Around DB August 2021

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AUGUST 2021 | AROUNDDB.COM

TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR TENNIS GAME FOLLOW US

GREAT DRINK • GREAT FOOD • GREAT COMPANY

HAPPY

VE LBIAND FRI & SAT

HOUR

MON - SUN CALL US FOR HOME DELIVERY OR CONTACT FOOD PANDA AND DELIVEROO

2321 5500

www.atavola.hk

Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events atavolahk

E&F G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung, Lantau Island

Founding Member of

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Residential Packages HK$ 20,800 up / month

Book by 30 June to enjoy value-added / tailored privilege to make your stay a memorable one.

Tekkerz® - A ‘maximum touch’ high intensity football program in Discovery Bay and Tung Chung aimed at developing and improving a player’s technical skills, ball mastery and overall game play.

1000+ Touches per session!

Special Offer Sign up for Term 1 & join our pre-season program from 9th to 13th August for FREE.

Average Number of Touches (1.5 Hr Session) Typical Training Session: 200 - 250 Tekkerz Training Session: 1,000+

Term 1

(Check very latest schedule online) U3/4 boys & girls (2019/2018) – Wed, Fri & Sat U5/6 boys & girls (2017/2016) – Tues, Fri & Sat U7/8 boys (2015/2014) – Tues & Fri U9/10 boys (2013/2012) – Mon, Wed & Fri U11/12 boys (2011-2009) – Mon & Wed U13/14 boys (2009/2008) – Wed U8, U10 & U12 girls (2014-2010) – Fri U7/8 & U9-12 boys – Sat in Tung Chung

Weekend Games Program for 2021-22 Season Players will be given the opportunity to play:

Competitive League Fixtures Invitational Tournaments Internal Tournaments Friendlies (Home & Away)

Players get access to the Tekkerz® Player Development Platform A video skills library of 180+ skills 12 levels to master with certification Sign-up: https://prosportsasia.com/class-sign-up/ Enquiries: train@tekkerzfootball.com

EVENTS

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EVENTS

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Life’s Big Moments Start Here.

When a child learns to swim with confidence, their life is changed forever. Swimming provides joy, freedom and endless opportunities to create lifelong memories in and around water, from pool parties with friends to family beach vacations and beyond.

OLYMPIANS 名奧運選手

COMMONWEALTH

ASIAN GAMES

名英聯邦運動會選手

名亞運會選手

AUTUMN TERM 2021 秋季游泳課程

WHO WE ARE Established in 1975, Harry Wright International is the Premier Swim School in Hong Kong and has been offering a successful program of swimming lessons and training for children, from professional swimming instructors and coaches.

16 August To 18 December Monday To Saturday

8月16日 至 12月18日 星期一至星期六

Our programme of lessons is designed to give children all the skills they need to benefit and enjoy the sport of swimming as well as providing pathways of excellence for competitive swimmers.

AT CLUB SIENA OR DBRC RECEPTION

OUR PROGRAMMES We Offer A Variety Of Programmes From Infants To Olympians.

Infants (4+ Months)

Quality Instruction

Beginners

Heated Pools

Competitive

Convenient Locations

Low Ratios

FROM INFANTS (4+ MONTHS) 嬰幼兒親子游泳班 (4個月或以上)

TO BEGINNERS 兒童游泳班

TO COMPETITIVE 泳隊訓練

2575 6279

www.harrywright.com.hk swimming@harrywright.com.hk AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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FEATURES 26

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Profile DB artist Eleanor McColl’s sexy segue into product design

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Community Fighting blood and bone marrow donor fatigue

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Parenting

Supporting children's return to school around coronavirus

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Fitness Tennis coach Richard Gordon shares his top tips

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Insider

REGULARS

AGENDA

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12 DB EVENTS

Support for FDWs

57 RECIPES Steak and Summer Pudding

60 DB FACES Community snaps

68 OUT THERE

Peter Sherwood talks back

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AUGUST 2021 | AROUNDDB.COM

Pink and George with their pet parents Raewyn and Vanessa McBain and Victoria Baillie

Cat-and-dog safety primer for a pet-proof home 10

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR TENNIS GAME FOLLOW US

PHOTO BY Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

18 EVENT ROUND-UP 24 GIVEAWAYS 54 DINING OUT 62 CLASSIFIEDS 65 LOCAL NUMBERS WE AL S O P UBLI SH

CONTACT US @ B AY ME D IA GROU P P:

+852 2987 0167

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www.arounddb.com

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EVERY BALL MATTERS

R ACHE L A I N S L EY

Avid junior tennis player Parth Sane, 10, has launched Every Ball Matters with a clear objective to reuse, repurpose and recycle the thousands of tennis balls (and cans) that are discarded in DB every month.

To date, with the support of DB tennis coaches and players, 750 tennis balls have been reused and/or repurposed for junior players’ use. Over 120 tennis ball cans have been collected for recycling. To get involved, visit www.everyballmatters.com. [PHOTO BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com.]

Publisher/ Owner

Managing editor

rachel@baymedia.com.hk R ACHE L S A D L ER Assistant editor

rachel.s@baymedia.com.hk SARAH M U I R H EAD Digital manager

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THE COFFEE ACADEMICS IN DB

Founded in Hong Kong and now with a presence across Asia, The Coffee Academics finally made its way to DB Plaza last month with signature lattes, espresso-based coffees and homemade teas served hot or cold.

The Coffee Academics serves breakfast dishes all day long and mains from 12pm onwards. Try the mouthwatering wagyu burger sandos. For more information, visit www.the-coffeeacademics.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF The Coffee Academics.]

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CO NTRI BU TORS

JASON HOLOMAN'S ECO APP

L AW R E N D U R O C H E R B A B E K , E L I Z A B E T H K E R R , P E T E R S H E R WO O D, D O R OT H Y V E I TC H

Tung Chung resident and co-founder of EcoDrive Jason Holoman has set up My Impact, a free and easy-to-use app that tracks your efforts to reduce single-use plastic. Input your habits – Refuse, Reuse and Recycle – and the app will automatically log this for you, while giving you milestones to work towards. Earn awards, add friends and compete! Available for download from iOS and Android; to find out more visit www.ecodrivehk.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF My Impact.]

P HOTOGRAPH E RS B AL J IT G I DWANI

www.evoqueportraits.com R I CH A R D G OR DO N www.richardgordonphotography.com

P RI NTI NG

C H A MP I ON D ESIGN & P RODU CT I ON CO LTD Flat C & D, 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Hong Kong

B AY M EDI A GRO UP

Flat 6E Elegance Court, Hillgrove Village, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island

D I S CL AIME R 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. © BAY MEDIA 12 GROUP 2021

BAKE! LOVE! SHARE!

SUPERYACHTS AT THE MARINA

Congratulations to all the DB bakers who have been creating their best bakes for the DB Baking Competition! You can turn to page 22 to see photos of the finalists in the Open and Under 12 categories, and you can vote for the winner in each category on the Around DB Facebook page August 5 to 16. To find out more, turn to page 22 or visit www.arounddb.com.

About nine months into its soft opening, over a dozen yachts are now berthed in the Lantau Yacht Club Marina (LYC). The majority are 25-metre superyachts, including Pershing 140, Ferretti’s Custom Line Navetta 30 and Princess X95, all of which are firsts in Asia.

Various categories of LYC membership are available.

To find out more, visit www.lantauyachtclub.com.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF LYC.]

DB EVENTS

WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK

Through her #Ittasteslikelove campaign, Cheung Sha resident Liz Thomas (a former DBer) champions nursing mothers’ right to breastfeed – however, wherever, whenever. In the lead up to World Breastfeeding Week, August 1 to 7, she has gained the support of 200 businesses Hong Kong-wide. Long-term DB supporters, who have pledged to welcome nursing mums, include Hemingway’s, Kapuhala Space and Treece Fitness.

[PHOTO BY Mai Fotography for #Ittasteslikelove.]

& Events!

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A FRESH START FOR DMR

With new owners – Rhianna Davies and Erica Kan – DMR School of Ballet has relocated after 30 years at its DB Plaza studio. Classes in Ballet, Modern (Jazz) and Tap are now held at three DB locations: Sunshine House (DB North Plaza), Discovery Bay College and Studio 430 (DB Plaza). DMR dancers are looking forward to the new term and to performing in the Disneyland Parade in November. To find out more, email info@dmr-hk.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DMR.]

IN AUGUST!

CHOOSE TO REUSE

BLOOD DONATION DRIVE

In their latest bid to encourage residents to donate blood and sign up as bone marrow donors, Ada Wong and Tanya Inkin are bringing an 11-metre Hong Kong Red Cross donation truck to DB Plaza, August 27 to 28. The event is sponsored by City Management and coincides with a special communityled market on August 28. To find out more, turn to page 30.

[PHOTO BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com.]

Uncle Russ Coffee has partnered with tech start-up Circular City (and Plastic Free Seas) to provide DBers with a pilot reusables scheme through August 15. Simply register with your Octopus Card at the reuse machine in Uncle Russ (DB ferry pier and Central pier 3) and pay a HK$30 deposit to receive a reusable cup. Bring the cup back to Uncle Russ and you can either cash out on your deposit or save your cup for next time. To find out more, visit Circular City on Instagram @circularcityhk.

DB'S ISLAND WAKE Island Wake opened its fifth Hong Kong store in DB Plaza in June. A one-stop shop for snowboarding, wakeboarding and skateboarding gear, the new DB store also sells beachwear, bags and sunglasses.

Featured brands include Aloha, Billabong, Ripcurl and Volcom.

Visit the DB store, or shop online at www.islandwake.com.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY AUGUST 7 | GATHER AT THE DB PLANT MARKET in DB Community Green Square from 2pm to 4pm.

AUGUST 15 | SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.

AUGUST 28 | HEAD TO THE DB RESIDENTS FUNDRAISER FOR CHRISTIAN ROMANO in DB Plaza from 11am to 5pm. WhatsApp 6129 2622.

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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TOWA BIRD: DAZED 100 YRock alumni Towa Bird, who you may remember from The Big Picnic, has been listed on Dazed 100 2021, as one of the nextgeneration names leading change in their communities and across their fields.

Towa made her name on TikTok, playing electric guitar, and she has earned over 750,000 followers since posting her first video in January 2020.

Now based in London, Towa’s looking forward to performing again with her band, Cassyette, and she’s making inroads as a music producer. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Les Bird]

PETaLIFE TALK

PETaLIFE is hosting a talk on Alternative Therapies for Lame Dogs at Hemingway’s on August 19 at 6.30pm. Three speakers stem-cell therapy specialist Dr Anthony Beck; physiotherapist Dr Jonette Dimblad; and acupuncturist Dr Ann-Si Li, a specialist in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, share their knowledge and expertise. To book your spot, call 2987 8804. [PHOTO COURTESY OF PETaLIFE.]

PLAYGROUND AT CITYGATE MONASTERY FLORAL WORKSHOP

City Management is hosting a self-healing floral workshop led by DB landscaper Anna Li at DB Community Green Square on the evening of August 27. Held in silence, the aim of the workshop is to encourage participants on a journey of self-exploration through floral art, self-dialogue and a meditative walk. Visit the DynamicDB Facebook page to enrol.

TUNG CHUNG GASTRO PUB

Check out the King’s Arms in Seaview Crescent, Tung Chung – a British-style gastro pub that opened in July. Expect posh pub grub and fusion Indian cuisine from the group that brought you A Tavola, Cabana Breeze and The Upper Deck. To find out more, visit www.kingsarms.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Elite Growth Group.

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For its ‘Swing into Colour-Popping Summerland’ campaign running through August 22, Citygate Outlets has teamed up with local installation artist and illustrator Messy Desk Studio (a.k.a. Jane Lee) to transform into a classic playground complete with swings, slides and roundabouts. Kids can share playtime photos on Instagram to win a notebook autographed by Messy Desk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Citygate Outlets.]

MOOFISH IN DB PLAZA

MooFish is back, now operating on the upper floor of Zak’s in DB Plaza.

The updated menu combines MooFish classics (steak and seafood) with Asian-influenced Western favourites, and there are plenty of options for kids. Stop by for deliciously laidback waterfront dining, indoors or out.

To find out more, visit www.casteloconcepts.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF MooFish.]

Award-winning craft chocolates, fine wines and spirits...

+852 29180868

Shop 122-123, 1/F, Discovery Bay South Plaza, Lantau Island, HK havanaatdbay

Open daily 11:30 - 21:00

DB EVENTS

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BUDDY BITES: THE DOG FOOD COMPANY THAT GIVES BACK PHOTOS COURTESY OF Buddy Bites

Launched by Ryan Black and Chris Lee in 2020, Buddy Bites is a Hong Kong-based dog food subscription brand delivering premium European kibble to your door. The team specialises in supplying nutritious vet-approved dog food, and for every 2kg bought, 1kg is donated to Hong Kong dog shelters.

“We are on a mission to give back,” Chris says simply. “Our vision is to help pet parents get nutritious dog food easily, while giving back to the community at the same time.”

Donating food to local dog shelters is an imperative for Buddy Bites, and the team has provided over 85,000 meals to date. In fact, Buddy Bites is now able to support all the food needs of Catherine’s Puppies in Sai Kung and it is currently supplying over 700kg of food to Hong Kong Dog Rescue for free.

“Now that we work closely with both Catherine’s Puppies and Hong Kong Dog Rescue, we can see that their efforts... and bills... are relentless. If we can lighten the load in any way, we absolutely will,” says Chris, who has adopted two pups from Catherine’s Puppies.

“The great thing is that with the ‘buy 2kgs, donate 1kg model,’ it’s not like it is Buddy Bites donating, it feels more like our customers are donating,” Chris adds. “With such a strong and supportive dog community in Hong Kong, we feel that this involvement is really important to a large number of our customers, which is great.”

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Choosing Buddy Bites’ kibble means you choose to help dogs in need and it means you choose to provide your own pet with the very best. Hong Kong-based vets Dr Maiyanne Ben-David and Dr Tiffany Harries have assisted Buddy Bites in formulating recipes to keep dogs healthy and happy. They also oversee the ongoing product testing to ensure Buddy Bites remains the high-quality food that every pup deserves. Buddy Bites’ kibble is AAFCO approved and made in Europe; it’s great for dogs with allergies and supports healthy immune and digestive systems.

What’s more Buddy Bites’ kibble is suitable for both adults and puppies, and it’s incredibly easy to get hold of. Setting up your subscription is fuss-free: Simply let the team know how much kibble your dog needs and how often, and they will take care of the rest. Order online and it’s delivered to your door every month. If you need to pause, cancel or amend your subscription, you can do this anytime with the touch of a button.

Buddy Bites’ kibble is delivered for free to DB. To find out more and start an online subscription, visit www.buddybites.dog.

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO! MISSION FOR CHRISTIAN PHOTOS BY Nilu DB, Isabelle Wahle & Claire Park

On June 30, 11-year-old Kaydn Park ran across all of the streets in DB to support his coach at HK Dragons Football Club Christian Romano, 28, who was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer on June 18. Kaydn ran 30.43km in 3.42 hours to help raise funds for Christian’s treatment. In July, many other DB residents came out in support of Christian – Caperidge and Crestmont residents held a charity bake sale on July 1, there was live music at Hemingway’s on July 25 and, on Tuesdays throughout July, Embody held a donation-based HIIT class with all proceeds going to Christian. To make a donation, visit www.gofundme.com/F/5FQ4Z-mission-for-christian.

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COMMUNITY GREEN SQUARE STALL

EVENT ROUND-UP

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF City Management

On July 11, City Management’s landscape team held a booth at the Sunday Market in DB Plaza to introduce Community Green Square, help residents register as Green DBers and discuss environmental issues. Organic vegetables were available for purchase and DB landscapers Anna Li and ‘Uncle Cheun’ showcased an organic cleaner demonstration.

PETALIFE MARKET PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani – www.evoquephotography.com

On July 18, PETaLIFE hosted a community-led market at Hemingway’s with a percentage of the proceeds going to pet rescue centre Sai Kung Stray Friends.

Goodies on offer included handbags, home accessories and giant toys.

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EVENT ROUND-UP

LBC OPEN DAY

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PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon www.richardgordonphotography.com

Lantau Boat Club held an open day on July 17.

Residents were given the opportunity to try outrigger canoeing, and there was a meet-andgreet with BBQ snacks and drinks available for token prices.

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DB BAKING COMPETITION

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DB Bake Love Share @ DB

Vote for the Winners!

F R O M AU GU ST 5 - 1 6 ON T HE AROUNDDB FACEB OOK PAGE

D B ’s b e s t b a ke r s h ave b e e n c o o k i n g u p a s t o r m i n t h e k i t c h e n c r e a t i n g t h e i r b e s t b a ke s f o r t h e D B B a k i n g C o m p e t i t i o n 2 0 21!

Th e re a re t h re e f i n a list s i n t h e O p e n c at e go r y a n d t h re e f i n a list s i n t h e Un d e r 12 c at e go r y . C h e c k o u t m o re o f t h e i r m o u t h -w a t e r i n g p h o t os o n t h e A r o u n d D B Fa c e b o o k p ag e , a n d vo t e f o r yo u r f avo u r i t e i n e a c h c a t e g o r y.

F i n a l r e s u l t s w i l l b e p o s t e d o n t h e A r o u n d D B F a c e b o o k p a g e o n A u g u s t 18 .

Love Together@DB is a community-caring platform initiated by Hong Kong Resort Company Limited dedicated to serving the Discovery Bay community. The platform has been supporting and co-organising diversified corporate social responsibility initiatives with NGO's, community leaders and volunteers to promote the loving and caring culture in the sustainable and multicultural DB community.

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DB BAKING COMPETITION

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Under 12 Finalists SWIMMING POOL CAKE

COVID EMOJI COOKIES

RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE

Natalie & Sonia Lee, 10, Discovery College

Fernanda Morales Vallejo, 8, Discovery College

Ben Willcocks, 8, SKH Wei Lun Primary School

Open Finalists CAKE POPSICLES

MANDALA CARROT CAKE

CHOC ORANGE CUPCAKES

Madeleine Walker, 13,

Remalyn Agatep & Cristina Vallejo

Discovery Bay International School

Discovery Bay International School

Lisa Convey, 15, AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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GIVEAWAYS

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MATHNASIUM IS OFFERING ONE READER A FREE, COMPREHENSIVE MATH ASSESSMENT AND ONE MONTH OF TUITION (WORTH HK$3,500)

Mathnasium in DB North Plaza is a mathonly learning centre that helps kids aged six to 16 years old understand and master math. The first step is a math assessment that provides a breakdown of students’ strengths and weaknesses. From there, Mathnasium builds a customised learning plan to enable students to either catch up, keep up, or get ahead.

Mathnasium’s tutors work with students on their learning plans, and provide help with homework or test preparation as needed.

Over the course of a month, students are entitled to two or three hour-long tutorials each week. Visit www.mathnasium.com.hk/ discoverybay.

HOW TO WIN!

Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply.

Simply scan the barcode or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO L AST ISSUE’S WINNER Daniella De Rezende Cavalcante who has received 1kg of premium European dog kibble from Buddy Bites, and Sharmila Dantas who has received a set of fine-art inspired kitchenware from Eleanor McColl.

EpicLand’s play-all-day summer pass admits one child to the tallest indoor playground in Hong Kong. The fun-filled family entertainment centre covers a full 14,000 square feet in DB North Plaza and encourages learning through play.

Activities, for kids of all ages, include rock climbing, trampolining, air trek, laser tag, ziplining, virtual reality rides and mini golf.

There are rainbow slides and drop slides, a Warrior Zone and Foam Factory. Hugely popular with young children thanks to its Kids Zone playground and toddler area, EpicLand is also known for its comprehensive party packages and team-building events.

To find out more, call 2441 0098 or visit www.epiclandhk.com.

HOW TO WIN!

Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply.

Simply scan the barcode or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

EPICLAND IS OFFERING ONE READER A PLAY-ALL-DAY SUMMER PASS (WORTH HK$1,200)

www.escapade.com.hk WE DELIVER YOUR FAVORITE ITEMS TO YOUR DOOR.

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! t r A e l b a Afford

PROFILE

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YOURS, MINE, OURS DB artist Eleanor McColl bridges the gap between thoughtful art and vibrant commerce with her new collection and offers something to everyone. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOS BY Baljit

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Gidwani – www.evoqueportraits.com

etting a cappuccino has never been so complicated. At one of Discovery Bay’s hip new coffee houses, Eleanor McColl is fiddling around with her phone after scanning a tracing app, which doubles as a menu. She looks a bit perplexed; nothing appears to be happening.

“I’m not sure I’ve ordered,” she says with a gentle chuckle.

But her drink arrives a few minutes later, and, thankfully, it’s a good one.

That makes it sound like Eleanor is a scatter-brained artsy type, and that’s just not true. She’s the first to admit that it’s taken her some time to find the balance of art, entrepreneurship, education and family that suits her, but she’s firm in her statements; a thinker who ponders the world around her (and then recreates it on canvas or in some other art form).

Dressed in a billowy green skirt and sandals, Eleanor admittedly looks like an artist, but over the course of a soft-spoken afternoon she talks about how best to compartmentalise work, how it’s possible to listen to music while working, and her quest to get her three children, aged 12, 11 and eight, to nerd out on Star Trek.

“We’ve done all the Marvel films. I love all those,” she comments. “I never watched that kind of thing as a kid. I was all about Green Gables.”

“I am enjoying all aspects. The meditative work of painting, the " challenge of the entrepreneurial side and the giving back element

of my teaching practice…

- ELEANOR MCCOLL

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ELEANOR MCCOLL

THE BACK STORY A resident of Discovery Bay for the last 11 years, the Leeds native studied fine art at UWE Bristol and almost immediately after graduation packed up and moved to Hong Kong in 1999. After teaching art for two years she established her own school in Wanchai, Chameleon Workshop, and ran it from 2002 to 2011.

Eventually Eleanor realised her own art was taking a back seat to teaching, so she closed the school, kept the business, and turned her attention to painting full time.

Somewhere in between, she met her Welsh husband, Will, who moved to Hong Kong aged two.

“We met through friends at a bar in Wanchai, as you do,” Eleanor says with a laugh. They married in 2007 and after a bit of childless freewheeling on Hong Kong Island relocated to DB. Not surprisingly, the space was appealing.

“It’s refreshing. Will grew up in Stanley so this is the closest thing to his childhood we could find for the kids. They’ve had independence at a young age, running off to the shops and the beach, and being kids.”

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PROFILE

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dubbed ‘sell-outs,’ which stung Eleanor the first time she was indirectly put in that light.

“That hit me, and it held me back. There’s a feeling, having been to art school, that you’re an artist. You don’t do products. I’ve had to re-programme my brain in terms of how I think about what I’m doing. It’s easy to talk yourself out of things,” she says.

Eleanor’s learnt to tune that kind of restrictive noise out, and now it’s a matter of ‘bring it on.’ No one who’s ever lived as a full-time creative would call an artist a sell-out for putting their work on a mug, she argues, before giving a shout-out to Hailey Shin at DB North Plaza’s Gallery Jeeum for refusing to be restricted by such biases.

“I love the fact that Hailey chose DB for a gallery despite the fact that many people wouldn’t see DB as the ‘right’ demographic. It takes fresh eyes to see opportunity, and not be influenced by preconceptions. I’d love to exhibit at Jeeum.”

And as it turns out, Eleanor’s product lines are proving extremely popular. “I only launched at the beginning of July and in three weeks I’d sold over 100 bags alone,” she says. “It feels amazing to make something people want to buy.”

TOTE BAG FROM THE NEW PRODUCT LINE

THE CHROMA COLLECTION Eleanor is currently putting the finishing touches on her new Chroma Collection for the Affordable Art Fair (running August 26 to 29, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre). This will be her tenth after her break-out year in 2012 and her first exhibition in 18 months thanks to COVID. “I’m hugely excited,” she says. “When you work on your own in your studio, there’s nothing like the thrill of seeing your work as part of a large exhibition; the feeling of being a part of something – it gives you purpose.”

Eleanor’s previously used pop art-style images on 3D commissions, like 2017’s AIA Carnival Art on Cows charity project, The Moonalisa, and Ham Hockney for the Sovereign Art Foundation in 2019 (the Year of the Pig), but Chroma Collection is the first time she’s tried realising the vivid locations, bright colours and soft geometries on canvas.

“I can see the evolution of my work and this collection is where I see myself the most,” she reasons. “I can’t wait to paint different cities in this style, and I have a clear vision for the future of my art practice for the first time in ages.

There are so many directions to go. I wouldn’t rule out a 3D collection but at the moment I am enjoying the laser focus.”

You can find Eleanor’s products at www.eleanormccoll.com and, among other spots, at Bookazine, Pollux, Thorn & Burrow and GOD, with whom she finally convinced herself she was a good fit.

THE ART CLASSES When she’s not in the studio painting, Eleanor revels in the balance she’s finally achieved, which includes sharing with the world – she still teaches. “I am enjoying all aspects,” she says. “The meditative work of painting, the challenge of the entrepreneurial side and the giving back element of my teaching practice.”

From her studio in The Greens, Eleanor will be hosting an autumn series of classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, for both kids and adults (summer sessions are full), and drop-in classes for those who want to shake off the week with a bit of meditative creativity. She gets help from Art Institute of Chicago grad Esther Chow, an old colleague from Chameleon Workshop.

Eleanor is privileged to see her work as part of larger exhibitions that give it purpose. But not everyone gets that, so she’s filling the gap. “Teaching helps me give back, and I get to see other people enjoy art. Not everyone is driven to do it but everyone is creative,” she finishes. “One thing I’m good at is making people feel at ease with a blank canvas.”

THE PRODUCTS The Chroma images are also going onto a series of products, like the tote bag she has with her, tea towels, oven mitts, and more. Despite their instant popularity, Eleanor remains ever so slightly conflicted. She’s keenly attuned to the notion that there’s a fine line between art and commerce. She’s treading the same water as Andy Warhol and Keith Haring – artists who successfully jumped the divide between the two.

Nonetheless, artists who go down the product road are still 28

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

A NEW CHROMA COLLECTION CANVAS

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COMMUNITY

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BE A DB BLOOD HERO

TANYA INKIN AND ADA WONG

Powered by City Management, Tanya Inkin and Ada Wong are on a mission to demystify blood and bone marrow donation, even if that means parking an 11-metre truck in DB Plaza. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com.hk

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

D

iscovery Bay residents Tanya Inkin and Ada Wong are drumming up buzz for their second blood drive since May, part of a crusade to spread awareness and action regarding blood and bone marrow donation they’ve recently embarked on. The pair look remarkably cool – literally – sitting by the window of Pacific Coffee. Ada’s fresh from the gym and Tanya sports a modified Superman t-shirt emblazoned with symbols in support of her 13-year-old son Luke, who’s in the last six months of intensive leukaemia treatment.

To send the message that regular blood donation is an easy way to help a lot of people, and that bone marrow donation doesn’t demand a spinal tap, Tanya and Ada have arranged for the Hong Kong Red Cross (HKRC) to park its mobile donation truck in DB Plaza for two days on August 27 and 28, from 11am to 5pm.

Day two coincides with a special community-led market in DB Plaza to raise funds for local resident and popular HK Dragons football coach Christian Romano’s own cancer fight. Hemingway’s is hosting a Mission for Christian concert the same evening.

GIVE BLOOD IN DB PLAZA Needless to say, Tanya and Ada are looking to duplicate the success of their May blood drive at Bayview House of Children, which signed up over 40 new donors and registered 30 bone marrow donors. The community-targeted event rolled in a bake sale the same day and collected HK$4,600 for the HKRC.

COMMUNITY

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Crucial to Ada and Tanya’s mission is conveying just how easy blood and bone marrow donation truly is. It’s like owning a coffee shop: if you have the parts for coffee, you have tea… so do both. Marrow donors are only contacted if a match is made, it’s as intensive as donors choose, and you can always change your mind. As a bonus, regenerative health benefits have been associated with regular blood donation, and many disqualifying criteria evaporated in 2020.

“Most of us have been in Hong Kong for more than three months, so a lot more people have suddenly become eligible,” Ada understates. “The windows on exposure to mad cow disease and travel to countries with widespread malaria have shrunk.”

A PERSONAL CRUSADE “The reason I do these drives is personal,” opens Tanya. “My son was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2013 when he was five, and he relapsed in 2019. This is close to my heart because he came very close to needing a bone marrow transplant. During the course of his treatment protocol, he needed multiple transfusions. There’s not a lot of awareness in Hong Kong.

There were people that wanted to support us, and who asked, ‘What can we do?’ This has become dear to me, so wherever you are, you can give blood or register to become a bone marrow donor.”

“The idea was to generate a fun community day, and encourage the neighbours to swing by and join us for treats,” says Ada with a grin. “Eight DB-based home bakers donated their time to bake goods, and a large contingent of Discovery College and Discovery Bay International School students came out to man the stall.

Both Tanya (a 16-year DB resident) and native Hongkonger Ada have children enrolled at Discovery College – Luke, his 15-year-old sister, and Ada’s sons, aged 10 and 12. They eventually met through mutual friends when, like many people in DB, the latter reached out to see how she could help Tanya and her family in 2020.

“DB City Management is financially sponsoring the August event for us,” Ada adds. “Going forward, the blood drives will continue to be held in the HKRC truck unless any private DB businesses have an alternative space to provide.”

“I just recently got to know Tanya and understand her story, and realise the importance of the bone marrow registry,” says Ada, whose career in investment banking brought her home, after stints in London, Sydney and San Francisco, five years ago.

AT THE BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN BLOOD DRIVE IN MAY AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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"

It costs you nothing, or very little, to give someone the best chance at life...

- TANYA INKIN

“I think of my mom, and my sister – both nurses,” Ada adds.

“My mom saved lives before she retired, and my sister has set up special COVID-19 wards. Those are selfless acts. I don't save lives in my banking job, so it’s felt great to find a niche in promoting cancer awareness where I can help to make a real difference in the world and maybe in lives.”

FIGHTING DONOR FATIGUE As the pair is quick to point out, blood is needed all the time, not just after tsunamis and earthquakes. A quick look at the HKRC website reveals the city is about 10 days away from a blood shortage in the event of a disaster. Tanya admits to blood and marrow being off her own radar until she needed it.

“I’ve learnt so much; I was just as ignorant as everyone else,” she states. “I feel it’s more relatable now because people know me, we have a relationship, and they’re willing to listen.

My experience has given me a platform.” Ada agrees, adding that there are cultural elements that need consideration, even though Hongkongers are, on average, generous.

“In Hong Kong and China, you don't want to die with a body missing any organs,” she only partly jokes. “That’s an obstacle. But I think people can associate with and relate to giving blood, because it can serve so many needs.” And it’s not a particular hard sell, even with very real donor fatigue to fight.

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

Awareness campaigns have gotten creative too. It’s not all about blood trucks. Ada has hosted livestream concerts from her backyard for campaigns, and DB artists have donated work for proceeds to go to the HKRC. For her part, Tanya is pleased to report that Luke is responding well to his latest round of treatment. And, there’s been a silver lining to lockdown: All Luke’s friends are here, and online schooling has kept him more current academically than he would have been 20 years ago. As grim as the pandemic is, it’s forced a recognition of better hygiene and public health, and rethinking our collective priorities.

“It’s no exaggeration to say you can make an amazing difference; you have the opportunity and potential to save someone’s life, or give them longer, better quality of life,” finishes Tanya. “And you might never get to unless you've put your hand up for it. It costs you nothing, or very little, to give someone the best chance at life. If anyone takes anything away from this, this is what I want it to be.”

To donate blood or register as a bone marrow donor on August 27 or 28 in DB Plaza, scan the barcode below.

When confirmation emails are sent out, you will receive a form which includes key screening criteria and the phone number of a HKRC nurse in case you have any questions.

(Walk-in donors are also welcome.)

BE A DB BLOOD HERO

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FAMILY LORE

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WEDDING CHECKLIST

Legal support for soon-to-wed couples from Joanne Brown, Partner, Head of Family at Tanner de Witt PHOTOS COURTESY OF Tanner

M

De Witt & Unsplash

arriage is a legal matter. An important part of marital planning is to ensure that the implications of marriage on your legal status are carefully considered well before the wedding.

HOPE FOR THE BEST AND PREPARE FOR THE WORST

No one finds it easy to open a dialogue about pre-nuptial agreements particularly during the engagement period but it may well be in your best interests to do so. Know too that you will need to update your will. Marriage invalidates all previous wills, and it gives top priority to your spouse in intestate estate distribution if you die without a will after marriage.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

THE PRE-NUP

To ensure that the marriage is recognised in Hong Kong, you should ensure that your marriage is celebrated under the legal procedures recognised by the law in force at the time and at the place of the wedding ceremony. For example, marriage celebrated in Bali is recognised in Hong Kong if the ceremony and the legal documentation are valid under Indonesian law. Otherwise, it is only a symbolic wedding ceremony that is recognised neither here nor at the place of the marriage.

A pre-nuptial agreement is an agreement made between a couple prior to marriage as to the manner in which their financial affairs should be regulated in the event of a divorce. The agreed arrangement could be different from what the Court might order had there been no agreement.

A pre-nuptial agreement is important if there are concerns with asset protection from a marriage. The starting point for sharing of assets in the case of divorce is generally that total assets should be divided equally between the two parties.

This means a starting point of 50/50 split of matrimonial assets worldwide unless either party can show compelling reason or circumstances to depart from this starting point.

This includes wealth held in family businesses, interests in family trusts, investment properties, and pension and retirement funds as well as structured employment benefits with future distributions. Generally, salary and any other form of income gained during the marriage, as well as assets acquired after the marriage, are matrimonial assets and considered shared assets.

Our advice? Do not delay. Get a pre-nuptial agreement and set up a structure to carve out capital acquired before marriage. Ideally, the agreement should be signed at least 28 days before the intended wedding date. Gaining understanding and compromise is fundamental.

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

Dreaming of a destination wedding? Check if your wedding ceremony in a foreign country constitutes a valid marriage in Hong Kong.

You also have to check the legal requirements before deciding where to hold your destination wedding. For example, not everyone can legally get married in Bali. A person may only get married in Indonesia providing he or she observes one of the five religions recognised by that country.

Tanner De Witt was established in 1999 and now has a team of over 100, including more than 50 Hong Kong lawyers. The firm’s family and private wealth teams can talk you through the steps necessary to protect your future family members and give you the peace of mind that your affairs are in order. For more information, visit www.tannerdewitt.com.

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PARENTING

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? l a m or N ew TO SCHOOL NBACK

The COVID-19 pandemic and the levels of restrictions still in place continue to affect our lives. How are children feeling this year as they return to school after the long vac, and what can parents do to help? Dorothy Veitch reports

I

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

t will be hard to gauge the full impact the pandemic is having on children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing until we emerge from it fully.

Safe to say, some children, despite restrictions, feel safe and mostly enjoy their lives; others find themselves severely challenged.

While some children and young people will be excited to be returning to school after the summer break, others will be feeling very differently. It may be that school no longer feels ‘normal’ to them – though schools reopened briefly at the end of May, homeschooling had been the norm for the best part of six months before that.

Children who enjoyed the freedom afforded by homeschool may not relish the prospect of a ‘longterm’ return to the classroom. Others, who have grown increasingly reliant on being at home with family, may not feel like school is a safe place.

FEELINGS OF UNCERTAINTY The sudden and often inconsistent changes experienced during the pandemic may have led to many children and young people feeling uncertain. Children may worry that things which used to feel safe and predictable, such as school, are no longer something they can rely on.

There may be a lack of confidence amongst young people in the adults in their lives. As they have seen adults struggle to agree about how to manage the crisis, their sense that they can rely on adults to keep them safe may have been diminished.

Due to a potential lack of confidence amongst young people in the way that the pandemic has been dealt with by adults, they may be feeling uncertain about measures their school is taking to keep them safe. There may be a great deal of uncertainty about ongoing safety measures and restrictions.

The impact of further coronavirus outbreaks on school attendance (and parents’ income) will be another source of worry for many children.

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

PARENTING

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DOUBTFUL TRANSITIONS As children’s education continues to be affected by the pandemic, with various restrictions in place, the usual preparation that would be done with pupils transitioning to the next school year may be lacking.

This will be particularly challenging for those moving from primary to secondary school, those moving into exams years and those preparing to leave school.

For those who are approaching the end of their time at school – whether they are considering transitions to college or university or looking for work – the impact of the virus and subsequent restrictions on admissions processes, exam procedures and employment prospects remains unclear, and many pupils are likely to worry about their future.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR CHILDREN'S BACK-TO-SCHOOL WORRIES

FRIENDSHIPS AND BULLYING With social distancing measures – in and outside of school – friendships may have become strained or deteriorated. As peer groups are an important source of support for young people, this may mean that many will have lacked a vital source of support in managing the stresses of the pandemic. Children’s lives have started to ‘get back to normal’ over the holidays, with many restrictions lifted, but many may still feel apprehensive about returning to school and reconnecting with large numbers of their peers.

The nature of the crisis it self – around a contagious illness – is a potent oppor tunit y for bullying to arise.

Social dis tancing and handwashing measures are likely to s till be necessar y for some time and could provide fuel for bullying around potential ‘contagion.’

Growing up in such a culturally rich communit y, it is said that DB kids don’t ‘see colour ’ but it is impor tant to be aware of the rise in incident s of racism worldwide around coronavirus.

LOSS AND BEREAVEMENT Some children and young people will have relatives or friends who have died during the pandemic, due to coronavirus or other illnesses. Even more will be aware of a relative or friend being seriously unwell or hospitalised. For other young people, there will be other types of loss – for example, they may have experienced long-term isolation from impor tant figures in their life, such as grandparents.

Regardless of the type of loss, many will be experiencing this with a sense of grief. The way that children and young people respond to those feelings of loss and grief will differ widely – some may seem sad or withdrawn, others may appear irritable or angry.

DISCUSS THE SOCIAL AND ACADEMIC POSITIVES OF THE NEW SCHOOL TERM

For children and young people who were receiving suppor t for mental and physical health problems prior to the pandemic, this will likely have been disrupted or cancelled. This loss of an impor tant source of suppor t may mean children and young people with pre-existing conditions are struggling.

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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PARENTING

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CONFLICTS AT HOME Children already experiencing challenging home environments may have seen their circumstances worsen during the pandemic. Others will have been facing challenging home situations – domestic violence, abuse or neglect, family conflict, financial concerns (due to loss of employment for parents) – for the first time.

The scale of the challenge isn’t yet clear but if you consider that UK-based domestic violence charity Refuge has reported a 700% increase in calls to their helpline, it is likely that significantly increased pastoral care resources will be required well beyond the pandemic.

PARENTAL SUPPORT Children may have worries in the coming weeks as they prepare to return to school, so it’s time to start talking.

Talk to them in a way that is sensitive to their needs – you will know your child best. Don’t intrude or impose yourself, but gently open the conversation and let them know you’re there for them if they want to talk.

Make yourself available as much as possible. Children may want to come and ‘debrief ’ when you least expect it.

Create space for talking in different ways, such as going on a walk together or baking together – there may be less pressure in these circumstances than when sitting 40

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

DON’T ASSUME CHILDREN ARE OK BECAUSE THEY SEEM IT. ASK HOW THINGS ARE GOING. ASK QUESTIONS LIKE: WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO ABOUT BEING BACK AT SCHOOL? ANY WORRIES OR CHALLENGES?... face-to-face. Check in with them periodically. Don’t assume children are ok because they seem it. Ask how things are going. Ask questions like: What are you looking forward to about being back at school? Any worries or challenges?

If you feel comfortable, you could share your own worries and feelings about the current situation. Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel anxious about going back to school – try sharing an example of a time you’ve felt nervous about going into a new situation. Importantly too, share coping strategies – talk about what you do when you feel stressed, such as speaking with friends and family, exercising, or using breathing techniques.

Lastly, be positive. Express your hope (though not your certainty) that the return to school signifies a return to normal life. Discuss all the opportunities this opens up – time spent with friends, direct interaction with teachers, new extra-curricular activities to enjoy. In the coming weeks, empower your children to enjoy being back at school by ensuring they eat well, take care of their bodies and get plenty of sleep.

HATHA YOGA Enquiry:

9685 8366 likegreenwich@gmail.com

當內心像天空的雲一樣輕， 你便能打開心窗，獲得 「寧靜」 與「和平」」

www.greenwich-vinyasa.com.hk

EVENTS

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Activites Guide for Lantau Kids DRAMA FAUST

CHESS CAISSA HONG KONG CHESS CLUB w w w.caissahk.org Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club is running t wo five - day camps, for kids age 5 and up, in DB Plaza from August 9-13. Led by Matthew Tan, a FIDE International Master, the camps are action - packed, fun and competitive, with a focus on tactics, strategy and calculating.

Tel: 6938 7603 Email: contact@caissahk.com

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

w w w.faust world.com Faust’s summer programmes (Summer Theatre, Creative Writing and Musical Theatre) run throughout August in seven locations across Hong Kong, including Summer Theatre in DB and Mui Wo. The week- long camps, for children aged 3 to 16, offer a fun - filled learning experience to boost creativit y and confidence.

Half- day Saturday workshops are also available for kids, aged 4 to 16, in Sheung Wan.

Tel: 2547 9114 Email: info@faust world.com

FIRST AID T8 FIRST RESPONSE w w w.t8 - firstresponse.com T8 First Response’s summer courses are being held throughout August at Headland Drive in DB. Each six- hour course runs over t wo days for kids aged 8 to 11 and 12 to 15, working toward UK National Curriculum key stages 2 and 3.

The courses cover Emergency First Response, CPR, bug bites and stings, choking, severe bleeding and asthma.

Tel: 2517 8248 Email: enquiry@t8-firstresponse.com

LANGUAGES

LANGUAGES

MIXED

YIFAN MANDARIN

HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF LANGUAGES

LES PETITS LASCARS

w w w.hklanguages.com

w w w.petitslascars.com

Through August 27, the school is offering immersive language workshops in French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin for kids aged 4 to 12.

Fun and educational, the language workshops are culturally enriching with an emphasis on the spoken language to encourage children to express themselves and become actively involved in the lessons.

Through August 27, Les Petits Lascars is offering fun, educational and interactive workshops, designed to allow children to explore, imagine and create, through a variet y of activities stimulating curiosit y and promoting creativit y. Available in French, English or Mandarin – in Central and Tseung Kwan O – for children aged 2 to 11.

Tel: 2877 6160 WhatApp: 5421 0288 Email: info@hklanguages.com

Email: c o u r s - d e - v a c a n c e s @ petit slasc ars.com

w w w.yifancamps.com At Yifan Mandarin’s weekly Mandarin immersion programmes, children learn Mandarin through fun, handson activities with varied, daily themes.

From August 2-13, Yifan is also running a Mandarin Theatre Camp for kids aged 7 to 11 at Discover y College, DB – a great way to boost kids’ confidence and teamworking skills.

Tel: 2486 9012 Email: learn@yifanmandarin.com

EVENTS

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Tel: 2526 8892

FOOTBALL MULTI-SPORT

MULTI-SPORT VIKINGS FOOTBALLOUTDOOR CLUB FOOTBALL

EPICLAND w w w.epiclandhk.com Throughout August, kids can play all day at EpicLand in DB Nor th Plaza for just HK$1,200 per month. The special summer pass is available in August and opens up a world of adventure at Hong Kong’s tallest indoor family enter tainment centre.

Tel: 2441 0098 Email: info@epiclandhk.com

w w w.vikings.hk

Vikings Football Club’s summer programme, for children aged 3 to 12 years, runs from July 12 to August 2 at the Discover y College pitch in DB. ESF TREASURE ISLAND Professional, cer tified football coaches w w w.esf.org.hk encourage children their w wto w.hone treasureislandhk.com physical skills, have fun and develop a lifelong theTreasure beautifulIsland’s game. award -winning HK DRAGONS ESF’s regular term programmes begin love of At Summer Surf and Adventure Camps, on August 23 at Discover y College, dragons.hk/camps - 3 children aged 5 to 16 years have DB. In Term 1 kids aged 3 to 18 can Tel: 9367 7243 tunit y to learn surf skills the oppor sign up for HK swimming, and U4 Dragonsgymnastics Summer Camps, (2017) and ocean safet y at beautiful Pui O basketball. to The spor ts programmes U11 (2010) and U12 (2009)+, run y@vikings.hk Email: enquir and join in other adventure aim to establish a5 core of Stanley andBeach, from July - 30 range in Pui O, at skills and introduce tothmany Discoverchildren y Bay Nor Plaza Pitch. The spor t activities. The camps run different t ypes spor ting activities. fiveof - day camps, led by experiencedthrough August 27, with lunch and snacks included. coaches, are open to players of all abilities. Fun training sessions are based on daily themes like dribbling, passing, receiving, finishing and possession.

Tel: 5236 7016 Tel: 2711 1280 Email: enquires@treasureisland.com.hk Email: spor ts@esf.org.hk Tel: 6417 3303 Email: theoffice@dragons.hk

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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Tennis!

FITNESS

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MATCHMAKERS Backhands, slices and top spins!

DB-based tennis coach Richard Gordon shares his top tips with Rachel Sadler PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon & Stephane Fasbender

TO GET A SERVE LIKE FEDERER, you need to master the ball toss. This, paired with good timing, will promote consistency and allow you to determine the ball’s ‘flight path’ – the ball toss is a skill in itself. The arm movement should be relaxed and loose, and the power actually originates from the feet and moves up through the body – it’s all about ‘biomechanics.’ For a top spin, slice or flat ser ve, you need to adjust your arm movement.

RICHARD GORDON

SPEED, SUPPLENESS AND STAMINA are all impor tant skills in

tennis. The ball can move ver y fast, par ticularly now with the new racket technology. You need good ball-eye coordination – the ability to track a fast-moving ball and react quickly to it is key. Stretching out for a wide backhand requires players to be supple. In long matches, the player with the most stamina is of ten the winner.

TO IMPROVE YOUR BACKHAND, practice, practice, practice! Backhands, whether single or double handed, star t slightly below the ball – you should hit and then follow through af ter the ball, with the racket head finishing above shoulder height. Hitting the ball out in front of the body and having good timing are all key skills to master. Once the basic are in place you then can add spin and slice.

CORE STRENGTH IS ESSENTIAL because the core is used to stabilise, increase momentum and provide power. This can be seen in an explosive forehand – the shot starts with the feet, the power travels up through the body to the core where torque is added, and then the power is released out through the shoulders and arms and into to the racket swing. You can strengthen core muscles in the gym and incorporate lunge exercises to make sure you are quick on your feet.

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FITNESS

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TO GET YOUR HEAD IN THE MATCH free your mind and keep your hear t rate down. Tensing up your body af fects the smoothness of your swing. If you make an error the best thing you can do is forget about the mistake and turn it around. Having strong mental awareness is impor tant for staying focused, and sometimes you will have to think two or three shots ahead of yourself. Tennis is a ver y tactical spor t.

TO STAY MOTIVATED set attainable goals. In tennis you can improve ver y rapidly and then hit a plateau, so you need to adjust your goals regularly in order to feel successful.

AIDEN FASBENDER

PLAYING SOME OTHER SPORTS CAN HELP. A volleyball ser ve is similar to a tennis ser ve, and in golf, you transfer your bodyweight through the ball, like you do in tennis. Yoga helps with suppleness.

HAILEY FASBENDER

TENNIS IMPPROVES MENTAL HEALTH and wellbeing. Running around a cour t you release endorphins, the feel-good chemical produced by the body during exercise, and you’re outdoors, where you can top up on some much-needed vitamin D. Tennis can be tailored to suit the individual player, you can play hard for improved fitness or you can play easy and simply enjoy it.

Richard Gordon is a tennis coach at Discovery Bay Recreation Club.

To sign up for a lesson, email rgordon1@me.com.

ELISE FASBENDER 46

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樂群家居照顧服務

電 申請服務H致 otline︓ Application

Lok Kwan Home Care Service

Caregiver Support 照顧者支援服務

Nursing & Personal Care 護理及個人照顧

Clinical Psychological Service 臨床心理服務

可自行申請服務 May apply on your own 服務時間︓星期一至六︓早上八時至下午六時 逢星期日及公眾假期休息 Service Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (Close on Sunday and Public Holidays)

Physiotherapy 物理治療 Case Management 個案管理

綜合到戶家居服務

Package of home-based support service

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Occupational Therapy 職業治療

為殘疾人士提供服務 Serve the people with disabilities

地址︓香港筲箕灣耀東邨耀樂樓 C 翼地下三號 Address:Unit 3, G/F, Wing C, Yiu Lok House, Yiu Tung Estate, Shau Kai Wan, HK 電話 (Tel)︓2803 2103 傳真 (Fax)︓2803 2145 電郵 (e-mail)︓lkhcs@tungwah.org.hk

! s p i T Top

PET-PROOFING YOUR HOME

Small animal internal medicine specialist Dr Lawren Durocher Babek outlines some common household dangers for pets, so that we can wise-up and become the best pet parents possible

PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com.hk

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GEORGE LOVES HIS PINK BIRKIN BAG

R

INSIDER

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ecent reports about dog poisonings at Cyberport Waterfront have emphasised the issue of pet safety both outside and importantly inside the home. No matter their age, cats and dogs can get into serious trouble with ordinary household objects – from the medicine in our cabinets to the flowers on our side tables. We can minimise these risks by increasing our awareness of the common threats, and either eliminating them from our homes or keeping them well out of reach.

Dogs and cats are naturally curious; when they are out of sight, they are all too capable of chancing upon and ingesting something harmful. So, one of the first things you need to know about keeping pets safe is to treat them like inquisitive toddlers. This cat-and-dog safety primer will help you pet-proof your home and prevent accidents from happening.

OUR FOOD The food we eat everyday poses many hidden dangers for pets. Chocolate and caffeine contain a chemical called theobromine which is toxic to dogs, causing high heart rates and possible seizures. The amount of chocolate toxic to dogs is dependent on the dog’s size, as well as the type of chocolate consumed; for example, dark chocolate is deadlier than milk or white chocolate.

Xylitol (sugar substitute) causes low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs – even a small number of grapes or raisins can be toxic.

Raw yeast dough can cause severe stomach upset for pets; onions and garlic, eaten in high quantities, can cause anaemia. Macademia nuts can cause weakness, overheating and vomiting; alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning, just as it does in people.

OUR MEDS Whilst not appealing to us, dogs and cats can be very tempted to try human prescription medication. Oestrogen creams and hormone replacement medications can harm bone marrow; high blood pressure medication can cause plummeting blood pressure. Medications used to treat cancer can cause a dangerously low white blood cell count; ADHD medications and antidepressants are dangerously toxic to dogs.

Dogs and cats cannot process over-the-counter pain medication like people can. Paracetamol is extremely toxic to cats because they lack the enzyme needed to metabolise it – even a small dose can destroy a cat’s red blood cells and cause liver failure. Dogs are slightly less affected but may still develop liver failure at high doses. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatories, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats.

A word here about Chinese and herbal medications. Some ancient remedies can be toxic to dogs and cats, especially those that contain certain types of mushrooms. Furthermore, veterinary research is still on-going as to their effectiveness in treating animals. Should your pet be prescribed these medications, it is important to follow dosing instructions carefully. If one of your pets accidentally ingests your supplements, have them checked quickly by a vet to preempt any ill-effects.

DB RESIDENTS RAEWYN AND VANESSA MCBAIN, AND VICTORIA BAILLIE WITH PINK AND GEORGE

PET MEDS Veterinary prescription medications are often flavoured to make them easier for pets to ingest, so whilst they may be enticing, be sure to keep them out of reach – if taken in large quantities they can have dangerous effects.

It is important not to apply dog products to cats and vice versa. Always use the appropriate dose as directed by your veterinarian, and do not allow your pet to chew or ingest flea and tick preventative collars. If you accidentally apply the wrong product, or your pet is out of character after being treated, wash your pet well with a gentle dishwashing soap and contact your vet for further instruction.

Flea and tick preventatives sold by veterinarians undergo rigorous safety testing. Unfortunately, there are some other over-the-counter products that are similarly marketed but are not bona fide. There have been numerous reports of toxicity associated with these counterfeit medications.

ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KEEPING PETS SAFE IS TO TREAT THEM LIKE INQUISTIVE TODDLERS AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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INSIDER

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HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS Urban environments like Hong Kong are rife with rats and mice, and the chemicals used to kill rodents can also harm our pets, who are attracted to them by their pleasant smell.

Rodenticides can cause bleeding, high calcium levels and brain swelling in pets, depending on the type used. Keep all rodenticides out of the common areas in the home and watch out for signs indicating their presence when you are outside walking your dog.

Ant baits, bug sprays and bug foggers can be toxic to pets, usually causing respiratory issues. If it is necessary to treat your home for pests, make sure your pet is not in the house.

As an easy rule of thumb – if it makes it difficult for you to breathe, it’s not good for your pet either!

HOME REMEDIES Home remedies discussed online, such as hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting or feeding your pet charcoal to absorb the toxin, should only be used when seeing a vet is not possible.

While they can be administered safely, they can have adverse effects. Pets can aspirate while being forced to drink hydrogen peroxide or charcoal, and hydrogen peroxide can cause chemical irritation and burns in the mouth and oesophagus.

Hong Kong has several veterinarians that are open 24/ 7 – you are never far from a vet if your pet ingests something toxic.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

PLANTS AND FLOWERS

• Keep all medication in a closed cabinet

Many of the beautiful plants around us can be toxic to our pets, so do your research before bringing them inside the home. Most plants will simply cause your cat or dog to have a stomach upset when eaten, but others can be deadly.

• Regulate your pets’ diet and avoid giving them ‘human food’

Any form of lily can cause severe kidney failure in cats (but not dogs). So, if you have a cat, do not have lilies in the house. Oleander is commonly found outdoors as an ornamental shrubbery and causes heart failure and arrhythmias (abnormal heart beat) when ingested by dogs and cats.

All parts of Sago palms (including Bonsai) are extremely toxic – especially the seeds. This plant causes liver failure and death quite rapidly, and the effects are difficult to reverse.

Rhododendrons can cause severe stomach upset and eventually death in some pets, especially smaller breeds.

Jessamine plants can cause muscle weakness and paralysis.

Dr Lawren Durocher Babek is a specialist in small animal internal medicine who is certified in hospice and palliative care. To find out more, visit www.drlawrenvet.com.

BOON TIONG TAN WITH HIS YOUNGEST, REESE, 12 50

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• Buy plants for your home that are known to be kind to pets • Store all chemicals and cleaning products in a safe place • Keep all rodenticides out of the common areas in the home

HELPLINE

! e c i v d A

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PLANNING FOR RETIREMENT Help for migrant domestic workers from the team at Enrich HK!

H

PHOTO COURTESY OF Unsplash

ave you thought about what you will do when you retire? We often get asked by domestic workers about the ‘best time’ to plan for retirement, and they are usually shocked to hear our answer – that no matter what age you are, the best time to plan is now, even if you’re a new arrival to Hong Kong.

This might seem scary, but it doesn’t have to be, and it’s an important step to ensure that you’re not just ‘working hard,’ but also ‘working smart’ while you’re here.

THE 20:20 RULE Without prior planning, retirement can be stressful and may bring up many unexpected expenses, but it’s never too late to start and we’ve listed some steps to consider.

Start off by visualising and writing down how you would like to spend your retirement. What lifestyle would you like? If you want to establish a business or invest, it’s important to also identify what you need to do to achieve those goals.

Think about what age you’d like to retire at. A good guideline to use is the 20:20 rule: If you hope to live 20 years after retirement, then you should build your funds from 20 years before retirement. This means that if your planned retirement age is 60 and you hope to live to the age of 80, you should ideally start saving retirement funds by age 40. This doesn’t include savings for your related goals (such as a business) which you should save separately.

Ideally, start saving now, so that you can prioritise your goals gradually. Every month when you receive your salary, ‘pay yourself first’ by putting aside money for your goals and investments before allocating your remittance and expenses.

Build your emergency fund too – you will never regret setting aside a monthly amount for a rainy day.

Use your time in Hong Kong to develop skills that may support your retirement plan, and also look at any government programmes which can support you when you return home, including skills training, reintegration services, grants for small businesses or financial assistance.

Remember too, that your children and siblings are not your retirement plan. Plan for a future in which you are self-sufficient.

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INVESTING FOR RETIREMENT Most of us think about retirement as the time we will ‘stop working,’ but Filipino financial guru, Vince Rapisura, describes it as “the action or fact of leaving one’s job and ceasing to work [having accumulated] enough passive income that covers expenses to last a lifetime.”

So, it’s not enough to hope you can gather a big pot of savings for your retirement – it’s important to also have that ‘passive income’ that Vince talks about, which comes through careful investment. We’ve presented some ideas, but whatever you choose, make sure you research, shop around for options, pick reputable companies and never invest in anything unless you completely understand it – take less risk with retirement funds.

Start off by looking into pension plans. If your country doesn’t have a government pension scheme, consider voluntary plans. If you’re from the Philippines, you already make a mandatory Social Security System contribution, but you could also consider voluntary pension funds offered by insurance companies, which may provide you with some fixed cash in the future. Filipino banks also offer Personal Equity and Retirement Accounts as part of a voluntary retirement savings programme with favourable tax treatment.

Explore government or private insurance plans for yourself and your family, based on your needs and budget. Health insurance covers short-term medical bills, whereas life insurance provides long-term coverage for your loved ones in the event of your death.

Consider investing in financial funds, such as a mutual fund or bonds, which are relatively low-risk investments, though we strongly advise you attend financial education courses to learn more about them first. It’s important to avoid scams.

Another popular investment option is real estate. Besides ensuring a roof over your head, you can use property to generate passive income for instance by using it for business purposes, or apartment rentals.

Most importantly, don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

Invest in a combination of plans which suit your needs and which will provide you with a comfortable and independent retirement.

HELPLINE

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INVEST IN A COMBINATION OF PLANS WHICH SUIT YOUR NEEDS AND WHICH WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH A COMFORTABLE AND INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT

Enrich HK is an awardwinning Hong Kong charity providing financial and empowerment education to migrant domestic workers. To learn about the courses on offer, WhatsApp 5981 375 4 , email info@enrichhk.org or visit w w w.enrichhk.org.

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DINING OUT

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! h t n o m e h t f o t n a r u a t Res IL BEL PAESE REPORTING BY Rachel Sadler

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Il Bel Paese

IL BEL PAESE RISTORANTE ITALIANO

I

l Bel Paese DB opened in 2001 as Il Bel Paese Italian delicatessen with a mission to introduce Italy’s finest flavours to the community. It relaunched in July 2020 with three different concepts: Il Bel Paese Ristorante Italiano, Il Bel Paese Italian Express and Il Bel Paese Gelato Italiano. The result? An approachable, friendly and relaxing space in which to eat, shop and learn.

From imported wines and specialty cheeses to handmade pastas and pizza, the popular DB venue provides a holistic Italian experience that’s all about enjoyment and relaxation.

RISTORANTE ITALIANO Il Bel Paese Ristorante Italiano was redeveloped last year in May, with everything from the decor, furniture and kitchen equipment revamped. It reopened in July 2020, and it’s a welcoming space with a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere.

“We tried to recreate an inviting and relaxing restaurant that focuses on providing our guests a beautiful Italian experience with traditional and authentic heart-warming Italian dishes,” says Mia Kwun, marketing assistant for Il Bel Paese, DB. “Our generous menu features an exciting range of authentic classics made directly from the heart,” Mia adds. “Our chefs 54

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

use some organic local produce, most of the ingredients are imported from Italy.”

Signature dishes and bestsellers include Vitello Tonnato, thinly sliced veal with tuna sauce, pickled onions and capers; Mezze Maniche and N’duja, pasta with fresh sausage and spicy N’duja sausage from Calabria; Tagliolini all’ Aragosta, lobster with homemade pasta; and Cotoletta alla Milanese, breaded veal cutlet which is a classic of Milan’s cuisine.

Pizzas are another bestseller. The base is made with highquality Italian Mariani flour, which is high in fibre and naturally less refined.

“Our concept is traditional authentic Italian cuisine and we want people to experience authentic Italian dishes,” says Mia. “Every now and then, we add or change menu items according to demand and guests’ feedback, while staying true to the authentic Italian concept.

“We participate in HKR promotional offer programmes, for example accepting dining vouchers, and often we have special prices on selected items in our Il Bel Paese Italian Express.

Because we have various outlets and are expanding with more different brands, we will be launching a membership programme soon.”

DINING OUT

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GRAB-AND-GO EXPRESS

Il Bel Paese Italian Express is a new brand with a grab-and-go concept. It offers a wide selection of gourmet Italian delicacies such as pasta, olive oils, vinegars and wines.

Fruit and vegetables, cold cuts and cheeses are all carefully selected and imported twice a week from Italy to ensure freshness and quality.

Bestsellers include Casa di Rinaldi extra virgin olive oil, tomato sauces and olives; Giovanna Pavarotti balsamic vinegar; Parmigiano Reggiano aged 24 months; Prosciutto ham aged 24 months; organic tomatoes and melons. “We are the sole importer for Asia of multiple award-winning Cedea still and sparkling water,” Mia says. “Cedea is the exclusive, world-class water of the Dolomites.

The grab-and-go section also dishes up ready-to-eat meals and desserts. Bestsellers for takeaway are homemade meatballs, paninis and tiramisu, all packed in handy biodegradable containers.

IL BEL PAESE ITALIAN EXPRESS

THE VINO For wine lovers, Il Bel Paese has an extensive selection representing the 20 regions of Italy, available in both the restaurant and grocery store.

“DBers love prosecco and, at the moment, we are promoting Veneto Villa Braida Prosecco, which has fresh fruity and citrusy notes with a dry palate and moderately long finish; and Veneto Le Rughe Prosecco Rosé, which has predominant notes of red cherry and strawberry combined with tart citrus, and a tannic finish,” Mia says. “Both are perfect summer choices as aperitifs, or for pairing with salads and seafood dishes.”

PIZZA AL PROSCIUTTO

TAGLIOLINI ALLA ARAGOSTA

ITALIAN GELATO Il Bel Paese’s homemade gelato is lower in sugar (17%) and fat (7%) content than other brands and it’s made with pasteurised skimmed milk. Guests can opt for sorbet as a dairy-free option, such as passion fruit, lemon, strawberry and mango.

“All our gelatos are gluten-free except for the Cookies and Cream,” says Mia. “We have a total of 18 flavours, amongst them are Mint Chocolate, Nutella and Stracciatella.” Buon appetito!

Il Bel Paese in DB Plaza is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

To make a booking, call 2987 0202 . To find out more, visit w w w.ilbelpaese.com.hk.

IL BEL PAESE GELATO ITALIANO AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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Authentic Thai food fresh from the Land of Smiles!

Shop G30, 96 Siena Avenue, Discover y Bay North Plaza, Lantau Island Te l : 2 9 8 7 2 010 , 2 9 8 7 2 0 2 6 O p e n i n g H o u r s : 11 : 3 0 a m t o 10 : 3 0 p m CALL US FOR HOME AND OFFICE DELIVERY OR CONTACT DELIVEROO

Authentic Indian Cuisine

Opening Hours 11am to 4pm 5.30pm to 11pm Mirch Masala Indian Restaurant Shop G29, 96 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North Plaza, Lantau Island Tel: 2987 1387, 2987 1337

RECIPES

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH presented by Lekker Laa PAULA’S ROAST BEEF TENDERLOIN WITH RED WINE SAUCE RECIPE & PHOTO BY Paula Lepore

Serves 6 8tbsp unsalted butter 3 large shallots, finely chopped 230ml red wine 6 fresh thyme sprigs 1tsp sugar 1,210ml beef stock 2tbsp all-purpose flour 1 (3lb) centre-cut beef tenderloin To make the sauce, melt 5tbsp butter in a medium saucepan. Add the shallots and cook over medium-low heat, until soft. Add the wine, thyme sprigs, sugar and 1,150ml beef stock. Season well and bring to a boil. Cook over medium heat until the liquid is reduced by half. Meanwhile, melt 3tbsp butter and combine it with the flour to form a smooth paste. Once the wine mixture is reduced, turn down the heat and remove the thyme sprigs. Whisk in the flour-butter paste, a teaspoonful at a time, and simmer until the sauce is thickened.

For the tenderloin, preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat 2tbsp oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef well and cook it until browned on all but one side. Turn the meat so that the un-seared side is down, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast until a thermometer inserted into the centre of the meat registers 120°F for medium rare. Transfer the meat to a carving board and let it rest, covered loosely with aluminum foil. Meanwhile, set the pan on the stovetop, having discarded the fat, and add 60ml beef stock. Bring the stock to a boil, add it to the red wine sauce, and then bring the sauce to a simmer. Carve the beef to serve, passing the red wine sauce at the table.

If you are inspired by this recipe, visit www.lekker.hk. Founded by two DB residents, Neil Schonken and Ainslie Vosloo, Lekker Laa is a specialty online food and wine business now delivering to DB. On top of delicious wine and meat (such as traditional boerewors) from South Africa, Lekker carries salmon from Norway, bacon from the Netherlands and steak from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Find more of Paula Lepore’s recipes at the DB dinner & dessert Facebook page.

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Cream of the Crop

Packed with j u icy su m m er berri es , th is qu i ntessentially British pu d is so m uch easi er than it looks perfect for begi n n ers PHOTO COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

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RECIPES

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SUMMER PUDDING Serves 6 450g raspberries 225g redcurrants 110g blackcurrants 150g caster sugar 8 slices white bread Place the fruit and sugar in a large saucepan over a medium heat for 4 minutes, until the sugar is jus t melted. Remove from the heat and line a but tered 850ml pudding basin with the slices of bread, overlapping them and pressing the edges together. Fill in any gaps with small pieces of bread so no juice c an get through. Pour the fruit and juice over the bread reser ving t wo thirds of a cup of juice. Cover the pudding with another slice of bread. Place a small plate on top, and put a 1.3kg weight on the plate. Chill overnight.

Before ser ving, turn the pudding out on a large dish and spoon over the reser ved juice to soak any bit s of bread that s till look white. Ser ve cut into wedges with a bowl of thick cream.

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DB FACES

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i n a w d i G Baljit

COMMUNITY SNAPS

PH O T OS BY Bal j i t G i dwan i w ww.evo q uepo r t rai t s .c o m

UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION

Win prizes from Uncle Russ C o f f e e a n d T h e Pi e r B a r !

The best snap wins! Your mission this month is to share your favourite photo of DB on Instagram, hashtag #arounddb. You have until the 10th of the month to enter.

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!

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH'S WINNER: Jen Webb@ webbsterjen

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CLASSIFIEDS

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The finest selection of lavender essestial oils, shampoos, hand creams, Foam Bath, Wildflower & Geranium, body lotions imported from the U.K. Lavender grown and harvested in the Cotswold with no artificial fragrances.

Ginger extract hair serum and herbal teas from Thailand.

A range of branded alcohol hand & body gels.

E-mail: essentialssophia@gmail.com

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CLASSIFIEDS

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If you’re reading this, so is everyone else To advertise in print or online, email info@baymedia.com.hk

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LOCAL NUMBERS

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LOCAL NUMBERS TUNG CHUNG EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

HOME & REPAIRS Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Mr Chan 24-Hour Handyman ShunYu Engineering

2109 2330 9343 3718 2988 1488

HOTELS Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Regal Airport Hotel SheratonTung Chung

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888 2535 0000

LEARNING CENTRES Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Salala Kids’ House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool Tung Chung Catholic School YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

9757 9157 2987 8070 2162 5538 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 2121 0884 2988 8123

MEDICAL Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre North Lantau Hospital North Lantau Physiotherapy Quality Health Dental Quality Health Care Medical Raffles Medical

Raffles Medical Emergency

2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 3467 7000 2194 0020 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626 2261 0999

REALTORS HomeSolutions

3483 5003

REMOVALS & RELOCATION 2421 8088 Akash Removals 2814 1658 FTC Relocations ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Caribbean Coast Clubhouse Caribbean Coast Management Office Coastal Skyline Clubhouse Coastal Skyline Management Office Seaview Crescent Clubhouse Seaview Crescent Management Office Tung Chung Crescent Clubhouse Tung Chung Crescent Management Office

2109 9277 2109 9288 2179 6678 2179 6621 3473 8700 3473 8833 2403 6770 2109 1222

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY ATavola Bar & Grill 2321 5500 Airport Izakaya 2286 6668 Andante, Novotel Citygate 3602 8828 2286 6238 Café Aficionado Café Lantau, SheratonTung Chung 2535 0021 China Coast Bar & Grill 2286 6898 2960 1977 Curry Lounge Essence, Novotel Citygate 3602 8808 Kimos 2886 3646 2338 2338 McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Coffee Shop, Novotel Citygate 3602 8838 MyThai 2907 6918 Olea, Novotel Citygate 3602 8818 PizzaExpress 2297 3588 2330 0000 Pizza Hut Delivery Regala Café & Dessert Bar, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6618 Resto 2886 3156

Rouge, Regal Airport Hotel Skycity Bistro, SkyCity Marriott Sunset Grill, Sheraton Tung Chung Tung Chung Pizza Yue, SheratonTung Chung Velocity Bar & Grill, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

2286 6868 3969 2500 2535 0025 2466 1010 2535 0028 3969 1888

RETAIL FTC Apparel Lantau Balloons

2428 2566 9733 5483

SPORT & RECREATION Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 Aqua Gym 2914 0658 9264 8597 Dance for Joy Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre 6688 2167 ESF Sports 2711 1280 Fitness in Motion 9744 4736 HK Dragons 2987 4274 Kinder Kicks Soccer 2385 9677 Perun Fitness 6443 6597 Rugbytots 5307 6677 Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool 2109 9107 2109 2421 Tung Chung Sports Centre Tung Chung Rugby Club 6079 0825 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Royal Pets (Pet Sitting) Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung ChungVet Centre

6314 9887 2988 1534 2328 7282

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Max Beauty Spa OM Spa, Regal Airport Hotel Tung Chung Nail Ninjas Quan Spa, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

2162 5752 2286 6266 9551 6468 969 21888

The Gallery The Kitchen Treasure Island Beach Club

2980 2582 5991 6292 5236 7013

SOUTH LANTAU MEDICAL North Lantau Hospital

3467 7000

REALTORS Findley Leung HomeSolutions

2984 8334 3483 5003

EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Lantau South Police MuiWo Fire Department

3661 1696 2984 1570

HOME & REPAIRS KoonWah Hardware LeeWo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering New Look Design

2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840

HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

6810 0111 2985 8383

REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 2984 2268 Lee Hing Loong ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008

LEARNING CENTRES Ashville International Kindergarten & Nursery Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School, Reception, Lantau International School, Lower Primary Lantau International School, Upper Primary Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten MuiWo Language Cafe Silvermine Bay School

2109 9886 2985 5365 2984 0302 2984 0302 2980 3676 2984 0302 3689 7033 5511 6107 2984 0006

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY 2984 0222 BahçeTurkish Restaurant Bathers 2504 4788 Cafe Isara 2470 1966 Caffe Paradiso 2984 0498 China Bear 2984 9720 La Pizzeria 2984 8933 Lantana Italian Bistro 5465 5511 Long Island 2320 2001 The China Beach Club 2983 8931

RETAIL Friendly Bike Shop 2984 2278 Garden Plus 2980 2233 IslandWines 9521 8481 Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. 2984 8346 Lantau Base Camp 9889 4375 Lantau Grocer 2702 0050 Red Hall Chinese Antiques 2988 1368 Tony’s Salon 2984 0990 ValueVigilantes 6132 9120 VIBE Book & Music Shop 9088 2370 SPORT & RECREATION Long Coast Seasports South Lantau Paddle Club Treasure Island Beach Club

5545 5625 6058 8843 2546 3543

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Pause by the Banyan Spa Ambiance

9708 0187 2984 2488

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LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power Emergency DB Fire & Ambulance Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Police Report Room

2728 8333 2987 7502 2435 4511 3661 1694

FINANCIAL SERVICES 2160 8585 Bank of China HSBC 2233 3000 Parsons White Wealth Management 2433 6981 The Stephen Putnam Practice 2914 0388 HOME & REPAIRS China Light & Power Information DRS Company Good Luck Engineering Hung Kee Co May’s Furniture & Curtain Design Rich Point Hardware Materials Water Fault Reports

Water Supplies Department Well Supreme Laundry

2678 2678 9156 0360 2987 1313 2987 5087 2987 0222 2987 0789 2811 0788 2824 5000 2987 5151

HOTELS Auberge Discovery Bay

2295 8288

LAWYERS & INSURANCE Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 24168618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com,

Manulife 9172 9152 LEARNING CENTRES Discovery Montessori School A reputable & well-known international school for authentic Montessori bilingual (English & Chinese) education for children aged 1 to 12 years. Beautiful campus & highly qualified teachers. Contact 2987 1201, enquiry@dms.edu.hk, www.dms.edu.hk Lingostars Providing Mandarin & Korean education: Afterschool Mandarin for Year 1-13 & adult Mandarin classes in a communicative & interactive setting at DB North. Contact 6375 2015, info@lingostarshk.com, www.lingostarshk.com Little Explorers The longest running playgroup in DB, Little Explorers eases the transition between home play and kindergarten for children aged 18 months and up. Contact 6331 7215, littleexplorersdb@gmail.com Tree of Joy A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include a drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & cooking class. Contact 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

Bayview House of Children 6114 2436 DBIS 2987 7331 DBIS Kindergarten 2914 2142 Discovery College 3969 1000 Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Kindergarten 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Primary School 2914 2202 Discovery Montessori Academy 2812 9206 Dr Bear Education Centre 6762 6264 Epic Adventurers 2441 0098 Eye Level Education Learning Centre 9366 0000 Funfit 6302 6327 HKILA 2416 3198 HK International Learning Academy 2416 3198 66

AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

Kumon 2459 8808 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten 8191 0813 8191 0813 L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie Links Parenting 6114 2436 Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909 9135 4724 Mathemagic (home tutoring) Mathnasium 2628 3362 SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608 2987 8143 Sunshine House International Preschool Treasure House 2987 4217 Woodentots 6108 9131 9648 2966 Zhi Zhi Chinese MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice DB Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Island Health North Lantau Hospital Quality Health Medical Centre Quality Health Physiotherapy

2987 0855 2987 5633 2666 6183 2987 7575 3467 7000 2987 5633 2473 6200

PLACES OF WORSHIP DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB Anglican Church DB International Community Church Trinity Chapel

2987 8136 2987 4210 2987 7061 2987 9909

REALTORS Headland Homes 2987 2088 Kingsland 2987 2987 Land Master Property 2987 6238 Okay.com 2102 0829 Savills 2987 1919 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 2814 1658 FTC Relocations Hoi Yu Transportation 2987 4488 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES DB Office Centre DB Lost & Found DB Management The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council Typhoon Signal Enquiries

2238 3388 3651 2345 2238 3601 2259 3422 2835 1473

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY 22º North 2987 2298 2383 0792 Bones & Blades Café Bord de Mer & Lounge 2295 8299 Caffe Pascucci 2591 1426 Cali-Mex 2904 7698 Coyote Mexican Cantina 2987 2848 Ebeneezer’s 2987 0036 Epic Foods 2172 6111 2987 2915 Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant 2987 9123 Hemingway’s 2987 8855 il Bel Paese 2987 0202 Island Café 2987 9311 Koh Tomyums 2987 0767 La Creation & Châteraisé 2987 1829 Lekker Laa 6857 1620 McSorley’s Ale House 2987 8280 Mirch Masala 2987 1337 Moofish 2987 6318 Pacific Coffee 2987 1662 Paisano’s 2673 4445 Peony 2500 1950 PizzaExpress 2465 2426

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY Solera 2555 0772 Starbucks 2246 8372 Subway 2914 0005 2520 2166 The Pier Bar 2987 0966 Three Sheets Marquee Bar Uncle Russ 2840 1188 RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven 2987 4401 2383 0683 Bones & Blades Butcher Bookazine 2987 1373 DB Post Office 2987 6046 Fotomax 2914 2378 Fusion by PARKnSHOP 2987 7486 Gillian Florist 2529 8256 2987 1041 Japan Home Centre P-Solution 2987 1777 Rapee-living 2987 7082 Sloowood 2944 5189 Star Mart 2366 6534 Tai Fat Hardware Store 2987 0789 The Optical House 2987 1368 Nomadic 2987 8460 Red Velvet 9010 5832 Toysland 2987 7859 2987 4089 Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome 2947 9092 2987 9268 Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre 2987 4428 SPORT & RECREATION HK Dragons Football Club Football for girls & boys aged 2.5 years to 14 years.

Contact 2987 4274, dragons.hk

Island Dance A ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, tap & Bollywood classes at DBRC, Club Siena & DB Plaza.

Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week.

Contact 2987 1571, 9159 0663, info@islanddanceom.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk Tekkerz Football programmes for boys & girls for age groups U5 up to U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com

MGK Fight Club 9303 2996 Yoga Bay 6704 9851 Yogika 6749 7836 YogaUP 68054996 TRANSPORTATION DB Golf Cart Services DB Transportation Services Limousine Rental Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2727 2987 7351 5303 3489 2987 9368

VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Island Veterinary Services

My Pet Shop Pets Gallery Ready, Pet, Go!

2987 9003 2987 8873 2987 0428 5721 6181

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Ingredients of Wellness Mindfulness training for children, teens & their parents and teachers. Offering Mindfulness Matters, Mindfulness in Education (for adults), AMT Mindfulness Teacher Training.

Contact 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com

Afflatus Hair Workshop 2987 0283 Bay Spa 9837 0969 DB Pure Spa 9794 0918 2834 7276 Herbal Health Care Maximum Care 2987 2060 Nailed It! 2987 2266 2499 8826 Nest Care Salon De Coiffure 2987 4112 Sophia Essentials 2527 0118

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @

www.arounddb.com

The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio A premium fitness centre situated in two convenient locations at north and south plaza.

Offering group fitness, pilates reformer, barre, yoga, kids fitness, personal training and latin dancing. Contact 5721 3000, info@thebeat.com.hk, www.thebeat.com.hk

BMSE Community Centre 2259 3422 Club Siena 2987 7382 DBees 6473 4277 DB Ice Rink 2234 0187 DB Pirates 9255 6133 DB Golf Club 2987 7273 DB Recreation Club 2987 7381 DMR School of Ballet 2987 4338 Embody 6624 8712 EpicLand 2441 0098 Fit 852 9680 7665 Future Stars Dance Academy 2987 6867 Greenwich Yoga School 9685 8366 Harry Wright International 2575 6279 Kapuhala Train-in-Space 6101 8434 Lantau Yacht Club 2987 9591

To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0167, or email info@baymedia.com.hk AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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! on o p m DB La OUT THERE

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HONG KONG, HUNGARY… AND HOUDINI DB is suddenly pullulating with Hungarians, and Peter Sherwood couldn’t be happier. Sweet and sour goulash, anyone?

PHOTO COURTESY OF Pexels

I

arrived in Hong Kong when God was still in diapers.

Most expats were British civil servants on a better financial deal than in the opium years. Aussies like me were as rare as the occasional whacked-out and wayward Californian hippy in search of Nirvana. And people in places like Hungary tended to stay there.

But now a charming couple from the former AustroHungarian Empire have moved into my building and I’m suddenly surrounded by Hungarians. Hundreds of ‘em – and all lovely people. I wondered what Hong Kong and Hungary have in common. Apart from the letter H I can’t think of anything, so my twisted mind went to what we don’t have in common – an exercise in pointlessness.

What about harbours? We have one and they don’t. Not since they kicked the dual monarchy into touch and lost some pretty nice ones. But it does have a big lake. We have Plover Cove, but that’s a reservoir. Cuisine? You’re kidding, unless you can find a Chinese dish with potatoes and paprika. Sweet and sour goulash would be exotic – if it existed.

What about staple foods? We have rice and they have potatoes, a centuries-old tradition. But not really Hungarian. The Spanish bought the humble potato to Europe from Peru in the 16th century. After stealing all the silver and gold, they needed ballast for ships returning empty. And without potatoes, Spain’s tortilla de patatas would be just an unappetising mixture of onions mashed up with eggs and olive oil.

HUNGARY HAS THE DANUBE, WE HAVE A COUPLE OF SMALL RIVERS THAT STINK

How the potato got to Hungary is a mystery so unimportant that no one has ever bothered to find out (but then French fries are from Belgium, the Panama hat from Ecuador and Chinese Checkers was invented in Germany).

Rivers? We have a couple of small ones that stink. Hungary has the Danube. To be fair though, the ‘Blue Danube’ is seldom azure in Austria, and it’s milk tea when it hits Budapest. Peaks?

Hong Kong is mountainous. Hungary is as flat as a bullfrog singing the blues.

As for language, ours is Cantonese which is a bit like Mandarin.

Theirs’ is not a bit like anything. Although, on a train trip across the country I got talking to a professor from Finland who told me his language and Hungarian are not poles apart. I thought he was mad. My surrounding Hungarians confirmed I was right.

Finnish is like nothing else but a bit like a couple of neighbours who will vehemently refute that – along with every Finn.

What the hell do I know? Hungarians speak many languages.

I speak only English, and badly. Then there’s Basque with no known relative. Some say (actually just me) that the language might be traced back to the Neanderthals, had they bothered to leave any record.

Famous escape artist and illusionist Harry Houdini was Hungarian. But back to my professor on the train… I read that “Ethnic Hungarians are a mix of the Finno-Ugric Magyars and various assimilated Turkic, Slavic and German peoples.” ‘Finno.’

See, the professor was right. And maybe it was Harry who made the Empire disappear.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 20+ years. The former head of an international public relations firm, he is the author of 15 books and has written around 40 0 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

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AROUND DB / AUGUST 2021

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