Be MAD this Chinese New Year – Visitations to the Elderly in Redhill!
Chinese New Year is just over a week away, and everyone is getting ready. Bak kwa queues are snaking around the block and shopping malls are packed with chatty shoppers looking for CNY clothes.
For most of us, this festive period is one of great joy – spending time with beloved family members by gambling, laughing and drinking over delicious snacks. It is possibly one of the most awaited holidays of the year!
…Well, not for everyone though.
(Image credits: MAD)
For some elderly folks, this time of the year is filled with dread. Many of them live alone, and the happy celebrations only serve to remind them of their loneliness.
In fact, elderly suicide rates increase during the festive period – not before, not after.
Well, this is a problem that MAD aims to resolve.
Never heard of MAD before? Well, it is a young non-for-profit company that helps youths unlock their fullest potential through a fusion of volunteering and leadership training. They carry out regular visitations to elderly folks as well as enriching training programmes for volunteers.
The brains and hearts behind MAD (Image credits: MAD)
Meet the founders – Benjamin Low, Justine Lee, Caroline Tham and Joshua Tan. Besides havingThe assembly point for visitations – Redhill MRT (Image credits: MAD)
Every year, MAD organises Chinese New Year visitations to elderly folks staying in Redhill Estate. This year, the visitations will be held on 初一 (Day 1) and 初二 (Day 2), from 2pm – 4pm each day.
People of all ages from all walks of life are welcome to join! All you’ll need is some mandarins, friendliness and a desire to bring some joy into someone else’s life.
(Image credits: MAD)
Volunteers will set off in groups to cover as many units as possible. If you are rather shy, fear not – conducting the visitations with fellow volunteers will help to alleviate your nervousness!
(Image credits: MAD)
Elderly people are often stigmatised for being cold and mean, but don’t let that false belief deter you. You’ll be surprised to see how delighted many of them are to receive a CNY visit!
(Image credits: MAD)
There is simply nothing like putting a smile on someone else’s face. (Image credits: MAD)
And who knows, you might just make a friend along the way! (Image credits: MAD)
(Image credits: MAD)
Also, don’t be too envious of the MAD crew’s awesome and uniquely Singaporean t-shirts. You can purchase one So this Chinese New Year, instead of making money at the mahjong table, why not make someone’s day with this meaningful and unforgettable experience?
Here are more details:
https://www.facebook.com/WeAreMad.sg/photos/pb.781102535285648.-2207520000.1454034200./1048474601881772/?type=3&theater
(Do note that the year in the poster should be 2016, not 2015.)
We hope to see you there!
5 Exciting Events Happening This February To Go With Your Friends!
[caption id="attachment_1128" align="aligncenter" width="668"]With so many happenings to look out for, there’s no better time to be a Singaporean. Be it food or entertainment, there’s definitely something for everyone. So, quit your yapping and start ticking the “try something new” check boxes of your New Year Resolutions List.
1. Jerome’s Laneway Festival (30 Jan)
Singapore’s premier indie-music festival is happening really soon. Time is of essence if you want to purchase your tickets as they are known to sell out fast. The festival boasts an exciting lineup that includes British bands, The 1975, and CHVRCHES, as well as our very own Cashew Chemists, and Riot !N Magenta. Soak up the good vibes with your friends in a mellow and carefree ambience with ice cold beers. This will make a fond and unforgettable memory.
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA4WtTplxhF/?taken-by=lanewayfestsg[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA4Eb28gh1Q/?taken-by=lanewayfest[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BAeROjLghys/?taken-by=lanewayfest[/embed]Location: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, The Meadow, Gardens By The Bay
Damage: Standard: S$180; Group Bundle of 6: S$999
2. Kevin Hart What Now? Tour (02 Feb)
Prominent comedian and entertainer in the industry, Kevin Hart is in town for a one-night-only performance. The Hollywood megastar, with hits like Get Hard and Ride Along, is famous for his signature fast-paced comedic monologues and electrifying attitude. This will truly be a night to remember. Already touted as the most successful comedy tour in history, Hart’s unique brand of humor should not be missed.
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA58iHXCYl7/?taken-by=kevinhart4real[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA8JofPRU7_/?tagged=whatnow[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BA8ItLyNHgW/?tagged=whatnow[/embed]Location: 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre
Damage: Standard: S$98 – S$188
3. MunchFlix’s Outdoor Themed Movie Night (13 Feb)
The first edition of MunchFlix, a thematic open-air cinema, is taking place one day before Valentine’s Day. With immersive theatre-quality sounds and stunning movie projections, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Guys and girls, this is your time to impress your partner without breaking the bank. Share a cuddle on a beanbag chair under the starry night sky, munch on some great food, while enjoying a perfect romcom. What’s not to like?
[caption id="attachment_1130" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Location: #04-01, 2 Orchard Link, *SCAPE Playspace
Damage: Standard: S$25 – S$90
4. Chingay Festival 2016 (19 Feb)
This national event is about vibrant floats and raucous music. It is also the largest street performance and float parade in Asia. Bask in the atmosphere of costumes and masquerades and revel in the dynamic showcase of Singapore’s multicultural society. Moreover, aside from offering a glimpse into our different cultures, this extravaganza also promises to blow your mind.
[caption id="attachment_1133" align="aligncenter" width="940"]Location: 1 Republic Blvd, F1 Pit Building
Damage: Standard: S$28.50 – S$60
5. Singapore Airshow 2016 (20 Feb)
Singapore’s biennial Airshow is back! As Asia’s largest Airshow, there will not be a moment of mundane for adults and kids alike. Head down with the family to witness the remarkable display of an impressive array of aircrafts ranging from fighter planes, luxury jets, to transport giants. In addition, be treated to spectacular manoeuvres as aircrafts adorn the skies with adrenaline-pumping spins and loops.
[caption id="attachment_1132" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Location: 9 Aviation Park Road, Changi Exhibition Centre
Damage: Child: S$9; Adult: S$22; Group Package of 4: S$166
(Featured image credits: www.shadefotoworks.com)
Snoopy Run Singapore 2016 – Fans of the Peanuts Crew, Get Ready For The Run Of Your Life!
Everyone’s favorite beagle is coming to our shores! Fans of Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the Peanuts crew rejoice! The very first Snoopy Run 2016 will be held in Singapore on Sunday, 24 April, and what better ways are there to stay healthy and spend those precious moments with your loved ones… at the same time?!
Featuring a giant blown up Snoopy as the center piece at the run venue, runners can also expect to meet the whimsical mascots of the Peanuts gang. Runners can even visit the iconic Lucy’s Lemonade Stand during the run.
[caption id="attachment_1201" align="aligncenter" width="650"]The Snoopy Run was a hit when it was organized in Taipei back in 2015, with tickets selling out within the first day of sales. Tickets for this year’s inaugural Snoopy Run will only be on sale from 3 February 2016. Price and venue will be announced at a later date.
As usual, runners who sign up for the event will receive an exclusive runner pack containing various Peanuts themed merchandise, including:
[caption id="attachment_1202" align="aligncenter" width="650"]- A. Exclusive Snoopy Run T-shirt – Made from specially formulated breathable material designed for perfect comfort. Sizes coming soon.
- B. Peanuts Gang Number Tag – Fun Run number bib made from water-proof special card, standard for marathon runs.
- C. Fun Beagle Nose – Each runner gets a unique Beagle nose to pose with friends!
- D. Postcard Collection – Collect these once-off special edition postcards.
- E. Linus’ famous Blue Towel – Runner’s towel inspired by Linus’s popular blanket.
- F. Charlie Brown iconic Bag – Cool bag with Charlie Brown’s famous signature pattern.
More information can be found at snoopyrun.com.
So mark your calendars and tell all your friends and families! Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime event when it comes to town!
(Featured image credits: Snoopy Run 2016)
One Piece Run Singapore 2016 – Anime Fans, Here’s A Giveaway For You!
Attention all anime lovers: There’s a One Piece Run coming up in March, right here in sunny Singapore, and we want you to be a part of it!
Taking after the massively popular Japanese manga and anime series One Piece, One Piece Run 2016 is the first anime themed fun run that will take place in Singapore on 6 March 2016. During the run, you will be able to to enter the world of Luffy, the anime’s anchor character, as you embark on an exciting journey in search of the ultimate treasure “One Piece” to become the next Pirate King!
Along the race route, there will be three checkpoints created based on One Piece’s storyline filled with interactive experiences and photo taking opportunities for you to enjoy whilst completing the fun run!
The minimum participant age is 4 years old, so the young ones are more then welcome to join!
Regardless of whether you are an anime fan or just a normal runner, everyone will be united over an exciting race track that takes them through different experiential zones before finishing at an amazing One Piece themed village.
Singapore will be the 2nd Asian country to host the One Piece Run, after the immensely successful 2015 edition in Taiwan that welcomed over 12,000 participants. The run will continue in Okinawa, Japan, on 20 March 2016.
Expect to see lots of familiar characters around!
There will be plenty of photo taking opportunities for you and your friends!
What’s more, every runner will be presented with exclusive runner’s entitlements to wear and keep for memento’s sake!
Event details:
Date: 6 March, Sunday
Venue: Kallang Practice Track
Race Distance: 5KM
Race Categories: Individual
Event site: www.onepiecerun.sg
Event Fee: SGD$68
In partnership with One Piece Run Singapore, Discover SG will be giving away 1 pair of tickets for free! Here’s how:
https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/1942980785927614
9 Must-Know Laneway Festival 2016 Survival Tips
Everyone’s counting down the days to Singapore’s most anticipated event in January – St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival on 30 January (commonly referred to as Laneway).
This iconic indie music festival came to Singapore from Australia in 2012, and this year’s festival, held at the picturesque Gardens By The Bay, is the biggest yet.
For the first-timers or those who not-so-pleasant experience last year, here are x crucial tips to help you survive Laneway 2016!
1. Collect your tickets in advance
Opt for light and breathable clothing (such as a beautiful sun dress or sheer mesh top pictured above) that you will be comfortable in the entire day. And since you’ll be sitting around quite a fair bit, make sure your bottoms are appropriate for sitting. You don’t want to be suffering in a pair of overly-stiff shorts or constantly pulling down your mini skirt!
(Image credits: www.jakeena.com)
As for shoes, it really depends on you. Covered shoes like a stylish pair of Dr. Martens are recommended if you’re planning to be jumping around in the crowd so as to avoid ugly injuries, but sandals are perfect for those looking to chill on their mats for most of the day.
3. Plan your event wisely
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore website)
With close to 30 fantastic bands performing at 4 different stages spread over the festival area, you and your pals should get together beforehand and figure out who you want to catch. There will definitely be clashes, so some compromises will have to be made!
If you are not familiar with any of the acts (it’s alright, they are pretty obscure) and hence cannot create a plan, simply rotate between the stages or between acts from different countries to get a taste of everything and make your money’s worth. (Note: The 1975, Chvrches and Flume are pretty big acts, whereas Cashew Chemists and Riot !n Magenta hail from Singapore)
4. Portable chargers and phone cases
(Image credits: www.computerworld.com)
A portable charger and cable is a must-bring – ’nuff said. Be it for contacting your friends, posting stuff on social media or googling the upcoming band, you will need your phone and your phone’s battery itself will not suffice. Try to choose one that can fit in your pocket or hand comfortably!
Also, for those who like their phones ‘naked’ (i.e. coverless), you might want to consider putting on a cover (preferably with a bumper) during the event. Just in case a careless festival-goer knocks it out of your hand whilst dancing to the fresh tunes, y’know.
5. Sensible hair options
(Image credits: Tumblr)
As much as we’d all like to look as hippie-chic as her, the unforgiving humidity will not be kind to your free flowing, carefully styled hair. On top of that, no one likes a sticky and sweaty neck! Perhaps start your day with a messy bun or creative braid, and then let down your freshly curled locks for that glamorous sunset look!
(P.S. Bring extra hair ties and pins – chances are you’ll lose some along the way, or your friend will need one)
6. Be prepared for rain or shine
The weather isn’t looking too great on Saturday, so please be wet-weather ready! A poncho will be given to every person upon entry (while stocks last) but we recommend bringing one more just in case.
Also, for the ladies, remember to use waterproof makeup so that you can look good all day long and avoid the hassle of dealing with smudged eyeliner! (But hey, even if that does happen, the gothic look can work too.)
Do note that umbrellas are NOT allowed as they block other people’s views.
On the other hand, there’s bound to be some killer sun too. Remember to slather on ample amounts of sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Check out our article,
(Image credits: www.coolmompicks.com)
Everyone knows that picnic mats are a must for festivals, but they should still be carefully chosen. How many people can your mat fit? (Also, how many people in your group are bringing a mat?) Is your mat waterproof? Is it too thin or too heavy? Is it recognisable from a distance? Do you intend to keep it after Laneway and if so, can it be washed? These are some questions you may like to consider.
8. Stay hygienic
(Image credits: www.redmart.com)
Even though Gardens By The Bay is relatively clean, you don’t want to be eating your burgers and finger food with hands that touched grass, sweaty bodies or possibly mud. Bring along some hand sanitiser that will fit into the smallest of bags, and possibly some wet wipes too for accidental spills or messes.
(Image credits: www.portabletoiletco.com)
..And remember, keep some tissues handy for when you need to use the loo. There might not be any toilet paper left (or at all?) in the portable toilets after everyone starts going to empty their beer-filled bladders!
9. Finally, do not bring these things!
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore)
Leave the selfie sticks and foldable chairs at home, folks. As much as you’d like to bring them, spare a thought for the unfortunate people who will be sitting behind you and will have their view blocked!
(Featured image credits: Today)
Diamond Dash Run 2016 – Taking Love to Greater Heights!
Your reaction right now.
No, we’re not telling you to buy it. Instead, you and your sweetheart just need to sign up for..
Diamond Dash Run 2016!
From the organisers of YOLO Run 2015 comes the first ever novelty vertical dash in celebration of White Day (14 March 2016)!
Event Details:
Couple Non-Competitive Category (8th May 2016):
Bring your loved one and conquers the heights of klapsons together (all 17 floors of it… and back down) in the Diamond Dash Couple’s Category! Simply drop off your finishing tickets into the lucky draw at the end of the race and stand a chance to win a 1.50 carat diamond in an 18k white gold pendant setting from Ilya Diamonds (worth $20,000)!
Male & Female Single Competitive Category (7th May 2016):
As for the single ladies and gentlemen out there, you are welcome to participate in the Diamond Dash Singles Category which is slightly more competitive – the fastest male and female runner will each win a 0.80 carat diamond in an 18k white gold pendant setting from Ilya Diamonds (worth $8,000)!
Also, in the spirit of romance, you will also get to mingle with the other singles during an exciting get together session!
Time to brush up on your pick up lines.
Prizes:
Fastest Male Individual (Day 1)
-
0.80 carat diamond in an 18k white gold ring setting from Ilya Diamonds (worth $8,000)
Fastest Female Individual (Day 1)
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0.80 carat diamond in an 18k white gold ring setting from Ilya Diamonds (worth $8,000)
Best Dressed Individual (Day 1)
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2D1N Staycation at klapsons, The Boutique Hotel
Best Dressed Couple (Day 2)
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2D1N Staycation at klapsons, The Boutique Hotel
Lucky draw for Couples (Day 2)
-
1.50 carat diamond in an 18k white gold ring setting from Ilya Diamonds (worth $20,000)
Race Pack Contents:
- Race T-shirt
- Race Belt
- Tote Bag
- Medal
- Race Bib (Competitive Category with Timing Chip)
- Active Tights Shorts
Prices:
Jean Yip Group is sponsoring almost half of the registration fee for all you interested dashers out there, which means that ticket prices come down to:
Individual: $29.50 per pax (u.p. $55.00)
Couples: $59.00 per couple (u.p. $110.00)
Remember to use the discount code “DISCOVERDD10” for a 10% discount (valid till 14/2/16, 2359 hours)
So now that we’ve shown you the perfect Valentine’s Day gift idea, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets NOW!
Visit Diamond Dash Run’s Facebook page for more details.
Featured image credits: H Samuel The Jeweller
Usher In 2016 With A Blast At Suntec City’s Countdown Party!
2015 is coming to an end in a matter of days and we believe there are many reasons why the New Year is worth celebrating, such as spending quality time with your loved ones and to toast to new hope and new beginnings!
If you’re still looking for a place to usher in 2016 with an unforgettable bang, we’ve got fantastic news for you! A brand new music platform awaits this year at the Suntec City Countdown Party 2016!
The 5-hour long countdown party will feature renowned Singapore pop artistes such as Olivia Ong, The Sam Willows, Sezairi, ShiGGa Shay, The Pinholes, Ling Kai, JAWN and Melissa Tham, as well as some of the ChildAid alumni!
https://www.instagram.com/p/9P5-edzHQA/
https://www.instagram.com/p/8_6-5xCX6f/
https://www.instagram.com/p/_OrlyqHa9l/
https://www.instagram.com/p/6JpdK2G6eQ/
Aside from all the popular faces and good music, there will also be a string of interactive fringe programmes such as the fire spinners, circus acts, flash mobs and DJ mix to keep you entertained until the countdown begins! All-day shopping and dining vouchers will be given away at the event and the best part of it all? It’s FREE ADMISSION!
https://www.instagram.com/p/_oiBbeBKGw/
Gather your family and friends and get ready to revel in the festivities and ring in 2016 in style!
Event Details:
Date: 31 December 2015 (Thursday)
Time: 8pm till late
Venue: Suntec Plaza (next to Fountain of Wealth)
Tickets: Free admission
