AROUND DB SEPTEMBER 2021

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SEPTEMBER 2021

PA R E N T I N G

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A R O U N D D B.CO M

Eat! Love! Share!

MEET THE STARS OF THE DB BAKING COMPETITION AND TRY THEIR PRIZE-WINNING RECIPES

FILLING THE FUNDING GAP

GAYLENE MEESON'S NINTH SHAVE FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER RESEARCH

BE THE ALPHA

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

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FEATURES 30

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Profile Gaylene Meeson on her ninth shave to conquer kids’ cancer

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Community Tween DB sportsmen going all out to pay it forward

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Parenting

Has COVID turned your child into a tech monster?

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Fitness In the cage with professional MMA fighter Marc Guyon

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Insider How to train your puppy and become the alpha role model

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

REGULARS

AGENDA

38 DINING OUT

10 DB EVENTS

At Solera

57 RECIPES Bolognese and Zabaglione

60 DB FACES Community snaps

68 OUT THERE

Peter Sherwood talks back O N T H E C OVE R 2 7

16 ACROSS HK 20 EVENT ROUND-UP 24 GIVEAWAYS 64 CLASSIFIEDS 65 LOCAL NUMBERS WE AL S O P UB L IS H ISL AND -WIDE NEWS

Remalyn Agatep and Fernanda Morels Vallejo, the winning bakers (Open and Under 12 categories) in the DB Baking Competition 2021

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LOCAL INFLUENCERS

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WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK Supporting nursing mums on the go

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LANTERNS ON THE BEACH Head to Tai Pak Wan on September 21 to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with friends and family.

As you moon gaze, remember to be responsible by avoiding glow sticks and single-use disposable lanterns. Bring reusable food and beverage containers and leave the beach as clean as you found it. To read about the traditions surrounding MidAutumn Festival, turn to page 16.

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SNACK AT DER IMBISS

Sat right by the ice rink in DB Plaza, der Imbiss specialises in tasty Western snacks to eat on the go.

Head there for the fish and chips, cheesy Bolognese and German sausage with garlic bread. Der Imbiss also has a sweet counter packed with gelato cups, pannacotta and mango pomelo jelly. To find out more, visit the der Imbiss Facebook page.

GAYLENE MEESON'S BIG SHAVE

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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 GROUP 2021

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Hong Kong Disneyland’s latest attraction ‘Follow Your Dreams’ forms part of its ongoing 15th anniversary celebrations. The 20-minute castle show features an original song of the same name and a number of classic Disney tunes with contemporary arrangements. Mickey Mouse and his friends take to the stage, accompanied by singers and dancers, fog jets, bubbles and ‘sparkulars.’ Visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Hong Kong Disneyland.]

s g in n e pp a H STUFF TO KNOW

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D I S CL AIME R

NEW ATTRACTION AT DISNEY

AGNES PANG: REBORN

Through her upcycled artwork, Tung Chung-based multi-media artist Agnes Pang sets out to encourage environmental protection and a love of nature. Agnes is exhibiting her latest series – in which she uses foam net to create vibrant images of everything from coral to sushi – at PMQ in Central through September 3 and at Pause Café in Mui Wo through September 24. To find out more, visit www.agnesrecycles.com.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Agnes Pang.]

It’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and former DBer Gaylene Meeson is about to shave her head for the ninth time to raise funds for the nongovernmental research funder St Baldrick’s Foundation. Gaylene is one of the foundation’s most effective advocates, having raised over US$2.5 million since 2013 (check out the Hero Fund list at www.stbaldricks.org to make a donation). For more on the Meesons and their recent relocation to the UK, turn to page 30.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Gaylene Meeson.]

DB NEWS

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ICE-SKATING FRIDAY

DB Ice Rink is holding its second Residents’ Skating Night on September 10 from 7.30pm to 10pm. The event in August was a huge success complete with dance music and disco lights. For more information, visit www.dbicerink.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DB Ice Rink.]

! s t n e v &E

MILIMILU ONLINE DB resident Linda Morrison is the founder of MiliMilu, an online eco-friendly clothing and accessory store offering a range of items for the whole family.

MiliMilu fashion is simple yet sophisticated, ethically produced and socially responsible. “We care about the origins of our clothes and accessories and their impact on the environment,” Linda says. “To ensure we deliver the highest quality through a sustainable and ethical production process, we handpick the brands that we partner up with and carefully curate every item.”

To shop online, visit www.milimilu.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF MiliMilu.]

IN SEPTEMBER!

BAKE! LOVE! SHARE!

CABANA BREEZE AT T-BAY

The results of the DB Baking Competition are in! Turn to page 27 to see the six prize-winners receiving their vouchers and to try the recipes from the first-prize winners Remalyn Agatep (Open Category) and Fernanda Morales (Under 12 Category).

For more on the competition, visit www.arounddb.com.

GAYLENE MEESON'S BIG

When you’re next in Tung Chung be sure to head to Cabana Breeze. A Hawaiian-style tiki bar and grill serving authentic Polynesian cuisine, it also specialises in pizza fresh from a traditional woodstone pizza oven.

The venue benefits from its classy T-Bay location, providing alfresco dining from a rooftop bar right next to the Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung. To make a booking, call 2777 8980. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Elite Growth Group.]

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

SEPTEMBER 12 | SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.

SEPTEMBER 19 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP at Cheung Sha Lan from 2.10pm. Check the DB Green Facebook page for details.

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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DB NEWS

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SWITCH TO REUSABLE CUPS Through a pre-COVID survey of 7,792 people, which involved 522 visits to 223 coffee shops from six brands, Plastic Free Seas (PFS) found that 67% of people drinking hot beverages in Hong Kong coffee shops use disposable cups. PFS is urging coffee drinkers to switch to reusable cups, and sharing the survey’s results with coffee shops and the government as a call to action. To get involved, visit www.plasticfreeseas.org.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF PFS.]

FOUND IN DB PLAZA Expanding from its Sheung Wan location, Found (Hong Kong’s first CBD retailer and café) opened in DB last month. The buzzy wellness product of the moment, CBD can assist with anxiety, stress, insomnia, pain and inflammation. Take your pick from CBD oil and water-soluble CBD liquid, and CBD capsules, gummies, chocolate, tea and muscle balm. Visit the Found kiosk in DB Plaza or shop online at www.found.hk.

EMBROIDERY ART EXHIBITION

Les Designs Studio, headed up by former DB resident Nicola Wepener, is holding a mixed-media two- and three-dimensional embroidery art exhibition at Hong Kong Central MTR, Exit J through September 10. For Stitches in Time, Nicola and her students have focused on traditional flora and fauna amongst other themes. To find out more, visit www.les-designs.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Les Design Studios.]

BBQ PIT BUFFET AT CAFÈ LANTAU COOKIE SMILES' WOOF TWISTERS Co-founded by DB resident Agnes Chin, Cookie Smiles sells dog treats (and human-friendly cookies), and donates 15-20% of its profits to local NGOs. Cookie Smiles also offers training opportunities for the disadvantaged and provides jobs for the physically impaired. Dogs love the nutritious breadstickshaped Woof Twisters that are made of all-natural ingredients. To place an order, visit www.cookiesmiles.com.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Cookie Smiles.]

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

Inspired by the outdoor barbecue pits on Lantau’s trails and beaches, the all-you-can-eat, indoor BBQ Pit Buffet at Café Lantau, Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung pays homage to the most casual of Hong Kong dining occasions, while elevating it to delicious new levels. There’s everything from honey-glazed chicken wings and fish balls with Sakura to USDA-choice beef flank and foie gras. To make a reservation for lunch or dinner through September 12, call 2535 0021.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung.]

SPONSORED CONTENT

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DB NEWS

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LANTAU YACHT CLUB YACHTCATION PACKAGE It’s the most popular yachting season of the year, and Lantau Yacht Club (LYC) has come up with a unique way to attract local yachties to try out its new state-of-the-art marina – a yachtcation package.

“LYC is excited to launch the first-ever yachtcation package offered by yacht clubs in Hong Kong,” says Charlotte Ho, Director of Hospitality Marketing and Membership of Auberge Hospitality. “With the recent travel restrictions, many people who used to spend weeks on their yachts overseas now enjoy yachting in Hong Kong. This is a great opportunity for them to explore different yachting locations, especially the western and southern waters of Hong Kong.”

The number of pleasure yachts in Hong Kong has seen impressive growth since the pandemic outbreak – the number of pleasure vessels increased by over 580 in 2020 alone and more locals are getting into yachting. Pleasure yachts provide a private and safe space away from the crowd, where people can spend quality time with friends and family.

The LYC Yachtcation Package includes one night’s wet berthing, a four-course dinner for two at the club’s Caffè Napoli and two complimentary transfers within DB. Visiting yachties get 15% off spa treatments at Spa Botanica, Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong. To find out more, visit www.lantauyachtclub.com. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Lantau Yacht Club.]

CHINA HOCKEY GROUP AT DB ICE RINK DB Ice Rink has partnered up with China Hockey Group (CHG) to bring its ice-hockey tournaments and training programmes to Discovery Bay. On September 25, China Ice Hockey League (CIHL), the group’s elite adult hockey league, is hosting a two-match tournament at the DB Plaza rink. The puck drops at 7.30pm for Hong Kong Tycoons vs Macau Aces, the second match is at 9pm for Kowloon Warriors vs South China Sharks.

CHG’s Junior Tiger programme, Hong Kong’s premier youth hockey organisation, is also on offer at DB Ice Rink with Learn to Play sessions running every Thursday from 5.30pm to 7pm. The classes are led by CHG coaches Ben Macaskill and Whitney Olsen for children aged five to 13.

CHG is a family-focused group of ice-hockey leagues, training programmes and community initiatives that are geared at developing both the sport of ice hockey in Hong Kong and Southern China, as well as the concept of student-athletes, where sporting goals are achieved alongside educational pursuits. For more information, visit www.chinahockeygroup.com and www.dbicerink.com.

[PHOTOS COURTESY OF China Hockey Group.]

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SPONSORED CONTENT

When did we become too old to play? Can you remember the last time you really played with your friends or loved ones? When we have children, we start to relive those childhood memories of playing games and going to parks, being creative and a little more adventurous but all too often this stops when the kids get older. We tend to wait to have fun on our holidays. What stops us from doing playful things in our everyday lives?

Play for adults is crucial considering the stressful, busy lifestyles most of us lead. Play has been proven to release endorphins, improve brain functionality and stimulate creativity. It also helps to keep us feeling young and energetic. There are many studies that show play improves memory and also stimulates the growth of the cerebral cortex.

Playing exercises both your physical and creative muscles. It helps you move around, solve problems, challenge yourself and think in new ways. Not to mention that it’s just plain fun! Maybe you feel you are too ‘grown-up’ to be silly and let yourself go and giggle out loud or even scream at the top of your lungs, but there are still plenty of ways to play.

We should all aim to be active every day by doing moderate exercise, which should make you feel slightly out of breath and a bit warmer. You need to do at least two types of exercises to

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help build strength and balance: examples include lifting weights, yoga, Tai Chi, postural stability classes, bowls and dancing.

Play is the best natural resource in a creative economy. Get a group of friends together and make something. Climb a tree. Start a drum circle with some buckets and sticks. Roll down a grassy hill. Throw a costume party just for the fun of it. Spend a weekend without looking at a single screen. Paint faces on rocks and place them around your neighborhood. Invent a boardgame. The possibilities are endless!

The philosophy at EpicLand has always been that it’s a place where the whole family can play. And the team really sees the importance of play for adults – play that continuously challenges your fears and physical ability. For this reason, the 1,400-square-foot, DB North Plaza entertainment centre is hosting its first EpicLand Adult Play Night on September 24. Activities 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.

At an EpicLand Adult Play Night, you get to throw yourself into every experience with your friends without getting that judgmental look from your 11-year-old. And most importantly you get to play! [BY Koren Thomas]

EpicLand in DB North Plaza provides fun for kids of all ages and it’s known for its comprehensive party packages and team-building events. Be sure to head to the all-new EpicLand Adult Play Night on September 24.

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

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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ACROSS HONG KONG

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MID -AUTUMN MIDFESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS

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lso known as the Chinese Moon Festival, MidAutumn Festival takes place on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month in the Chinese calendar and coincides with the full harvest moon.

Traditionally it was a time for people to give thanks for the harvest and ask for good luck in the year to come. These days, families and friends get together to eat well and enjoy some time-honoured customs.

We light lanterns and join lantern parades at Mid-Autumn Festival in honour of the moon: Chang’e (the goddess of the moon) blesses her worshippers with beauty, and the bright lanterns help her to see us clearly from the sky. It has become traditional for DB residents to gather on Tai Pak Wan and celebrate the festival as a community but there are lantern parades all over Hong Kong on September 21 – the biggest is in Victoria Park, Causeway Bay. While many cultures mark some sort of harvest festival, China has been celebrating this ancient seasonal rite for nearly three millennia, originally paying homage to a mythical dragon that brought rain for the farmers’ crops.

Fire Dragon Dances remain an important part of the festival in Hong Kong, notably at Tai Hang, Causeway Bay. In the 19th century, Tai Hang villagers performed a fire dragon dance for three days and three nights in order to fend off a plague – and the tradition continues. It’s a three-day celebration with hundreds of performers, thousands of incense sticks and a 67-metre dragon.

FESTIVE FEASTING Mid-Autumn Festival’s very own delicacy is the mooncake – an acquired taste, and an indulgent one. Made from an intricately decorated pastry case that is filled with either lotus seed or red-bean paste, mooncakes also traditionally contain salted duck egg yolk, resulting in a rich, unctuous texture.

If that isn’t quite to your taste, there are plenty more contemporary interpretations of the mooncake, including chocolate, ice cream, durian and even peanut butter versions that are every bit as celebratory.

Osmanthus flowers, signifying elegance, wealth, sweetness and reunion, are in full bloom in September and October, and Osmanthus-flavoured wine, sorbet, lotus root and sweets are traditionally served at Mid-Autumn Festival.

Pumpkins are another staple believed to bring good health.

Folklore tells of a young girl who cooked pumpkin for her sick parents during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and after eating the pumpkin they regained health.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

ACROSS HONG KONG

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3 MOONCAKES TO TRY THIS MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL 1.

Complete Deelite’s Snowy Mooncake DIY Kit has everything you need to craft delicious strawberry and matcha mooncakes from scratch. Priced at HK$220 per set

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Found HK’s chocolate mooncakes with hojicha and apricot filling are each infused with 50mg of premium CBD. Priced at HK$320 for a box of four

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Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung’s first mooncake series comes in two flavours Egg Custard and Earl Grey Tea Egg Custard. Priced at HK$328 for a box of six AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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SPONSORED CONTENT

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HARVEY LAW GROUP PRESENTS AN HISTORIC OPPORTUNITY FOR PILOTS TO OBTAIN GREEN CARDS IN THE US PHOTOS COURTESY OF Harvey Law Group

As COVID-19 wanes and the pilot shortage in the US comes roaring back, experienced foreign pilots have the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in the US without obtaining a job offer or labour certification. The opportunity came about in April this year, as the US government recognised in a statement that it is of national interest to ease the travel and border control rules for foreign pilots and aircrew.

Jean-Francois Harvey, Global Managing Partner of leading business immigration law firm Harvey Law Group, finds the government’s statement to be in response to the looming pilot shortage crisis in the US. “Numerous reports predict that there will be a shortage of over 12,000 pilots by 2023 and the country will need a total of 65,000 new pilots in the next 10 years to meet the demand for air travel,” says Harvey. “Furthermore, the Federal Aviation Administration predicts that the US will need to recruit 87 new airline pilots every day for the next 20 years to meet the growing demand.”

The lack of pilot availability can be felt in the US even today. In the last five months alone, Delta Airlines cancelled nearly 100 flights and American Airlines cancelled over 300 flights due to a shortage of pilots.

“As the demand for professional pilots continues to rise, foreign pilots holding the appropriate background may now apply for a green card for themselves and their families through the EB-2 National Interest Waiver Programme,” Harvey says.

“The growing demand for pilots in the US has made it much easier for foreign pilots to meet the required criteria. So long as an applicant can demonstrate that he/ she has the skills, experience and education the US needs to address its pilot shortage problem, the applicant likely qualifies for a green card without securing a job offer. A petition typically takes only 8 to 10 months to process.”

A number of factors have contributed to the pilot shortage situation in the US. It started with restrictive hiring practices, but the situation snowballed as the industry found it difficult to replace their ageing pilot workforce in view of the profession’s increasingly strict experience requirement. In response to the situation, some US airlines are offering newly hired pilots up to US$20,000 in signing bonuses, and providing a 30-40% raise in salaries to their commercial pilots.

“Over the past two months, we have received a sharp increase in queries from foreign pilots looking to move to the US. We encourage those interested in the EB-2 National Interest Waiver Programme to speak to one of our lawyers as soon as possible as this prime opportunity hinges on the prevailing shortage,” Harvey concludes.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

If you are an experienced pilot and would like further advice on the EB-2 National Interest Waiver Programme, contac t DB resident Jean-Francois Harvey at www.harveylawcorporation.com.

! t u o b A & t u O

EVENT ROUND-UP

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WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO!

LAST DAYS OF SUMMER PHOTOS BY Jacqui Lewis

Tai Pak Wan was buzzy again as the summer holidays came to an end, with residents and visitors out and about making the most of relaxed social distancing measures.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

EVENT ROUND-UP

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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DRAGON BOAT TRAINING PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon www.richardgordonphotography.com

Training for the October 10 DB Dragon Boat Races began in earnest last month with Lantau Boat Club paddlers giving it there all off Tai Pak Wan.

DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon www.richardgordonphotography.com

On August 15, DB Plaza was packed with shoppers picking up one-of-a-kind and limited-edition goodies at the Discovery Bay Sunday Market. Local, independent vendors showcased their handmade or self-designed wares, including bags, jewellery, home accessories, fine art, stationery and children’s accessories.

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GIVEAWAYS

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COMPLETE DEELITE IS OFFERING TWO READERS A STRAWBERRY AND MATCHA SNOWY MOONCAKE DIY KIT (WORTH HK$220 PER KIT)

New for the Mid-Autumn Festival, Complete Deelite’s Snowy Mooncake DIY Kit has everything you need to craft delicious strawberry and matcha mooncakes from scratch.

The kit includes mooncake mix, fillings, moulds and natural strawberry and matcha flavours.

There are fun and easy instructions, and you can scan the QR code to follow along with an inclusive step-by step video.

Founded by DB resident Agnes Chin, Complete Deelite specialises in creative custom- and ready-made cakes and cake-making classes. You can shop online or at the Central store for cakes, cupcakes and quality Wilton bakeware. With a vision to educate, decorate and celebrate, Complete Deelite is always delighted to be a part of your celebrations. To find out more, call 3167 7022 or visit www.completedeelite.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.

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO L AST ISSUE’S WINNERS Tatum Claypole who has received a free, comprehensive math assessment and one month of tuition from Mathnasium, and Natalya Spendelown who has received a play-all-day pass to EpicLand.

ABA PRODUCTIONS IS OFFERING TWO READERS FOUR TICKETS EACH TO SEE THE GRUFFALO LIVE ON STAGE (WORTH HK$435 EACH)

Brought to you by ABA Productions, The Gruffalo Live On Stage runs from October 1-9 at the Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai. The 55-minute production is based on the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

The much-loved show is full of songs, laughs and fun for children aged three and up and their grown-ups.

ABA Productions is an international theatre production company dedicated to creating and promoting a wide variety of performance styles from all corners of the world. Recent productions have included Horrible Histories – Awful Egyptians, Cirque Mechanics’ Birdhouse Factory, Private Peaceful, The Snow Dragon and Insane in the Brain. To find out more call 2547 7150, or visit www.aba-productions.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 / SEPTEMBER 2021

DB BAKING COMPETITION

DB Bake Love Share @ DB

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DB BAKING COMPETITION 2021 THE RESULTS ARE IN!

Congratulations to the six prize-winning bakers in the DB Baking Competition 2021.

Their tempting bake sale treats were selected through a community vote on the Around DB Facebook page from August 5 to 16.

Turn the page to tr y your hand at the first-prize winning recipes, created by Remalyn Agatep (Open categor y), and Fernanda Morales Vallejo (Under 12 categor y).

Open Category

Under 12 Category

WINNER:

WINNER:

Remalyn Agatep, Mandala Carrot Cake

Fernanda Morales Vallejo, 8, Covid Emoji Cookies

PRIZE:

PRIZE:

HK$2,000 cash voucher for Auberge Discovery Bay, Hong Kong

HK$1,400 cash voucher for DB Ice Rink

1st RUNNER-UP:

1st RUNNERS-UP:

Lisa Convey, 15, Chocolate Orange Cupcakes

Natalie Lee and Sonia Lee, 10, Swimming Pool Cake

PRIZE:

PRIZE:

HK$1,500 cash voucher for Auberge Discovery Bay, Hong Kong

HK$1,200 cash voucher for DB Ice Rink

2nd RUNNER-UP:

2nd RUNNER-UP:

Madeleine Walker, 13, Cake Popsicles

Ben Willcocks, 8, Raspberry Cheesecake

PRIZE:

PRIZE:

HK$1,000 cash voucher for Peony, D Café and Café Siena in Discovery Bay

HK$1,000 cash voucher for DB Ice Rink

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 NGOs, community leaders and volunteers to promote the loving and caring culture in the sustainable and multicultural DB community.

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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Mandala

DB BAKING COMPETITION

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Carrot Cake

By Re malyn Agate p

Win n e r of th e O pe n Cate go ry

Prep Time: 60 minutes Cook Time: 45 to 50 minutes 1tsp vanilla

4 large eggs

3½ cups carrots, grated and peeled

1 cup pecan, coarsely chopped (optional) ½ cup raisins (optional) 225g cream cheese

1¼ cups icing sugar

2 cupsheavy all-purpose flour,cream. sifted ⅓ cup whipping 2tsp baking soda 1tsp salt

1½tsp cinnamon

1¼ cups vegetable oil 1 cup refined sugar

1 cup light brown sugar Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Whisk the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon) until well blended.

In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients (oil, sugars and vanilla). Whisk in the eggs one at a time until blended.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Stir in the carrots, nuts and raisins.

Place in a baking pan and bake at 180˚C for 50 to 55 minutes.

For the frosting: Combine the cream cheese, icing sugar and whipping cream in an electric mixer on medium speed. Add food colouring for the coloured icing. Make a cornet and fill it to start decorating.

Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Makes 30 to 40 cookies 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup white granulated sugar 1tsp vanilla extract 1 egg 3 cups all-purpose flour ½tsp salt 2tsp baking powder 1 egg white 2 cups icing sugar 1tbsp lemon juice 1tbsp water Preheat the oven to 176˚C. Cream together the butter and sugar in an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in the vanilla extract and egg. In another bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together (flour, salt and baking powder). Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients a little at a time and mix until everything is combined and crumbly.

Wet your hands and knead the mixture by hand. Separate it into 2 to 3 dough balls. Cover the remaining dough balls with plastic wrap while you’re rolling.

Don’t chill the dough. Place the dough on a floured surface, sprinkle a little flour on top to keep the rolling pin from sticking and roll it out until it’s about a ¼” thick. Using a round cookie cutter, cut the shapes, then transfer them to a parchment-lined cookie tray. Bake at 176˚C for 8 to 10 minutes.

For the royal icing: Combine the egg white and icing sugar and whip with an electric mixer on medium speed until opaque and shiny, about 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice and continue whipping until completely incorporated, about 3 minutes. The royal icing should be light, fluffy and slightly stiff. Add 1tbsp water or a little more to adjust the consistency. Add food colouring if you prefer coloured icing. Make a cornet and fill it to start decorating.

Covid Emoji Sugar Cookies

By Fe r n an da M orale s Va l l ej o

Win n e r of th e Un de r 12 Ca teg ory

PROFILE

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GAYLENE WITH HANNAH AT HER VIRTUAL HEAD SHAVE EVENT IN 2020

I HAD NO IDEA THERE WAS SO LITTLE RESEARCH FOR CHILDREN'S CANCER. THAT WAS THE DEFINING MOMENT WHEN I DECIDED I HAD TO DO SOMETHING, BECAUSE DOING NOTHING WAS NOT AN OPTION. AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

- GAYLENE MEESON

THE MEESONS IN DB EARLIER THIS YEAR

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HANNAH'S HERO

Gaylene Meeson has been shaving her head every September for nine years to raise funds for childhood cancer research – and her recent return to the UK won’t change that. Elizabeth Kerr reports

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF Gaylene Meeson

t’s 9am in England, where Gaylene Meeson, her husband Nigel and their daughter Hannah are living these days – and Gaylene is in fine fettle. “I love the fresh air and the long summer evenings here in Somerset,” she says. “I love being able to catch up with family and friends. I am loving living in a house with spare rooms and a big back garden. And I love grocery shopping in Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury’s, and it not costing an arm and a leg!”

And after six years in DB, what does Gaylene miss? “I miss my weekly watercolour and oil painting classes with Yulia Shautsukova. I miss the wonderful friends I left behind. I miss the DB guiding, especially Brownie pack B girls, their wonderful parents and the other guide leaders. And I miss catching the ferry into Central.

“Hong Kong is just too expensive if you’re retired,” Gaylene adds, “but we’ll be back holidaying and using it as a stopover when in Asia to see friends.”

Relocation is never easy but it’s particularly challenging if you have a child with disabilities, which 13-year-old Hannah does after aggressive chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy to combat brain cancer diagnosed in 2012.

SIX YEARS IN DB Gaylene and her family arrived in Hong Kong in 2015 after a stint in the Cayman Islands, settling on DB following an accessibility scouting trip. They needed step-free entrances and easily navigable pavements, plus easy connection to the rest of the city.

“Everywhere we looked had pros and cons but DB ticked the boxes,” recalls Gaylene, adding that proximity to HKILA, the DB international school which provides inclusionary, ‘stage-not-age’ education, was the clincher.

“It truly is the most wonderful school, headed up by Justine Barlow who treats education as a journey not as a destination. Every child is taught at a pace that encourages them to thrive, to develop a love of learning and curiosity beyond the walls of the classroom.”

HKILA and the relative ease of getting around made DB nearly ideal. Nearly.

Gaylene’s direct, clearly not one to suffer fools, but she’s also got a wry streak she could wield like a scalpel to make a point, especially when relaying stories about escalator barriers to prevent the earthshattering removal of shopping trolleys from shops, or the lack of ramp access because of the potential tragedy of skateboarders swiping them. Needless to say, Gaylene is an advocate for childhood cancer but she’s also for accessibility for those with disabilities.

FILLING THE FUNDING GAP By the time they arrived in the SAR, Gaylene had become far more vocal about what Hannah, and people like her, needed. After almost completing a course of treatment, Hannah relapsed in 2013. “I can’t describe how desperate and devastating it was,” says Gaylene. The Meesons were shuttling back and forth from the Caymans to Houston’s MD Anderson cancer hospital, and the world’s best doctors handed them some new drugs and a paper about a European trial.

“I said, ‘Is that the best there is?’ and the doctor said yes. I had no idea there was so little research for children’s cancer. That was the defining moment when I decided I had to do something, because doing nothing was not an option.”

That’s when Gaylene found St Baldrick’s Foundation, the world’s largest non-governmental research funder, and its programme that encourages volunteers to shave off their hair in solidarity with those fighting cancer. Without the foundation quite being on board (yet) Gaylene and some friends – one fortuitously, a hairdresser – hosted a fundraiser to kick off Hannah’s Heroes. With just 35 people, some music and a silent auction Gaylene raised US$90,000 – and got St Baldrick’s attention. Gaylene is one of the foundation’s most effective advocates, having raised over US$2.5 million since 2013 (check out the Hero Fund list at www.stbaldricks.org).

Shave proceeds in Hong Kong go to St Baldrick’s though local par tner Children’s Cancer Foundation (www.ccf.org.hk).

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“Every dollar is one more dollar than we had,” Gaylene says of a year when we were all worrying about jobs and security. Last year was about compassion, and it seems this one is too, if the outpouring of support for HK Dragons coach Christian Romano in his own cancer fight is any indication. The community fundraiser for Christian on August 28 saw an all-day market at DB North Pitch and a concert at Hemingway’s – plus another successful blood and bone marrow donation drive organised by Ada Wong and Tanya Inkin.

HANNAH AND GAYLENE IN 2017

Gaylene’s comment about underfunding is an understatement. Half of the treatments in use today were approved in the mid-1980s, leaving children and their doctors to battle cancers using 35-yearold tools. According to the US National Institutes of Health, none of the National Cancer Institute 2018 budget of US$5.9 billion was earmarked for juvenile cancers, though the Minnesota-based Children’s Cancer Research Fund (and others) claim the figure is just 4% of that federal funding – or US$236 million. The figures are similar in the UK and Australia (Gaylene says it’s roughly 1% in those locations) and is near zero in Hong Kong. For the record, the proposed Department of Defence budget for 2020 was US$718.3 billion.

“Children aren’t valued, so what’s left is families selling lemonade and shaving their heads,” Gaylene laments. “Because, I guess, children don’t vote.”

Gaylene’s autumn, meanwhile, will revolve around settling into Somerset, sorting out the house and camping with Hannah’s new Guides unit. The Meesons haven’t lived in England for 15 years, so all three will be finding their feet. One thing that’s not changing is Hannah’s schooling; she’s continuing at HKILA by remote.

“Don’t get me started on education,” huffs Gaylene, arguing any UK school Hannah enrols in would place her with 13-year-olds despite her radiation therapyimpacted development. “She’d be in learning support all day and then all alone in the playground because kids generally don't reach out to other kids who are different. Empathy… has to be taught. Social time at school is a myth if you're disabled. I don’t want to put her through that.”

Come late September Gaylene will be buzzing off her hair, and for the first time she’ll be doing it away from the warmth of the Caymans or Hong Kong, supporting the kids without the luxury of choice in mind. “I’ll just be cold,” she finishes. “And it's just hair."

THE LEGACY September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the legacy of Hannah’s Heroes in DB lives on.

During her six-year sojourn, Gaylene also helped set up the Brownies and inspired several of her charges to shave their heads and donate their hair. “The disabled are hesitant to advocate for themselves, or make a fuss. Which is why I got into Girl Guides, because it’s an inclusive organisation,” explains Gaylene. ”Disabled kids are still routinely excluded, but in a structured guide unit they have to take care of each other in their Sixes.

“Brownies learn empathy, about working in the community and about how others are less fortunate than they are,” continues Gaylene. “I’m passionate about inspiring people to join me and do something.

Anything. If it’s not cancer research find something, and make the communities we live in better.”

In pandemic-stricken 2020, Hannah’s Heroes managed to raise an impressive US$80,000 during a virtual event, an all-time low, but Gaylene was happy to spread awareness, which is always the goal. “If you don’t know, you can’t help,” she states, noting that COVID has done a great deal to insert our collective health and community into the conversation. Besides, US$80,000 is nothing to sniff at.

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GAYLENE’S FIRST SHAVE FOR ST BALDRICK’S IN 2013

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GOOD SPORTS

DB tweens Parth Sane and Kaydn Park are on individual missions to help make the world that little bit better. Elizabeth Kerr reports

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PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

arth Sane is going to reduce tennis’ environmental impact. Kaydn Park is going to contribute to popular football coach Christian Romano’s cancer treatment. The 11-year-old Discovery College students spent the better part of their summers serving the community in some form. No one would hold it against them if they wanted to sit at home and play video games in climate-controlled rooms, but Parth and Kaydn opted for a more active school break.

Tennis player Parth’s project is Every Ball Matters (www.everyballmatters.com), a programme designed to collect, reuse and repurpose tennis balls and the cans they come in. Trail runner Kaydn started fundraising for Christian’s treatment about two weeks after the 28-year-old HK Dragons Football Club coach was diagnosed in mid-June. “When he dropped into practice, he always made me and the other kids feel happy. He’s a nice guy and a great coach,” recalls Kaydn. “When we heard about his diagnosis and that he had no medical insurance we got to talking about it, and I thought I would help him, and then thought about what I did best.”

That statement could be applied equally to both boys. They have more in common than school and community activism. Both are avid readers with imaginative tastes. Parth is a fan of The Mysterious Benedict Society and Harry Potter, and he’s currently catching up on Trollhunters. Kaydn recently discovered Enter the Dragon, and lights up at the prospect of Game of Death. He has thoughts about Jungle Cruise: “Why couldn’t the guy do anything to himself about the curse? Can’t they do any healing spells? Or a protection spell for his daughter? I know what they were trying but they could have made the curse part a bit more realistic.”

Despite their youth, or perhaps because of it, both Kaydn and Parth have very definite plans for the future.

Kaydn is looking at a career in mathematics – “give me some difficult questions and some time and I’ll figure it out” – and Parth is aiming for a career in tennis with the ATP.

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PARTH SANE AND KAYDN PARK

COMMUNITY

PARTH PLAYS FOUR TIMES WEEKLY, FOR THREE HOURS

THE TENNIS PLAYER

Born in Hong Kong, Parth has been playing tennis since he was four, initially here in DB with Ajit Gidwani of Forward Motion. He’s now a regular in local junior tennis tournaments and enrolled in the Hong Kong Tennis Association National Training Programme. Parth plays four times weekly, for three hours at a stretch. On this second day of secondary school, he and mum Bashuli, who relocated here from eastern India as a newlywed, come bounding into a DB coffee shop, both decked out in tennis gear.

“I got to wondering one day where the balls go after they’re used. So I made a survey and found out most people just toss them,” explains Parth. “I created a website and used it as a school project and it built from there. More and more people saw the survey and responded, and so I included the results on the website.

And it’s not just balls; it’s the tin cans they come in.”

DB’s courts use roughly 2,500 balls monthly, most of which wind up in landfill. Parth then discovered of the 325 million tennis balls manufactured annually, 300 million are trashed after just an average of 10 hours of use (much less for pros). It takes 400 years for one tennis ball to decompose. Unlike footballs and basketballs, they can’t be re-inflated. The project morphed into Every Ball Matters (EBM). “You don’t need to open a can every single time you practise,” Parth chides.

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2,000 TENNIS BALLS HAVE ALREADY BEEN REPURPOSED FOR JUNIOR PLAYERS’ USE. closer that does the same kind of thing. I’m also going to reach out to [racquet manufacturer] HEAD. The Asia boss used to be my coach.” Evidently, Parth is connected too.

Connected and mad about tennis. Recalling a family trip to Wimbledon, Parth describes how he got to “touch the grass and see [favourite player] Novak Djokovic play.” He goes into great detail about his most recent, unfortunately losing, doubles match in Victoria Park. “I’m a better singles player. My serve and my volley are good but my backhand could use work,” he comments, nodding vigorously when asked if he’s got a Grand Slam in his future, hopefully an Australian Open or Wimbledon.

But Parth’s not about to let EBM fade away. He’s hoping to set up collection points around DB and Lantau, and one is confirmed for Decathlon Sports in Central, which could spread to other shops if it takes off. Don’t forget, every ball matters.

Parth has piercing greenish, almost teal eyes, which can either implore or shame you depending on the circumstances. In just over three months 2,000 tennis balls have been repurposed for junior players’ use and as donations to less privileged young athletes in the Philippines. Over 300 cans have been collected for recycling.

The website Parth built for EBM offers up ideas on what to do with old balls and cans and a clear outline of his methodology. He explains the lifecycle of a tennis ball as going from firmest yellow to green, orange and softest red, and how dotting them indicates their age.

But what becomes of balls after the red stage?

“That’s what I’m not sure of right now,” Parth says.

“I found a big company in the US that makes the balls into playground turf. I hope I can find someone

PARTH LAUNCHED EVERY BALL MATTERS IN JUNE AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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street in DB – a total of 30.43 kilometres. With an assist from Facebook, DB Mums and word of mouth, Kaydn racked up sponsors. Wanting to get the ball rolling sooner rather than later, he knocked off the last day of school on June 30 and ran from his home at Peninsula Village through the tunnel to DB North Plaza.

DBers followed his course along the way, offering a combination of encouragement and water.

“I thought I’d be lucky to raise HK$8,000. A friend pointed out that if everyone paid up, I might raise HK$20,000,” he notes proudly. In the end, Kaydn’s run raised just shy of HK$60,000.

Kaydn followed up on his run by taking part in the July 17 Christian Romano Football Fundraiser sponsored

by Tanner De Witt. The tournament saw several junior football teams play in DB to honour their coach and was the precursor to a second football fundraiser for adult teams on July 31 at Happy Valley Racecourse.

Right now, Kaydn is flirting with other ideas for running challenges later in the year, some of which may go towards the ongoing fundraising for Christian (search Christian Romano at www.gofundme.com for donation info). At the top of his run list is a 55-kilometre circumnavigation of Hong Kong Island when it cools down, or something like the 7K Challenge. “My dad suggested the MacLehose but no,” he blanches.

“That’s a bit too long.” For now.

KAYDN HAS BEEN RUNNING SINCE HE COULD STAND

THE RUNNER While Parth looks at the big picture and his preferred sport’s impact on the environment, Kaydn is leveraging his to help a friend. Kaydn and his mum Claire are sitting at the same table the Sanes did a week later.

With Year 8 around the corner, Kaydn is heading to a football trial in Causeway Bay; he’s a centre.

Unsurprisingly, centres do the most running. Kaydn has lived in Hong Kong since he was five months old, when his parents relocated from Scotland. He also has vibrant green eyes (what’s in DB’s water?) that dart around and hint at an active mind.

IN THE END, KAYDN'S RUN RAISED JUST SHY OF HK$60,000.

Though Kaydn has “been running since he could stand,” according to Claire, he really got a feel for trail running with his dad. “I started to think it was really fun,” says Kaydn. “I could move quickly, dodging ditches and streams, going down slopes… just be agile.” In the last few years, Kaydn’s won three Team FEAR adventure races and completed a 7K Challenge (seven kilometres every day for seven weeks) and an Everest Challenge (which entailed running up 850 metres every day until hitting the requisite 8,848 metres). He ran the Hong Kong Trail in nine hours last Christmas.

To help Christian, Kaydn wanted to do something fresh as well, so he came up with the idea of running every 36

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KAYDN ON HIS 30.43-KILOMETRE RUN FOR CHRISTIAN

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Contact us today for a free assessment.

Mathnasium of Discovery Bay WhatsApp/Phone : 2628 3362 mathnasium.com.hk/discoveybay Shop 105-B North Plaza

! th on m e th f o t n a r u a t s Re

DINING OUT

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SOLERA RESTAURANT & BAR REPORTING BY Rachel Sadler PHOTOS COURTESY OF Solera

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olera Restaurant and Bar opened at D Deck back in 2013, bringing a new concept and cuisine – Spanish-inspired Mediterranean – to DB. Nearly 10 years on, the restaurant has bounced back from the pandemic and is introducing a new menu this month that boasts a more extensive vegetarian selection, even more tapas options and a few new Mediterranean twists.

“We wanted to bring back that spark, because Solera is a gem,” says general manager Ellen Taylor. “You can’t really get affordable wine with a view like this elsewhere in DB. Since coming under new management in 2019, we have expanded the menu, with a lot more food options including a more kid-friendly section. We also have facilities for kids to draw in the restaurant, and a new sofa area because sometimes people want to relax here, so it’s a tiny bit more comfy and there’s more of a laidback feel.”

Undoubtedly, Solera has a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, with its beachfront location and expansive outdoor terrace. Inside, yellow walls and blue tiles cement the vibrant Spanish feel.

“Solera aims to be part of the community and we believe residents want something warm and relaxing after working in the city – being DBers ourselves we know what people are looking for,” Ellen adds. “The new management wants to keep the same Spanish ethos, and that includes our set lunches with new options available every week to introduce diners to the many different styles of Spanish food.”

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DINING OUT

LA COMIDA

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The menu is authentic both in taste and ingredients with produce flown in from different regions in Spain each week. “We pride ourselves on bringing back Spanish suppliers, for instance for the suckling pig,” says Ellen. “The suckling pig is very popular with diners, it was our new chef’s idea, and there’s a distinct difference in taste between it and US-sourced suckling pig.”

There’s plenty to choose from on Solera’s menu and Ellen draws attention to the paella, a true staple of Spanish cuisine. “Obviously paella is extremely popular in our restaurant. We give diners a choice between meats and seafood; the marinara is our most photographed dish.”

Spanish cuisine is meant for sharing with friends and family, which is why tapas is such a hit, with lots of small plates on the table for everyone to sample. “Our tapas menu offers a large variety,” says Ellen. “My favourite would have to be the padron peppers because they’re a light and healthy, classic Spanish dish.”

MUSIC FOR A LAIDBACK SPANISH FEEL

EL NUEVO MENÚ Of the new menu Ellen says: “There are new twists but still with a Spanish taste and authenticity about the dishes. Diners now get to choose from five different types of paella – we’re bringing back the previously popular black squid ink paella, hopefully another crowd pleaser. And there are more tapas options, including grilled octopus and fried pork belly.”

Reflecting the times, the new menu also focuses on healthy eating. “The vegetarian menu has expanded, it is also good for other dietary needs which is why we focused on creating a bigger selection for the new menu,” Ellen says. “We have some vegan dishes too.

5 TYPES OF PAELLA

“We have taken so much pride in the look of the food and the presentation,” Ellen adds. “Our new menu includes some food art in both the á la carte desserts and in the set lunches.”

A PLACE TO PARTY

THE VINO Solera is known for its deliciously fruity sangria, and in the evening the wines come out. Much of Solera’s wine is sourced from Spain and there are regular promotions, including a Rioja Vega special for September.

Solara also provides a wine club that offers special events and food-and-wine pairing dinners for members. “The wine club wines are all at extremely favourable prices for members,” Ellen says. “It allows diners to have an extended list that is separate from the normal á la carte menu. This month, we’re introducing some high-end Spanish wines from La Rioja Alta the Ardanza – the 904 and the very rare 890.”

THE WINE CLUB OFFERS SPECIAL EVENTS Solera is open six days a week for lunch and dinner.

To make a booking, call 2555 07 72 . To find out more, visit the Solera Restaurant and Bar Facebook page.

DBers also enjoy the music selection at Solera – the relaxed atmosphere makes the restaurant a popular venue for sundowners, rather than simply a place to eat. “There’s a pretty big vibe at Solera,” Ellen finishes. “People venture out for a meal to celebrate, and when night comes the laidback ‘coffee jazz’ turns into reggaeton. The atmosphere we create allows people to relax and enjoy time with friends and family.” dance come sundown.”

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SOLAR POWERING DB! ECO UPDATE /

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ounded by two brothers Greg and Andrew MacDonald, SolarFuture’s (www.solarfuture.hk) goal is to assist the transition of Hong Kong to green energy and thereby ensure a cleaner, more eco-forward future. The team has installed and connected just under 100 homes to the Hong Kong Grid in 18 months, including two on DB’s Headland Drive.

“In 2019, the government announced the launch of the Hong Kong Feed In Tariff (FIT) Scheme for Renewable Energy. Under this initiative, homeowners and landlords are encouraged to install renewable energy solar PV systems on their rooftops to generate clean energy which they can then sell to the local electricity utility (CLP/ HK Electric) at very generous rates, far higher than what the homeowner or landlord pays per unit for the electricity they use,” Greg says. “This announcement was the impetus for us to found SolarFuture.”

Right now, SolarFuture’s clients are enjoying return on investment of over 25% per annum, meaning the payback of capital cost of investment is under four years, with a fixed contract with CLP/ HK Electric until December 31, 2033.

“At SolarFuture, we believe in protecting our clients’ longterm returns, so we offer a maintenance contract, inclusive of monitoring, for a nominal yearly fee,” says Andrew. “We use only the highest quality products with a mixture of aluminium and stainless steel to ensure our systems can withstand Hong Kong’s harsh weather.”

Solar PV installation not only makes financial sense, it also looks great and can drastically reduce the heat load on a

SOLAR PV SYSTEMS ON HEADLAND DRIVE

property, acting as a heat shield and protecting the rooftop.

"Another fantastic benefit to solar PV installation is the opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, greener Hong Kong,” says Andrew. “The residential systems that SolarFuture installs can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 10,000kg per year! That’s a phenomenal contribution to cleaner air for our children to breathe.”

SolarFuture has also pioneered the opportunity for landlords who lease their houses to install a separate electrical metre, dedicated to the Solar PV system, and thereby increase the revenue from their rentals.

It’s easy to see why the MacDonalds make such a winning team. Greg is an electronic engineer with 18 years’ corporate experience in London. Andrew is a serial entrepreneur with a BSc Hons in Conservation and 15 years’ experience in running his own businesses. Added to which, their father, who founded and ran TEC Electrical, one of the largest independent electrical contracting companies in South Africa, has been a valuable source of information and advice for SolarFuture from the get-go.

“We grew up around building sites, watching them transform into functional and beautiful completed projects that added value to people’s daily lives,” Andrew finishes. “When we started SolarFuture in Hong Kong, we brought our dad here to provide his advice and extensive knowledge on every aspect of what we planned to do. We truly love what we do and look forward to completing many more projects in DB in the near future.”

PAYBACK OF CAPITAL COST OF INVESTMENT IS UNDER FOUR YEARS 40

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PARENTING

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DIGITAL DETOX

We all know that kids’ daily screen time surged during coronavirus, and we all know that it’s time to help them to unplug – at least a bit. But exactly how can we make this happen? Lorraine Cook reports

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

hildren’s increased reliance on screens helped maintain a sense of normality during coronavirus. They had digital teachers to educate them in virtual classrooms and digital babysitters to entertain them through device-led playtime; they socialised with friends online. As a result, screen-time limits, in homes across the globe, were effectively out of the picture. But now that life is looking a lot more normal (a lot less like a sci-fi film), isn’t it time to cut back on all the tech?

The big question is how do you reduce your child’s reliance at least on personal tech (phones and tablets) and help him regain a balance with other important activities?

The most important first step is that you have to really decide this is what you want to do, and you need to put a plan in place to make it happen. Then you have to be determined to weather whatever storms and tantrums ensue. Because you know this is not going to be easy. You know that your kids are not going to like it or agree (otherwise you wouldn’t be trying to figure out what to do).

LEADING BY EXAMPLE That was the most important step. Now are you ready for the hardest step? You need to unplug yourself – and get your spouse to do the same. If you have to finish your game of Solitaire before you answer “yes?” to your child’s question, then you’re going to have a tough time getting him to buy in.

Parenting would be so much easier if kids responded well to ‘do as I say not what I do’ but it just doesn’t work that way. Yes – I know that ‘it’s different’ for adults, and there are times when we simply can’t be without our phones. But have a think about this. Can you honestly say that every time (or even 50% of the time) you are busy on your phone, you are handling something that couldn’t be put on hold for an hour or two?

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ONE OF THE GREATEST PREDICTORS OF FUTURE SUCCESS IS THE ABILITY TO WAIT TO GET SOMETHING YOU WANT. Even very young kids can tell the difference between a social chat or text, and a call where you’re dealing with a work or family crisis. But if they can’t figure this out, you need to calmly explain why you need to finish your tech communication before you can attend to them. Don’t use the fact that the call will be quick (‘this will only take a minute’) as justification.

But do keep them waiting if a call is important (if Grandma has fallen and is on her way to hospital, or you’re still on work hours and there’s an issue to deal with at the office).

PROVIDNG ALTERNATIVES Now that we’ve covered your commitment to change and the importance of modelling this change, what else can you do?

Some parents take a strong approach to the issue – they install monitoring software on all tech devices, or they simply lock them away. This can work well for some, or for a while, but in the end, most kids learn to outwit software controls.

And as for confiscated tech toys, they simply wait until you’re having a weak moment or not looking to get them back. Essentially, these are shortterm solutions and, in the process, not a lot of behaviour is changed, which really is the end goal.

So, how to do this? One effective strategy is to focus instead on positive behaviours and activities that have to be done before devices are switched on. These might include homework, walking the dog, or running an errand. Simply getting your child to spend 15 minutes outside, playing with a ball (with phones left inside), will do wonders for interrupting the constant tech connection.

Positive reinforcement for effort put in (not results) goes a long way. Kids become motivated by how good they feel about helping out and making healthy choices, which means that they are less likely to need the extrinsic motivation provided by something like a high score on a computer game.

HAS CORONAVIRUS TURNED YOUR CHILD INTO A TECH MONSTER?

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GET KIDS OFF THEIR PERSONAL TECH AND INTO A FAMILY MOMENT

RE-ENGAGING AS A FAMILY There are some really good counter-intuitive strategies that you can try as well. One of these is to start playing online games with your kids – appropriate ones, with managed times. This will help them see that not all tech is ‘bad’ and that you’re happy to share some of the good stuff with them. Allowing your child to teach you how to play, help you work through strategies, and then laugh over the joys and defeats will help you find more common ground. It will mean some good (real life as opposed to virtual) conversations can begin.

If you’re feeling a bit daring, find a family show that you can all watch together. The best ones are exciting and usually have awesome plot lines that draw everyone in. There will be different series options for every family, but talk to friends as this is becoming a more common strategy.

The most important part of this is that all family members have to be present for an episode to play – even if this seriously limits viewing opportunities because someone, for whatever reason, is not around a lot. Everyone has to also pledge that they will not sneak ahead. Look for older shows that have been running for a few seasons rather than new releases (online spoilers add angst if a new episode airs on a day when all of you can’t be at home).

If the pledge is honoured, you’ll end up with an incredible ‘us’ time as a family; everyone will enjoy the fact that ‘we’ watch this show together. Doing anything as a unit helps to connect members of a family and 44

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if you can discuss the latest plot developments and which characters are evil or silly or make a bad decision, you’ll find yourselves connecting in a whole new way.

If you can find a good series that engages your group, you’ve found a way to get them off their personal tech and into a family moment. It goes without saying that all devices need to be out of reach and on silent while a show airs. Remind your kids that not a lot of crises actually happen on a given night, so an hour away from their phones will be survivable.

And, this is important. One of the greatest predictors of future success is the ability to wait to get something you want. This self-control, this being able to put your phone down as needed, for as long as needed, shows others you are present, listening and thinking about what is being discussed, not what’s pinging on your phone or iPad. The message that this gives to the other person is that they are important, that your conversation is the one you are attending to, and that you are focusing on them and their needs.

It’s a powerful way to strengthen a relationship.

This works really well in the business world, but it’s a real game changer if you can get it happening in your family.

Long-time DB resident Lorraine Cook (M.A. Psych) relocated to Canada earlier this year. She now provides counselling and therapy online, and you can email her at growingupgreat@gmail.com.

AFTER SCHOOL @ THE HIVE Join us @ The Hive for our awesome range of after school activities!

Starting Monday 6th September until Friday 8th October 2021 The Hive Investigates (with Coach Jake) Mondays & Wednesdays

Sports @TheHive (with Coach Jake) Tuesdays & Thursday

A series of exciting ecological investigations, visiting different habitats in the local community!

Do you enjoy being active and having fun?

This activity samples a variety of sports from every corner of the globe with the aim to maximize enjoyment!

Plugged In @TheHive (with Coach Jake) Friday Looking to challenge your imagination and creativity?

This activity offers opportunities to explore and develop skills across a range of technology platforms!

After-school activities will run Mondays - Fridays 3:30pm - 5pm (Excluding public holidays) $300 per session To register contact us now as spaces are limited. thehive@studyhkila.edu.h 2416 3198

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d e ! x s i t M rtial Ar a M

FITNESS

/

IN THE CAGE

DB-based MMA fighter Marc Guyon of MGK Fight Club shares his love for the sport with Rachel Sadler PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon – www.richardgordonphotography.com

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS IS A NEW SPORT and a

new science. It’s not a mixture of styles adopted from other spor ts – it’s a spor t in its own right and so should be treated differently to other similar spor ts like boxing. The most common styles of mar tial ar ts are kickboxing, Muay Thai and jiu-jitsu but MMA pushes the body and mind to adapt in ways that are unfamiliar to wrestlers and boxers.

EVERYBODY WANTS TO LEARN MMA!

It’s one of the fastest growing spor ts in the world and it’s the future of mar tial ar ts. It’s new and brings more excitement than boxing – a lot more can happen in an MMA fight than in a boxing match. The more MMA training you have, the more you learn, and the more you live by it.

RESPECT, SELF DISCIPLINE AND SELF DEFENCE

are all key benefits of MMA training for children and adults.

You learn how to control your body and use it as a sur vival tactic, and naturally your confidence grows too. To benefit from MMA training, you don’t need to be a professional fighter. It’s mostly about enjoying the training, leading a healthy lifestyle, keeping fit and, of course, having fun.

THE BEST MMA FIGHTERS

are the ones who can adapt. From grappling, wrestling and striking, the key here is to know how to transition. Wrestling is an impor tant par t of MMA and can cer tainly help you in the cage, but only if you have learnt other skills that allow you to transition and adapt too.

MARC GUYON AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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FITNESS

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PREPARING FOR THE CAGE TEACHES YOU ABOUT YOURSELF. Mentally it pushes you to your limits and you’ll train at least two or three times per day.

Training is the most impor tant preparation – it’s the dif ference between winning and losing. Fighters also cut weight and water before weigh-in sessions – you have to go that extra mile and develop a healthy lifestyle.

TO OVERCOME YOUR OPPONENT var y your tac tics

ANALYSE YOUR OPPONENT AND BE ADAPTABLE

and stick to your training.

Stay focused on your coach and the sound of the roaring crowd to keep motivation flowing. Always analyse your opponent and adapt your approach to the fight if your tac tics are not working.

THERE’S LESS CHANCE OF INJURY IN MMA

than in other contac t spor ts, like football or rugby.

When it was created it took some time for rules to be established. Like ever y thing new it had to be trialled to see what was safe and what was not. MMA has evolved since the 1990s and a new type of competition has been formed.

THE FIRST MIXED MARTIAL ARTIST BRUCE LEE had the

idea to develop mar tial ar ts fur ther and he knew that the means for its evolution was promotion. Like football, MMA grew as more people became interested, and with that came money and development. The bigger MMA becomes the worse it could potentially become. Traditional mar tial ar ts is one extreme and football the other – showbiz can create a subculture of fake fans who are just watching for the beer drinking side of spor t.

Marc Guyon is a professional MMA fighter and the founder of MGK Fight Club in DB Plaza, where he teaches MMA and kung fu. To find out more and get training, call 9688 4744 or visit www.marcguyon.hk.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

USE YOUR BODY AS A SURVIVAL TACTIC

FAMILY LORE

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! e c i v Ad

IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE ANIMAL What happens to the family pet on divorce? Vanessa Duff (Mitchell), Senior Associate at Withers and Fiona Wong, Associate at Withers discuss recent Court rulings PHOTO COURTESY OF Pexels

A

round one in four divorces now involve a dispute over an animal and things can get messy, as the high-profile wrangle between Jennifer Aniston and her former husband Justin Theroux over their four dogs has shown.

In the unfortunate event of a ‘pet custody battle,’ what would the Court decide, and on what basis? Are pets to be treated like children, with decisions being made in the best interests or welfare of the animal, or should they be viewed as a chattel, like a car or a computer?

In Hong Kong, there is yet to be any case law dealing with the ownership of pets on divorce. Concepts of custody, care and control and access only relate to a child; a pet is an asset and treated as the property of its owner. If the pet is a dog, then it may only legally belong (and be registered with the AFCD) to one individual; joint legal ownership of a dog is not allowed.

Overseas, the pet has often been treated as personal property. In England, the Court has looked at who purchased and financially maintained the pet. That was the focus, rather than on the party who spent more time with the pet, or who was more able (and available) to attend to its needs. However, animals are soon to be recognised as sentient beings within English law, with greater priority being given to their welfare. This may mean that going forward, the English Court will look at what would be in the best interests of the animal as a whole, and make orders accordingly.

New York State is shortly set to pass a bill which will allow the Court to rule on the possession of pets, considering the ‘best interests’ of the animal, and making

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED A 'PET-NUP?'

orders more akin to those that would be made with respect to children. Judges will be able to grant ‘shared custody’ and ownership of the animal, or visitation rights. In Singapore, Court rulings are already a welfare consideration with decisions being made in the best interests of the animal.

HOW A 'PET-NUP' CAN HELP To avoid emotional disputes, many couples now sign a ‘pet-nup’ – a contractual agreement which sets out what would happen to their pet should they part ways.

A ‘pet-nup’ should include who the pet will live with, what contact it will have with the other party, and who will pay for its upkeep/ vet bills.

Such an agreement can be entered into at any time before or after marriage, or as part of a pre- or postnuptial agreement which deals with other financial arrangements in the event of a divorce. Signing up to this specially created document to plan for your pets’ futures can help avoid heartache should your relationship come to an end.

Contact the writers: Vanessa Duff (Mitchell) at 3711 1698, vanessa.duff@withersworldwide; Fiona Wong at 3711 1729, fiona.wong@withersworldwide.com.

Withers, 30/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty, 3711 1600, www.withersworldwide.com.

! s p i T Top

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR PUPPY You want your pup to reach her full potential, and this is where dog training comes in. Dorothy Veitch discovers how to bring out the best in man’s best friend PHOTOS COURTESY OF Unsplash

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

GIVE PUPS A TREAT WHEN THEY OFFER THE BEHAVIOUR REQUESTED

I

INSIDER

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t’s clear that it’s never too soon to start training your dog. You should start teaching your puppy good habits the moment she comes home with you.

Early training is important so that you can establish boundaries and gain better control over your dog through obedience. Start with short, less than fiveminute training sessions several times a day.

Know too that, puppies need lots of positive exposure – socialisation – in their first few weeks. Aim for 100 positive exposures in the first 100 days. Without early socialisation, dogs may never reach their potential.

HOUSE TRAINING The best time to begin house training your puppy is when she is between 12 and 16 weeks old. At that point, she has enough control of her bladder and bowel movements to learn to hold it.

If your puppy is older than 12 weeks when you bring her home and she’s been eliminating in a cage, house training may take longer. You will have to reshape the dog’s behaviour with encouragement and reward.

Experts recommend confining the puppy to a defined space, whether that means in a crate, in a room, or even on a leash. As your puppy learns that she needs to go outside to do her business, you can gradually give her more freedom to roam about the house.

When you start to house train, follow these steps: Keep your puppy on a regular feeding schedule and take away her food between meals. Take her out to eliminate first thing in the morning and then once every 30 minutes to an hour. Also, always take your pup outside after meals or when she wakes from a nap. Make sure she goes out last thing at night and before she’s left alone.

Take your pup to the same spot each time to do her business. Her scent will prompt her to go. When your puppy eliminates outside, praise her or give her a treat. A walk around the neighbourhood is a nice reward.

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT Understanding canine behaviour is the key to becoming a better owner and trainer. You need to work with their natural drives and instincts, not against them. Many breeds exhibit behavioural traits common to their stereotypes but it is important to remember that regardless of breed, all dogs are individuals and training should be based upon their behaviour, not on what is expected of their breed.

The Positive Reinforcement training method works for all pups. Positive Reinforcement is any act that follows a behaviour that makes it more likely that the behaviour will occur again. A good example of this would be teaching a dog to ‘SIT!’ You lure the dog into a seated position with a treat and once her backside hits the floor, you deliver the treat. The dog soon learns that offering the behaviour requested, results in a treat. After the command has been learnt, the treats are phased out slowly.

SHOW APPRECIATION WHEN YOUR DOG IS GOOD

YOU NEED TO WORK WITH THEIR NATURAL DRIVES AND INSTINCTS, NOT AGAINST THEM. Importantly too, recognise when your dog is good. This is the single most frequently ignored aspect of therapy for clients whose pets have behavioural problems; when the pets are not causing trouble, almost no one tells them how good they are. This is where the most ground is lost.

All dogs respond to positive voice praise. Dogs do not hit each other and so don’t understand being smacked.

They understand our tone of voice: a ‘growl’ from us when they do something wrong, and a happy, highpitched voice when they behave well. Be sure to abide by the 20-second rule – you need to react vocally within 20 seconds of the puppy’s action. If you come home and yell at your dog for having made a mess in the middle of the floor, she may look scared and apologetic but in her brain she is being punished for coming to the door to greet you; she doesn’t relate the mess she made on the floor two hours ago with your attitude.

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

53

INSIDER

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KNOW THAT SOME BAD BEHAVIOURS ARE BEST IGNORED. WHEN YOUR PUPPY TRIES TO GET YOUR AT TENTION BY BARKING OR JUMPING UP, IGNORE HER. BE THE ALPHA Always end any training experience on a positive note. And make sure your puppy knows she is loved.

But establish some boundaries early on. A spoilt dog, who is allowed to get her own way all the time, will come to think she is the leader of the pack, the boss of the household – and she will therefore be nigh-on impossible to control.

Puppies are naturally playful and have to learn limits when it comes to playing rough. As soon as your puppy nips, say ‘ouch’ and yelp. Ignore your dog for up to 20 seconds after she lets go. This will teach her that you won’t tolerate rough play. (Avoid pulling your hand away when your puppy nips. She will see this as part of the game and will continue to chase you.)

It’s important to constantly reassert your authority over your puppy. She will respect you more and respond to your discipline if you take clear control. To do this, give your commands in a stern tone of voice. You may also want to make your dog follow commands outside of training sessions. For example, make her sit and wait briefly before setting down her food dish.

Dogs love to please their master/ alpha role model.

They want to please the head of their pack or family unit. Most dogs are also food motivated – so small treats along with positive praise for doing the right thing go a long way.

Always give your puppy time to fulfil your command. If it looks like she isn’t going to respond, don’t back down.

You need to show your puppy that she has to listen and obey your commands. Project your authority in a calm and assertive manner.

Be mindful to be calm and loving. Dogs can sense our emotions, and they react to how we feel. They are a mirror reflecting our energy and spirit. Therefore, your temper is your dog’s temper. In some daily situations, if you want them to calm down, first you must calm yourself. Dogs can sense how you feel because they are attached to you as pack leader.

Know that some bad behaviours are best ignored.

When your puppy tries to get your attention by barking, jumping up, or nipping at your fingers, ignore her.

Consider what reward your puppy is trying to get when engaging in bad behaviour in order to determine when to ignore her. If your dog is jumping up on you when you come home, she probably wants your attention.

Withholding your attention sends the message that she needs to act differently to get your attention. For example, if your puppy starts barking at you, turn your back on her and take away any attention. Eventually, she will learn that she gets nothing from you when she behaves poorly, and that good behaviour earns your attention and affection.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING WORKS FOR ALL PUPS

RECIPES

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH presented by Lekker Laa RENU'S BOLOGNESE RECIPE BY Renu Malani

PHOTO BY Veronica Modesti

Serves 2 6tbsp olive oil 500g minced beef 4 cloves fresh garlic, crushed 1 medium white onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 2tbsp dried Italian seasoning 2 beef OXO cubes 400g tinned chopped tomatoes 1½ cup red wine or water 3tbsp tomato paste 1tbsp dried basil 2tsp sugar or sweetener ½tsp chili flakes (optional) Heat 3tbsp olive oil in a heavy pan, preferably cast iron. Brown the minced beef in the hot oil. Remove from the pan and drain the meat in a metal colander to remove any liquid and excess oil. Set aside.

In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil. Fry the garlic gently for a minute.

Add the onion and celery and fry until softened. Season with 1tbsp Italian Seasoning, salt and pepper. Transfer the beef back into the pan and combine with the vegetables. Crumble in the OXO cubes and the remaining Italian seasoning. Fry everything together for a minute or two. Add the chopped tomatoes (complete with their juices) and the red wine or water. Then add the tomato paste, dried basil, sugar or sweetener and chili flakes (optional).

Combine well. Add more wine or water if needed. Simmer for 15-30 minutes, stirring regularly. The sauce will reduce, thicken and the flavours become more intense. Taste and adjust the seasoning adding more salt or herbs if needed.

Serve the Bolognese on top of cooked pasta or stir it through the pasta before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and grated parmesan. For a lower carb dish, serve with cauliflower rice, steamed vegetables or on its own.

If you are inspired by this recipe, visit w w w.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 Renu Malani’s recipes on Instagram (@ketorezza) and at the DB dinner and desser t Facebook page.

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

57

RECIPES

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! o s o i z i l e D

On e of th e most popu lar Italian desserts , Zabag lion e is a lig ht an d frothy custard that’ s best spi ked with bu bbles PHOTO COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

RECIPES

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Zabaglio ne al Prosecco Serves 8 8 fr ee- ran g e egg yo lks 1 0 0 g caster s u gar 175 m l P ros ecco Plac e a h eatproo f bowl over a pan o f bar ely s i m m er i n g water an d plac e th e egg yo lks an d s u gar i nto it. Make s u r e th e bas e o f th e bowl do es n ot to u c h th e s i m m er i n g water .

U s i n g an electr i c wh i s k , start wh i s ki n g th e egg yo lks an d s u gar i n th e bowl over th e s i m m er i n g water . Th e m ixtu r e wi ll b eco m e pale an d th i c k li ke wh i pped do u b le c r eam , an d it s h o u ld tr i ple i n vo lu m e an d b eco m e very frothy. Th i s co u ld take u p to 1 5 m i n utes .

Co nti n u e wh i s ki n g an d s lowly po u r i n th e Pros ecco. Po u r th e sti ll war m zabag li o n e i nto ei g ht d ess ert g lass es an d s erve i m m ed iately with c r u s h ed amar etti b i scu its , FLAKED ALM O N DS an d a little s easo nal fr u it.

AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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DB FACES

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i n a w d i G Baljit

COMMUNITY SNAPS

PHO T OS BY Bal j i t G i dwan i www.evo q uepo r t rai t s .c o m

UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION

WIN PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS COFFEE AND THE PIER BAR! 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: Diana Circi @dianawidjaja

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

CLASSIFIEDS

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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)

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

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

3

2803 210

Speech Therapy 言語治療

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

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Ginger extract hair serum and herbal teas from Thailand.

A range of branded alcohol hand & hand Sanitisers.

Tel: 2527 0118 / 6050 5737 Gmail: essentialssophia@gmail.com

https://sophiaessentials.com

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CLASSIFIEDS

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

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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 Lee Hing Loong 2984 2268 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 BahçeTurkish Restaurant 2984 0222 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 Bank of China 2160 8585 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 / SEPTEMBER 2021

Kumon 2459 8808 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten 8191 0813 L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie 8191 0813 Links Parenting 6114 2436 Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909 Mathemagic (home tutoring) 9135 4724 Mathnasium 2628 3362 SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608 Sunshine House International Preschool 2987 8143 Treasure House 2987 4217 Woodentots 6108 9131 Zhi Zhi Chinese 9648 2966 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 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 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 Bones & Blades 2383 0792 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 Figos Seaside Café 2987 2915 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 The Pier Bar 2520 2166 Three Sheets Marquee Bar 2987 0966 Uncle Russ 2840 1188 RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven 2987 4401 Bones & Blades Butcher 2383 0683 Bookazine 2987 1373 DB Post Office 2987 6046 Fotomax 2914 2378 Fusion by PARKnSHOP 2987 7486 Gillian Florist 2529 8256 Japan Home Centre 2987 1041 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 Watson’s Pharmacy 2987 4089 Wellcome 2947 9092 Wing On Department Store 2987 9268 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 Herbal Health Care 2834 7276 Maximum Care 2987 2060 Nailed It! 2987 2266 Nest Care 2499 8826 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 / SEPTEMBER 2021

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OUT THERE

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Writing doesn’t require revelation. It demands solitary hard work, which was never on my bucket list. How do you explain that to a budding 14-year-old writer as I was asked to do recently? You don’t. Instead, you pile on the wisdom and experience and hope something rubs off by osmosis. You pose philosophical questions and cavalierly fling around ancient aphorisms like crumbs to the pigeons. (Note from Sherwood to Sherwood: Do not make this like school).

As our chat continued, I imparted merry metaphysical mysteries praying (as hypocritical as prayer is for one with no religion) that a little enlightenment might accidentally befall this sensitive youngster and I’d be a hero.

‘Nothing to write about’ is of course a Big Lie and best translates into ‘can’t be bothered.’ Some of my best stuff (if I do say so myself because no one else will) was squeezed out by the pressure of potential penury, as I envisioned lunch next week in a charity soup kitchen. All it takes is sufficient fear to send the mind hurtling down into the world of the subconscious and beyond to unearth hidden gems.

So, when I told my adolescent that we can know what we don’t know I wasn’t just trying to be clever, confusing and superior – and you can believe that if you choose.

LIGHTBULB MOMENT

! on o p m a L B D

LOST FOR WORDS The best advice you can give someone is to find their own voice… and never to take advice. Peter Sherwood reports PHOTO COURTESY OF Pexels

A

deadline and nothing to write about: It happens. So, I’ll write about that, about being devoid of inspiration and too lethargic to care.

When I lived for months on a remote Greek island to write the great novel, I ended up spending more time in the local taverna drinking cheap retsina (I think they also used it to clean grease marks off the tables) than putting pen to paper.

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AROUND DB / SEPTEMBER 2021

Continuing on an esoteric note, I tried sending her down a path less travelled (another original cliché) by quoting Alan Watts’ brilliant “Life is not a journey.”

Clever stuff like that might start her thinking deeply, or make her write me off as mad. Then I told her the only way to learn to write is… to write, which to her youthful ear might be heard as the only way to learn to speak French is to... speak French, which contains a great truth. (I’m not bilingual but I figure that if 270 million people around the world speak the language how difficult can it be?)

Now for the clincher: If she can quickly decipher the following puzzling phrase then my work is finished, along with any need for her to slog studiously through intuition and intellect for some enlightenment beyond her tender years. Or she might just chuckle and tell me not to be so silly. It took only a few minutes for her to get the drift of what I’d said which was: “Don’t believe anything I say.”

Not genius stuff, I agree, but perhaps enough to be memorably clear on her need to find her own unique voice, a key to success in writing and in life. Happily, she got it. Or maybe she already knew. I wish I had, at 14, or even 40.

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 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.