Around DB February Issue 2016

ONLINE PERSONAS MORE REVEALING THAN YOU KNOW

EASY RIDERS CYCLING LANTAU YOUNG WRITER’S

COMPETITION

THE ART OF STORYTELLING

HORSESHOE CRAB

CONSERVATIONIST KEVIN LAURIE

SILK ROAD TRADITIONS TO EMBRACE FOR A

AMAZING XINJIANG

HAPPY CNY ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 FEBRUARY 2016

SALES / RENTALS 海藍居 LA SERENE

$21K

FEbRUARY 2016

愉景廣場 Db PLAZA

$26K

觀灣樓 bAY viEW

$52K/13.9M

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Gross: 608’ Saleable: 498’ 1

Gross: 923’ Saleable: 715’

Nicely renovated apartment, clean and tidy. Tranquil location. Ready to move into.

1

海燕徑 SEAbiRD

$55K

2

Gross: 1323’ Saleable: 1085’

Good condition! 2 minutes walk to pier. Must see!

2

Fully renovated duplex with roof terrace, modern open kitchen, bright and airy.

1

1

倚濤軒 CREStMONt

$54K

海馬徑 SEAhORSE LANE

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G EA

Gross: 1133’ Saleable: 1048’ 5

Good location! Very well maintained apartment, spacious living and balcony with green views. Must see!

2

寶峰 PARKvALE

$6.3M

尚堤 ChiANti

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1

Nicely renovated apartment, modern open kitchen, balcony with great views.

海蜂徑 SEAbEE ND OU AR

NK BA

2

Stunning one of a kind 4 bed apartment, on the beach & close to pier and DB plaza. State of the art decoration. A must see!

3

旭暉閣 JOviAL

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S NT

$12.35M

2

$10M

T!

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Gross: 1165’ Saleable: 893’ 3

Modern apartment with great views, high quality finishes in move-in condition. 24 hr concierge service. Vacant sale.

倚濤軒 CREStMONt

$13.5M

Gross: 1446’ Saleable: 1220’ 5 2

Successfully combined unit with open kitchen, spacious living and in a tranquil location. For sale with tenancy.

海燕徑 SEAbiRD

$18M

T!

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EN VAL AG NK AD A LE W B O L BE

Gross: 1280’ Saleable: 962’ 3

$8.8M

A

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Gross: 796’ Saleable: 689’ 2

Gross: 1703’ Saleable: 1626’ 4

AL

A

C VA

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SO

Gorgeously renovated duplex w/ a 360 degree open view & was renovated to a high western standard. Great family home!

2

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S NT

G EA

Gross: 1707’ Saleable: 1436’ 3

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EN

L

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$120K

Renovated low rise apartment with open kitchen and terrace. Good location!

Gross: 1368’ Saleable: 1295’

Gross: 1282’ Saleable: 1108’ 3 2

Renovated low rise garden apartment w/ tranquil sea views, fully equipped open kitchen & generous living space throughout.

3 2

In very good condition, bright and airy, spacious family size unit. Garden with great views. For sale with tenancy.

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

Great brands at

Mamas & Papas Pebble Cot

White or Golden Oak (mattress sold separately)

$2,500 Big Jigs Toys

from

$125

Raleigh Bikes 3-10 yrs

from

$1,499

Motorola Remote Wireless Video Baby Monitor MBP36S

$2,299

Maclaren Quest

Aspace New Hampshire Bunk Beds

Maxi Cosi Rodifix

$3,150

$7,500

$2,790 Black, Blue or Pink

colours vary

(mattress sold separately)

Ergo Baby Four Position 360 Carrier

Doona+ Car Seat

BabyDan Highchair

$1,650

$2,999

$999

Original Sprout

Mini Micro Scooter

from

$128

Turquoise, Grey or Red

Ella’s Kitchen & Organix

colours vary (bag sold separately) from

$819

Natural or Black

from

$21.50

Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 Stanley Plaza Store 2/F Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, Stanley T: 2555 6318 Sai Kung Store G/F 7 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, New Territories T: 2976 0223

www.bumpstobabes.com

www.facebook.com/bumpstobabeshk

Mandarin Boats for sale n lease New Mandarin Stubby 60’

Boosting over 2500 sq ft with 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, separate laundry, twin desk study, comprehensive kitchen, large lounge and dining, wheel house open to roof deck bbq. Located at quiet dock with a veiw. Immediate delivery. 9.1m for the lot. Early bird bonus with 1 year free berthing, insuance and license.

Intensive refurbished Orca 70’. Free 2 years berthing

Only 5 years old, one owner. 5 bedrooms over 3500 sq. ft. Totally renovated with new floor, new carpet, new paint, new blinds. Quiet F dock with private tender. Roof deck: large wheel houe/family room open to alfresco bbq and jucuzzi. Main deck: Large lounge with balcomy, 1 ensuite double bedroom, kitchen and dining. Lower deck: Maids room or study, bathroom, 1 ensuite double bedroom, 1 nursery room adjacent to master bedroom ensuite with jucuzzi bathroom and walk in wardrobe. Large basement storage. Reduced to go at 7.8 mil

Mandarin 57 for lease.

At quiet A dock with minimal boat blockage. 1 master bedroom ensuite, 2 single bedrooms, 1 large bathroom, laundry, open plan kitchen to dining and sitting. Roof top bbq and seating. 48k inclusive with membership.

Enquiry: info@mandarinyacht.com.hk or call Jamo at 91424343

AquaBlu Marine Setting higher standards

DB’s premier, professional & preferred boat brokers Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution

PLEASURE CRAFT

STAY-ON-BOARDS

SUPER YACHTS

AquaBlu wishes you all a happy and fulfilling Year of the Monkey!

KUNG HEI FAT CHOY!

* Contact Paul for all boat listings from $5-12M

Paul Fortune, LLB (Hons) +852 6017 7802 Email: Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Professional - Discreet - Effective

AquaBlu - often imitated but never equalled.

33 years international and local experience in maritime and shipping matters and marine insurance. *No commission is charged to buyers

Covering: Discovery Bay | Gold Coast | Aberdeen | New Territories

Pi Su P cn p ro ic po ud in rt th er e P of ar k

PLANNING YOUR RETURN? Returning to the UK after a period of time overseas requires careful thought and consideration, and ensuring your affairs are in order, and your finances and investments are administered efficiently, is of paramount importance.

At St. James’s Place Wealth Management, our relationship-based approach is committed to helping you manage your wealth in a way that reflects your personal circumstances. That is why we have developed our Repatriation Service, offering you the comprehensive and specialist planning support you need, and the reassurance that your return will be both successful and financially-efficient.

For more information about our Repatriation Service, please email hongkong.info@sjp.asia

A wealth of expertise on your doorstep in Discovery Bay. S T. JA M E S ’ S P L ACE WE ALTH MANAGE ME NT Tel: +852 2824 1083 | Email: hongkong.info@sjp.asia | Website: www.sjp.asia The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Hong Kong represent St. James’s Place (Hong Kong) Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group and is a member of The Hong Kong Confederation of Insurance Brokers CIB, a licensed corporation with the Securities and Futures Commission, and registered as an MPF Intermediary.

St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom.

Registered in England Number 4113955.

FEBRUARY 2016 FEATURES

50

26

PROFILE Meet DB conservationist and former copper Kevin Laurie

30

IN FOCUS What your online behaviour says about you

38

FAMILY MATTERS Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition – encouraging children to write creatively

46

ESCAPES Discover the Silk Road in China’s north-western frontier

50

ACTION Reasons to take up cycling

REGULARS 30

23

COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

35

TALKING POINTS Enter the Year of the Red Fire Monkey

44

MOMENTS Helping Cambodians affected by trafficking and slavery

60

DB FACES Candid community snaps

72

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 38

26

10

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

57

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

63

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

66

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

69

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

44

ONLINE PERSONAS MORE REVEALING THAN YOU KNOW

EASY RIDERS CYCLING LANTAU YOUNG WRITER’S

COMPETITION

We also publish FEBRUARY/ MARCH 2016

2 0 1 5

If you have a story idea, email rachel@baymedia.com.hk To publicise a local event, email info@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email lissa@baymedia.com.hk Around DB, Bay Media, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 Fax 2987 0533

THE ART OF STORYTELLING

HORSESHOE CRAB

CONSERVATIONIST

ON THE COVER

KEVIN LAURIE

SILK ROAD TRADITIONS TO EMBRACE FOR A

AMAZING XINJIANG

HAPPY CNY ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 FEBRUARY 2016

Celebrating Chinese New Year

Photo by www.evoqueportraits.com

DISTRICT COUNCIL COMMUNIQUÉ

RANDY YU HO KWAN GETS POLITICAL

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!

RINGING IN THE YEAR OF THE RED FIRE MONKEY

CALL OF THE WILD

HOW HIKING CAN FREE YOUR MIND

Win Into tick the the ets plu Lon Wo to s The gin ods see es and din ing Beach Maste vou Hou rs, che se rs

ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in Lantau since 2002

SPORTS • LIVING • PETS • HIKING • DINING • HEALTH • COMMUNITY

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

and www.arounddb.com

NEW

Developments

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Digital coordinator Carlos Magno carlos@baymedia.com.hk Accounts & office manager Monika Carruthers accountant@baymedia.com.hk

Photos courtesy of City Management

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION AWARDS

Find more photos of community events @ www.arounddb.com

Over 250 people attended the City Management Xmas party on December 18, 2015, a highpoint of which was the Community Recognition Awards. While Picnic in the Park placed first, 20 DB groups and individuals were nominated, including dragon boat team captains, event organisers, Around DB and representatives from DB schools, associations and churches. There was music on the night from Dr Francis Chiu and Clara Chan, Picnic in the Park (the DB community band) and City Management staff.

Photography Baljit Gidwani Michael Keating (intern) Contributors this month Sam Agars Beverly Au Gillian Bickley Trisha Hughes Meena Hwang (intern) Elizabeth Kerr Melissa Stevens Peter Sherwood Samantha Wong Cecilia Yee Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors.

The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

MEET UP, RUN AND LEARN A group of runners brought together by Action X sports store, in DB North Plaza, tackled the Tiger’s Head-DB Trail on January 16. The run was followed by talks from top local trail runners Scott Callaghan, Katia Kucher and Matt Moroz.

Photo courtesy of Action X

YHKCC SPORTS SUCCESS YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) sports teams are to be congratulated on some significant rugby, football and basketball wins. At the 2015-16 HKSSF Inter-School Rugby Sevens Championships at King’s Park on December 5, 2015, the A/B Girls won the preliminary round of the All Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Competition; the A Boys came second in the Inter-School Rugby Championships (NT Region). On December 20, 2015, the school’s A grade football team took out the Inter-School HKSSF Football Competition (Tsuen Wan and Islands District) for the second year in a row. Most recently, YHKCC’s basketball teams won four trophies in the Islands District 3-on-3 Basketball Competition on January 10.

Photos courtesy of YHKCC

CHINESE INSTRUMENTAL CONCERT Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, and sponsored by Islands District Council, the Chinese Instrumental Concert at DB Community Hall on January 10 was a hit with residents.

Photos courtesy of Amy Yung

IN&AROUND DB

NGAI NING YU EXHIBITION Discovery Bay resident, 12-year-old Discovery College student Ngai Ning Yu’s solo art exhibition I Love ran throughout January at DB Pier Art Square. “With difficulties like frustration and time management, this project has really brought art to a whole new level for me,” Ngai Ning says. “It’s been fun but at the same time it’s challenged me with my art skills. The exhibition records happy moments in my life. I like drawing nature, my family and especially my very cute younger sister.”

Photos courtesy of Ngai Ning Yu

D.BEFIT TEAM TAKES ON THE GREEN RACE A team of ladies from Discovery Bay fitness group d.BeFit took part in The Green Race on January 9. The 15-kilometre road and trail run aims to contribute to local eco-organisations, such as HK Clean Up.

Photo courtesy of d.BeFit

IN&AROUND DB

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION 2016

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

14 arch M h g u

Thro

Open to students across DB and Lantau Now in its fourth year, the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) provides secondary school students living and/ or studying in Lantau with the chance to get published. This year, we are asking students to write a nonfiction account of 600 to 700 words highlighting a particular community concern. The deadline is March 14. To enter, check the YWC guidelines at www.arounddb.com.

6

5&2

PLAY BINGO at the DBRC’s Tai Pak Bar. The fun starts at 8pm and you can book ahead by calling 2500 1862.

ary

t Febru roughou

Th

uary Febr

TO ADOPT A PET through Protection of

Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371, for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR!

DIY CLEANING AND BEAUTY

Wishing all our loyal readers and advertisers a very happy and prosperous Year of the Monkey! To gen up on what this year will bring, turn to page 35.

Online workshop Learn how to make your own cleaning and beauty products at 12pm in a free Hoopla for Essentials event, Love Yourself, Love Your Seas, at www.facebook. com/events/553075544855761. In conjunction with eco-group Plastic Free Seas, Discovery Bay resident Paula Lepore Burrough shares favourite recipes that use only natural ingredients. You can also learn about the ingredients used in many shopbought products that are polluting our seas. Follow along online at your convenience or in real time.

14

February 2016

ary

u Febr

7

y Februar www.thekitchenmccabe.com

8 www.imagenesbing.com

IN&AROUND DB

ISLAND DANCE ON PARADE Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, Tsim Sha Tsui

Look out for the group of elite dancers from DB’s Island Dance, performing on and alongside Ocean Park’s float at the 2016 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade, which starts at 8pm. Visit www.discoveryhongkong.com.

y Februar

8

CELEBRATE LUNAR NEW YEAR Discovery Bay Recreation Club Ring in Chinese New Year (CNY) at the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC).

To enjoy the CNY fireworks (and dinner) from a boat on the harbour, make your booking now at dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk.

You can also catch traditional lion dancing at both the DBRC and Club Siena.

Call 3156 7425 for more information.

y Februar

9

Photo courtesy of Madhu Kashyap

VALENTINE’S RACE

y Februar

13

Start: Nam Shan Picnic Area, Lantau Runners of all abilities can sign up for the Ultimate Direction Valentine’s Race, organised by Lantau Base Camp. Starting at 9.30am, it covers 13 kilometres and some tough, hilly terrain.

To register before February 7 (HK$360 per team of two), visit www.lantaubasecamp.com.

www.wikimedia.org

y 14

r Februa

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

Celebrate VALENTINE’S DAY Throughout DB • At Tai Pak Wan, thousands of candles arranged in heart shapes light up the beach • Enjoy floral-themed decorations and arches at DB North Plaza and D’Deck, and send your lover a message at Discovery Bay Love Lock Promenade in DB North Plaza

www.lantaubasecamp.com

• Promotional room packages including dinner are available at Auberge Discovery Bay for those looking for a romantic staycation ry 14 Februa

February 20

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP

at Sam Pak Wan, organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, from 9am to 11am.

Visit www.dbgreen.org.

Photo courtesy of HKRI

February 2016

15

IN&AROUND DB

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

AT HOME IN DB NEEDS YOU Sue Meldrum, the founder of At Home in DB, is moving to Australia in March and she is looking for someone to take over the popular community service. She would transfer the At Home in DB website and Facebook page, plus mailing lists, contacts, promotional Photo by Claire Fraser material etc. to her successor.

“I have always been very passionate about At Home in DB and the service it provides, not only to residents but also to small businesses and social enterprises,” Sue says. “I have met wonderful people, made many new friends, honed my professional marketing skills and received enormous pleasure in being able to share my experiences and give back to people.” If you are interested in running At Home in DB, email Sue at sue@athomeindb.com.

ZINC DEFICIENCY TESTING Integrated Medicine Institute, DB North Plaza

Pop into the Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) clinic any time during February for a free zinc test. Many people are zinc deficient and inadequate levels can lead to health issues, including weakened immunity, hair loss, food allergies, acne and rashes. It’s a very quick and simple taste test – no appointment is necessary. For more information, call 2537 1087 or visit www.imi.com.hk.

uary

out Febr

Through

KIDS BOWLING NIGHT Club Siena

y Februar

19

www.imi.com.hk

Those aged seven to 17 can experience the new-and -improved bowling alley, with bigger LCD monitors for name and score display and an improved pin control system. There are prizes for Photo courtesy of HKRI the winners, and you can make a booking (HK$40 for members, HK$50 for guests) by calling the club on 2987 7382.

DBIS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FAIR Discovery Bay International School

y 27 Februar

The DBIS International Food Fair, from 12pm to 4pm, is one of the largest community events in DB, offering a range of culinary delights from all corners of the globe. You can also look forward to music, singing, dancing and gymnastics displays from students, plus over 30 commercial and charity stalls.

Photo courtesy of DBIS

16

February 2016

February 20 &

27

MEET LOCAL AUTHORS

at the Proverse Readers’ Club, Dymocks DB Plaza, from 3pm to 4pm.

Email proverse@netvigator.com or visit www.proversepublishing.com.

TIGER’S HEAD CHALLENGE Start: Action X, DB North Plaza In the 4 x Tiger’s Head Challenge, organised by the Lantau Buffalos, athletes run up and over Tiger’s Head four times, covering all the different routes. This is a social event in which runners are required to be totally selfsufficient. To get involved and to register, visit www.lantaubuffalos.org.

BACK TO BASICS The HIT Room, DB North Plaza

y Februar

27

www.lantaubuffalos.org

y Februar

27

The HIT Room is holding a workshop to show DB residents how to make their very own beauty and household cleaning products using all natural ingredients. You can also purchase a pair of Rumi yoga pants, made from recycled plastic bottles, at a discounted price. To secure your spot (HK$150 a head), email info@thehitroom.com.hk by February 20.

IN&AROUND DB

NEW IN DB

T8 CONSULTING

LEO’S FINE FOOD

Originally established to provide association administration services, T8 now offers a full selection of customised corporate and business administration services for individuals, entrepreneurs, small businesses and more. With offices in DB North Plaza, T8 is your one-stop spot for company set up and registration, through to providing a virtual office, dedicated phone number, hot desks with business support, bookkeeping, accounting, marketing materials, web development and e-commerce. Contact 2517 8248, or info@t8-consulting.com.

Founded in Hong Kong in 1985 by a Swiss master butcher, Leo’s Fine Food is now delivering its wide range of quality products, which include frozen and barbeque meat, cold cuts and Swiss cheese, to DB. Leo’s prides itself on providing premium food with sumptuous flavours at a competitive price. Leo’s sources its raw products from a range of handpicked international suppliers and, on the manufacturing side, the production process is overseen by two European Master Butchers. Head to www.leosfinefood.hk to order.

Photo courtesy of T8

NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Have you started a business in DB or are you looking to?

Are you looking to find services and/ or customers? Are you looking to grow your network? If you answered yes to any of the above, then you should join the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast at 8am on March 1 in Zaks, DB Plaza. Under the guidance of T8 Consulting and in conjunction with Parsons White Wealth Management and Around DB, the breakfast is set to become a monthly fixture.

Meet local service providers and customers, ask questions, and get advice from those who have gone before. Contact info@t8-consulting.com for more information.

OZZIE COZZIE Swim & Resort Wear All Year KU FAT C NG H CHOI H OI KU NG HEI E I F AT

503 Tak Woo House, 1-3 Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central

2810 1356 www.ozziecozzieco.com

BANK OF CHINA Bank of China opened a new Banking Services Centre in DB Plaza in late 2015, offering premier family financial services to the residents of DB. Get on down and see what the team can do for you, or ring the personal customer service hotline on 2160 8585.

DB’s Corporate & Business, Services & Solutions Provider

T8 offers numerous flexible, scalable, customised business solutions in Discovery Bay. We support both small local companies and entrepreneurs through to international technology firms, law firms and global associations. Many great ideas and companies find it hard to move forward since they cannot afford the administration, staffing or expertise that larger firms have on tap – T8 provides all these services cost effectively to you on a retained or as required basis.

Business Services • Virtual office and commercial office address • Dedicated business phone line with answering service and call forwarding to your number • Accounting Services including: bookkeeping, invoicing, reconciliation and banking • Design and Production including: stationery, business cards, websites, microsites, e-commerce, flyers, adverts, banners, posters and more • Advertising placements in Hong Kong • In-office B&W and full colour printing/scanning /faxing • Hot desks available by half or full day!

Corporate Services • Company formation and registration • Registered office address • Company secretariat • Government filings and returns • Bank account setup • We can arrange with our partners: annual audits, small company legal advice, trademark registration, translation, business insurance and ECI, MPF & Payroll

Unit 2, G/F, Office Block 1, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North, Lantau Island, Hong Kong Drop in for a chat or call 2517 8248 or email sharon@t8-consulting.com

www.t8-consulting.com

IN&AROUND DB

SAVE THE DATE

TENNIS NATIONS CUP

March 11 to 13

Discovery Bay Recreation Club

The 23rd edition of DB’s biggest and best tennis event is on the horizon, so start sharpening your skills and working on your fitness, not to mention a whacky national costume. To register, head to www.dbrc.hk.

March 5 & 6

www.evoqueportraits.com

Photo courtesy of Sabrina Dumont

TRANSLANTAU

Start: Silvermine Beach, Mui Wo The TransLantau is now in its fifth year.

Solo or in teams of two, runners take on either the Ultra 100km (5,800m+ elevation), or the sister races of 50km (2,700m+ elevation) and 25km (900m+ elevation). Registration closed after just two hours this year but you can show your support at the start or finish on Silvermine Beach, Mui Wo. To find out more, visit wwwtranslantau.com.

DASH FOR A BEER Start: Tong Fuk

Registration opens on February 1 for the eighth Lantau International Beer Dash on March 19. Around DB is a proud sponsor of this hugely popular 5-kilometre fun run which sees participants dress up and drink a different international beer at every checkpoint. Limited spaces are available, so head to www.active.com to enrol.

March 19

Photo by Terry Chow

Chef Pour Toi

DB-based private catering service Catering

Corporate or Private Parties

Cocktail Receptions

Lavish Buffets & Barbeques

Our dedicated chefs use only the freshest ingredients to turn food into art. We provide you with the knowledge to turn your event into a success, allowing you to focus on your guests while we do what we know best.

Contact Chef Pour Toi to get a quote for your tailor-made party.

Email chef@chefpourtoi.com

DMR

Brewing soon in Discovery Bay!

School of Ballet Est 1984

www.facebook.com/Caffe-Pascucci-Hong-Kong

2851 2857 www.pascucci.it

CAFFE PASCUCCI Est. 2004

TEL: (852) 3167 7022 email: classes@completedeelite.com

Kids

CAKE JAM

Centuries ago, the Chinese elevated the common fan to an unsurpassed & elegant art form...

This Year of the Monkey we, too, plan to elevate our “art” to the same degree...

EVERY FRIDAY 3-5pm

$320/person (1hr)

WWW.COMPLETEDEELITE.COM

Shop 112 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay HK *Now also at Discovery College

2987 4338

info@dmr-hk.com - www.dmr-hk.com

Win a four-day workshop with Faust

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

COMPETITION

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until the 10th of the month to submit your answers.

To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!

YOUR PRIZE: Faust International Youth Theatre is offering one reader a place at either its Holiday Theatre (ages 4 to 12) or Creative Writing (ages 6 to 13) workshops, running from March 29 to April 1 or April 5 to April 8. The workshops (valued at HK$2,280) are held at the Faust Studio in Sheung Wan.

When was Faust International Youth Theatre formed?

Where will you find Action X in Discovery Bay? Photo courtesy of Action X

Win a pair of Hoka One One running shoes YOUR PRIZE: Action X is offering one reader a pair of Hoka One One running shoes valued at between HK$1,200 and HK$1,600.

www.faustworld.com.hk

FIND THE ANSWER: Aiming to nurture creative talent through the performing arts since 1999, Faust International Youth Theatre combines years of experience with a passion for drama and expert teaching. Faust’s workshops provide a fun-filled learning environment for children aged three to 18, allowing them to develop greater self-confidence and teamwork skills. Visit www.faustworld.com.hk.

FIND THE ANSWER: Action X stocks a full range of world-renowned brands, including Fjallraven, Icebreaker Merino, The North Face, Salomon and CamelBak. With stores in Sheung Wan and Causeway Bay, as well as DB North Plaza, Action X caters for all your running, hiking and adventure needs. Call 2911 4833 or visit www.actionxstore.com.

Get into shape with d.BeFit

Win a fitness package from The HIT Room

YOUR PRIZE: d.BeFIT is offering one reader, one full month of access to its weekly, DB-based outdoor training sessions (valued at HK$1,200).

Name three types of fitness d.BeFit focuses on. www.dbefit.com

FIND THE ANSWER: Founded in 2012 by DB resident Katia Kucher, a certified personal trainer, d.BeFit offers a range of fun, motivating sessions each week. People of all fitness levels are welcome, with classes focused on core, strength, endurance, agility, speed work, cardio, interval training and trail running. Visit www.dbefit.com.

YOUR PRIZE: The HIT Room is offering one reader, two weeks unlimited access to its HIT and Spin classes, as well Name as a 30-minute Personal three things Body Composition found in The HIT and Postural Analysis Room’s personal training area?

Assessment (total package valued at www.evoqueportraits.com HK$1,200).

FIND THE ANSWER: The HIT Room in DB North Plaza offers a winning combination of group exercises, personal training and customised programmes. Its dedicated personal training area contains a wide range of training equipment, including kettlebells, boxing gear, plyometric boxes, agility ladders, core-trainers and medicine balls. Contact 6621 7410 or head to www.facebook.com/thehitroomhk.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Jessica Valentino for tickets to see We’re going on a Bear Hunt; and Kumi Masunaga and Francesca Djie for the Unique Asia Schools Guide.

February 2016

23

AROUND DB AND LIFE ON LANTAU YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION 2016 ALL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS LIVING AND/ OR STUDYING IN LANTAU ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENTER

Here’s your chance to prove and improve your writing skills, express your ideas and get published! From the articles submitted, our three mentors will each select a winning story and work on improving it with the author. The three finished articles will then be posted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page for an online vote.

You are • A secondary school student living and/ or studying in Lantau

The article is • A nonfiction account of 600 to 700 words, highlighting something that’s happening in your community that you are concerned about • Authors submit their name, age, year group and school (the mentors will be given the age of the writers only)

How it works

Last year’s YWC winners: Maria Andreeva,

• March 14: Deadline for submission to info@baymedia.com.hk Janica Bergas and Ruhi Kumar • March 15 to 20: The mentors select three winning entries • March 21 to April 15: Each mentor meets with one winning writer to provide advice on improving the article. The writer reworks the piece and resubmits it to his/ her mentor, who checks it and passes it to our team for online posting • April 16, 8am: The three winning articles are posted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page for readers to vote online • April 19, 6pm: Online voting ends • April 20: The results of Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) 2016 are posted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page and www.arounddb.com

What you get • • • • •

The winning article is published in the May issue of Around DB and the June issue of Life on Lantau All three finalists are profiled in the May issue of Around DB and the June issue of Life on Lantau HK$1,000, HK$500 and HK$400 EpicLand day passes for the three finalists Gourmet goodie bags from Meatsnacks Group for the three finalists and three runners up Prize giving at EpicLand, the main competition sponsor

About the mentors Peter Sherwood and Elizabeth Kerr are delighted to be reprising their role as YWC mentors, and this year we are delighted to welcome Martin Lerigo on board to round out the mentoring team. All three mentors are writers and journalists of long-standing and, of course, Around DB and Life on Lantau contributors. Elizabeth, Peter and Martin are thrilled to have this opportunity to share their insights and help our young readers get published for the first time.

Be sure to check the YWC guidelines @ www.arounddb.com, or the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page, and submit your article by March 14 to info@baymedia.com.hk

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PROFILE

26

Kevin Laurie on the DB mudflats with a mangrove horseshoe crab and a huge Chinese horseshoe crab

February 2016

PROFILE

TO SERVE AND

PROTECT

From the police force to conservation, it’s all about saving Hong Kong for DBer Kevin Laurie. Elizabeth Kerr reports

K

evin Laurie is the kind of guy, a bloke really, that you want to sit down and have a pint with.

The retired senior superintendent with the Hong Kong Police Force would be well within his rights if he were a cynical crank or a bitter pessimist given a 30-year career in the police but, quite to the contrary, Kevin has a laid-back jovialness about him, complemented by a bone-dry working-man’s wit. These days you’ll find him sloshing around Yuen Long, cleaning up the mudflats, in a quest to protect horseshoe crabs.

Born in York to an air force family, a geologist by training and once employed as an archaeologist, Kevin landed on Hong Kong shores in 1977 after applying to the Royal Hong Kong Police Force from the UK. The city was a bit of a wild west back then and just emerging from a major corruption scandal. Kevin’s being a late bloomer – he says he did a gap year between every university year – made him a prime candidate for the then colony’s new and improving police.

Having been a top ranking officer on the Hong Kong Police Force, Kevin positively brims with stories. He’s proud of the work he did and what’s still going on, and quick to defend the police without ever coming off jackbooted. “Policing has become politicised and police forces have

become boot boys, kicking targets, with politicians who want to score points with the public,” he scoffs, pointing out the number of areas in which Hong Kong’s finest are the global vanguard.

From copper to conservationist In many ways, conservation was the next logical step for Kevin, who has a naturally “investigative, inquiring mind” and refers to himself as an “insane fossil collector”. The former drove him to a career in policing and a desire to see wrongs put right, the latter to becoming the horseshoe crab’s white knight. “The overlap between geology, archaeology, police work and a lot of other scientific disciplines is six questions. What, when, where, why, how and who? The investigatory discipline is exactly the same,” he says.

Kevin’s involvement with horseshoecrab (technically living fossils) conservation started with a 2008 walk in the New Territories. Stumbling upon a crab moulting on a mudflat, he asked a local fisherman – in Cantonese – where it had come from.

After some study he realised the local horseshoe crabs were in trouble and decided to take on their plight.

A stakeholder analysis and a series of circuitous queries led to Kevin becoming the city’s horseshoe-crab liaison for the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

“In my spare time I still go out and clean up this one mudflat in Yuen Long,” Kevin says. “For me, it’s proof of concept to get flats cleaned up in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.”

Back in 2008, the villagers thought he was crazy, but as sections of Ha Pak Lai got visibly cleaner, they changed their minds.

Kevin now works on a voluntary basis in collaboration with City University and the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation. “The Chinese horseshoe crab is critically endangered in Hong Kong, while smaller mangrove horseshoe crabs are not quite as threatened,” he says. “Both are caught all along the coast around DB. Siena Bay and Nim Shue Wan used to be horseshoe-crab spawning sites but, due to all the development and clam digging, this is no longer the case.

Sometimes DB fishermen catch crabs for me, so that I can tag them, but my work is mainly focused on Ha Pak Lai.” Conservation is now Kevin’s second career, and just as asking him about policing elicits painfully honest answers, so do queries about environmental activism. “Most conservationists here have no idea how the government works and therefore what the constraints are on what departments can do,” he laments, pointing out ignorance of context, degraded science and the lack of one strong voice. “We’ve got some February 2016



27

PROFILE of the most powerful conservation laws in the world in Hong Kong. But all these little battles degrade the ones you really need to win.”

Three decades in DB Kevin and his wife Mariana – also retired from the Hong Kong Police Force – are almost DB settlers, having lived here since 1986. “When I met my wife, I was living in government quarters,” Kevin recalls. “And she, being a local lass, realised we should buy a property.”

Initially coming close to buying at Fairview Park in Yuen Long, their potential vendors turned the young couple onto a new development: Discovery Bay. “We were on the verge of buying and I got to chatting with the owners and asked why they were

selling,” Kevin explains. “They told me they were moving to Discovery Bay, this incredible new concept in Hong Kong. They said it was unbelievable, and I should go see it.

So my wife and I had a chat, did the research, came here and that was it.”

The Lauries raised two sons in DB, who are currently enrolled in master’s programmes in the UK. The boys attended Island School, as an overseas education was never considered.

“Schooling should be with family,” Kevin states. “I could have sent them to the UK, but the education you get here isn’t only from the school. You get it from just living here. My kids don’t see colour and I’d rather have that than anything.”

Unlike many expats who flee Hong Kong in their golden years, this is it

Find more local heroes

28

February 2016

for Kevin, who has no plans to head back to the UK at a later date. “Have you been to the UK in winter? Come on,” he says with a chuckle. On top of that, he doesn’t want to leave his crabs. Kevin is trying to lead by example, and suggests budding conservationists out there carve their own niche.

“There are lots of niches to be carved,” he says with a grin. “Elephants and tigers have got prime ministers, presidents, kings, queens, actors and models thinking they are cute and cuddly. I do the tough and ugly.” That may be so, but there’s a sentimental element to this crab crusade too, one you’d never expect to hear an excop cop to. “I know it sounds trite, but Hong Kong’s been good to me,” Kevin says. “Why can’t I be good to it?” Busted.

@ www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

Hui Huang manages the DB Mama Facebook group

Psychologist John Shanahan of DB’s Central Health Medical Practice

CYBER PSYCHOLOGY Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com and Claire Fraser, and courtesy of John Shanahan

What does your online behaviour say about you?

Melissa Stevens talks to the administrators of two frenetic local Facebook pages and a DB psychologist to find out

30

W

e all have that friend: The one who posts constant snaps of her children, as they engage in picture-perfect activities, free of tantrums and tears. Or what about the married couple, whose every post is an almost nauseatingly sweet tribute to the other? And then there are the ‘ghosts’ – the friends who seem to know everything that’s going on yet lurk on your Facebook feed without leaving a trace.

While people may carefully curate the content they post about themselves and their lives on Facebook, they may be giving away more than they realise about the kind of person they really are, with new research showing that every update can unwittingly be quite revealing.

February 2016

Online personas Psychologists at London’s Brunel University have completed research which suggests people’s personalities are reflected by what they post on Facebook. The research, published in the Personality and Individual Differences journal, shows that updates reveal personality traits, and it goes on to identify the six most common.

According to the Brunel researchers, people who post constantly about their children are conscientious, organised and hardworking. They are actually likely to use Facebook less than others and prefer to stick to ‘safe’ topics when they do. Meanwhile, the overly loved-up Facebook posters have low self-esteem and battle

insecurity – and their posts tend to get less likes.

The third personality type identified is the ‘serious’ poster – the friend who mostly shares intellectual content and posts about political beliefs. This signifies an open-minded, curious and creative individual. The fourth is the extrovert – the personality type likely to have a wide network of pals, who posts frequent updates including photographs with groups of friends.

Meanwhile, take note of dramaqueen posters on Facebook. The research shows these are usually made by neurotic, anxious people who use Facebook to gain attention, support and validation. And as for those friends who constantly post photos displaying their fitness? They

IN FOCUS

Gillian Thompson, the administrator of DB Mums Facebook group

are exhibitionists and attentionseekers, often narcissists, who tend to obsess about their personal appearance. Ouch.

A level of subterfuge Psychologist John Shanahan, who works in DB via the Central Health Medical Practice, points out that people are very conscious of what they post on Facebook. “Most people are aware that many people will be seeing the posts on their newsfeed, and so what you post is really an expression of sorts,” he says. “At some level, you are purposely creating an image of what you want people to think of you, what you want them to know you value, or are up to.”

John agrees that Facebook can, at times, indicate the user’s personality type but he adds that some users purposely put up certain posts to present the type of personality that they want people to think they have.

He points out that Facebook can manipulate social comparison based on what people select to post, such as only sharing the highs of their lives.

“We constantly (either unconsciously or consciously) compare ourselves to each other – who is better looking, who has the better car, who has

more money,” John says. “Facebook manipulates this social comparison as people generally only post positive things – like the holiday they just went on, or the nice thing their husband just did, or an award their child received. This means that we are comparing ourselves to people who appear to have amazing lives, when in fact, more often than not, they have highs and lows just like the rest of us.”

While there may be a level of subterfuge in Facebook, John is also clear about the benefits. “I think Facebook can be a really useful tool in staying connected to each other – especially for expatriates whose relatives may be far away,” he says. “It’s a handy way to keep relatives up to date on goings on.”

Honest interaction

and selling second-hand items,” she says. “There are posts asking about information on playgroups, afterschool activities or seeking suggestions for travelling with kids. Sometimes there are members organising charitable events or donations. It’s varied but overall a good support group for new mums.”

The owner of online marketplace Sooq started up the Facebook group for her network of friends when they all had young babies, to allow them to organise social activities and share tips, about four years ago. With the constant arrival of new mums to DB and requests to join, Hui soon opened the group up to the broader community. DB Mama now welcomes all members, including people from outside DB, who have an interest in the community.

Hui attributes the group’s success to the fact that it is all about sharing and interacting openly with fellow mums.

The only downside is that it has, on occasion, been used as a forum for personal attacks on others. “A couple of times I have deleted posts,” she says.

DB resident of five years, Hui Huang manages the DB Mama Facebook group which now has about 1,900 members. Like John, she is positive about Facebook’s potential as a vehicle for information sharing and staying connected.

Rules of engagement

“DB Mama is a support group for arranging playgroups/ events, seeking and giving advice, and searching

DB Mums, with more than 2,700 members, is administrated by fiveyear Discovery Bay resident Gillian  February 2016

31

IN FOCUS

Thompson. She set up the group four years ago, not long after she arrived in DB, in response to the negativity of anonymous resident forums. “I didn’t realise it would get quite so big,” she says. “I created a group and added the people I knew here and it just snowballed.”

Gillian believes that people’s behaviour in a group is very different to that on their own page. “I feel that people are themselves in a group,” she says. “They are not stage managing their lives; they are in a group talking about themselves.”

That said, Gillian has at times had to step in to mediate or monitor behaviour. “DB Mums was an open group to begin with so it did take off really quickly,” she says. “Later, I made it a closed group because

I realised it had to have a few more controls. I started putting in guidelines once I knew how people were treating it – I wanted it to be a place where people could ask advice, share information about shopping deals and sell things. But some people were posting too much advertising and there were also a few instances of ‘naming and shaming’.”

The food import agent and consultant

says despite it being such a small community, people tend to share information quite openly and are usually met with positive support. “I was surprised at how people seem to be quite open about their lives – there are no secrets in DB,” she says. “But I do find people tend to get a lot of support when they are concerned or worried. It tends to be very positive and we don’t usually get any trolling or nasty comments.”

Find it • Around DB Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AroundDB • DB Mama Facebook group, www.facebook.com/groups/dbbabiesnmummies • DB Mums Facebook group, www.facebook.com/groups/dbmums • Central Health Medical Practice, www.centralhealth.com.hk

Find more topical local topics

@ www.arounddb.com

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TALKING POINTS

GOING APE Illustrations courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

What will 2016 bring and how can you enhance your luck?

Samantha Wong gets the measure of the Monkey in the lead up to Chinese New Year

E

ach year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, and on February 8, the passive, dependable Goat makes way for the wily, hyperactive Monkey. In working out what this Chinese New Year will bring, we need to look carefully at the Monkey’s characteristics.

with particular relish. Consider the Monkey’s reputed shortcomings – we know him to be cunning, violent, aggressive, jealous, suspicious, selfish and arrogant. Transfer these character traits to the year ahead, to the global political arena, and it’s clear that we can expect a pretty wild ride.

The Monkey is a tricky animal and there’s no getting round the fact that few of us anticipate a Monkey Year

On the plus side, the Monkey is enthusiastic, self-assured, sociable and ingenious. Many of us are destined to

Monkeying around

succeed, on a personal level, under his influence. A lot of innovation can be expected and it’s a good year to take calculated risks.

Importantly, the Monkey is super smart. He is lively, flexible, quickwitted and versatile. As a result, the focus in 2016 is on our careers – we are concerned with matters of the head rather than the heart. In a Monkey Year, everyone is out for themselves, looking to outwit their rivals, get the best deals and win big. It can be a good  February 2016

35

TALKING POINTS

year to start new endeavours but be careful who you trust.

Monkey Year comes around every 12 years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016. And the Monkey’s positive characteristics are such that the birth-rate skyrockets in a Monkey Year (as it does in a Dragon Year). Babies born between February 8, 2016 and January 27, 2017 assume the dynamic characteristics of the Monkey.

Well-known Monkeys include Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Dickens, George Gordon Byron, Yao Ming, Celine Dion, Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Christina Aguilera, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Alice Walker, Owen Wilson, Daniel Craig, Julius Caesar, Joey Yung, Bette Davis, Eleanor Roosevelt, Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas, Selena Gomez and Guy Ritchie.

turn in partnering each animal, and 2016 sees the Monkey paired with fire for the first time since 1956. Lucky colours for 2016 are, therefore, the fire-derived hues: red, pink, purple, lilac and burgundy.

The Monkey is the ninth sign in Chinese astrology, so it’s easy enough to work out your lucky number for 2016. The number nine is associated with ambition, activity, cleverness, mischief and adventure. Wanderers will want to note that good travel directions in 2016 are East, South and Southeast.

Use protection A Monkey Year is unstable but dynamic, and the best advice is to stay positive and enjoy the stimulus. Those born in a Monkey, Rat, Dragon, or Snake Year are destined for a successful 2016, particularly when it comes to career and finances. It’s a constructive year for Goats, Rabbits and Oxen (though Rabbits should watch their finances and Goats should take care of their health). Roosters and Horses can expect more ups than downs. Tigers, Pigs and Dogs, however, should watch their step as Monkey energy can be problematic for them – a strong focus and objectivity brings the best results.

Moving into a New Year, and a Monkey Year at that, you’ll be looking for ways to boost your luck. Firstly, note that this is not just any old Monkey year – it’s the Year of the Red Fire Monkey. In the same way that the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac show up on a rotating 12-year cycle, the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water) take their

February 2016

Feng shui tips There are numerous feng shui cures and enhancers to implement before the holidays that will help you get the most out of the coming year. Make sure that all bills are paid, all outstanding jobs are done and that your home is clean and clutter free before February 8. This is particularly important in a Monkey Year when there’s going to be so much going on.

You are creating space in which to usher in the Monkey, so start at your front door. Make sure the entrance to your home is clean, well lit, and inviting. Fix the doorbell, touch up any scuff marks and add a new rug to welcome the New Year.

Tradition dictates that carrying (or wearing) a year-specific animal charm or amulet is a sure-fire way to enhance your luck. In a Monkey Year, everyone, regardless of their birth year, benefits from surrounding themselves with a little Snake energy. This is because the Snake and the Monkey are best friends – the Monkey is fascinated by the Snake’s mental agility, the Snake admires the Monkey’s resourcefulness.

By carrying or wearing a Snake amulet you can protect yourself against the Monkey’s negative traits.

Snake charms enhance everyone’s luck in a Monkey Year but you can take this idea further by carrying a talisman of

Find more topical local topics

36

the animal you have the most affinity with. For instance, if you were born in a Year of the Dog, you have a special affinity with the Rabbit. For your protection in Monkey Year, you should carry a Rabbit talisman with you at all times. It follows then that Rabbits need to carry a Dog talisman. You need to know that Pigs and Tigers share an affinity, as do Snakes and Monkeys, Dragons and Roosters, Oxen and Rats, and Horses and Goats.

As this is the Year of the Red Fire Monkey, you’re advised to focus on your living room, the heart of the home associated with fire. Again, make sure that the room is clean and free of clutter – and consider painting one wall in a fiery red or purple hue.

Since white is associated with metal, a uniformly white-washed home will be off putting to the Red Fire Monkey.

The Monkey is an extravagant creature, he likes a smart looking home, fine dining and fancy clothes, so follow his lead and indulge yourself a little in 2016. Remember too that the Monkey is a risk taker – use your head this year and you can feel free to pursue your dreams.

@ www.arounddb.com

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FAMILY MATTERS

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February 2016

FAMILY MATTERS

ON CREATIVE WRITING In the lead-up to the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition, DB authors Trisha Hughes and Gillian Bickley discuss the art of storytelling

S

econdary school students across Lantau are looking at a March 14 deadline for the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition.

This year’s competition offers them the chance to express real concerns about something they see happening around them – to bring to the table personal observations that might otherwise never be realised. So how do they start getting their thoughts out there?

As with so many things, nothing beats a little expert advice and who better to consult than two acclaimed writers, Trisha Hughes and Gillian Bickley. Trisha, who recently moved to DB from Australia, has just signed a three-book deal with Penguin Random House, and her non-fiction autobiographical book, Daughters of Nazareth, was recently republished by Austin Macauley Publishers. Gillian Bickley, a 12-year DB resident, is codirector of the independent publishing house, Proverse Hong Kong, and co-founder of The Proverse Prize for unpublished writing. She specialises in 19th century studies and her books include five collections of poetry.

Where to begin Writers need to have a place in which to create – somewhere they are truly

comfortable – and Gillian is quick to point out that this can be absolutely anywhere. “Different circumstances may suit different individuals as [people] focus on what it is that they want to write,” she says. “Apocryphal or not, we remember the stories about Jane Austen sitting quietly in the family sitting room, writing away, while others were chatting among themselves or receiving visitors. On the other hand, we also remember another English writer, Virginia Woolf, and her plea for “a room of one’s own” as a prerequisite for being successful.”

writing can be. And it is no surprise if early creative writing shows influences in content and style and even (for longer pieces) plot from what young writers have been reading.

Trisha opens with some practical tips, for writers of all ages: “Knowing how to start writing is always difficult.

So write 50 words, and that’s a paragraph. Write 400 words and that’s a page. Write 300 pages and that’s a manuscript. Write every day and that’s a habit. Edit and rewrite and you get better at it. Give your writing to people for comments and that’s feedback. Don’t worry about rejection or publication. That’s being a writer. When you’re not writing, read. Read and perceive.”

Confessing that seeing a child spellbound in a book makes her heart feel warm and fuzzy, Trisha says: “When reading a book, our children’s imaginations soar free and they see the world differently during that time.

Reading develops their minds as their brains fire up and they imagine what the characters are wearing, how they are standing, how they talk, what they are seeing and what they are thinking.

No one has to tell them or show them.

The words make suggestions and their brain paints the picture. From reading, writing is a natural progression.”

Read and perceive “Reading is a great way to lead kids and young adults into the way of creative writing,” explains Gillian. “For reading what others have written models what

“The older generation probably thinks first of books as providing the most ideal writing models,” Gillian adds.

“But films, radio and TV programmes and the weight of information carried by all accessible media, including music and lyrics – and even by toys and games – give ideas and ideals that can fire creativity and imagination.”

Guidance and self-belief It’s clear that every writer needs encouragement, and Trisha draws attention to the importance of  February 2016

39

FAMILY MATTERS

early parental input. “We should be allowing that small amount of time for our children to read and let their imaginations grow and improve their comprehension. I’d suggest parents let their kids read to a certain chapter of a book then stop them and ask: Why do you think that is happening?

What do you think happens next? Get them to close their eyes and describe something to you. And encourage them. Always encourage them.”

own desire to write, it is pleasurable,” says Gillian. “If it is used to express concerns, problems or unhappiness, it can act as a means of coming to terms with difficulties and can even translate them into something

positive, sublimating them. It can also be used to record happy thoughts and experiences. For creative writing need not be about imaginary things. It can equally be an experiment in the ways of talking about real experiences and 

“It is not too difficult for kids to be creative if they are given permission to be so and also if someone shows them the way,” Gillian adds. “Sometimes the task may seem rather to help them to separate the world of imagination from what the adult world considers the world of reality and fact. Creative writing (just like creative drawing, painting, modelling, music-making and photography) needs a little push in the right direction and positive feedback when results are offered for show.”

Having the self-confidence to put your thoughts on paper and then share them with others is not always easy. As Trisha says: “For everyone, especially children, the hardest part in writing is believing in yourself. To write, you have to lose your fear of being wrong or different. When you write, you are expressing yourself through your words, and that can never be wrong.

What I have learned is that children need to believe in themselves and they need to know that they are all unique and clever in their own way. As Albert Einstein said, “If we judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend the rest of its life believing it is stupid.”

DB writer and publisher Gillian Bickley

Reaping the benefits Not surprisingly perhaps, both authors focus on the fact that engaging in creative writing, thoughtfully and for its own sake, can be an enjoyable, gratifying experience. The act of communication (and mastering the means to communicate) can bring joy and at the same time be cathartic.

“If [writing] flows from the writer’s

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February 2016

DB writer Trisha Hughes

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FAMILY MATTERS

feelings. Certainly, it is a means of self-expression and communication that does not necessarily need an immediate audience, thus providing respite both to young people and their family members.”

“Something very magical happens when you begin writing,” Trisha concludes. “It’s like putting a sliver of your soul down on paper. It’s like driving at night in the fog: You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can eventually make the whole trip that way. Writing lets you be anything you want and be anywhere you want. It opens your mind to endless possibilities and you are only limited by your own imagination. And a writer needs to have an imagination. That’s what makes you a writer.”

Young Writer’s Competition 2016 Now in its fourth year, the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) provides secondary school students living and/ or studying in Lantau with the chance to get published. The challenge, this year, is for students to write a nonfiction account of 600 to 700 words highlighting a particular community concern.

Stories need to be submitted by March 14. To enter, check the YWC guidelines at www.arounddb.com.

Find it • Gillian Bickley, www.proversepublishing.com • Trisha Hughes, www.trishahughesauthor.com

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CYCLE FOR LIFE

Chinese New Year sees DB resident Steve Chitty embark on a cycling fundraiser through Cambodia with 10 teammates. Sam Agars reports on their ride against modern-day slavery, trafficking and poverty

L

ike so many things do, Discovery Bay based Life Cycle Asia (LC) started as a conversation between friends in 2013 and quickly grew from there, with its first fundraising cycle ride taking place in March, 2014. The charity exists to help disadvantaged Cambodians already affected by trafficking and slavery, and those who have the potential to become affected due to poverty.

Run by Steve Chitty and Denise Gascoigne, LC is using bike riding as a tool to do some powerful work, thanks in no small part to the enthusiasm and action of likeminded DB residents.

to that position of being vulnerable,” Steve says. “The primary aim is to help lower the risk of trafficking for young, disadvantaged Cambodians by providing them with education and support.”

Steve and Denise design cycle rides that are inspiring and interesting, and also give participants the chance to get off the beaten track.

“There is a freedom in bike riding and it brings out the best in people, which

“As expats, we lead such blessed and privileged lives, and I think DBers are well aware of this,” Denise says.

“Families are keen to be involved in fundraising activities and keen to educate their children about the plight of those less fortunate.”

Photo by Sam Agars

According to the 2014 Global Slavery Index, an estimated 35.8 million men, women and children around the world are trapped in modern slavery today. Since 2014, and after six rides through Hong Kong, mainland China and Cambodia, LC has raised upwards of HK$340,000 to help those in need.

February 2016

LC’s current fundraiser, Cycle for Life, taking place between February 5 and 14, actually had to be cancelled in mid2015 due to limited interest levels, but a couple of locals were quick to save the day.

“DB residents Julie Mexted and Wendi Sparks weren’t having it,” Steve says, with a grin. “They wanted to take their 12-year-old daughters, Maddie and Lauren, to give them an outward looking experience. They provided us with the impetus to make the trip more affordable and get things moving again.”

“We get to have a look at some of their initiatives, what they do, how they do it and why they do what they do,” Steve says. “It’s an exploration of Cambodia as well – it’s a beautiful country.”

To learn more about Life Cycle Asia, visit www.lifecycleasia.org; to sign up for the next ride, email info@lifecycleasia.com.

Fung Tat Choi and DB residents Denise Gascoigne and Steve Chitty Chan Yu Ting

Find more local heroes

44

Ushering in local support

By January, 10 riders from DB, Lantau, Australia and New Zealand had committed to the journey. The trip, beginning in Phnom Penh and also taking in Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, involves 245 kilometres of cycling and 20 kilometres of hiking.

Participants have the opportunity to ‘home-stay’ with locals and visit some of the LC-supported charities.

Riding high

LC supports four Cambodia-based charities – Who Will Village, the Cambodia Charitable Trust, Hagar International and Sala Bai Hotel School. “We are focusing on things that hopefully prevent people ever getting

is ultimately what LC aims to do for both the people riding and those on the receiving end,” Steve says.

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For almost 3,000 years, the Silk Road linked the traders, merchants and pilgrims of China, India, Persia and the Mediterranean. It remains an unbeatably exotic destination to visit, writes Cecilia Yee

46

X

injiang, now the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, has for more than 2,000 years been the recipient of an unceasing flow of commercial and cultural influences.

It was here that the Silk Road, linking Constantinople, Baghdad and present-day Xian, split into two, bypassing the formidable Taklamakan Desert, and connecting a vibrant web of oasis towns and trading posts. Visit the region today, and you’ll recognise that legions of soldiers, traders, pilgrims and prophets have all left their mark, February 2016

be that Persian, Indian, Turkish or Chinese.

While Xinjiang’s rich history is its main draw, there’s also the pull of experiencing a truly distant land – China’s seemingly forgotten northwestern frontier. Even on a short trip, you get to explore a dramatically diverse landscape made up of sunbaked deserts, verdant pastures and snow-capped mountains.

Here, the primarily nomadic people eke out a simple living, much as their ancestors did before them. Get out

into the villages and you’ll discover that Mandarin is not widely spoken – Xinjiang is home to numerous ethnic minorities, with the most dominant being the Uyghurs, a Turkic race of Sunni Muslims.

In and around Urumqi While it won’t transport you back to the past (it’s the largest city in Western China), Urumqi, the capital, is an ideal place to start a tour of Xinjiang.

You’ll want to spend at least a day in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous

ESCAPES

Travelling along the Silk Road takes you back 2,000 years

Region Museum, soaking up its fine collection of Silk Road artefacts.

Spanning thousands of years of history, much of what you see in this exhibit was dug out of the Taklamakan Desert, including rugs, skulls and even food. The Ethnic Minority Exhibition, which details lifestyles, clothing, instruments and customs, is another of the museum’s highlights.

When not touring the globe, the celebrated Tarim mummies are homed in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum.

Dating from 1,900 BC to 200 AD, these beautifully preserved mummies were cut out of the Tarim Basin in the early 20th century. Many lack Chinese features or characteristics, confirming that Xinjiang has been a melting pot of ethnic groups for most of its history.

In the evening, be sure to stop by busy Er Dao Qiao Bazaar, a popular central square and commercial centre that sells everything from hand-woven carpets to seasonal fruit. ‘Bazaar’ is a Uyghur word meaning ‘market’ – and this one is as true a reflection of Uyghur culture as you’ll find anywhere.

When in Urumqi, you’ll also want to visit the Heavenly Lake, 120 kilometres northeast of the city.

Take a boat ride in order to fully appreciate this famous summer resort, surrounded by peaks, pines and grassland.

Turpan’s Flaming Mountains In the Southern Mountain Pastureland, 75 kilometres outside Urumqi, you can experience the nomadic life of Xinjiang’s Kazakh herdsmen first hand – and even stay a few nights in a   February 2016

47

ESCAPES

an s, Turp ountain M g in Flam

(surprisingly comfortable) yurt. The Kazakhs spend summer here, and the air is as fresh as the gurgling waterfalls.

Wandering the hills, you’ll find the spectacular views comprise snowcapped mountains, glittering glaciers, towering crags and verdant forests.

Next stop is the ancient oasis town of Turpan, where you’ll want to spend a night or two if only to explore the surrounding area. Be warned that the mountain climate is harsh and, in summer, the high temperatures make this the hottest spot in China.

Heavenly Lake, Urumqi

e, K Mosqu Id Kah

ashgar

East of the city and bordering the Taklamakan Desert, the spectacular Flaming Mountains cross the Turpan Depression, the lowest point in China and second lowest on Earth. An absolute must-see, their eroded red sandstone slopes genuinely do seem to flame, particularly under the intense midday sun.

The fertile, mountain valleys around Turpan have been inhabited for centuries and there are numerous ancient cities and imperial garrisons – and even Buddhist caves – to visit.

Jiāohé Ancient City is one of the best preserved, and an ideal spot to soak up a little Silk Road nostalgia.

Kashgar’s Grand Bazaar Tarim mummy, Xinjiang Museum

y Market gar Sunda sh a K e th s at Shepherdes

A two-hour flight from Urumqi, Kashgar sits in the foothills of the Karakorum Mountains, within both the Tarim Basin and Taklamakan Desert. With Pakistan and Afghanistan

February 2016

You’ll want to visit the Aba Khoja Mausoleum, built in 1640 to honour the holy mystic and regional warlord, Aba Khoja, who claimed direct ties to the prophet Muhammad. This tomb, containing 72 bodies from five generations of the same family, features a lovely enamelled dome and is surrounded by a delightful rose garden.

Kashgar’s famed Grand Bazaar is one of the highpoints of the trip, and it is best seen on a Sunday, when thousands of buyers descend upon the city from the surrounding oasis towns. While the atmospheric livestock market has been moved a few kilometres outside the city, the rest is laid out in an orderly fashion, so that there is a textile market, a hat market (so important in a Muslim society), a boot market and a spice, fruit and food market.

At the Grand Bazaar, you get a real taste of the folk customs of the Xinjiang Uyghurs, and you can also pick up treasures from neighbouring countries – handicrafts from Pakistan, silks from Turkey, binoculars from Kyrgyzstan and dried fruits from Saudi Arabia. In this vast, all-encompassing marketplace, the biggest international trading market in Northwest China, Kashgar’s celebrated Silk Road legacy is still going strong.

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less than a day’s drive away, Kashgar is the westernmost, and possibly the most exotic, city in all of China.

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Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com and Scott Stanton, and courtesy of Gogo Yung and Karen Fairley

ACTION

50

WHEELS IN MOTION DB riders are leading the pack as the international craze for cycling goes into overdrive. Beverly Au reports on the thrill of the sport, both on and off road

P

acks of cyclists, often wearing matching jerseys advertising their favourite charity, are an increasingly common sight in and around Discovery Bay. And it’s not just ‘elite’ local cyclists who are pumping out the kilometres, entire families are taking up the pursuit either on DB’s 12 kilometres of paved road, or on the surrounding trails.

Aiming to explain increased interest in the sport internationally, Tony February 2016

Pringle, bike fitter and bike consultant at Bike Energy Lab in DB, focuses first on the social aspect. “Riders like to stop and have a drink of coffee and then continue on their way,” he says.

“It is also an exhilarating sport and a lot of fun, as well as being a clean and virtuous pursuit.”

Karen Fairley, business manager at sports shop Action X in DB North Plaza, and a keen triathlete, echoes Tony’s sentiment. “People will ride

with friends, so some people see the sport as a good chance to be social.

They also want to be active, want to be seen to be interested in fitness, and wearing the clothes. There is so much awareness of the benefits of fitness and health.”

A virtuous pursuit Cycling with family and friends is not only an easy way to appreciate the outdoors but also a great way to get a

ACTION

Lantau Buffalos’ cyclists gearing up to take on The Beast, with Karen Fairley fourth from left

workout. The fact that cycling is a lowimpact sport and easier on one’s body than, for instance, jogging on concrete roads, is also a major plus.

“It is easy on your joints,” says Tony, a DBer of 10 years. “A three-hour ride is not too difficult after a few weeks, once you get used to being on the saddle.”

“I cycle for fun, recreation and fitness,” Gogo says, adding that he prefers trail cycling to road cycling, since he considers it safer – and of course more scenic.

Getting kitted out

Tony adds that cycling rewards time spent. In other words, the more you cycle, the more benefits you reap. You can also continue to do it well into your golden years.

One of cycling’s main draws is of course the exhilaration riders experience due to the speeds involved.

Tony, who prefers not to reveal just how quickly he can make it down Golf Club Hill in DB, says: “Risk is part of the attraction.”

Gogo Yung has lived in DB for over 20 years, and has been a passionate mountain biker for much of that time.

Noting that many of his friends have switched to road cycling in recent years, Gogo says he’s stuck by his first love. He generally tackles the trails from DB to Mui Wo twice a week.

If cycling sounds like fun to you, there are therefore a few things to consider.

“Do some research before you buy a bike,” advises Karen, an eight-year DB resident. “Try and get a bike that fits, and wear appropriate apparel. A helmet is a must, and people new to the sport need to learn good bike skills,

including how to fix a flat tyre.”

“I would suggest that someone who is looking to cycle goes to see a professional,” Tony says – someone who can advise you on which equipment will suit your needs best. “I recommend carbon-fibre bikes as they are lighter, which makes it better for cyclists who are biking for fitness purposes.”

Tony will basically build a bike for you, having sourced individual components on the internet, and he points out that this can actually work out cheaper than buying a ready-made bike in a shop.

But cycling, at this level, doesn’t come cheap. “You are probably looking at HK$8-10,000 for a good bike,” Tony says. “You can get completely kitted out for HK$10,000 but I would recommend spending HK$15-20,000.”

Tony also advises novice cyclists join  February 2016

51

ACTION

Tony Pringle competing in the 2014 Vita Green Cycling for Health Marathon in Central

a bike club, with like-minded people of a similar skill set. Karen and Tony are founding members of the Lantau Buffalos, a 200-strong, multi-sports group. The club is affiliated with the Hong Kong Cycling Association and the Hong Kong Triathlon Association and stages regular adventure racing and triathlon events.

Recommended routes On Tuesday mornings, the Lantau Buffalos do hill repeats up Siena Hill and Golf Club Hill in DB. On early Saturday mornings, the group organises vans to carry bikes through the DB Tunnel, from where cyclists typically head out to the airport, Hong Kong Disneyland and South Lantau.

Cycling around Discovery Bay is great to begin with as there are 12 kilometres of paved road for riders to enjoy. “When they are feeling more confident, cyclists can head to the best road riding on the island in North Lantau,” says Karen.

“The road to Disney is fantastic, as it is mostly flat,” adds Tony. “You can do a 100-kilometre loop in around three hours, depending on the speed you are going.”

52

February 2016

Karen competing in the 2014 Ironman Western Australia in Busselton

Other recommended routes involve taking on ‘The Beast’, the hill over to South Lantau from Tung Chung on the main road, which has an 18% gradient.

“Cycling from Tung Chung, over The Beast and up to the Big Buddha, takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes down to Tai O,” notes Karen. “I enjoy this ride as you get a bit of everything – the challenge of the climbs, beautiful vistas, nice descents, some fast flat sections, uneven road surfaces, cows, buffalo, dogs and of course the camaraderie from fellow cyclists.”

For trail cyclists, Gogo recommends

either of two routes from DB to Mui Wo. “The old Trappist trail is only a 30 to 40 minute ride (5.5 kilometres), assuming you start from the entry to the left of the underpass on Discovery Valley Road,” he says. “If you take the Lo Fu Tau Trail (8 kilometres), it usually takes more than one hour, including the hike up to the top from the trail near the pagoda (before DB Reservoir dam).” Heading back to DB, Gogo usually takes the coastal trail along Nim Shue Wan (5.5 kilometres). This leg involves hiking up the steep steps from Silvermine Bay to the Trappist Monastery and can take an hour.

Gogo also enjoys cycling South Lantau’s official mountain biking trails, and has worked hard to have them improved and expanded. “I’ve inspected the trails in Chi Ma Wan Peninsula with officials from the Civil Engineering and Development Department and members from both the Hong Kong Cycling Association and Hong Kong Mountain Biking Association,” he says. “There are plans for more trails in the years ahead.”

Road safety While Gogo cautions cyclists against riding up or down excessively steep or eroded trails, and advises them to 

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hike these sections with their bicycles on their backs, being aware of inherent dangers is even more important for road cyclists.

In the past decade, nearly 100 people have died while riding a bike in Hong Kong, and more than 16,000 have been injured. Here in Lantau, the boom in amateur cycling is clashing with extensive development, which has seen significant growth in vehicle traffic, especially trucks and buses.

The tragic death of Tung Chung resident Colin Robertson, in June 2014, really brought this home to local residents. Colin was hit by a truck when it swerved wildly across double white lines on the South Perimeter Road near the airport.

Local cyclists are calling for improved

Gogo Yung on the trails around DB Reservoir

driver education, as well as dedicated cycling lanes on key routes to make our roads safer for cyclists. For now though, the onus to cycle safe is on riders themselves.

aware of other bikers, motorised vehicles and other road users, including kids and dogs,” Karen cautions. “Wear appropriate clothing (including helmets and bright reflective clothing) and follow the rules of the road,” Tony adds.

“As a cyclist, you need to be constantly

Find it

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HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Photo by Fai

THE WYNNERS ON STAGE Hong Kong Coliseum, Hung Hom

Formed in Hong Kong in the 1970s, cult local band The Wynners are set to roll back the clock with their first live show in almost five years. Although they went their separate ways in 1978, they have staged regular reunion concerts and fans can expect to hear all their classics. For tickets, starting at HK$280, head to www.urbtix.hk; for more information, go to www.lcsd.gov.hk.

CHINESE NEW YEAR PARADE! Tsim Sha Tsui

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THE CIRCUS IS IN TOWN Queen Elizabeth Stadium, Happy Valley

out Through y Februar

NoFit State Circus, the UK’s leading large-scale circus company, combines live music, dance and film in the awe-inspiring Bianco.

Featuring daring stunts and impressive acrobatics, the show’s constantly evolving narrative takes place above, behind and all around a standing audience. For more information, go to www.nofitstate.org; to buy tickets, starting at HK$350, go to www.urbtix.hk.

Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees, Kowloon

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Ring in the Year of the Monkey at the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade. An ever-popular annual event, last year’s parade attracted 150,000 onlookers. Enjoy a giant outdoor street party, bright, colourful and loud floats and hundreds of brilliant performances. Be sure to get there early to grab a good viewpoint. For more information, visit www.discoverhongkong.com.

Treat yourself to a huge selection of sumptuously fresh seafood at Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees. Whole brown crab, whole scallop on shell and blue mussels are specialties. Other options include freshly shucked US oysters, King Crab legs and Wagyu sashimi. The buffet starts at HK$448 per adult and HK$318 per child.

To make a reservation, call 2126 1960 or email fnb@hp8dcatering.com.

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17-21

HONG KONG PET SHOW Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

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You can parade your pet, educate your pet, and learn what is best for him at the Hong Kong Pet Show. Expect performances, contests and seminars, plus a wide range of vendors on site. Starting at 12pm daily, tickets cost HK$30 and are available on the door. Pets get in free!

Visit www.petshow.com.hk for more information.

February 2016

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HK HAPPENINGS

18 y r rua 21 Feb arch M

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HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL Throughout Hong Kong

The 44th annual Hong Kong Arts Festival (HKAF) is set to feature premier local and international opera, music, theatre, dance and circus, as well as a range of educational events. For more information, visit www.hk.artsfestival.org; for tickets, go to www.urbtix.hk.

LONGINES MASTERS OF HONG KONG AsiaWorld-Expo Arena, Chek Lap Kok

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Photo courtesy of AsiaWorld-Expo

GRAB YOUR CNY FLOWERS Throughout Hong Kong It’s traditional to buy potted plants and cut flowers at Chinese New Year (CNY), since they are connected with the wish for happiness in the coming year, and symbolise new life (a fresh start). The idea is to have your plants blossom during the holidays, ideally on New Year’s Day, as that way you can expect 12 months of prosperity. Go for red or gold blooms if you are looking to better your bank balance or love life in 2016. Here are three top spots to grab your flowers this CNY:

1 The Mongkok Flower Market

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At this prestigious event, 25 of the world’s best riders and their horses are set to light up the arena, competing in events such as the Longines Speed Challenge and the Longines Grand Prix. For more information and tickets, starting from HK$250, head to www.longinesmasters.com.

February 19-21

-21 9 1 ry

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

C3 IN HONG KONG

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Get your Japanese anime and manga fill without leaving Hong Kong at the annual C3 in Hong Kong. While authentic publishers, retailers and productions houses display the latest and best in anime and manga, Japanese singers give the event a current feel. Starting at 12pm each day, you can buy tickets for HK$30 at 7-Eleven or Circle K, or HK$35 on the door. Head to www.c3hk.com.hk for more information.

(near Prince Edward MTR).

2 The temporary stalls in Victoria Park, Causeway Bay.

3 Wing Fung Garden in DB (at the end of Nim Shue Wan).

Throughout February

HONG KONG RESTAURANT WEEK Across Hong Kong

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab a great-value feed at one of Hong Kong’s most exciting and popular restaurants during Hong Kong Restaurant Week. As many as 80 top eateries are offering threecourse tasting menus, over a 10-day period. Head to www.restaurantweek.hk for a list of participating restaurants.

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February 2016

February 26 March 6

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May the year of the Monkey bring your way Good Luck, Good Health, Love and Happiness!

Kung Hei Fat Choy!

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COMMUNITY SNAPS!

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Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Jennifer Bongar (@jenbongar)

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This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. We will contact the winner via Instagram. Good luck!

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The sou

70K-88K WHITESANDS - CHEUNG SHA 1954’ Net + & 1181’+ Net Garden

C-044849

Our opening hours is Monday – Saturday at 10am to 8pm Sunday opening hours 2pm to 9pm

1B Greenland Court, Greenvale Village DB (Bus C4) Tel: 5217 0102 Make your appointment now!

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

Importing all natural, handmade products from small British producers

GMT FOODS Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org

Tel: +852 6647 2292 email: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com www.gmtfoodshk.com www.facebook.com/gmtfoods twitter@gillian_GMT

est. 2009

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY NETWORKING BREAKFAST MARCH 1 AT ZAKS, DB PLAZA Meet local service providers and customers, ask questions, and get advice from those who have gone before. Contact info@t8-consulting. com for more information

EMPLOYMENT

FINANCE & INSURANCE AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS Need to lodge your Australian tax return?

If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return.

Let us do it for you here in HK. Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net

EMPLOYER WANTED

Marie Amora is looking for a new employer. She excels at child minding, cooking & cleaning.

Call her on 6492 3511

EMPLOYER LOOKING FOR A HELPER? OR HELPER LOOKING FOR AN EMPLOYER? Place your free classifieds ad here.

Email info@baymedia.com.hk

Deadline for March issue classified

February 15

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching.

Resolve: • Fear of Flying/ Public Speaking • Overeating • Couples’ Conflicts • Career & Command-Training Stress • Anger Management • Phobias • Nail Biting • Insomnia • Exam Jitters Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

HOME SERVICES FTC RELOCATIONS

The experts in local & international moving. World-class service – competitive rates. FTC also provides short-term storage & handyman services. Operating throughout DB & Lantau. Call 2814 1658, or visit www.ftc.hk

AKASH MOVING

Local packing & moving service.

Best move – best rate.

Akash offers a packing/ unpacking service, provides boxes & packing materials & makes small deliveries.

Call 2421 8088, or visit www.akash.hk

HOME SERVICES

PETS

SONTHRA HANDYMAN

THE PLACE WHERE THE PETS GO - PETCODB

Furniture repairing by indoor/ outdoor & polishing specialist.

Any kind of solid wood plus hanging pictures (any wall work).

• Better quality • Great value • Low prices • Satisfaction guaranteed Contact Peter on 9674 7531, Sonthrapeter@gmail.com

HOUSE DOCTOR HANDYMAN

Fluent in English.

Hong Kong permanent resident.

• Plumbing • Electrical • Aircon installation & repairs • Curtain, blind, picture, mirror, shelf & picture hanging • Ceiling fan & light installation • Kitchen & bathroom renovation • Assembly of Ikea products • House painting Contact Frank on 9141 5706, housedoc999express@gmail.com

EXPERT MOVER

• Mover • Storage • Handyman Competitive rates.

Professional quality service.

Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk.

Visit www.expertmover.hk

KIDS

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development. Come & look at our facilities. Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years.

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

Grooming & Pet Care Services.

Trust us to provide loving & safe care for the ones you love!

Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com.

Visit www.petcodb.com

DOG SERVICES

Home boarding, behaviour modification, Tui Na Massage & grooming. Reliable & honest.

100% safety record over the past 11 years.

Contact Dave Chan on 9872 5439, www.quoquoclub.com

RETAIL ABBELIO WINES

Great value! High scoring!

Wines from around the world!

Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents.

For details, visit http://abw.hk/db, or call 3170 8458

SERVICES VERIDIAN LTD

Bookkeeping & accounting services.

(Manual/ Quickbooks/ Xero/ Kashoo.)

Specialising in personal & small businesses.

Contact 2987 2146 / 9444 0405, jrh4966@netvigator.com

SONTHRA TAILORING SERVICES

Tailoring for ladies & children.

(Shirts, pyjamas. Shalwar Kameez, baby dresses.)

Individual designs, copies, alterations & modifications.

Bespoke drapery, upholstery, bed & table linens. High quality, excellent service, competitive pricing, satisfaction guaranteed.

Contact 9637 1620, sonthrafarnaz@gmail.com

Our Customers of the Month

Summer Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza Tel: 2987 8873 Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm

February 2016

63

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Greenland Pest Control Alcoholics Anonymous

Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc…

If you want to drink, that’s your business.

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

24 hour hotline: 9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667 www.aa-hk.org

For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com

SINCE 1997

OUR SERVICES DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)

Jervisbay Barbecue World 1213, 12/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St., Ap Lei Chau, Tel: 2792 7268 www.jervisbaybarbecues.com

Kung Hei Fat Choy!

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February 2016

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com TRAVEL concoRdE TRAVEL

Leisure Travel & Cruise specialists since 1978.

Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com.

Licence No 350343

BLACKOUT BOXING Formerly Boxfit

TUITIon & coURSES

LEARn SPAnISH

Native speaker, DELE examiner.

Experienced teacher.

IB, IGCSE, A-Levels & HKDSE Business Spanish & courses for adults.

Flexible schedule & locations.

(Special offers to students who live in DB & Tung Chung.)

For enquiries please contact Mr Erik R at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

Sunday 2pm at Movement Improvement.

Learn precise boxing techniques to strengthen and condition your body.

Call: 6926 2168 or 6338 0283 for bookings.

Email: Errofit168@yahoo.com

cHInESE (MAndARIn & cAnTonESE), MATHEMATIcS & EnGLISH

Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

• Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools, Year 1 to 13 • For students & adults (homework/ exams/ business) • Mother-tongue Chinese tutors from the PRC (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics tutors (UK B SC) • Native English tutors.

(MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, graciasx@hotmail.com

MAndARIn cHInESE cLASSRooM

In the Greens. Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups.

Any level/ time/ purpose.

Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

FULLY QUALIFIEd ScIEncE TEAcHER

With Honours Bachelors Degree.

Offering tutoring for KS3 & IGCSE Science (all disciplines) & IB/A’ Levels Physics.

Contact 6079 2052, mr.m.walker@yahoo.com.uk

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents • Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 40 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest

MUSIc TUToR

Experienced international school teacher, UK conservatoire trained with 17 years successful teaching experience & excellent exam result record.

Available to tutor in international exam boards, ABRSM Music Theory & Cello, plus GCSE/IB/AL Music Tuition. For rates, contact 6076 6740, or debsinhk@hotmail.com

February 2016

65

Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com LANTAU PROPERTY

BRIGHT LUXURIOUS 2-BED Fully-furnished sea-view apartment, with fully equipped kitchen, towels & linen, wi-fi & broadband. Very close to DB North Plaza, Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Contact 9278 8191, qiushengproperties@gmail.com

LANTAU PROPERTY

APARTMENTS IN TUNG CHUNG FOR LEASE Fully furnished, 2- & 3-bed apartments available for long/ short- term lease. Minimum rental period 1 month. In excellent condition.

Contact Miss Man on 9806 9175/ 9872 7395, tanford787@gmail.com

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

CHERISH COURT

Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service.

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

Fully furnished, 2-bedroom flat with wi-fi & Now TV. Full sea view & Disneyland-firework view. Photos available.

Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

LUXURY APARTMENTS IN SIENA 2 Spacious 600’ apartments for short- or long-term rental. Quiet with sea views over park, near Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Fully furnished with washer/ drier, bedlinen, kitchenware, 55” TVs, wi-fi, blu-ray home theatre. Contact the owner on 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

COSY NEW 1 BEDROOM Cosy & brand-new 1-bedroom flat with sea view, convenient location, fully furnished with bed linen, kitchenware, washer/ drier & English & Chinese TV channels. Free cleaning once every 3 days upon request. Minimum stay 3 nights. Contact Mary on 9726 6219, marydbay@gmail.com

OVERSEAS PROPERTY MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT Spacious open layout on a quiet, high floor.

Shower & fully equipped kitchen, washer/ dryer.

Wi-fi, English movies & news. Just unpack!

Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com

LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED

53’ SAILING YACHT, LANGKAWI & THAILAND

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

Stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom sailing yacht in a Langkawi marina, for overnight stay or private charter around Langkawi and Southern Thailand. For details, contact 9732 2544, garry@saffron-marina.com

Stunning cliff-top 2-bedroom beach cottage offering uninterrupted 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, just a 5-minute walk to Laguna Beach. For more information, contact 9732 2544, garry@saffron-marina.com

LUXURY 2-BED Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony.

Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Charles on 6140 7971, charles@headlandhomes.hk. Contact Katie on 9150 7319, katie@headlandhomes.hk

SLEEPS 4 Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4. Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband.

Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month. Email dbstay4@yahoo.com

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February 2016

AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal.

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

PHUKET VILLA Deluxe, spacious 4-bedroom villa, with ensuite bathrooms & private pool.

Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area.

Fully equipped kitchen with laundry area.

Close to Laguna. Contact Roenel on 9050 4772, atsea@netvigator.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT HELLO RESIDENTS OF DB, LANTAU AND THE REST OF HONG KONG! It’s time to consult THE EXPERT about your financial planning!

My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. But the mandatory insurances required by the Hong Kong Government (including domestic helper insurance and automobile coverage) are always worth due diligence.

Note that if you rent your home, you need insurance to protect yourself from public liability lawsuits. And if you have a mortgage, your bank may demand that you take out both fire coverage and mortgage protection insurance.

Homeowners insurance is a security blanket. It is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophe. Therefore, when you are choosing a policy, don’t always look to save money – the best deal may cost you more in the long run.

But be sure to shop around. When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere.

Consider whether you have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflation-protection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure.

I AM: KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native Englishspeaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

MY OFFER: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice, and check that you have the right product at the right price.

CONTACT ME: 9811 1554, kailash_k3@hotmail.com, kishus@i-cable.com.

Small shipping needs?

We offer air and sea shipments all over the world for small volumes.

E: info@baggagexs.com C: (852) 3167 4000 W: www.baggagexs.com

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

Airport Izakaya Andante Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado Chef’s Choice China Coast Bar & Grill Deli Viet Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 2109 0036 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2109 1927 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2330 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Mavericks Restaurant, Pui O Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep

Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon Treasure Island

6627 4806 6385 0304 9708 0187 9688 9112 2984 0990 2546 3543 HOME & REPAIRS

3147 4088 2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 3575 8370 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Regal Airport Hotel

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

LEARNING CENTRES

Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Sakura Kids Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool The Story Studio Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6674 6194 2611 9193 9045 2914 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2109 4962 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

9 Dragons Fitness Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Dance for Joy Edge’n Pointe Dance Centre Jumping Castles Perun Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Tung Chung Crescent Club House

2786 9699 2385 9677 2109 9277 2179 6678 9264 8597 6688 2167 9662 1747 6443 6597 3473 8700 5400 4109 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station

2984 0222 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 5662 8552 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Asian Hairdressers Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 8733 3661 1694

Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering New Look Design Unitek

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 9156 0360 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

DEI Kindergarten Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten The Story Studio

2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 2984 0006 6341 3989

PROPERTY AGENCIES

Findley Leung Real Estate Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2882 8710 2988 1368 2984 0099 9586 3459 SERVICES & OTHERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Phoenix Wills Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)

6108 3400 2984 0060 6108 8471 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza Beautiful Gate BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Cares IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2323 0738 2259 3422 2987 9909 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 9879 0469 2259 3422

Little Explorers A drop-off playgroup for ages 18 months upward. Your child will have heaps of fun and make lots of new friends.

9327 0507

Playtime Kids DB

2812 2660 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP Just Green Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome, North Plaza

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

2233 3000 2987 1851

6341 5764, www.positivestepsplaygroup.com positivestepsplaygroup@gmail.com

Tree of Joy A playgroup offering a variety of fun classes to children from 14months to 3years+ under a nurturing and enriching environment.

9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com www.treeofjoydb.com

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tactful Design & Build Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2886 8555 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

LEARNING CENTRES

Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year 8122 9475 admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com

Brightsparks Playgroup Fun, safe and interactive environment for your children.

9632 4287

Future Stars Dance Academy

Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment.

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

Island Dance A dance school offering ISTD Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap & RAD Ballet classes from Monday to Saturday at DBRC & Club Siena. All ages welcome.

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

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February 2016

2987 1373 2914 2133 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777

OTHER SERVICES

The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.com

Harvey Law Group Positive Steps

DAILY NECESSITIES

Bookazine, North Plaza Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution

Apple Travel Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 6 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BtoKidz, North Plaza Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite

MULTIMEDIA

Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located. 9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk

Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring and nurturing environment in the Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years.

6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com Art is a Verb, North Plaza Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Playgroup Eye Level Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

2682 8099 6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 2987 9644 9366 0000 6302 6327 2416 3088 2459 8808 8191 0813 6114 2436 9327 0507 2480 3909 2987 8608 2987 8143 2987 8143 2987 4217

Around DB’s March 2016 issue is coming out

MARCH 1

International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2116 1333 www.harveylawcorporation.com

PetcoDB Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoes Care Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

5369 2329 2529 8256 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

AQUABLU

Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution 6017 7802 Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Lifestyle Homes & Boats 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency EPS Property Consultants Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Okay.com Savills Hong Kong

2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2102 0888 2987 1919

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Café McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Salt & Pepper Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

2987 0966 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2172 7099 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2336 8001 2555 0772 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232

Junior Cricket Academy Cricket for 3.5 to 15 year old girls and boys Tel: 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

Movement Improvement Specialized training in Pilates, Yoga, TRX, Spinning, Circuits and Personal training. The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com

The HIT Room Bodypump, Grit Strength, Boxing, Core, TRX, High Intensity Training.

Located at North Plaza 6621 7410 www.thehitroom.com.hk info@thehitroom.com.hk

Tinytots

Bayside Aquatics

A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age.

3488 7724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk

“Everyone is a swimmer” Affordable Swimwear, training equipment & accessories.

9725 3142 www.baysideaquatics.hk

Vikings Football Club Professional Soccer Coaching From ages 18 months to 8 years Tel: 9533 2600 vikingshk@outlook.com www.vikings.hk

CAISSA Chess Club HK The Club gets together at the DB North Plaza Community Center 9681 2896 contact@caissahk.com www.caissahk.com

DARUMA SPORTS Offering Judo classes for adults & children at Discovery College & Community Hall 6244 6093 darumasports@gmail.com Discovery Bay Cricket Club An internationally acclaimed club which provides a structure under which players, regardless of age or ability, can thrive.

Tel: 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Ltd. Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club GigaSports

2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 2320 1238

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES Babyland Bo Bo House Discoveryland Toysland

2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk

HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk

Limousine Rental

Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline VIP Logistic Services Wiselink Golf Cart Services

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room North Lantau Hospital San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department

3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 3467 7000 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELLBEING

Sportsmanship

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

DB NUMBERS

6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 1213 2987 9368

Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities 2914 2223 www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk

My Health Coach Lulu Improve your life balance through health and self awareness. I am able to offer a bespoke program just for you.

9154 1570 lulu@myhealthcoachlulu.com www.myhealthcoachlulu.com

M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure.

2987 0614

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

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@ www.arounddb.com February 2016

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OUT THERE

LOVE HURTS

Ever ready to look on the bright side of life, Peter Sherwood explores the connection between Valentine’s Day, violence and vaccines

I

n the US alone, dreamy Valentine’s Day generates a whopping US$18 billion. But let’s begin with some not so romantic notions that belie its present incarnation. Sentimental it was emphatically not – no flattery, flowers, fattening chocolates or fancy jewellery back in the day.

According to National Geographic, it all started in pre-Christian Rome around February 14 at the pagan festival of Lupercalia, when young studs would go around naked with animal-skin whips spanking nubile female backsides to improve their fertility. Think of it as an early Fifty Shades of Grey.

Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

Next up, in AD197, we have the delightful story of one Valentine of Terni. As was the loving custom in those days, he was imprisoned, tortured and beheaded for his Christianity, by order of a Roman prefect with, as one wag wrote, “the oxymoronic name of Placid Furius”.

Legend has it Valentine of Terni expired on February 14, but that’s a maybe.

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A century later and another unlucky Christian, Valentine of Rome was martyred and imprisoned. In the months leading up to his death on February 14, he is said to have fallen in love with his jailer’s daughter, sending her a note ‘From your Valentine’. You can believe that if you want to. Regardless, the story must have entered the popular imagination because a couple of hundred years down the road, Pope Gelasius declared February 14, St Valentine’s Day – a Christian feast to

compete with that big erotic crowd pleaser, the Lupercalia.

Around 1415, in keeping with the long tradition of this special day, Charles, the French Duke of Orleans, wrote the first recorded Valentine’s note to his beloved, while locked up in the Tower of London. Medieval French bureaucracy soon got in on the act, opening the so called High Court of Love on February 14, to deal with matters of the heart (and spousal abuse).

And what would the day be without a reference from Shakespeare? Ophelia laments in Hamlet: “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s Day/ All in the morning bedtime/ And I a girl at

Of massacres and mayhem Strangely enough, the machinery of American super-hype only rolled into gear in the early 20th century, when Hallmark Cards produced its first syrupy sweet Valentine’s Day card.

The retail industry pounced on an opportunity to imprint in the national psyche another reason to squeeze hard-earned cash from dewy-eyed punters. Mother’s Day and Father’s Day quickly followed, giving birthdays and Christmas a run for their money.

A day for lovers that started out with pagan rituals, imprisonment, torture and death came full circle in 1929 in Chicago. Chief gangster Al Capone sought to consolidate control by eliminating his rivals in the illegal trades of bootlegging, gambling and prostitution. Violence reached its bloody climax in a garage with the St Valentine’s Day massacre on February 14, when seven men associated with one of Al’s long-time enemies, were shot to death.

Apropos nothing at all, on February 14, 1929, Alexander Fleming had his eureka moment with the discovery of penicillin.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 16 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter February 2016

your window/ To be your Valentine.”

Then, at the end of Act 1V, the poor girl tops herself.

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