DAS International engaging parents, empowering kids

The Finder spent quality time with the DAS team recently at the UWS Fair held on Saturday February 11 2012 at the UWC campus Dover. Just to bring you into the picture - DAS International provides professional support dedicated to individual learning. If you need specialist support for your child please contact DAS immediately and have an open discussion. The team of dedicated teachers and consultants are a dream to work with. The Finder regularly hears glowing reports from our readers about the DAS approach to educational support.

Consulting Educational Psychologist Dr Tim Bunn (pictured with members of the DAS team) has years of training and specialist knowhow in his field.His team of angels are committed to caring while being the largest provider of support services to students with learning differences in Singapore
(David Malligan with members of the school community at the UWC Beat the Drum Fair).
The UWC Community Fair was a great day. Attended by thousands of students - past and present, parents, friends, families and interested onlookers the fair has an exciting atmosphere about it- backed by cool vibes and current hits of the sound waves with seemed like the resident school DJ and certainly voiceover and radio Jock celebrity of tomorrow.
The day was abuzz with activities. The entire school community lent a hand and ensured everyone in attendance had a wow of a time. DAS contributed to the success of the day with their informative discussions with members of the community about the work they do in the area of specific learning differences, dyslexia and dyspraxia, attention deficit disorder and other areas of educational support such as numeracy, literacy, oracy & skill writing. The Finder really appreciated the time DAS spent with us and other members of the school community and wish to personally thank the DAS team for their dedicated services and on-going commitment to learning. Let 2012 be a year full of success and achievement at DAS International and UWS alike.

Posted by ACP The Finder Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:52:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


AUSPICIOUS BUYS AT HARD ROCK FOR THE DRAGON YEAR

Hard Rock’s limited-edition Dragon Guitar Series pin is flying into Asia to spread good fortune! Hard Rock Cafe locations in Asia are offering a limited-edition Dragon Guitar pin series to celebrate the year of the dragon. The collection feature’s sixteen auspicious dragon designs unique to each Hard Rock Cafe location.  The collectible pins are available for $20 while supplies last at Hard Rock Cafe locations in Singapore, Sentosa Singapore, Changi Airport Singapore, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Bangkok, Pattaya, Beijing, Makati Philippines, Jakarta and Bali. The entire Dragon Guitar pin series collection with sixteen city-specific pins comes in a stylish mini guitar display case (pictured) and is available for $688.

Posted by ACP The Finder Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:32:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Touch somebody's heart!

 

It seems like a month of Sundays since Christmas was upon us and already the mighty dragon is in full flight. Singapore is a buzz and it’s not going to stop – well not any time soon! One would find it a challenge to disagree, there seems to be so much variety and diversity on offer in the Lion City with each passing of the Lunar Moon and February offers no reprise.
This month, apart from personal, family and business routines only just being restored after the extended festive season, there really is loads to do and see. Like getting up close with aviation’s finest at the Singapore Airshow 2012 or being entertained by international and local artists at The Esplanade Theatres including Kumar’s Amazing Race, re-run by popular demand. And, of course, it’s time to embrace romance
.
Whether you’re in a relationship one on one, lovingly up to your knees with kids or flying solo focusing on your brilliant career, travel or whatever tomorrow may bring, certainly a little loving can go a long way. We introduce Shamala Tan dedicated to helping solo entrepreneurs instil a love for themselves and others in their business, a sure way to success. Get further inspired when you read Going Places. You’ll get your sexy back in no time with the travel suggestions Assistant Editor Jassmin Peter has on offer. 
You don’t necessarily need just one day in the year to tell someone you love them or that you truly hold them close to your heart. Although, we know it’s a great excuse to indulge for an evening, say, over a romantic candlelit dinner. Wine & Dine has some sensuous suggestions to consider.
February is the ideal month to embrace commitment and touch somebody’s heart, even though contrary to what some may believe, Valentine’s Day wasn’t created by greetings’ card companies just to sell cards and candies. I admit right here, right now, I’m an old softy from way back. Give me an opportunity to raid a flower shop to purchase the perfect bunch for the one I love or an excuse to drop into Tiffany’s to select that special something, there’s nothing better than the selfless high I receive with the giving of a gift – all year round.
To acknowledge a true sense of love for your partner, family members, friends and colleagues is a sign of inner strength and courage in all men and women. It’s the little thoughts of consideration that mean the most – in any relationship. There is nothing better than being on the receiving end of a great big dose of pure gratification. So, please accept this digital valentine as a gesture of appreciation and enjoy reading the articles mentioned above. Hugs!

Posted by ACP The Finder Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:02:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Sealey Brandt photographer launches Beautiful Children of the World

The Finder is pleased to support the launch of Beautiful Children of the World which features a collection of images captured by world-renowned photographer Sealey Brandt, an artistic pillar of the Singapore community for more than a decade. The book was launched last night at Vanilla Home - Palais Renaissance store - with a crowd of over 100 attending the informal and relaxed event. Sealey is a proud and deeply honest individual who has devoted over 6000 hours to create this fine opus of work.
 
“This book is the culmination of a decade’s work capturing rare, candid moments of children comfortably being themselves,” stated Brandt. “Each and every child I have photographed is beautiful because they are honest, fun, insightful and inspiring.  It is this intimate, and truthful feeling of my own childhood that has been captured through my father’s ‘eye’ that I wish to give to other families.”
 
For many years Brandt’s work has been seen in The Finder Magazine and we wish her every success with this superb publication.
 
Beautiful Children of the World is available as a hard copy, coffee table-style book at Vanilla Home 390 Orchard Road #01-07 Palais Renaissance. Orders can also be made by emailing sealey@sealeybrandt.com.

Posted by ACP The Finder Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:06:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Pace yourself! It's all in the planning

 

Likely it’s tough to argue right now that the past month hasn’t been taxing on your body – both inside and out! So as we hurtle into 2012 and in the interest of good health and wellbeing, about now is a good time to rediscover the benefits of having, say, a healthful daily A.B.C juice, or to consider scheduling one or two mind, body and spirit cleansing treatments. To lead the way, Assistant Editor Jassmin Peter travelled the region to locate Asia’s best detox getaways. She brings you the lowdown of what’s on offer so you can find a look good, feel great path that’s right for you. 
     Perhaps you’re already right on top of scheduling the coming year’s events to ensure business and social objectives are met. It’s all in the planning and certainly you need extreme foresight to get each cog in the wheel moving in the right direction. But there’s one slight challenge – a minor hiccup you might say. The festive season’s not quite over!
     It’s out with the old (in this case an elderly Rabbit!) and in with the new and mighty Dragon. Who can resist finding out what their Chinese horoscope holds in store? If you’re looking for some insightful advice, look no further than Singapore Secrets which sets out your life and love horoscope for the year ahead.
     The 15-day Chinese New Year celebration, packed with the giving of red packets, raising of chopsticks, the visiting and more, is a treasured time for locals and expatriates alike. Join in the festivities with some of our favourite Wine & Dine suggestions included in this month’s issue of The Finder.
     I’ve been physically preparing for my fourth Chinese New Year in Singapore – especially since I noticed the bathroom scales started to move into the uncomfortable zone. I have to admit, I was so inspired by the 65,000 runners in last month’s Standard Chartered marathon, I decided it was time for me, like so many others at this time of year – to strap on those running shoes and get jogging. I’ve been enthusiastic for almost a month now and I can’t explain the overwhelming sense of achievement I feel after my early morning jog each day. Nothing too intense about 45 minutes of focused committed exercise. I figure if I continue to exert the energy with my daily routine, I can continue to eat, drink and enjoy all the ceremony associated with the prosperity toss, known as
lo hei, not to mention the delicious banquet of eastern delicacies to follow. It’s all about balance and moderation so pace yourself if you’re new to the custom. Wishing you the best of health and happiness throughout the year. Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Posted by ACP The Finder Wed, 11 Jan 2012 03:47:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Smokey secrets behind Yakitori Enmaru ION

The Finder visited Yakitori Enmaru ION today for a quick lunch to see what all the fuss was about. And what a find we found. 

The restaurant situated on level 4 at ION Singapore is inviting from the outside and has a calm and relaxed feeling about it as you walk through the distinctive Japanese entrance hall into the main table area. The room is spacious, seating about 60 plus at any one time - just a quick heads-up, today the lunch crowd filled within 15 minutes.

It’s always good to experience attentive and happy service staff. The crew on the floor today worked together as a team like clockwork. Only four or five minutes passed before our hot and cold tea was served to our small group. The food order was taken - not a hard task when the menu boasts pictures of most of the main items and a clear introduction to the selection of meat and vegetarian dishes available. Before we knew it food started to flow. I selected just a few small dishes - still nursing the Christmas belly. Fujiyama Soba (pictured) is a crispy version of hot Cha Soba heated and served on a hot lava plate.

Yakitori Enmaru ION This dish was particularly delicious and definitely a must try for first timers. Next, the meat lovers version of heaven.

Yakitori Enmaru IONThese skewers hit the spot. Even after the indulgence of Christmas Day - and turkey left overs for a few days to follow - I was well and truly ready for some succulent, juicy chicken and beef. I then decided to try something a little more adventurous (for me that is). It was a winner from the moment I saw the dish before me. Wagyu Tataki, seared tender wagyu salad. In this case - a picture paints a thousand words.

Yakitori Enmary IONA great lunch had by all and once again, well done to the staff on the floor and crew in the kitchen. A great find. Thanks Yakitori! I look forward to returning to visit again for a leisurely evening meal soon. I’ll have more time to enjoy a wider selection of succulent tastes from your extensive menu. Top find and just in time to make a mark on my 2011. You’re on my HOT LIST for 2012.

Posted by ACP The Finder Thu, 29 Dec 2011 09:37:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Crust opens second Gourmet Pizza bar in Singapore

 

 
I know you like it. Most wouldn’t argue, a night in with family or having friends over for some good tucker, a few laughs can be the best remedy for relaxation after a long working week or keeping the family on track heading to the festive showdown, but wait! Let’s not get the turkey in the oven just yet- how about a pizza night.
 
 
The Finder attended the launch of Crust Gourmet Pizza bar on Upper Thompson road this week and the taste was something to write about. The Crust secret I’m sure is just as I say – in the crust. Start with a rectangle shaped pizza base, top with fresh, nutritious ingredients selected from a wide and varied selection of meats, seafood, vegetarian and garnishes, Crust is definitely a winner.
 
The crust difference seems to be in the creative preparation, final texture and consistency of the brand having delivered from over 100 locations Australia Wide - Crust has expanded from its flagship pizza bar in Holland Village Singapore and now delivering to your door. Check out the Crust menu for your next night in – better still, enter the draw to Win The Ultimate Crust Gourmet Pizza Party  
 

Posted by ACP The Finder Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:54:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


Give effortlessly and Christmas Cheers!

John Gordon & Jassmin Peter (Assistant Editor) spend quality time with Santa.

Every month is a celebration in Singapore and without exception December takes the (Christmas) cake.  Term break for the kids, festivities to organise, holiday plans to confirm, not to mention the additional and obligatory retail therapy excursions, December in Singapore offers a sumptuous variety of diversity and choice.
Art, music, culture, entertainment, food, wine and seasonal soirées with family and friends all to a backdrop of twinkling fairy lights and snowflakes along the thoroughfares of Raffles City, Millenia Walk and without doubt the most magical and enchanting of all lighting displays, Orchard Road. Be delighted as a member of the local community or an international visitor in a month long celebration of colour and movement to ignite your senses.
If you’re looking for an excuse to hijack your daily routine, now would be a good time to hang up those running shoes – and yes, I’m talking to the 60,000 participants of the Standard Chartered Marathon (you know who you are), we have news for you. It’s time to Party! But getting the party started calls for organisation and military precision. Whether you’re willing to tackle a home cooked spread and savour in the delights of all thing culinary or source the most appropriate festive dining location for you and your loved ones to eat, drink and be merry, we have created a complete Christmas issue which shines a star of wonder to point you in the right direction.
Celebrate the Festive Season is your essential roundup of the tastes of Christmas, where to book your year-end celebration, source the perfect tasty turkey or peruse gift ideas for the one who’s got it all.  There are plenty of festive offers to consider and shopping suggestions to fill your X-mas stocking. And if you’re looking for a venue to raise a glass for a festive cheer’s, Assistant Editor, Jassmin Peter has some high spirited suggestions in Singapore Secrets after visiting waterholes upping the classiness of the Lion City’s cocktail culture.  There’s no denying, we all like to indulge now and again, and in anticipation of those few extra pounds that may creep up on us all in the weeks ahead, The Finder takes a note from a Personal Trainer and Nutritionist who share fitness and wellness advice to ensure we all look sharp throughout the festive season.
Without doubt, Christmas is one of the most anticipated and joyous times of the year where giving is regarded as an integral part of the Yuletide, therefore a perfect time to reflect and consider giving a gift from the heart. We introduce you to The Chain Reaction Project (TCRP) and Cambodian Carers in 5 minutes with…two women whose gift is to give for the benefit of others.
The Finder is the result of a team who give effortlessly and I wish to thank everybody named on the right of this page for their creative, professional and consistent contribution throughout the year. On behalf of The Finder team, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year.Happy Holidays!
  The Finder Team in Singapore 2011
 
 
 

Posted by ACP The Finder Mon, 05 Dec 2011 07:14:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


WTP (Window to the Past) Fresh Look and Looking Good!

 X-mas furniture Wish List 1….. Santa …is it possible to get "my new best friend" down the chimney this Christmas?

The Finder had the pleasure of attending the launch of WTP’s on-site retail revamp on Wednesday evening. Loyal clients, past and present, media editors, writers, photographers and a swag of personalities, including the Aussie Ambassador were entertained by cool-jazz grooves on the top floor of this spaciously, yet warmly refurbished Kung Chong Road location. The event was relaxed and welcoming providing plenty of opportunity for the crowd to mix and mingle while enjoying a glass of wine and delicious appetisers all to a backdrop of beautifully displayed furnishings spread across four huge floor areas.

Getting around the store is easy with practical internal lifts and wide wooden staircases allowing you to browse between floors and navigate the displays with ease and in comfort. The combination of natural and enhanced lighting moods throughout the space help articulate the furnishings on display and provide a good indication of how the pieces will look in your home.

 This green dining space is on show this month at WTP, also check out the kitchen displays on the top floor. WTP really do do all the work for you!

The current WTP collection is varied, vibrate and vast. You will be delighted with the range and selection on show allowing plenty of choice for your next acquisition. You are encouraged to speak to one of the consultants on hand or to Founder of WTP, Mimi Somjee herself. Mimi, known to her many clients as a "great perfectionist" is available to discuss your individual requirements and offer expert opinion on fashionable furniture trends and hot looks for your home.

Thanks Mimi and the team at WTP for offering Singapore a world class furnishing experience right here in the Lion City. I look forward to my next purchase….will it be the hand-crafted wooden dining table on level three…..Maybe!

WTP is a destination to visit for home furnishing inspiration especially if you find yourself navigating through home improvement options with a number of different suppliers. You could say WTP is your one-stop-shop and a definate must-visit when ticking off your X-mas Wish List…Enjoy!

Posted by ACP The Finder Thu, 24 Nov 2011 05:50:00 GMT

Read full article no comments


French Marche at Plaza Singapura until November 27

John with Chef Julien Bompard - Le Saint Julien

The Finder has had the pleasure of being associated with the 2011 Voilah French Festival Singapore. Refer to the two-page schedule appearing in the November issue of The Finder Magazine out now!

A whole list of activities and events including fashion, literature, arts & music, dance, cinema and my favourite, gastronomy are  now being presented in Singapore until mid December. 

Visit Plaza Singapora for the best in French produce and meet the suppliers. Enjoy French cruisine! You’ll be delighted with the offering Chef Julien Bompard has provided at the event. Also consider a dining experience as his well known restaurant Le Saint Julien Restaurant

Join Chef Julien on hisTour de France by Food at the following times:

Tour de France by Food: Tuesday November 22 5pm, Wednesday November 23 5pm, Friday November 25 5pm

Chef Julien is a charming host, so don’t miss this chance to experience a culinary demonstration and tasting of French regional specialities such as foie gras, escargot, cheese and breads.

You will be introduced to a selection of ready made home-cooked French dishes from la fromagerie available at the French Marche Fair, shop online or opt for a visit to their Holland Village outlet. Delicia is another option for online delivery for the best in Gourmet. Visit their booth and sample some of the French fair. Or for the sweet tooth. Laurent Bernard chocolatier is on hand to answer questions and to temp you with a fine selection of cakes, Chocolate hampers and chocolate gift boxes for all budgets. You can visit Laurent’s Cafe and Chocolate Bar at the Pier at Robertson Quay, Portsdown Road or their Takashimaya outlet on B2.

Throughout the week there will be lectures and workshops each day at 1pm and most days between 5pm-8pm. Do you want to learn about the macaron? Discover how they are made and enjoy a FREE tasting. Wednesday Nov 23, 1pm or Friday Nov 25, 1pm. Bon appetit!

Posted by ACP The Finder Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:13:00 GMT

Read full article no comments

Older posts: 1 2 3


Guy About Town

Singapore secrets, entertainment & tasty finds from John Gordon Acting Managing Editor

Johnvgordon

Profile

John Gordon is Acting Managing Editor of The Finder and has lived in Singapore for three years. Being an Aussie, there's no wonder John is a fan of the great outdoor. Swimming, tennis , the odd jog along East Coast keeps him fit for a full-on day of active duty. He studied classical and jazz piano as a lad in Melbourne back in the 70s and went on to try his hand as an 80s male model and piano bar singer. Thankfully... he found his feet and took on the academic challenge in the 90s and attended The Victorian College of the Arts, Adelaide and Sydney Universities and cut out a career in Advertising and Publishing.

Travel, wine & dine, entertainment, both live music and theatre are all on John's TO DO list.  If you have a great find or something to share don't keep it to yourself!

Contact Info

The Finder
317 Outram Road
#03-01 A/B Concorde Shopping Centre
Singapore 169075

Tel: (65) 6227 7900 ext. 100
Fax: (65) 6227 7002
Web: www.thefinder.com.sg
Email: jgordon@acpmagazines.com.sg