on Mon and Wed. Distance and terrain varies with groups for

both road bikes and mountain/hybrid bikes. Contact Meg Sine: [email protected] 084-908-9388

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Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Community News: New Sports Center

Many changes are planned for the space that was once occupied by the old Villa grocery store and

surrounding shops. The space has been mostly empty for a while, but recently new businesses have

moved in and more changes are planned for the future.

According to the Nichada General Manager, the space will become a Sports Complex containing

sports and fitness related shops and businesses. Currently open in this space is American Tae Kwon Do

and LIFEFORCE Fitness and Jui-Jitsu. Plans for the opening of a Muay Thai gym and a community

youth center are also currently in the works. The space near the front of the complex that was once

occupied by the pharmacy may contain a bicycle shop. The two remaining shops available for rent have

not been filled. It is possible that a store for sporting apparel, shoes, and uniforms will fill this space.

The largest entity that is moving into the

complex is the Jaroenthong Muay Thai Gym. It will

occupy the space that previously housed the Villa

grocery store. A soft opening is planned for May, and

the Grand Opening is scheduled to take place in June.

This is the third branch of the gym to open; the

other two are currently in operation in Bangkok near

the Rama IV expressway and in Koh Samui.

Training will be provided by Muay Thai Master

Jareon Chumanee, and four additional professional

Muay Thai boxers/trainers. The gym will have a

stadium, a weight room, and a refreshment corner.

Private and group lessons will be offered for all

levels of training from beginner to advanced

professional, and will be available for everyone from the age of 5 and up. The general manager and

part-owner, Kanokwun Stitnimankarn (Khun Nok), notes that while the gym may host competitions in the

future, its initial primary focus will be fitness and training. She expects the gym to provide a place where

individuals can reach a level of “peak fitness,” and is counting on the popularity of Muay Thai training to

fill the gym.

Michael Grimes of American Tae Kwon Do

Martial Arts Center is well known to the Nichada

community. He began teaching Tae Kwon Do to

American embassy families when they lived in the

housing area outside the Nichada gates, and when the

embassy families moved into Nichada he moved with

them. For the last six or more years he has been

teaching Tae Kwon Do in the Regent clubhouse and

as part of the ISB after school activities program, in

addition to teaching classes on the weekend in

downtown Bangkok. He moved to the old Villa

space in January, and is glad that he did. He noted

that the location provides greater exposure and he

now has more students including more women.

Popular programs include Hapkido which

teaches practical self-defense to all students aged 10

and up, and the Little Tigers classes for children aged

3 to 6 years. He’s also pleased that his center is

putting some life into a previously dead space.

Sports Complex Coming to Old Villa Location

21

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Community News: New Youth Center

Annette Long

The crazy laughter of Middle School boys … the hushed whispers of High School girls … These

will soon be regular fixtures in the old Nichada Club complex adjacent to the lake. Nichada

management desires to create a family-friendly, healthy-living environment in this area that once was

central to our community.

Chaengwattana Community Church (CCC) recently acquired two empty shop spaces across from

the old Villa Market to be converted into a Community Youth Center. All Nichada youth will be

welcome to “hang out” in this safe place after school and on weekends when open.

Young people from the church are already brainstorming about what to include in this space.

Ping-pong? Pool table? Air hockey? Foosball? The church is currently running a “Name the Space”

contest!

Expect the dust to fly shortly as the wall between the two spaces gets removed. Remodeling will

continue during the summer break, with plans for a “Grand Opening” after students return in the fall.

Questions? Suggestions? Call or drop by the CCC office on weekdays between 10 am to 3 pm.

Tel: 02-911-6700.

Community Youth Center to Open this Fall

Tim Robertson,

Lead Pastor, Chaengwattana Community Church

Also in January, Tony Hemsley and his wife Jah moved

their business, LIFEFORCE, into the complex. LIFEFORCE

provides fitness, nutrition, and strength training through

personalized programs. It also offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes

including a kids program on Monday and Wednesday

afternoons. Tony, who is half-Finnish and half-British, moved

from Finland to Thailand eight years ago when he married his

Thai wife Jah, but has been focused on fitness and healthy

living since he was a teenager. He and Jah together are

passionate about providing quality nutrition and strength

training to improve health, fitness and energy levels for their

clients. Tony also finds teaching Jiu-Jitsu to children to be

particularly rewarding because he can encourage them to

believe in their abilities and to “never give up.”

Chaengwattana Chaengwattana Chaengwattana Chaengwattana Community Community Community Community

ChurchChurchChurchChurch

cccthailand.org

Faceboo.com/NichadaCCC

Twitter.com/CCCinBKK

22

Community News Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Le Bouchon: Popular Restaurant is Moving Inside Nichada

Le Bouchon Parisien, a longtime favorite for many

Nichada residents, will be moving into the area

vacated by the Nichada Club restaurant and will

open sometime before the first of August. Their last

day at the current location is set for the end of June.

The owner of Le Bouchon, as it’s known for short,

is Bruno Georges Marchal. Together with his wife,

Uraivan Marchal and his two sons, Chef Stephane,

34, and pasta/pizza taster William, 12, he is excited about the move and sharing this new opportunity with

the community.

Current patrons will be happy to know that many of the French and Italian menu items will remain the

same, and there are plans to build a pizza oven in the new location similar to the old oven. New additions

to the menu will include Mexican and American snack foods.

Renovation plans include a separate sports bar offering beers, cable TV, and a pool table, great for

relaxing and having fun! For those who enjoy the pool area, there will be a pool service menu including

drinks and food.

Additionally, there are plans to have live music on Fridays and Saturdays. There will also be tables on the

terrace for outdoor dining. Home delivery service times will improve with direct access inside.

Bruno says, “We hope all of these additions will entice our neighbors to frequent Le Bouchon.”

Laura Sadowski

Hours of Operation

will be the same as now:

Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday:

11am- pm

Friday and Saturday: 11am- 11pm

Thursday, Friday and Saturday for the

sports bar: open until midnight

The plan, at first, is to be closed on

Mondays. Later, if there is more demand

and business is good, he will open on

Mondays and may open early for

breakfast and brunch.

24

Heard It Through the GRAPEVINE This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips so that others can benefit. If you have tips to share, please send them to the editor at [email protected].

Heard It Through The Grapevine Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Shop Online, Enjoy Home Delivery

I discovered online shopping shortly after moving to Nichada Thani last August. With no car and no

golf cart, only my bicycle, all my shopping was done locally with a backpack, not so easy for heavy

and bulky items! I have used either Tesco Lotus or Tops for almost all my dry food, drinks (including

beer), dog food, cleaning supplies, etc. since then.

Generally I order from Tesco Lotus. Delivery cost is

60 baht, and they have always delivered promptly

within the 2-hour period requested. If items are not

available they will substitute with a close alternative.

Sometimes I chose to accept the alternate items, but

not always. Although you can pay online, I always

pay on delivery. If I know I will be at home I pay by

credit card. If not, I leave the cash with whoever is at

the house.

The process is very simple: go to the website and sign

up. You will need an email address and will be asked

to choose a password. Book a delivery slot (usually the next day), give an address, and start shopping.

The site is organized in categories and you can set up shopping lists or just revisit your favorites. I

only occasionally order fresh fruit, vegetables or meats, mainly because I like to see what I am buying.

However, when I have ordered produce, the quality of the fruits and vegetables has been good. Their

cold chain (frozen and chilled products) is also good. Whenever I order refrigerated products, the

items come in the cooler section of the delivery truck.

Tops online does not seem to have the choice that they have in their shop at Central Chaegwattana, but

more importantly, I find their website and sign in process more cumbersome. Having said that, I

haven't ordered from Tops for quite a while now, so things may have changed. Tops delivery is free if

you order over 900 bahts’ worth. They also deliver the same day if you order early enough.

Here are the links:

http://shoponline.tescolotus.com/

http://topsshoponline.tops.co.th/en/

Happy shopping!

Henrietta Bullinger

25

Heard It Through The Grapevine Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Ceramics Factory in Ratchaburi

If you like shopping and road trips, I’ve got the perfect

place for you.

Tao Hong Thai Ceramics Factory in Ratchaburi Province

has every size, shape and color of ceramics available, from

table vases to impossibly sized pots and everything in

between. Don’t expect a fancy showroom. A lot of the

products are in dusty warehouses or in the outside yard.

The prices are a bit higher than they were a couple years

ago, but they are still reasonable compared to prices

overseas. The best deals are the pieces that are discounted

due to small defects. Don’t be put off by “defects” - the

imperfections are slight (sometimes not even visible)

and offer significant savings.

What to bring: Hat, sunglasses, water, sunscreen, bug

spray, fan, wet napkins for your hands, snacks for the

drive. Bring cash, or you can pay upon delivery in

Nichada. Delivery to Nichada is free but will take

several days to arrive.

The factory is about a two-hour drive from Nichada.

(More if your driver gets lost.) Their website is

comprehensive and offers pictures and information on

production. Custom orders are also available.

For more information visit: www.thtceramic.com.

Monique Langer

26

Interested? Contact Liz at:

[email protected]

We Need: Editors, Writers,

Photographers, and Distributors

NNR Needs You!

29

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Community News: Profile

Richard Johnson returns to manage new condo

It was lovely to meet Richard Johnson, a 14-year Nichada employee, and speak with him about his time

in Bangkok. At age 22, he moved to Bangkok from England with his family in 1996 and started working

for Nichada in 1997.

As a young man in his early twenties, and the only expat employee of Nichada, he became the Assistant

Manager of Nichada Club and Property Manager of Nichada Park. His background was in hotel

management and catering, so it was a good fit.

Richard said that in 1997 people were living in Casa, Maison, Danicha and Nichada Park, but you

couldn’t walk around the lake. There were mostly Americans living in Nichada.

He learned Thai and after 5 years rose to become the Manager of Nichada Club. After working for 10

years with Nichada Club, Richard switched over to become the Customer

Service Manager. He was the first person in that role.

After four years at Customer Service, and 14 years working for Nichada,

Richard left Bangkok to go back to England to help a relative open up a

hotel and restaurant. Scott Roman took over for Richard.

Richard missed Thailand, so in January 2015 he came back to Nichada

and Bangkok. He was hired on to be the Manager of N1 and N2 Lake

Condominiums.

He is excited about his new position because he is getting to do something

new in Nichada. The condos will have concierge services. Eventually these

services will be linked to Clark Hatch membership. The condos will also

have a security system with a RFID entrance, intercom and fingerprint

technology, as well as a 24-hour guard presence.

N1 and N2 are having an open house grand opening on Saturday, May 9 at 3pm. There will be food,

drinks, music, and prizes. Everyone in Nichada is welcome. People renting the condos will start moving

in on May 1st.

The condos will have a restaurant called Vapor and a full fitness center. Initially the fitness center will

be open to all Clark Hatch Members, but that will change over time.

The third floor will have a main pool, kid’s pool, pool terrace, and Vapor Restaurant. The fitness center,

sauna, and steam areas will be below the pool. Also below the pool will be a vista terrace with lake

views. Nichada has also just decided to add a playground for the residents.

Another interesting thing worth mentioning is that some of the condos will be rented for short stays. Ni-

chada has reserved five, 3-bedroom condos for their own short term stay inventory, and they are re-

leasing four, 2-bedroom condos to Agoda as short term accommodation. That will come in handy for

parents traveling for IASAS or other events at ISB.

We wish Richard all the best in his new position!

Mare Harvey

34

Around Nonthaburi and Beyond

Chaengwattana Community Church

Adult Sunday School—8:30am

Sunday Service—9:30am

Encouraging Women—Wed., 9am

Men’s Meeting—Thurs., 5am

Community Prayer—Tuesdays 7:30-8:30am

Youth Alpha Group (high school) Sunday 6pm

Youth Group (middle school) Thursdays 6:30pm

http://www.cccthailand.org (02-911-6700)

Catholic Mass in Nonthaburi

Our Lady of Mercy Church

69/13 Moo 1, Tiwanon Rd. Ban Mai, Pakkred.

English Mass: Sundays at 5:15pm

Contact us at: [email protected]

Discover the Rosary, contact Chris at

[email protected]

CCT - Club Canada Thailand Open to all nationalities. Monthly tours, book

group, Lunch Bunch, and other social events.

www.clubcanadathailand.com

BWG - British Women's Group Monthly Luncheon, Activities, Coffee Mornings.

Open to all nationalities.

Contact: Sarah Glaze 081-793 0806

www.bwgbangkok.com;

[email protected]

ANZWG -Australia/New Zealand Women’s

Group

Monthly Coffee Mornings, Tours, Newsletter &

Activities

www.anzwg-bangkok.org

AWC—American Women’s Club of Thailand

Monthly Luncheon, Activities and Coffee

Morning. Contact: 02-712-3380/1

[email protected]; www.awcthailand.org

Clubs: International

Synagogue

Beth Elisheva Synagogue, Mikveh & Jewish Center 121 Soi SaiNamThip 2, Sukhumvit Road, Soi 22

Tel: 02-663-0244; Fax: 663-0245

Mosque

Soi Prasert Issaram Mosque

8 Moo 3 Soi Prasert Issaram, Pakkred, Nonthaburi

Neighborhood mosque just outside of Nichada Thani.

Buddhist Temple

Wat Bua Khwan (วดับวัขวญั)

1 Moo 9 Ngamwongwan Road, Muang, Nonthaburi

02-952-8062; Watbuakhwan.com Popular local

temple offering merit-making, prayer, blessings and

funeral services. 15 minutes from Nichada. Go via

Samakkee Road, on shortcut soi just before the

expressway on-ramp near Ngamwongwan.

Worship Venues

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 50/33 Moo 4 Chaengwattana Road

Sunday Worship Service--9 am.(in English)

Family History Research Group--Mondays, 9-12 p.m.

Book Group--2nd Wed./month, 11 a.m.

“Foodie” Group--1st Tues./month,10 a.m.

Youth Group—Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Contact Marie Lewis (092-581-9606)

Visitors welcome!

Clubs: Sports

Adult Volleyball League:

Wednesdays at 6:30 PM (and some Mondays) playing

friendly matches in ISB’s Rajendra Hall.

Contact Pat Sethbhakdi: [email protected]

Men’s Softball League:

Slo-pitch men’s softball. League runs from

November to May. Contact: Troy Regis at:

[email protected]

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Events: Shopping & Concerts

Impact Arena

www.ThaiTicketMajor.com

International Bangkok Bike 2015

April 30-May 3

Bicycle trade show for bicycle

enthusiasts.

Backstreet Boys

In a World Like This Tour

May 6

Katy Perry

The Prismatic World Tour

May 14

Boyzone: BZ20

The Anniversary Tour

May 24

35

Latin Ball 2015, held on March 21st and organized by the Latin Community in Thailand, was a great

night. Besides giving guests an opportunity to gather, greet and enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends,

the main purpose of the Latin Ball was to raise money for charity projects in Thailand.

This year, we donated all proceeds to:

- Colabora Birmania (refugees)

- Christian Foundation for Children with Disabilities (Pakkret orphanages)

- Night Light (which fights against human trafficking)

- Salesian Congregation/Sister Ana Rosa (scholarships)

We would like to thank the Embassies of Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico, Peru and Spain, as

well as our main sponsors: Himapan Gallery, Asian Tiger Mobility, Bumrungrad Hospital, Coca Cola/

Thainamthip, Raja's Fashions, Pandit Carpets, Yesterday Once Again, Bamboo Spa, Phoenix Muay Thai

Gym Bkk, Panipa Hair & Beauty, Le Bouchon Restaurant, Hilina's Gift Shop and many others.

Finally, many thanks to all of you who attended the Latin Ball and helped us to have an unforgettable

evening. If you are interested in becoming part of the Latin community or if you need further information

about the Ball, please don't hesitate to contact us at: [email protected]. Looking forward to

having you join our future events.

Best regards,

Adriana, Alejandra, Anita, Gabriela, Melina y Sergio

Latin Ball 2015 Raises Money for Charity

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Community News

36

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 NNR Coffee Morning Highlights

Cooking Demo & Coffee Morning Highlights

On Tuesday, April 7, Kade Tiyaphorn and Liz Lu co-hosted

the NNR coffee at Mansions in the Park. If you attended you got the

pleasure of watching Chef Veeya, a friend of Khun Kade, manager

of Mansions in the Park, prepare two amazing dishes: smokey sweet

potato burgers with avocado and garlic cream, and a tomato

mozzarella barley salad. We all got to sample Chef Veeya’s tasty

creations.

Chef Veeya is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu London and owns

the Fat Beagle Cafe and Bakery at Sukhumvit Soi 33 in Bangkok.

She loves to cook with local organic ingredients, most of which

come from Khun Kade’s organic family farm, Rim Ping.

Thank you to Liz Lu, Khun Kade and Chef Veeya for a

wonderful coffee.

Denise Warta

37

Recipe Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Ingredients: 2 cups coarsely mashed sweet potatoes (or yams), about 2 large potatoes

2 bulbs of roasted garlic

1 cup cannellini beans (rinsed and drained if canned)

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/3 cup panko bread crumbs

1/3 cup oat flour (or all-purpose, wheat, etc.)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/8 teaspoon cumin

2-3 tablespoons olive oil

1 avocado, sliced

2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 teaspoon maple syrup

extra salt and pepper for seasoning yogurt/cream

4 whole wheat buns

Directions:

Roast garlic. Pierce potatoes (I used 2 large) all over with a fork and place on a paper towel, set-

ting in the microwave. Microwave for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for 5 minutes more. Re-

move, slice in half and let cool until you can scoop out the flesh.

In a large bowl, coarsely mash beans with a fork. Add in sweet potato and mash together, then add

in spices, salt and pepper, minced garlic, egg, panko and flour. Mix together until combined, then

place bowl in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This helps form them into patties, but as a warning they

are still somewhat messy.

While mixture is chilling, combine yogurt/sour cream with 2 bulbs (squeezed out) of roasted garlic

cloves, maple syrup and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a blender or food processor. Process until

smooth then set aside until ready to use.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Remove mixture from fridge

and form into 4 equal patties, then place in the skillet once hot. Since the mixture can be wet and

messy, do not move until they are fully cooked and golden on one side! This takes about 5-6

minutes. Then, add more oil if needed (this really helps cook them) and flip burgers very gently.

Cook for another 5-6 minutes. Toast buns if desired.

Assemble by topping burgers with roasted garlic cream and avocado!

Thank you to Khun Veeya for demonstrating this recipe at

NNR’s April Social at Mansions in the Park.

Smokey Sweet Potato Burgers

with Avocado and Garlic Cream

38

ADVERTISEMENT

41

For more than 30 years, Carl Janowitz has provided therapy

for adults, couples, adolescents and families. Carl spent

most of his life in the US where he earned his Master’s

Degree in Counseling Psychology and completed his

internship before working in both residential settings and

private practice. In 2003, he was offered a full time position

as the only Western Psychologist at Bumrungrad Hospital

where he spent five years in clinic before going into private

practice. Now with offices in both Bangkok and Pattaya, Carl

specializes in clients dealing with life changes, relationship

conflict, depression, anxiety and stress and also focuses on

both adolescents and adults with self esteem issues.

For a confidential appointment please call

089 680 3503 or [email protected]

www.bangkoktherapy.com

Carl Janowitz

Marriage and Family Therapist Circle One Building

1674 Petchaburi Rd. (Near Bumrungrad)

When Life Feels

Overwhelming

Reach Out for Help…

42

Travel: Medical Mission in Myanmar Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Myanmar Through a Volunteer Family’s Eyes

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” (Theodore Roosevelt)

This quote truly made sense to us after our family trip to Myanmar. It is always possible to make a

difference. We were so excited when we got the opportunity to join Kids Action for Kids and Operation

Smile on their first Myanmar mission -- a trip that has left all four of us with lifelong memories.

Not only because Myanmar is a very beautiful country, and the people are open and friendly, but this

mission allowed us to see what you don’t see as a tourist. We got a glimpse of the humble life many

families in the countryside live. In the 1000-bed hospital in Naypyitaw, we met more than 220 families

who had traveled for days, now waiting patiently in line with the hope of getting life-changing surgery

for their kids. For 142 the dream came through. The others are now registered and will hopefully get a

chance at the next mission.

Our job as volunteers was to entertain and play with the kids while they were waiting in the summer heat.

As fascinated as we were about meeting these kids they were just as interested in us - especially Silje

(11) and Jonas (12). Just looking at and having a photo taken with the blond kids was entertaining for

them. It was obvious that the majority hadn’t met any “farang kids” before.

It was amazing to see the contact between kids throwing a ball, playing soccer or blowing soap bobbles.

No language was needed to exchange smiles and friendly gestures. We would of course have loved to be

able to talk to them and understand more about their individual stories and background. It touched us to

see that not a single kid had brought a toy. So the contact with us, and the toys we handed out, seemed to

be very much appreciated.

43

Travel: Medical Mission in Myanmar Thani Talk Thani Talk Thani Talk Thani Talk ––––May 2015May 2015May 2015May 2015

Now that we are back home, many kids and memories are still fresh in our minds. For example: the

smile from a teenage boy as he was getting a piece of paper and a few crayons, the little girl in a moldy

worn-out dress whose mom asked for my necklace, the bright 13-year old boy who looked like a 9-year

old, or the little blind girl with a very severe deformity.

Our family has, in different ways, supported KAFK for a couple of years. In September 2013, we joined

our first mission as volunteers in Ubon, northern Thailand. This trip to Myanmar has only engaged us

even more, seeing many older kids and quite a few severe cases made a huge impact. Knowing that

between 50,000-60,000 people live in Myanmar with cleft palates, we have a lot more fundraising to do

and need all the help we can get.

Silje, 11:

“One face that I will never forget was a little baby girl with a

really bad deformity. She was blind in one eye, but when you

really managed to catch her attention she was a very

cute and beautiful baby. It’s so important that these kids

get life changing surgeries. I’m glad that we helped

some of them.

Jonas, 12: “I met a boy who was 13 years old and his name

was Hangshu, and he became my friend. We were

throwing a ball in a circle and even when the

other kids went away, we just kept playing and

having lots of fun. When he showed me his cleft

palate I realized that he couldn’t say his own

name correctly, and I just wanted to help in any

way that I could. I am sure that I will never forget

him.”

For more information, see www.kidsactionforkids.org

Tina Heiermo

46

Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015 Charity: Award and Donations

NNR Earns Service Award from

Ministry of Social Development

In recognition of NNR’s long-term support of

the homeless at the Nonthaburi Reception Home for

the Destitute, the Ministry of Social Development

named NNR as one of 18 groups nationwide to

receive an award of appreciation from the Thai

government.

The presentation was made April 1 at the

Ministry during celebrations to mark the 60th

birthday of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

At its April meeting, the NNR Board voted to approve the following donations to local charity and

service groups:

Sang Tawan Foundation: Support education

Baan Rachawadee Girls, Baan Rajawadee Boys, and Home for the Destitute: Purchase of protective

masks for use by staff and volunteers during care and feeding of residents

Baan Rachawadee Girls: Purchase of nutritional supplements for girls with cerebral palsy. Supplements

help prevent pressure sores and improve quality of life for these girls

Baan Rachawadee Girls: Purchase of hot water pots for preparation of drinks and supplements

Baan Rachawadee Girls: Support garden project that will teach the girls how to grow vegetables and

flowers.

Baan Rachawadee Boys and Baan Rachawadee Girls: Purchase of hygiene supplies to help prevent

skin infections

Thanksgiving Home: Batik equipment to teach art and vocational skills to children at the Home.

Nonthapom: Art supplies for use in English classes

Above: On behalf of NNR, shelter volunteers

receive award of appreciation from the Thai

government. (L-R): Liz Lu, shelter Director Khun

Nan, and Marie Lewis.

Additional Donations Approved by NNR Board

47

Charity: Volunteers & Thank You Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Power of Social Media

Helps Sell Baskets for Charity

Dear NNR,

Thank you so much for your support of the 25th Hope For Children Camp at Toei Ngam Beach in

Sattaheep, Chonburi. Eighty children and volunteers of Thanksgiving Home joined more than 1,200

disadvantaged children all over Thailand. This is the 4th year that Thanksgivng Home went to this camp.

This year’s trip was possible because of NNR’s support, which funded one bus and two vans.

We were also able to buy 90 t-shirts for all our children and staff, plus give some to the navy

soldiers who helped our children.

Thanks to NNR, this year we had more than 700 toys to give to the other children at the camp. We

also provided a game booth, name tags, hats, food, snacks and drinks.

This year we networked with other groups serving children: Nonthapoom government home,

Nonthaburi Autism Club, Nonthaburi Chonpratan Songkor School (serving children with disabilities).

This year we are also visiting poor children and their families in Nonthaburi every week.

I would be very pleased if you put this information in your community newsletter

Led by Khun Thanita, the crafts team at the Nonthaburi

Reception Home for the Destitute recently provided the

community with some beautiful, handmade Easter baskets.

Sold individually or in sets of 3, the baskets came in cheerful,

spring colors. Most of the baskets were reserved on a

pre-order basis via Facebook, email, and word of mouth.

Other baskets were sold with the aid of the high school's Elder

Care Club.

The baskets, some with complicated patterns, were hand

woven by the skilled members of the shelter’s crafts team.

Customers loved the cute design, the colors (the new blue,

white, and red pattern was quite popular), the handmade

nature, and the fact that they were supporting residents of the

local homeless shelter.

The crafts team was thrilled that over 100 of their baskets

found new "homes." With orders rolling in, the crafts team

worked hard to fill orders right up until the day before

Easter! They were also excited to receive 100% of the sale

proceeds, amounting to 12,910 baht. My fellow volunteer

Marie Lewis and I delivered the money to the crafts team, and

we congratulated them on their hard work and success in

adding their touch to our Easter season.

Candace Ball

Thanksgiving Home Says “Khop Khun Khrub”!

Appreciate and best regards,

Wanchai, Thanksgiving Home

49

Restaurant Review Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015Thani Talk ~May 2015

Rocket Coffeebar

Brunch anyone?

If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a comforting but

innovative brunch, I can highly recommend Rocket. There are

three outlets in Bangkok. Sukhamvit Soi 49, Central Embassy,

and the one I visited on Sathorn Soi 12

(www.rocketcoffeebar.com).

The menu features several egg dishes. You’ll be reassured to

know the eggs are sourced from Thai Hill-tribe areas and

“exceed the highest regulations for both free-range and

organic.” More importantly they form a key component of

their delicious take on eggs benedict. The diverse collection of

side dishes to accompany your eggs includes grilled halloumi,

crispy prosciutto, and gravlax.

Moving on from eggs, there are exciting soups, salads, sandwiches,

and pastas on offer. I was very pleased with the ‘Triple decker

roast pork” sandwich. Despite the name, I can assure you that it

was a very civilized portion of roasted pork and something similar

to coleslaw on dark rye. Delicious! Rocket also offers a selection

of “Nordic Lights” including Swedish Meatballs and Grilled

Mackerel.

As expected there is a large selection of coffee available and it

seems that Rocket takes their coffee very seriously

with single origin and blended options as well as a

detailed description of how the beans are roasted and

prepared. They also offer an impressive list of tea

should that be your preference. There are a number of

juices, smoothies, and crushes available as well as

cocktails conveniently separated into Daytime and

Nighttime options.

So if you’re looking for high-quality and exciting food

to start your day, feel free to visit Rocket Coffeebar!

(… and get the cinnamon bun; it’s amazing!)

John Marinos

50

Providing high quality custom tailoring for more

than 45 years,

Raja’s Fashions has been featured in Men's Vogue

Magazine,

Interna#onal Living, Worth Magazine, Esquire,

Fortune,

BangkokGuide,LonelyPlanet,Frommer’sGuide,

DRESS SHARP. LOOK SHARP. FEEL SHARP.

Providing high quality custom tailoring for more

than 45 years, Raja’s Fashions has been featured in

Men's Vogue Magazine, Interna#onal Living, Worth

Magazine, Esquire, Fortune, Bangkok Guide, Lonely

Planet, Frommer’s Guide, Fodor’s Guide, The

Washington Post, Vivre A Bangkok, Conde Nast

Magazine and many other travel magazines.

Delivery Restaurant Phone

Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai

Cuisine 02-952-0031

BBQ Sandwich King 086-773-4140

Bukhara (Afghan/Indian) 082-443-1398

Burger King/Pizza Company 1112

Food Loft 02-831-5588

KFC and Pizza Hut 1150

Le Bouchon Food Delivery 02-962-2850

McDonald’s 1711

Milano’s @ Pro Club 02-582-1555

Mr. Enzo’s 02-960-0412

New York Diner 081-624-2099

NICC Club 02-960-4326

Que Pasa 02-960-3821

Sapna (Indian and Afghan food

delivery) 02-960-3141

Scoozi 02-715-8555

Subway 02-960-3232

Sudhathai 02-583-2694

Slider Shack 086-773-4140

Local Business Phone

Bamboo Spa 02-583-9871

Bank Krungsri 02-582-2669

Blue Sky Café 081-811-8455

Bumrungrad Family Clinic 02-960-4216

Clark Hatch Fitness Center 02-960-4326 / 27

Crystal Holiday Travel 02-960-4469

Hair By Jib 02-960-3783

Happy Teeth Dental Clinic 02-960-3988

Great Massage 02-960-3691

ISB 02-963-5800

Le Studio Hair 084-022-9928

Nichada Customer Relations 02-960-4300

Pandit Carpets 081-828-2562

Panipa 02-960-3934

Pum’s Salon 02-583-7117

Rex Pharmaplus 081 834 1306

Rose Marie Academy 02-960-3663

Shawn Carpets 090-564-8927

Starbucks 02-967-9686

Twist 02-911-6839

Villa Market 02 -584-5444

Wash-N-Dry 085-945-4132

4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming 02-960-4189

Thani Talk 2015 May

Documents

Transcript of Thani Talk 2015 May