Around DB April issue 2016

HKR DEVELOPMENT UPDATE FROM DB PLAZA TO NIM SHUE WAN

SEVENS ON HOME TURF A LOOK AT THE LEADERBOARD

MICAH SANDT

CENTRESTAGE

DANCER TO WATCH

AISLING McCARRON

CITY BREAK

IN MARRAKECH IN MEMORY OF SAM KWOK

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

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 APRIL 2016

An all new ESF International Kindergarten is coming to Tung Chung

Places available for K1 & K2 enrolment Enrol Online

Where Inquiry Begins Re

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With well-resourced classrooms, great access to current learning technologies and indoor and outdoor play areas, young children will be presented with multiple opportunities to learn, socialise and develop their skills. Through inquiry-based learning and play, we encourage children’s natural curiosity and creativity, develop their personal and social skills, inspire them with a life-long love of learning and the confidence to fulfil their potential.

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Our purpose-built, spacious kindergarten will provide the perfect environment for young learners. As the largest of the ESF Kindergartens, our space is being carefully planned to provide places of beauty that will support learning, stimulate imaginations, nurture children, families and staff, and truly inspire the wonderful memories of childhood.

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Start your child’s learning journey with ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung

New! Tung Chung at The Visionary Tel: 3762 2411 Email: kinder@tc.esf.org.hk

opening for the 2016/2017 School Year Our other Kindergartens: Abacus at Clearwater Bay an IB World School

Tel: 2719 5712 Hillside on Stubbs Road an IB World School

To find out more about ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung please give us a call or send an email to kinder@tc.esf.org.hk.

Tel: 2540 0066 Tsing Yi

K1 & K2 Now Enroling

Tel: 2436 3355 Wu Kai Sha

an IB World School

an IB World School

Tel: 2435 5291

www.esfkindergartens.org.hk

Rentals/sales 天澄閣 Skyline ManSion

$35k/11M

apRil 2016

海堤居 la CoSTa

$36k

頤峰 gReenvale

$39k

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gross: 1356’ Saleable: 1001’ 3

gross: 1037’ Saleable: 927’

Cosy duplex in a very good condition. Balcony with great views and close to Club Siena and schools. Don’t miss!

2

蘅欣徑 CapeRiDge DRive

$55k

3

Fully renovated low rise home with balcony by the sea.

Stone’s throw to all amenities. Bright and airy throughout.

2

寶怡閣 WooDBURy

gross: 1600’ Saleable: 1364’ 3

Modern duplex, balcony and roof terrace with panoramic sea views, bright and airy. Great for entertaining. Must See!

2

寶晶閣 CRySTal

$6.6M

康慧臺 HillgRove S

海澄湖畔 Siena one

$10.5M

2 2

2

Very good condition, fully equipped open kitchen, balcony with stunning sea views. Quiet area and vacant sale!

gross: 1446’ Saleable: 1220’

Location! Nicely renovated apartment w/ modern open kitchen, 2 balconies w/ great sea views. Must see!

$12.5M

5 2

2

Bright apartment & in a very good condition. Balcony & large roof terrace w/ stunning sea views. Great for entertaining. Don’t miss!

Successfully combined unit with modern open kitchen, spacious living and in a tranquil location. Don’t miss!

倚濤軒 CReSTMonT

$13.5M

T! EN d AG uN iON Ad rO T LE d A LuA AN k vA N bA

gross: 1213’ Saleable: 1138’ 3

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gross: 1023’ Saleable: 777’

$9.8M

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旭暉閣 Jovial

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寶峰 paRkvale

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$165k/55M

Prestigious garden house w/ pool & terrace. Fully equipped, high ceilings & modern design. Great for entertaining.

3

gross: 919’ Saleable: 776’

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Cozy apartment, balcony with great views, walking distance to DB plaza and pier. A must see!

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$8M

4

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gross: 835’ Saleable: 722’ 2

海蜂徑 SeaBee

gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’

Rare combined unit, spacious living, and balcony with breathtaking sea views. A must see!

3

T

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$68k/23M

Nicely combined units with balcony, spacious living, suitable for families. Easy access to all transport.

2

gross: 2268’ Saleable: 1960’ 4

EN

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gross: 1373’ Saleable: 1132’ 5

gross: 1282’ Saleable: 1108’ 3 2

Fully equipped open kitchen and generous living space throughout. Garden with panoramic sea views.

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

Spring into

Detox

A genuine detox can help cleanse your body, and allows you to jump-start a healthier lifestyle.

Toxicity from environmental pollutants is a real challenge to your health. Although our body is designed to self-regulate and eliminate toxins, prolonged exposure, combined with an unhealthy diet and a stressful lifestyle burden the body and compromise its normal functioning.

A good detox will make you feel healthy and energised again, but not all detox programs are created equal! Typical fasts or juice cleansing run the risk of depleting your body of essential nutrients and slowing down your metabolism, which may do more bad than good.

IMI’s Naturopathic detox program is created and led by Naturopath/Homeopath Graeme Bradshaw, who has over 20 years of experience in clinical detoxification.

Our 10-day program provides you with the guidance and essential nutrients to support your body as it works to properly detoxify. You can go about your daily lives without hunger, cravings or side effects.

Weight loss is a positive by-product of a successful detox. Many people find that their taste changes for the good and their old cravings disappear upon completion of IMI detox. You may find that you don’t need to eat as much, and feel more satisfied with healthier choices.

Private and group programs are now available in our Discovery Bay clinic.

Join us in a FREE introductory talk, and find out how you can reduce your toxic load and make smarter choices. Graeme will explain IMI’s approach to detox, which is proven to eliminate poisons and restore vitality and health:

Date & Time: Monday, 25th April, 12:00-1:30pm Location: IMI Discovery Bay (North Plaza) Cost: FREE

To sign up or for more info, please call 2537 1087.

Spring is in at

Baby Zen YOYO+

pink, grey, black, blue, red & taupe

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Sand & Water Fold-away Play Table

$499

Wheely Bugs

from

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Zoggs 1st Trainer Swimseat

Snapper Rock Swimwear

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Turtle Racket & Ball Set

Plum 6ft Trampoline

$129

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PrémiChèvre Organic Goat Milk birth-36 mths

Trunki Paddlepak

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Rainforest Jumperoo

Inovi Cocoon Bassinet Travel Cot

Iplay Reusable Swim Nappies

$1,699

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from

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from

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Princess Tent

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Pirate or Princess

Horizon Plaza Store, Ap Lei Chau T 2552 5000 Pedder Building Store, Central T 2522 7112

Stanley Plaza Store, Stanley T 2555 6318

Sai Kung Store, Sai Kung T 2976 0223

D Park Store, Tsuen Wan T 2799 2923

www.bumpstobabes.com

www.facebook.com/bumpstobabeshk

APRIL 2016 FEATURES 10

30

PROFILE Meet DB actor Micah Sandt

34

IN FOCUS Hong Kong Resort’s latest development plans

42

SPOTLIGHT Community reactions to the tragic death of Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise owner Sam Kwok

51

ESCAPES City break in Marrakech

56

ACTION Time to enrol in the New York City Marathon

REGULARS 30

29

COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

40

MOMENTS DBer Aisling McCarron at the Hong Kong International Irish Dance Premierships

46

TALKING POINTS Players to watch at the Hong Kong Sevens

64

DB FACES Candid community snaps

76

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 46 40

10

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

61

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

66

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

70

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

73

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

64

HKR DEVELOPMENT UPDATE FROM DB PLAZA TO NIM SHUE WAN

SEVENS ON HOME TURF A LOOK AT THE LEADERBOARD

MICAH SANDT

CENTRESTAGE

DANCER TO WATCH

We also publish…

APRIL/ MAY 2016

trea Win a ets tment, facial BBQ and del sho me icio w ats us

2 0 1 5

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SAVING THE PLANET

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

AISLING McCARRON

ON THE COVER

CITY BREAK

IN MARRAKECH IN MEMORY OF SAM KWOK

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

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 APRIL 2016

In loving memory of Sam Kwok

Photo by www.evoqueportraits.com

ARK EDEN 10 YEARS ON

COMMUNITY DIVIDED

THE HONG KONG–ZHUHAI–MACAU BRIDGE

DASH FOR A BEER

CHARITY FUN RUN WITH BENEFITS ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in Lantau since 2002

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

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

and www.arounddb.com

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

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Assistant editor & magazine coordinator Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Digital coordinator Carlos Magno carlos@baymedia.com.hk Accounts & office manager Monika Carruthers accountant@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani, www.evoqueportraits.com Michael Keating (intern) Contributors this month Kathryn Gardner Meena Hwang (intern) Elizabeth Kerr Peter Sherwood Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors.

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

www.evoqueportraits.com

TENNIS NATIONS CUP The 23rd Tennis Nations Cup was a roaring success on the weekend of March 5 and 6, with Team Canada taking the honours ahead of highly fancied Australia. 20 teams took part and the event was followed by a typically raucous after-party that saw Team USA crowned best dressed.

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

IN&AROUND DB

April 2016

11

IN&AROUND DB

BONAQUA LIFEPROOF ACTION SPRINT

Lantau runner Zein Williams is hogging the limelight in this year’s Bonaqua Lifeproof Action Sprint series. Having won the Repulse Bay leg on February 14, she again finished first in the Discovery Bay edition on March 6. Congratulations also go to DB resident Stefano Passarello, who finished second for the men on March 6.

www.actionasiaevents.com

MOON BEAR CONCERT DB raised funds for Animals Asia at the annual Moon Bear Concert on March 12, with organiser Clara Chan hailing the event a success. More than HK$40,000 was raised to help put an end to bear bile farming. For the breakdown of funds, visit the Moon Bear Concert Facebook page.

www.evoqueportraits.com

12

April 2016

IN&AROUND DB

DBIS FOOD FAIR A healthy crowd attended the Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) Food Fair on February 27, feasting on culinary delights from all corners of the globe. DBIS students also provided entertainment with singing, dancing and gymnastics.

www.evoqueportraits.com

MASTER MAGICIAN WOWS DC In Hong Kong to promote the upcoming Broadway spectacular The Illusionists, world-renowned magician Luis de Matos wowed Discovery College’s Year 5s with a few of his best tricks on March 2.

www.evoqueportraits.com

April 2016

13

IN&AROUND DB

DB DEVELOPMENT PROTEST

Hong Kong Resort (HKR) released a series of enhancement works and plans for DB’s future development in February, which includes moving the golf cart parking to a space near the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC) tennis courts. Reacting to the proposed loss of a grassy area at the club, the DB Tennis Committee held a protest on March 19, which culminated in them passing a petition, signed by over 1,000 residents, to an HKR representative at the DB Management Office. An estimated 250 protestors attended the rally.

For a full report on the 10-year development programme, turn to page 34.

www.evoqueportraits.com

DB’s Corporate & Business, Services & Solutions Provider

Corporate Services

flexible, scalable, customised business solutions Forming a company in Hong Kong involves a series of specialized procedures and attention to rules compliance. Sole Trader, Partnership, Limited by Guarantee Company or Limited by Shareholding Company – we’ll help you decide which is best for your business.

T8’s Company Formation services, take the strain and stress out of the process. We can prepare all statutory documents, provide company secretarial filings and provide bank setup assistance.

Our dedicated and proficient professionals are fully versed in the HK Companies Ordinance and in conjunction with our legal partners we can also assist in the formation of off-shore companies.

Whether you need company setup, maintenance, government filings, accounting services or even just a registered address, T8 can assist.

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

Chef Pour Toi

DB-based private catering service

Providing catering for a corporate or private cocktail reception, dinner party at home for friends, lavish buffet or barbeque, Chef Pour Toi guarantees an exquisite dining experience.

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

Catering

Corporate or Private Parties

Cocktail Receptions

Lavish Buffets & Barbeques

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

Email chef@pourtoi.com

IN&AROUND DB

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com April 2 www.evoqueportraits.com

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

R.I.P. SAM KWOK The passing of well-known and much-loved DBer Sam Kwok in March left a huge hole in the community and our thoughts go out to his sons, ex-wife, extended family and close friends. In the days following Sam’s death, residents left flowers and message outside his DB juice shop, Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise; a candlelight vigil was also held to allow people to pay their respects. To read more, turn to page 42.

IRISH DANCE PREMIERSHIPS

April

2

Discovery Bay Auberge Hotel

A good turnout of DB dancers (aged three and up) from the O’Connor-Barton Irish Dance School is expected at the fourth Hong Kong International Irish Dance Premierships.

Local attendees compete against dancers from Taiwan, Japan, Australia, Doha, Israel and the UK. O’Connor-Barton Irish Dance School holds classes at BMSE Community Centre, DB North Plaza. To find out more, turn to page 40, or visit www.oconnor-bartonid.com.

t April

Throughou

TO ADOPT A PET through Protection of

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

18

April 2016

across from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.

16, 2, 9, l i r Ap & 30 23

MEET LOCAL AUTHORS at the Proverse Readers’ Club, Dymocks DB Plaza, from 3pm to 4pm. Proverse founder Gillian Bickley is speaking on April 30. Email proverse@netvigator.com or visit www.proversepublishing.com.

Photo by Carlos Magno

l7

Apri

DB ENTREPRENEURS NETWORKING BREAKFAST

at Zaks, DB, kicks off at 8am. For information and registration, head to the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast Facebook page.

IN&AROUND DB

PIRATES KIDS AT THE SEVENS Hong Kong Stadium, -10 il 8 r Causeway Bay p A Good luck to all the DB Pirates minis, Under 7 to Under 11, who are stepping out against other Hong Kong teams before the international matches at the Hong Kong Sevens, April 8 to 10. The Pirates Under 12 girls and some Under 14 girls are playing at the Hong Kong Women’s Sevens on April 8. For more details, email admin@dbpirates.com.

www.evoqueportraits.com

April 10

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

VALE SERU RABENI Former DB Pirates player and coach Seru Rabeni passed away in March in his home country of Fiji.

Seru, who represented Fiji at international level, coached the Pirates during the 2014-15 season and had a huge impact on the DB community in his short time here. “Seru has left a deep impression on the rugby community in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong,” DB Pirates chairman Steve Kean says. “On behalf of all within and associated with the DB Pirates, I Photo by Sharon McEneff pass on to his partner Susan, their daughter Ayami and extended family, our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers at this tragic time.”

VOTE FOR THE MOST INSPIRING WOMAN IN LANTAU

April 8-10

Thanks to everyone who responded to our International Women’s Day Competition, March 8 to 10, in which we asked readers to nominate the most inspiring woman in Lantau. The finalists are Pui O resident Okka Scherer, who homes more than 100 abandoned dogs, and Pui O resident Kinzie (her full name), the founder of Hong Kong Heartbeat, who encourages people to be more mindful, to support one another and reconnect with nature. Last but not least is Mui Wo resident Jacqui Green of Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), who has been rescuing and re-homing various animals on Lantau, DB and Peng Chau for 20-plus years.

Okka Scherer

You can vote for the ultimate winner, from the three resident-nominated finalists, on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages, or by emailing us at info@baymedia.com.hk, from April 8 to 10.

MIGRANTS IN ACTION ZUMBA & 24 il 10 Movement Improvement, DB North Plaza

Apr

www.facebook.com/ Migrants-In-Action-1066185403405926

Long-time fitness, yoga and Zumba instructor Arlyn Fermin is running a pro-bono Zumba class in partnership with Migrants in Action. The voluntary group is dedicated to organising and promoting free and affordable events and services to migrants living on Lantau. Visit the Migrants in Action – Lantau Facebook Page.

Sessions are HK$20 and you can register by calling 9317 6793; for Zumba-specific information email deliuz97@gmail.com.

Jacqui Green

TRAILWAGGER Start: Mui Wo

Kinzie

April 16

Secure a spot for you and your four-legged friend in Hong Kong’s first ever Trailwagger, combining Lantau’s majestic trails and the local community’s love of dogs over 8 kilometres. Beginning in Mui Wo, the race culminates with a beer and burger in Discovery Bay and all proceeds from the event go to Animals Asia. For more information and to register, email info@trailwaggerhk.com.

Photo courtesy of William Sargent

April 2016

Photo courtesy of DMR

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IN&AROUND DB

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION WINNERS

April 17

BUY AND SELL all your lightly used goods at the DB Flea Market in DB Plaza, from 12pm to 5pm.

HARVEY LAW GROUP KART RACE ril 23 Seabird Lane Cycle Track

Ap

Photo courtesy of Harvey Law Group

Congratulations to the writers of the top three stories in the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition (YWC): Maria Andreeva (DBIS), Katrina Lowe (DC) and Ryan Harling (YHKCC). You can vote for your favourite to win on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages from April 16 to 19. The winning story will be published in the May issue of Around DB. A special shout-out also goes to the three runners-up: Alix Leonard (DC), Marcus Cheng (WIS) and Xander Ito Low (YHKCC).

19 April 16-

Open to all competitors, the Harvey Law Group DB Kart Race is split into two categories, standard and freestyle. The standard category is open to kids aged eight to 11 and karts are provided, while those aged 12 and above can make their own cart and race in the freestyle category. Running from 9am to 5pm, more information and registration details are available by contacting kartrace@harveylawcorporation.com or 2351 6203. Read more on page 16.

April 24

Pak Wan, organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, from 2pm to 4pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

Siena Park

April 30

A group of Discovery College (DC) students are organising Sunrise to Sunset as part of their DC Community and Service programme.

The event runs from 8am until noon, with participants forming teams and running laps around Siena Park. You can expect prizes for winners, yoga and other activities throughout the day and all proceeds will go to ShelterBox, a charity that provides emergency shelter and vital aid to people affected by disaster worldwide.

Registration is HK$50 per person, payable on the day. Head to www.facebook.com/ShelterBoxCharityRun2016 for more information; contact sunrise2sunsetdc@gmail.com to register your interest.

www.dbconfidential.com

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April 2016

il 27

Apr

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP at Sam

SUNRISE TO SUNSET

Photo by Terry Chow

AT HOME IN DB COFFEE MORNING A group of eight women

are binding together to fill the void left

by DB lynchpin Sue Meldrum, and the first At Home in DB coffee morning sans Sue will take place on April 27. For more information, visit the At Home in DB Facebook page, or www.athomeindb.com.

DB’S FIRST GUIDEDOG Lin Wing Chee, known as Cheen, is the proud owner of Discovery Bay’s first guide dog, Bella. Cheen is the second person in Hong Kong to receive a guide dog that has been raised and trained here by the Hong Kong Guide Dogs Association (HKGDA).

According to Brian Francis of the HKGDA, Hong Kong legislation guarantees Photo courtesy of Brian Francis Cheen and Bella access to anywhere that the public is normally admitted. Visit www.guidedogs.org.hk.

Professional Cricket Coaching in Discovery Bay DB’s own Junior Cricket Academy  Internationally Qualified HKCA Accredited Coaches  Structured, progressive & tailor-made programmes for boys & girls aged 3.5 - 13yrs old Presented by: Discovery Bay Cricket Club

Contact: Head Coach, Nilesh Jhaveri

Email: jcadiscoverybay@hotmail.com 1 22/3/2016 1:43 PM

Tel: +852 9011 1319 Website: www.jcahk.com

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IN&AROUND DB

UNCLE RUSS COFFEE ACADEMY DB ew in

HAPPY 2ND ANNIVERSARY MAVERICKS Founded by South Lantau entrepreneurs Adrienne Ng, Jay Foss Cole and Matt Saul, Mavericks has quickly become a Lantau institution. To celebrate two successful years, the restaurant is rolling out a load of new dishes in its usual casual, beachie style.

Mavericks is situated on beautiful Pui O Beach, adjacent to sister-company Treasure Island, which is owned by Adrienne and offers watersports for kids and adults, as well as corporate team-building events. To make a booking, call 5662 8552; to get great discounts, email your Lantau home address to localsonly@mavericks.hk.

Photo by Josh Clery

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N Teens and adults can take a course with top baristas, learning all the barista skills within four, four-hour lessons. Students are also taught all about coffee from cultivation to roasting, cupping and brewing. For teens, it’s a perfect tool Photo courtesy of Uncle Russ to get a part- or full-time job at Uncle Russ (or any coffee shop) once you graduate. For more information, call 2520 2686 or email info@uncleruss.com.hk.

READ AND RECYCLE Readers are requested not to leave copies of Around DB on the benches in DB Plaza. It's not eco-friendly and, with the rain, magazines stick to the wood and leave a mark that is impossible to remove. After reading the magazine, please take it home, or put it on the Uncle Russ stand so that someone else can enjoy it.

Photo by Terry Chow

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Free delivery service to Discovery bay for Surge Protector in : http://distexpress.hk/collections/targus-1

IN&AROUND DB

SAVE THE DATE THE HONG KONG SINGERS’ GYPSY

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui

SNAKE DAY IN DB -7

y4 Ma

DB resident Tony Penny is co-directing The Hong Kong Singers production of Gypsy, with two of the main cast members (Kim Ward and David Benzie) also from DB. One of the great all-American musicals, Gypsy tells Photo courtesy of The Hong Kong Singers the story of a woman determined to get her daughters into show business.

Celebrating its 85th anniversary, The Hong Kong Singers is also looking for companies to sponsor the show – those www.imi.com.hk interested can call Tony on 9105 3483. Tickets, starting at HK$300, are available at www.urbtix.hk.

Hemingway’s, DB Plaza

Pui O resident William Sargent, a driving force behind Trailwagger and Barclays MoonTrekker, is probably best known as the Lantau Snake Man. William will be sharing his love of local snakes at a talk at Hemingway’s on June 4. You can purchase tickets (HK$100 for adults, HK$50 for kids under 12) in advance at Hemingway’s, from May 1.

June

4

Photo by Terry Chow

Term 3 Starts 11 April 2016 | Places still available, enrol online

SWIMMING LESSONS AT DISCOVERY COLLEGE AGES 4 MONTHS AND ABOVE

Term 3 Starts 11 April 2016 Learn to swim or improve your child's current skills in the Discovery College pool. With professional coaches and individualised attention, the ESF Sharks Swimming programme provides a positive and fun swimming experience for all levels.

Open to ESF & Non ESF Students

• • • • • •

Small group classes Beginner to competitive levels Focus on improving stroke technique Endurance training for competitive swimmers Progressive classes with assessment at each level Internationally certified swimming coaches

Free swimming suit and swimming cap will be given to all students.

www.esf.org.hk

swimming@esf.org.hk Tel

April 1/2 Page Around DB -Swimming.indd 1

2711 1280 22/3/16 3:30 pm

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Win tickets to Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

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

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

YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader, four tickets (worth HK$435 each) to see the opening show of Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales at the Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts on May 6 at 5pm.

This show is an adaptation of whose bestselling books?

www.aba-productions.com

FIND THE ANSWER: Live music, puppetry and a host of colourful characters feature in this award-winning, Scamp Theatre production – an adaptation of three bestselling books by 2013 Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson and noted illustrator Axel Scheffler. The show runs from May 6 to 8. Visit www.aba-productions.com to find out more; for tickets visit www.hkticketing.com.

Win meats for your BBQ from Leo’s Fine Food YOUR PRIZE: Leo’s Fine Food is offering four readers a When was Leo’s Fine Food 3-kilogramme BBQ established? combo, to feed four to six people, each worth HK$273.

COMPETITION

Which was Olivia Newton-John’s sexiest single? www.biography.com

Win tickets to see Olivia Newton-John Live

YOUR PRIZE: AC Music Entertainment is offering one reader two tickets (worth HK$1,288 each) and two readers two tickets (worth HK$888 each) to see Olivia Newton-John Live in Hong Kong at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Grand Hall, at 8pm on May 12.

FIND THE ANSWER: With more than 100 million albums sold, Olivia Newton-John’s successes include four Grammy Awards, numerous Country Music, American Music and People’s Choice Awards, and over 15 top 10 singles and 10 number one hits, including Physical. The pop classic was named ‘The Sexiest Song of All Time’ in 2010 by Billboard magazine. For tickets to the Hong Kong show, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Win a Targus Grid Backpack YOUR PRIZE: Targus (HK) is offering one reader a military-grade, 16-inch Grid Backpack worth HK$1,000.

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FIND THE ANSWER: Founded by a Swiss master butcher in 1985, Leo’s Fine Food supplies high-quality food and beverages, sourced worldwide. Its 3-kilogramme BBQ combo includes marinated chicken wings mid-joint (500 grams), marinated pork neck steak (500 grams), beef and chicken skewers (500 grams each) and raw German Bratwurst and Toulouse sausages (500 grams each). Leo’s offers free delivery throughout Lantau and DB for orders over HK$1,000. Shop online at www.leosfinefood.hk.

In how many countries is Targus available?

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FIND THE ANSWER: A leading global supplier of quality laptop bags, cases and accessories, Targus’ sleek, multifunctional products are available in over 145 countries. Its high-impact, 16-inch Grid Backpack is a military-grade carrier, resistant to dust, wind and rain. Visit www.targus.com to find out more.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Leanne Sercombe and Phillip Weber for tickets to Shakespeare’s

Globe The Merchant of Venice; Vincent Pirot, Julia Minsberg, Vivian Leung and Daniel Ashcroft for the Sense of Touch facial treatments; Shiu Hiu Yan, Patricia Wijaya, and Niroshi Lokuge for tickets to Barney’s Greatest Hits; Jessica Lai, Leonie Erasmus and Rosie Chen for tickets to see The Illusionists; Lisa Tsang, Helen Wong and Shaun Connell for tickets to Imperial Ice Stars’ Swan Lake on Ice; and Suki Yu, Marie Fauvin and Brian Harrison for tickets to the Asia Contemporary Art Show.

April 2016

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Photo by www.evoqueportraits.com

PROFILE

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Upcoming actor and DB resident Micah Sandt is credited as creator and performer on Gweilo: The Rite of Passage of a Golden Boy in Colonial Hong Kong running as part of the 10th Chinese Drama Festival this month

April 2016

PROFILE

CURTAIN UP DB actor Micah Sandt, 26, has a handle on the most crucial tools of the trade: talent, drive and a robust sense of humour about it all.

Elizabeth Kerr reports

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iceties done, a chat with Hong Kong actor Micah Sandt starts off with a rambling aside about race, ethnicity, citizenship, Taiwan and Nazis. You had to be there. Micah was born in Taiwan but is not a citizen, a bureaucratic tick he calls racist. “I think of the protections as a response to those Japanese ‘pure race’ fears.

I can understand where it’s coming from, but I despise it,” he begins.

How we got from apologies for being late (it’s rush hour in Central) to the thorny subject of identity is a mystery, but it’s also indicative of a flash wit that never sounds fractured – or selfinvolved. Coffee with Micah, it turns out, is one of life’s pleasures.

Full of anecdotes (some of them gleefully Cat III) and armed with a vibrant, well-placed, irreverent sense of humour, Micah is as close as it gets to a Discovery Bay native. Actorly, in an impeccable overcoat and beret, he recalls how his Finnish mother and French, jeweller father moved him and his three younger siblings to DB when he was three. “My siblings and I were very lucky to grow up in Discovery Bay,” he says. “[These days] it’s a little whiter and a bit less diverse in people and economics… but it’s essentially the same beast.”

Micah attended S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School, Shu Chun Public School (the small local school in Nim Shue Wan that is now closed) and later, after a bout of home schooling, Island School. “I’m so glad my parents were cheap enough to put me in a

local school,” he says with a smile, “because as a white kid that’s the only way to really learn Cantonese.”

Not only did Micah’s local school stint help with fluency in Cantonese and written and read Chinese, it exposed him to the less privileged side of the Hong Kong coin. Making the transition to an international school “wasn’t an easy leap,” he says.

“We weren’t at all rich. A friend of my mother’s once said, ‘DB [is for the] people who aren’t quite rich enough to live on The Peak’. You can write that down,” he adds with a hearty guffaw.

Rite of passage Micah makes it sound as if he’s remembering the 1960s, but it wasn’t that long ago; he’s only 26. “I’m 50. I just use a lot of moisturiser,” he cracks.

But those upstrokes could come in handy, seeing as Micah has chosen to enter one of the world’s most vain vocations – in the ‘cultural wasteland’ of Hong Kong. “The trick to having a theatre career here is not being here 24/7,” he theorises. “I would call myself international. If you just speak English you’ll have no career. I can’t think of an English theatre company that pays, and fair enough.”

He clearly adores the trade, not surprising considering that, at his core, Micah is a communicator. He’s impressed by my correct use of the word ‘surtitle’ as opposed to ‘subtitle’, and obviously values clarity over politically correct phrasing when in the middle of a discussion.

Micah does indeed earn a living as an actor, albeit subsidised by his second career as a composer. That’s preferable to roles in the likes of The Lion King, which he missed out on, for London’s West End in 2014 and Shanghai in 2015. That was a blessing in disguise; a person can only take so much Hakuna Matata. “It wasn’t for the Disney show, it was for the Broadway musical,” he clarifies. “I don’t do theme parks. I’m not that kind of actor.” He’s not that desperate? “I can’t dance, that’s why.”

He enjoys composing but is resisting the temptation to combine the two disciplines à la Lin-Manuel Miranda (the American composer, lyricist, rapper and actor, best known for creating and starring in the Broadway musicals In the Heights and Hamilton).

As Micah colourfully describes it, “Music is my wife and acting is my mistress, and I try not to have them together. When I have in the past, it’s been an awkward threesome.”

He’s appreciative of the Lin-Manuel comparison, but points out, “He’s comfortable with that threesome but I’m a serial monogamist. Also, I can’t rap.”

One-man show Currently Micah is getting ready for the upcoming Gweilo: The Rite of Passage of a Golden Boy in Colonial Hong Kong (running at HKRep Black Box, Sheung Wan this month as part of the 10th Chinese Drama Festival).

Even taking into consideration his dancing and rapping shortcomings, Micah is credited as creator and performer on Gweilo, based on April 2016

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PROFILE

Martin Booth’s Kong memoir.

popular

Hong

“It’s an interesting book and such a challenge to adapt to theatre because it’s such a different medium,” Micah shares. “That’s why it’s ‘inspired’ by the memoir. We’re using a lot of the same characters but re-shaping it, because as it stands it would be terrible theatre.”

Set in the 1950s, Gweilo starts in English and ends in Cantonese (with surtitles), which Micah hopes will go some way to bridging the gap between the SAR’s few Chinese and English language theatregoers. “I’m hoping both sides get something out of it,” he says. That’s crucial in an industry he considers too ‘safe’, and that concentrates too much on spectacle. “There’s always a concept

here. Macbeth on ice! Everything is a spectacle,” Micah laments. “For a city of seven to eight million I find that shocking.” He’ll concede there’s a chicken and egg dichotomy at play that fosters a vicious cycle of supply and demand, to use a phrase Hongkongers know intimately. But he says, “It’s very de-motivating to do good theatre and then no one comes to watch. You need spectacle to fill the seats up and I find it creates a horrible tension.”

Micah, who is openly gay and happily unattached, is off to New York soon, where he hopes to meet with writer Douglas Carter Beane (Tony nominee, 2006 for The Little Dog Laughed), with whom he shares a mutual friend. In the immediate future, it’s off to rehearsal, but not before a Micah-ish thanks and goodbye. “I love talking about myself,” he says. “It’s why I’m an actor.” It’s a pleasure listening to him.

Find it • Gweilo: The Rite of Passage of a Golden Boy in Colonial Hong Kong is showing at HKRep Black Box, Sheung Wan, from April 15 to 18 and April 21 to 24. For tickets, visit www.urbtix.hk.

Find more local heroes

@ www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

DB DEVELOPMENT

UPDATE

Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com and courtesy of HKR

Assessing Hong Kong Resort’s latest development plan for DB, Sam Agars talks to Islands District Council Member (Discovery Bay) Amy Yung and a spokesperson for the developer

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the resort’s sustainability. “Over the past 30-plus years, every decade we introduce some new elements to the community,” a spokesperson says.

“We are trying to uplift and add more energy to the overall DB community.”

HKR is confident that these enhancement works and plans for future development will improve residents’ living standards and maintain

The development programme has, however, received mixed reviews from residents, with some concerned that continued expansion is damaging the fabric of the resort. While Amy Yung, DB’s representative on the

ong Kong Resort (HKR) has released a 10-year development programme for Discovery Bay, with an expansion of the bus terminus, more retail facilities, two new residential developments and a revamp of the Nim Shue Wan waterfront on the cards.

April 2016

Islands District Council, supports some of the moves, she is concerned that the outline – released in a letter to residents on February 25 – is “very brief ”. She says it is too soon to assess what adverse effects the development may have.

What’s in store A new footbridge and the relocation of the golf cart parking lot are the immediate focus, with works potentially

IN FOCUS

The bus terminus will be expanded and lifted so it is level with Discovery Bay Road

starting this month and due to be completed in the last quarter of this year. Work on the expanded portion of the bus terminus will commence this year, with the overall project expected to be completed in early 2012.

The golf cart parking lot will be moved to a space near the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC), with the new facility 10% larger than the existing one. The footbridge will be installed near the tennis courts, linking

Discovery Bay Road with the upstairs shopping arcade.

The entire bus terminus will be lifted so it is level with Discovery Bay Road.

The number of bus bays will increase by 30%. The space underneath will be filled mostly with shops, with as many as 30 more retail outlets forecast, and also possibly some recreational facilities.

23,000 square feet of landscaped area will be created around the new terminus, and the waterfront promenade near the

ferry pier will receive a facelift.

According to the HKR spokesperson, these enhancement plans are the latest stage in the developer’s ongoing commitment to ensure DB remains an attractive and convenient place to live.

Safety and convenience are priorities.

She stresses that moving the bus terminal and increasing the number of bus bays will improve road safety; the new footbridge will make life more convenient for pedestrians. ď‚„ April 2016

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IN FOCUS

Nim Shue Wan development proposals include a waterfront promenade and plaza, as well as some residential housing

“We have received comments from the public that it would be so much better if the bus space numbers were increased and the space for queuing up was improved,” she says. Importantly, the relocation of the bus terminus will take place in stages to ensure there is no interruption to existing bus services.

Initial reactions Amy’s immediate concern is residents’ reaction to the loss of the grassed area near the DBRC tennis courts that will make way for the new golf cart car park. And a protest was in fact held on March 19, which culminated in the DB Tennis Committee passing a petition, signed by over 1,000 residents, to an HKR representative at the DB Management Office.

Amy is, however, cautiously in favour of the bus terminus expansion. “I can see the bus terminus is desperately needed because right now we don’t have sufficient space in the bus area,” she says. “Some buildings are deteriorating and it’s good they are trying to improve things.”

Colin Bosher, COC member and chairman of La Vista VOC, concurs: “DB is bursting at the seams with all the buses that we’ve now got going in and out, so the expanded bus terminus is badly needed, although the proposed increase in capacity is not that much.

The height of the new bus terminus is the same as the existing road, which is not too bad.”

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April 2016

consultation period and once the public’s suggestions are received the government will digest them, and we will get the feedback and adjust the plan as appropriate.”

The golf cart parking lot will be moved to a space near the DBRC

Amy is hoping for further information on how the enhancement plans are going to be implemented, and just what mitigation measures the developers are going to take during the construction process. “The bus terminus will be raised from its existing platform, so the most affected will be the DB Plaza people, like shop owners,” she says. “I want to know just how this will affect the people and whether the developer will do something to prevent the noise issues and air pollution.”

HKR’s expressed aim with the Nim Shue Wan project is to house all of the service utilities, such as the bus depot, in one building to maximise greenery and leisure space. The proposal indicates that the area will feature a 400-metre waterfront promenade and a new waterfront plaza, as well as some residential housing. Although it is not clear at this stage exactly how it will be done, initial plans indicate that the pier area will be extended outwards into the water to make room for housing.

In the pipeline

At this stage, HKR does not expect there to be much, if any, commercial space allocated to this area. There will be over 200,000 square feet of additional greenery and the work will not affect any of the actual beach area.

In the second part of the development programme, which is still at the government submission stage, HKR is looking to redevelop Nim Shue Wan waterfront and build a residential development on a small parcel of land behind Parkvale Village on Discovery Valley Road. Actual works on these projects, if approved, could be as far as eight years away.

“If you look at this space, it is quite messy because it has been there since day one to support all of the services required by the community,” HKR’s spokesperson says. “But as time goes by, we feel there is potential to improve the outlook and improve the housing of all these facilities. There will be a lot of landscaping and the Kaito ferry pier will be improved also.”

“It’s still stage one of the development planning,” HKR’s spokesperson says. “There will be a public

Amy has a lot of questions when it comes to these development proposals and she is looking to HKR 

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IN FOCUS for clarification. “From what I can see there might be some reclamation of land alongside the pier,” she says. “Will this block the view from Coastline and Peninsula Village?”

With reference to the Parkvale Village expansion, Amy adds: “If HKR is going to build high-rises there, surely it is going to use Parkvale Drive for transport? Already during busy times, particularly at the weekends, it becomes very congested. I want to know how HKR is going to address transportation issues.”

For Colin, a DB resident of 16 years, the plans for Nim Shue Wan are a real concern. “I think it’s a great pity what they are going to do to Nim Shue Wan,” he says. “It could have been a very attractive seafront plaza with gardens and sitting out areas.”

One of Amy’s major concerns is the impact the new developments will have on the number of tourists visiting DB, a hot topic of conversation in recent times. “The commercial area underneath the new bus terminus will bring along yet more tourists,” she says. “I don’t know whether this will affect the tranquillity of our life.”

HKR is quick to assert, however, that the developments are planned purely to benefit residents. “All the things we are putting into place are not focused on bringing more visitors into DB, they are more focused on making the current DB community better,” the spokesperson says. “It’s definitely not tourist or visitor focused.”

To contact HKR about the development programme, email info@hongkongresort.com. To contact Amy, email awsyung@netvigator.com.

HKR DISCLAIMER All information and contents in this article are provided solely for general information and reference purposes. All future developments are subject to change and Government's approval (if necessary). All images relating to future developments shown in this article are artistic impressions and shall not constitute any representation that the completed future development will have the relevant views.

Find more topical local topics

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MOMENTS

IRISH FEET

Aisling McCarron is one of the dancers to watch at this month’s Hong Kong International Irish Dance Premierships.

Carlos Magno meets the 10-year-old DBer

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ade popular around the world by high-energy shows like Riverdance, Lord of the Dance and Celtic Tiger, Irish dance recruits legions of new fans each year. It takes a tremendous amount of strength and focus to perform properly, let alone compete at an international level.

Having just turned 10, Aisling McCarron has done precisely that, on a number of occasions, around the world (Shanghai, Taiwan and England). Eyes are now on her to impress at the fourth Hong Kong International Irish Dance Premierships, on April 2 at the Discovery Bay Auberge Hotel, where she is set to compete against young dancers from Australia, Doha, Israel, Japan, Taiwan and the UK.

the very start,” Kathryn says. “She is hardworking, determined and dedicated in class, gaining confidence all the time. She is a great team player, helping others and a real character. In my opinion if Aisling continues to work hard she could compete at the highest level.”

“Turning out your toes, lifting your head, keeping your body nice and straight – there’s a lot of discipline to it,” says Aisling’s mother Gillian, a Brit with an Irish father. Aisling finds getting her posture right the most difficult – she loves the fast-paced moves, the camaraderie and, of course, the costumes.

After the Hong Kong International Irish Dance Premierships, her third since she took up Irish dance, Aisling hopes to qualify for the European Oireachtas in Austria this November. If she performs well there, she’ll be heading to the World Irish Dancing Championships in Ireland, in April, 2017.

A natural talent Aisling moved to Hong Kong with her family in 2010, when she was four years old. Her talent for Irish dance was discovered when she was playing near the family’s houseboat in DB Marina. “I did something with my feet when I was dancing and Daddy liked it,” Aisling says. “He started saying things about Irish dance.”

Photo by Carlos Magno

In 2011, Aisling’s father, Ireland-born Ciaran, took the family to a local St Patrick’s Day ball, where they met Kathryn Barton, one of the evening’s performers and head instructor at the O’ConnorBarton Irish Dance School. Kathryn holds classes in DB (and across Hong Kong) and Aisling immediately enrolled.

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Natural talent and dedication saw Aisling, then aged six, excel in class. “Aisling showed promise from Find more local gossip April 2016

Aisling McCarron gettin’ jiggy

Many DB kids take lessons twice a week through the O’Connor Barton Irish Dance School, with added sessions on weekends as competition time draws near. It’s clear that Aisling, who attends Discovery Bay International School, where she enjoys playing netball and singing in the school choir, has a lot on her plate.

“We’re just going to have to work very hard,” says Gillian. “And try to get homework done,” Aisling adds, all smiles.

Find it • O’Connor-Barton Irish Dance School, visit www.oconnor-bartonid.com Fung Tat Choi and Chan Yu Ting

@ www.arounddb.com

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SPOTLIGHT

COMMUNITY

TRIBUTE

Photos courtesy of www.evoqueportraits.com and Jo Ann Ambrad

To commemorate the sad demise of Sam Kwok, the owner of DB’s Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise, Sam Agars shares an outpouring of love from grieving residents

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am Kwok was one of those people who touched everyone he met and left people feeling better about themselves after every encounter. The outpouring of emotion from the Discovery Bay community since Sam passed away last month is testament to that. Sam was hardworking and genuine, and proud to benefit the DB community through his store, Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise.

April 2016

The store, which Sam opened 18 years ago, quickly became a local institution, with Sam greeting DBers as they passed through, always ready for a chat and a laugh.

their dozens at the front of Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise in the days following his death. Sam’s family left a note thanking the community for their understanding and support.

Sam, who was 58 and lived in Peng Chau, is survived by his ex-wife and two sons. His passing has left a huge hole in the DB community. Residents left bunches of flowers and notes in

DBers held a candlelight vigil a week after Sam’s death to pay their respects, with the numbers attending speaking volumes of the impact Sam had on this community. The notion of dropping

SPOTLIGHT

into Sam’s for a juice was a fixture in so many people’s lives.

Residents’ heartfelt response Nicolas Tse of The Optical House has been working next door to Sam for the past five years and he speaks of his kind heart and boundless generosity. “We would say hi to each other every day,” Nicolas says. “If there was fruit not collected by the customers, he would give it to us. He always had children running into his shop. He would allow them to play and he never got angry.”

Former DB resident Hedwig Henneman, who is now living in Holland, wrote a heartfelt email to Around DB after hearing about Sam’s death, recalling her daily visits to Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise and the joy Sam brought to her life.

“Sam made my elixir, the apple-carrotginger juice,” Hedwig says. “I loved him from day one. He managed to give me a good feeling. No matter in which state I came in.”

Hedwig speaks of a letter Sam wrote to her in Chinese, when she was going through a difficult time some years ago. “Learn to let go and forgive those who hurt you,” Sam wrote. “You will live happily ever after.”

A long-time friend of Sam’s, who prefers not to be named, has a tribute to Sam, giving an insight into just why he was so beloved by the DB community.

“This kind man was a friend to me, supporting me and many more in our little community,” she says. “He looked after countless families with his gentle and caring nature. One of his beliefs in life was the importance of being authentic with people, saying what needs to be said, because it’s good for the relationship and for the soul. I always admired how he never judged or forced his opinions on anyone, but offered valuable and truthful advice that I will surely miss.”

DBer Sandra Roe developed a strong bond with Sam after she was diagnosed

This page: Flowers and messages left at Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise

with brain cancer in 2008, visiting his store for a carrot juice each day during chemotherapy. “I would always have Sam make me a carrot juice each day when I was out of the hospital,” Sandra says. “The beta-carotene in the carrot juice helps take the coating off the cancer cells so your immune

system can find them. Sam used seven carrots in one large drink. That’s a lot of carrots.

“I always loved to see his smile and he always asked me if I was OK,” Sandra continues. “I would take his hand and tell him that he made his juice with April 2016

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SPOTLIGHT

love. He would lift up his counter and come and give me a hug. This is something I will treasure forever. You could see he loved his customers.”

Online outpourings The enormity of feeling felt by Sam’s passing translated to social media, with the Around DB Facebook post announcing Sam’s passing reaching almost 40,000 people. Those who knew Sam posted messages of love and support, describing him as honest, hardworking, genuine, kind and patient, among many other things.

This page: An outpouring of emotion from the Discovery Bay community

“Sam was a fantastic man and certainly touched my life. My daughter was one of the children that loved going to his shop and saying hello to him. He will be missed by our community” – Rey Espineli.

“Sam was pure of heart and was an honest, hardworking soul dearly respected by all in DB. Rest with the angels” – Michael McGuire.

“My family will miss Sam very much – from babies my girls have loved going to his shop. In their prams they would stare at the fish tank and make drawings for his walls, and now years on they are old enough to run from school and order their own juice. We will miss his great smile and warm heart” – Natasha Fox. “What an amazing man and an asset to the DB community. My children will miss him the most. He always was so kind and patient with them... always remembered them, their favourite smoothie and what allergies they had. My heart breaks for his family, I hope they realise the immense impact he had on our community” – Erika Wrona Dubinsky.

“Sam was the sweetest man and always made time for my daughter when we went in. She loved going to see him, the smoothies were a bonus” – Meaghan Williams.

“Since I came to DB in 2001, Sam always had a smile for me. He and his wonderful shop, this plaza institution, will be missed and remembered” – Silke Preussker.

“So sad, I loved getting juice from him.

It was one of the many things which

Find more local heroes

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April 2016

made DB so unique and a wonderful place to live” – Lauren Saunders.

“Sam, thank you for all the fun, smiles and kind words over the years.

People like you are the essence of community. Rest in peace, dear man” – Colette Jones.

@ www.arounddb.com

DMR

School of Ballet Est 1984

Congratulations to all ‘ Spring Extravaganza’ dancers and teachers!

The show was exceptional, thank you!

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

2987 4338

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

TALKING POINTS

Rugby fans from all over the world are ready to pack Hong Kong Stadium, April 8 to 10

GAME ON

Photos courtesy of http://en.wikipedia.org, www.todayonline.com, www. asiarugby7s.hk, www.asian5nations.com, www.terrascomms.com

With the world’s best ready to shine at the home of the Sevens, Sam Agars reveals why this year’s tournament could be the hardest fought yet

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ugby sevens returns to its spiritual home from April 8 to 10 and, as always, Hong Kongers are in for a treat.

Renowned for its carnival atmosphere and non-stop action on and off the pitch, the Hong Kong Sevens promises to be particularly dynamic this year, as the sport approaches its Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro.

With a number of teams in top form in both the men’s and women’s competitions and plenty of exciting players set to tear up the pitch, rugby fans are looking forward to two-anda-bit days of fast-paced, international play. Chatting with DB Pirates chairman Steve Kean and current Hong Kong women’s 15’s player, DB resident Aileen Ryan, it in fact becomes April 2016

clear that this could be the best Hong Kong Sevens yet.

A look at the leaderboard The 2015-2016 HSBC Sevens World Series (SWS) has been tightly fought to date, with perennial high achievers Fiji, South Africa and New Zealand all showing their strength at certain times during the series. Australia, Argentina and England have also impressed and will be looking to build towards the Olympics with only three SWS rounds remaining after Hong Kong.

Fan favourites Fiji are again the ones to beat, with supporters expected to be out in force to honour Fijian international Seru Rabeni, former DB Pirates player and coach, who passed

away last month. The Islanders make a habit of finding another gear here, having won three of the past four Hong Kong Sevens. “Fiji will be exciting to watch as they have brilliant continuity skills and set a fast pace to the game,” Aileen says.

Providing more good news for fans, Steve believes that although the top three sides are still a class above their rivals, the competition is becoming more even across the board. It looks likely that every match in Hong Kong will be hard fought.

“Any one of them (New Zealand, South Africa or Fiji) could win the Cup this year, but let’s not rule out Australia, or indeed almost any of the top 10 on the series’ leaderboard,”

TALKING POINTS

Steve says. “We are seeing the gaps between what might have been seen as minor sevens nations and the ‘giants’ narrow significantly.”

Outside of the leading teams, there is a host of teams that play scintillating rugby and who can, on their day, not only blow away an opponent but also send the crowd into raptures. The likes of Kenya, Samoa and the USA come to mind, with Steve particularly partial when it comes to his birthplace, Kenya.

“When they are on fire they can beat any team,” Steve says. “They can make some amazing breaks, score long distance tries and over the past couple of years they have pulled off some of the biggest hand-offs (where the ball carrier fends off an opponent with an open palm to the chest).”

These speedsters, the try scorers, are the players that can do the unthinkable at the most unexpected times. Every good side needs them – players that can bust a game open with an act of brilliance. Steve highlights lightningquick USA guns Carlin Isles and Perry Baker, New Zealand’s Ioane brothers, Akira and Rieko, and South Africa’s Seabelo Senatla as players to watch, and believes a couple of Fijian playmakers help make Fiji the special team it is.

South Africa winger Seabelo Senatla

Fijian prop Pio Tuwai

Hong Kong winger Aggie Poon

“Jerry Tuwai and the giant Pio Tuwai help make Fiji such a compelling team to watch, with their flair and vision, and the intuitive way in which they often create space and tries from nowhere,” Steve says.

Women to watch As has been the case since 1999, the final of the women’s competition is held in Hong Kong Stadium, in So Kon Po above Causeway Bay – this year on the Friday evening. As the Hong Kong Women’s Sevens (HKWS) is not part of the Women’s Sevens Series (WSS), different teams compete each year. The 2016 competition will feature France 

Hong Kong winger Salom Yiu Kam-shing

April 2016

47

TALKING POINTS

and Japan from the official WSS, while South Africa and Hong Kong will also be sides to watch.

The women’s competition is spread across two days, with day one on April 7 held at King’s Park Sports Ground in Ho Man Tin and the bulk of day two on April 8 played out at the Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley, before heading up the hill to join the main event at Hong Kong Stadium.

HK set to shine on home soil There is a spot in the SWS on the line for the Hong Kong’s men’s team in the qualifying competition that runs in conjunction with the main

tournament. Hong Kong entered last year’s qualifiers under a weight of expectation before bombing out in the quarter finals and will be hoping to produce a better show this time around.

“Hong Kong has a shot at winning,” Aileen says. “Their biggest opposition looks to be Spain and South Korea.”

Local talent Salom Yiu Kam-shing is one to watch. “When he takes the ball running flat out, and into space, he is extremely hard to defend against and shows that Hong Kong’s local players can compete with the top teams in the world,” Steve says.

The women will be looking to build

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on a solid fourth place finish last year and, according to Steve, their success depends on the likes of try machine Aggie Poon, the hard-working Kwong Sau Yan and captain Christy Cheng.

“Tash Olson-Thorne is another player to watch,” Steve says. “She is always solid in defence and is a huge asset to the team with her strong ball carrying.”

Whether or not the local sides can get the chocolates, when they take the field Hong Kong Stadium will go up a notch. “Nothing beats watching the Hong Kong teams play at the Sevens,” Aileen says. ”All eyes are on the pitch and the volume of the crowd always doubles.”

@ www.arounddb.com

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ESCAPES

MARRAKECH

EXPRESS

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

Casablanca may have been immortalised in the movies, but Marrakech could be North Africa’s most underrated destination.

Elizabeth Kerr reports

“W

strain is starting to show. People are feeling drained, even with the finish line in sight. Tempers are worst if Ramadan lands during August, when a ‘breeze’ feels akin to standing in front of a giant hairdryer – on high.

Marrakech during the most crucial Muslim holiday of the year is a study in contrasts. Early on the locals, explains a veteran, native tour guide, are in the opening stretch of a marathon – it’s all optimistic sprinting. By day 26, the

Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech’s fortunes have waxed and waned during its long history, but it has always been a major citadel of the Muslim world. Unlike the capital at Rabat and the more commercial Casablanca, the former Berber capital has a decidedly French feel. Regardless of which European influence lingers,

aste of time!” is the huffy retort from a cranky, likely hungry, silver vendor in Marrakech’s main souk, when a shopper mentions he’s just browsing. But it is the 26th day of Ramadan – and the sun hasn’t set yet. The guy deserves a break.

Marrakech is a great window into both the Middle East and Africa in one trip.

An excursion outside the city limits – a camel ride on the rolling sand dunes of the Western Sahara, a trek through the Atlas Mountains, or a getaway to Essaouira and its Jewish settlement on the Atlantic coast – all complement Marrakech’s urban mania and, like Jordan, reflect its overarching progressive tolerance.

Don’t miss these experiences if time permits, but if it’s a city break you’re looking for, Marrakech ticks plenty of boxes.  April 2016

51

ESCAPES

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

In and around the Medina Start an urban exploration of Marrakech in what is effectively the beating heart of the city – Jemaa elFnaa Square. Surrounded on all sides by souks and cafés and anchored by the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa el-Fnaa sits smack dab in the middle of the Medina – the old city. sque bia Mo Koutou

Bahia Palace

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April 2016

The Medina’s ancient walls are still standing, and the ramparts that once stood sentry still light up at night to cast their distinct orange glow onto the rabbit warren of streets within.

Koutoubia, the city’s biggest mosque, is a site to see, even from the outside.

During Ramadan, worshipers spill out into its courtyard, and the reverent hush that falls during prayer is an indelible experience. Forget about taking pictures (security guards will very politely indicate you should drop your camera) and just absorb the view from across the street.

It’s easy to orientate yourself by looking for Koutoubia’s minaret, restored in the 1990s and a prototype for La Giralda (now the cathedral bell tower) in Seville and Tour Hassan in Rabat.

The tower is a showcase of Moorish architectural ornamentation, with its keystone arches, jagged crenellations and signature pink plaster. Koutoubia is often referred to as the booksellers’ mosque, as upon completion dozens of vendors set up shop on its doorstep.

The Medina is also where you’ll find the Museum of Marrakech (a must for history buffs), Museum of Moroccan Arts and Islamic Art Museum. The latter is situated in the glorious Majorelle Garden, which was bequeathed to the city by designer Yves Saint Laurent. In Bahia Palace and the Royal Palace, Morocco’s unique crosshatch, Berber-influenced design is emblazoned on nearly every surface, from lampshades, to jewellery to teapots, and there is plenty to be found in the souks, where the Medina really comes to life.

The main souk runs off Jemaa el-Fnaa – in what feels like all directions – and if it’s for sale somewhere in Morocco, it’s for sale here. Beyond housewares, accessories and clothing, are dazzling carpets and crafts (in glass, silver and leather as a start). Gastronomes will not leave empty-handed, particularly given 

ESCAPES

Medina rooftops

the fact that Moroccans are serious about their food and have the spice vendors to prove it. Your bargaining skills will be put to the test. Moroccan hagglers make Hongkongers look like rank amateurs.

Where to stay, eat and socialise lle Majore

Garden

Le Comptoir Darna

Marrakech has all levels of accommodation. For a memorable Medina riad stay, try Hotel La Maison Arabe, one of the city’s oldest, or Dar Vedra. For new-city luxury, splash out at the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech, or the Sofitel Marrakech Palais Impérial.

Whatever your budget, the food is sure to delight. While tajine – a Berber stew cooked in a clay pot – is not to be missed, Moroccan cuisine is more than just that and couscous.

The bean-based b’ssara for breakfast, harira, a spicy soup, which usually breaks the fast during Ramadan and

Find more exciting travel destinations

54

April 2016

maakouda batata (potato fritters) served on the street are must-tries.

Watch the square erupt with activity from the terrace of Café des Epices at sunset to get the lay of the land – if you can get a table. The boisterous Le Salama, serving Marrakchi food in a comfy atmosphere with cheap shisha, is a good sampler.

There is life outside the Medina of course, and for anyone feeling homesick for Lan Kwai Fong, the swank bars, clubs and hotels in the modern Hivernage and Gueliz districts will do the trick. The young, cosmopolitan and beautiful gather at Le Comptoir Darna for evening drinks (and belly dancing). It’s a spot that wouldn’t be out of place in the SAR were it not for the velvet upholstery, smoky lamp light and North African wood carving. Before hitting the nightspots, dinner at the popular AlFassia (literally meaning ‘the lady from Fez’) will kick the night off right.

@ www.arounddb.com

ACTION

AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER

Photos courtesy of Flight Centre Hong Kong

Running the New York City Marathon gives you a real taste of the Big Apple. 2015 finisher Kathryn Gardner provides some crucial insider tips and recommends you register now for this year’s event

56

‘R

un a marathon’ was on my bucket list for a long time, and when I finally decided to tick it off, I chose one of the world’s big five, namely the New York City Marathon.

The year I took part (2015) race day fell on Halloween; this year runners are gearing up to take the challenge on November 6. But you need to plan way ahead to secure your place. You April 2016

get in by taking part in the New York City Marathon lottery, through its charity programme or by purchasing a guaranteed entry. Enrolling from Hong Kong I did the latter, and I’d suggest you look into doing this now, to avoid disappointment.

With your race entry confirmed, training can begin in earnest. I’d taken part in half marathons and long trail

runs before, but New York was my first full marathon. To train for the event, I ran, hiked and slogged it out at bootcamp and yoga class.

Ready to run I flew to New York a few days before the race to get over the jet lag. And my advice is to save sightseeing until after the run. New York is definitely

ACTION

Runners approaching race end, First Avenue, Manhattan

a city that you want to walk around and it’s better to conserve your energy beforehand.

Staying at the W New York – Times Square, I immediately got a feel for Manhattan. But most importantly, this property is only a five-minute walk from the location of the bus transfers, which take you to Staten Island, where the race starts.

The day before the race is a busy one as it’s time to collect your timing chip, bib and souvenir t-shirt. You’ll also want to get hold of some of the allimportant, limited-edition, branded race gear – a must when doing a race of this magnitude.

Race day dawns with a 5am wakeup call, and the bus trip to Staten Island. As there is only one set of bus

transfers and several waves of start times, there is plenty of time to grab coffee and energy drinks before your wave is due to start.

New York in November is very cold, so I’d advise you to take lots of throwaway layers to wear during the wait. There are plenty of clothes bins near the start line, where you can shed your spare layers. All the  April 2016

57

ACTION

Madison Avenue Bridge from the Bronx

clothes collected here (and along the course) are donated to charity.

Staten Island to Manhattan Although hard going, the race was everything I had anticipated and more.

Running over the famous bridges of New York and seeing the Manhattan skyline in the distance, as the crowds cheer, is an amazing experience. The race takes you through all five New York districts. From Staten Island, you run across Verrazano Narrows Bridge to Brooklyn, where the crowds are out in force. From Brooklyn, you head over to Queens, and then Manhattan, with a detour through the Bronx on the way.

The New York City Marathon is tough because it’s a very hilly course. Each bridge seems steeper (and windier) than the last. I injured my knee at the 18-kilometre mark, and wanted to quit at 30 kilometres but my pride – and my running buddy Amanda Hageman – kept me going.

In the final stretch, up Fifth Avenue and through Central Park, the crowds absolutely outdid themselves, and when I look back I’m not sure I could have completed the race without their encouragement. Amanda and I reached the finish line in 5 hours, 40 minutes with a sense of relief – and pure exhilaration.

Kathryn Gardner (right) with running buddy Amanda Hageman

Something to celebrate At the end of the race you have two options, which you decide upon when completing your registration. You can either arrange to pick up a checked bag of clothes at the finish line, or you can elect to receive a post-race poncho, and head back to your hotel straightaway. I went for the poncho option and I was relieved I had when I saw the distance to the checked baggage area. Having just run 42.2 kilometres, I didn’t want to be on my feet for much longer.

April 2016

This was an adventure I will never forget, as not only did I realise a longcherished (42.2-kilometre) dream, but during the race I got the chance to see all the New York neighbourhoods for myself, and interact with an enthusiastic horde of Manhattanites, Bronxites, Brooklynites, Queensites and [Staten] Islanders. Run the New York City Marathon and you experience the Big Apple in such a unique way – a way most visitors can’t.

You can purchase a guaranteed entry package to the New York City Marathon through Flight Centre Active Travel, which includes your race entry, three nights’ accommodation at the W Times Square and bus transfer to the start line. Call 2830 2776, visit flightcentre.com.hk or drop by the Flight Centre retail stores in Discovery Bay, Central, Happy Valley or Wanchai.

Find more exciting overseas activities

58

Back at the hotel, the runners got together for well-deserved celebratory drinks. This was a great opportunity to swap race stories and share the highs and lows of the event. Everyone agreed it had been incredibly well organised – no easy feat when you consider that it’s one of the world’s biggest marathons, with 50,000 participants. There was no shortage of drinks stops, first-aid tents and extremely helpful volunteers along the way.

@ www.arounddb.com

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We are glad to reach out a helping hand, either to the local charities we support or to each other when the need arises.

Whether you want to save the world or just make some new friends, there’s a place for you in AWA. We can’t wait to meet you!

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HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! www.compose2020.com

THUS SPAKE ZARATHUSTRA Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST

Haydn’s joyous Cello Concerto in C, with principal guest conductor Yu Long and cellist Jian Wang, is followed by a performance of Strauss’ thrilling tone poem Thus Spake Zarathustra. Audiences then get to enjoy the world premier of Seven Nights, a commissioned work

by HK Philharmonic composer-in-residence Du Wei. For more information and tickets, starting at HK$180, visit www.hkphil.org.

THE 10TH CHINESE DRAMA FESTIVAL Across Hong Kong

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

April 1-2

HK SEVENS KICK-OFF CONCERT

8 ril 1-1

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April 6 Sevens Village, Causeway Bay

www.lcsd.gov.hk

From Macbeth and Mother Courage in China to Gweilo: The Rite of Passage of a Golden Boy in Colonial Hong Kong, the 10th Chinese Drama Festival offers up nine stage productions by theatrical groups from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau and mainland China. Forums and seminars, including a 20-year retrospective exhibition also feature. For more information, visit www.10cdf.org.hk; for tickets, starting at HK$120, visit www.urbtix.hk.

April 7

To set the mood for the Hong Kong Sevens, April 8 to 10, David Hasselhoff hosts the HK Sevens Kickoff Concert, featuring iconic Scottish rock group The Proclaimers and world-renowned ABBA tribute band Björn Again.

Hasselhoff is best known for his roles in the hit TV series Knight Rider and Baywatch. You can purchase tickets, priced at HK$199, at www.ticketflap.com.

Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley Defending champions BGC Asia Pacific Dragons bid for a third successive and fourth overall Cup title at the GFI HKFC 10s. Sanctioned by the Hong Kong Rugby Union, the 10s first took place at the Hong Kong Football Club in 1986.

GFI Group has title sponsored the 10s for the past decade.

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

Purchase tickets, starting at HK$100, at www.ticketflap.com.

AN EVENING WTH TOM JONES LIVE

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

www.livenationlushington.net

GFI HKFC 10S

Living legend Tom Jones makes a special appearance, returning to Hong Kong for the first time since 2010. The 75-year old Welsh singer has released an impressive 40 studio albums, the latest of which, Long Lost Suitcase, made a splash last year. For tickets, starting at HK$688, visit www.hkticketing.com.

April

6-7

Photo courtesy of i3 SPORTS

April 2016

61

HK HAPPENINGS

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www.hktdc.com

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ELECTRONICS FAIR AND INTERNATIONAL ICT EXPO

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai Catch around 3,300 international exhibitors showcasing the very latest electronics products and cutting-edge information and communications technology solutions.

In 2015, 92,000 buyers from 150 countries attended. Admission is free. To know more, visit www.hktdc.com.

8 April 27-May

ASKING ALEXANDRIA LIVE! Hang Out, Sai Wan Ho

Heavy metal rockers Asking Alexandria cite their influences as Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, Mötley Crüe, Sebastian Bach, Skid Row and Van Halen, as well as more up-to-theminute bands like Slipknot and Avenged Sevenfold. The Hong Kong show is opened

by Japanese metalcore band Her Name in Blood. Tickets, starting at HK$480, are available at www.ticketflap.com.

April 19

Photo by Henry Laurisch

www.lunchbox-productions.com

SWAN LAKE ON ICE

THE ILLUSIONISTS Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST The biggest and best-selling magic show in the history of Broadway, The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe, dazzling audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of innovative and astonishing acts of magic, illusion and mindreading.

Featuring eight world-class performers, The Illusionists promises to deliver a very different experience to Hong Kong audiences. It is from the same producers of Cirque Adrenaline, the daredevil circus show that took Hong Kong by storm over Christmas and New Year.

For more information, visit www.lunchbox-productions.com; for tickets, visit www.urbtix.hk.

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST High on adrenaline and drama, Swan Lake on Ice is Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece brought to life by the award-winning Imperial Ice Stars. The show features magnificent ice-dancing choreographed by acclaimed artistic director Tony Mercer. Visit www.lunchbox-productions.com to learn more; for tickets, visit www.urbtix.hk.

JAMIE LAWSON LIVE!

King George V School, Ho Man Tin Be sure to catch British singer/ songwriter Jamie Lawson, the very first artist to be signed under Ed Sheeran’s record label Gingerbread Man Records.

Jamie’s self-titled album, featuring the hit single Wasn't Expecting That peaked at number one on the UK Albums Chart last year. For tickets, starting at HK$480, visit www.ticketflap.com.

62

April 2016

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Email your photos for DB Faces to info@baymedia.com.hk. Around DB accepts no liability for the photos sent

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Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Navin Khianey (@khianey)

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he best snap wins! Your mission this month is to share a photo taken in DB or Lantau on our @around_db Instagram page and hashtag it #arounddb. You have until the 10th of this month to enter – so get tagging.

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!

- For Independent Living PRACTITIONER CREATED HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS . SINCE 2012

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

My thoughts We all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, insurance may be the last thing on your mind. But you can save yourself a lot of money and stress, by investigating your options well before you conceive.

Your existing health insurance plan may cover some of the expenses associated with pregnancy, but it is worth noting that most medical plans don’t cover issues related to being pregnant and, if they do, they may cover complications to the mother only. Check to see if it covers all the doctor’s appointments you will need (twice monthly visits for the whole nine months of your pregnancy are recommended). You don’t want to have to start skipping visits in order to save money, as this could create problems for both you and your baby.

If you are looking into specialist maternity health insurance coverage, there are plenty of options to suit all budgets. Local plans like AXA are a good bet, as are international plans like AETNA/A+/IHI-BUPA. If you like the look of USA, choose the more expensive USA Premium option.

All specialist maternity health plans are valid for one year, but most maternal insurance plans have a one year waiting period, meaning they must be renewed for a second year.

Each will pay out a maximum amount for a normal delivery and a different amount for a C-section

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

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

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View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

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

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY

FINANCE & INSURANCE AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

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Need to lodge your Australian tax return?

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

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HOUSE DOCTOR HANDYMAN

Fluent in English.

Hong Kong permanent resident.

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

EXPERT MOVER

• Mover • Storage • Handyman Competitive rates.

Professional quality service.

Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk.

Visit www.expertmover.hk

KIDS

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

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

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

Grooming & Pet Care Services.

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

Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com.

Visit www.petcodb.com

DOG SERVICES

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

100% safety record over the past 11 years.

Call Dave Chan on 9872 5439, or visit www.quoquoclub.com

RETAIL ABBELIO WINES

Great value! High scoring!

Wines from around the world!

Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents.

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

SERVICES

SONTHRA TAILORING SERVICES

Tailoring for ladies & children.

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

Individual designs, copies, alterations & modifications.

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

Contact 9637 1620, sonthrafarnaz@gmail.com

Deadline for May issue classifieds

April 15

Our Customers of the Month

Wei Wei

Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

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

April 2016

67

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc‌ For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com

SINCE 1997

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

68

April 2016

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

Leisure Travel & Cruise specialists since 1978.

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

Licence No 350343

BEEF JERKY, BEEF BILTONG & PORK CRACKLING

BoxFit852

HIGH PROTEIN SNACKS

Sunday 12pm at Movement Improvement.

Learn precise boxing techniques to strengthen and condition your body.

Perfect for sharing & enjoying together

Formerly Boxfit

WITH NO ADDED MSG

TUITIon & coURSES

LEARn SPAnISH

Native speaker, DELE examiner.

Experienced teacher.

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

Flexible schedule & locations.

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

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

cHInESE (MAndARIn & cAnTonESE), MATHEMATIcS & EnGLISH

Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

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

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

Call: 6926 2168 or 6338 0283 for bookings.

Email: Errofit168@yahoo.com

T: +852 6647 2292 E: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com W: gmtfoodshk.com

/gmtfoods

@gillian_GMT

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

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

MAndARIn cHInESE cLASSRooM

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

Any level/ time/ purpose.

Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

FULLY QUALIFIEd ScIEncE TEAcHER

With Honours Bachelors Degree.

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

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

MUSIc TUToR

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

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

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

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

April 2016

69

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

BRIGHT LUXURIOUS 2-BED

LANTAU PROPERTY

APARTMENTS IN TUNG CHUNG FOR LEASE

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

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

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

Visit http://tanford.webs.com.

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

CHERISH COURT

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

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

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

Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

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

STUNNING FURNISHED FLAT SHORT OR LONG-LEASE Designer 2-bed apartment, 1-minute from DB Plaza. Renovated to the highest standard.

Weekly cleaning available. Contact Maeve on 6408 4227, maeveororke@hotmail.com

SRI LANKAN PARADISE FOR SALE High-end villa, with pool on 8.5-acre cinnamon plantation, close to beach, Southern Sri Lanka.

Steady holiday rental income, Airbnb and Trip Advisor top ranking. Potential for development into wellness resort or retirement retreat.

Visit lacanelle.com, or contact DB owner, annabeljallen@gmail.com, 5988 8231.

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

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED

53’ SAILING YACHT, LANGKAWI & THAILAND

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

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

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

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

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

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

70

April 2016

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

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

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

Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area.

Fully equipped kitchen with laundry area.

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

THE RED LANTERN

Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late ‘Ching Dynasty’

Six minutes walk from the Mui Wo ferry to the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.

TEL: 2984 0099 FAX: 2980 4833 EMAIL: glandam@netvigator.com

GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found. Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks.

Maternal health is a human right — join Amnesty International to defend human rights for women like Ramatoulaye.

Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.

© Anna Kari

Small shipping needs?

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

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

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

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

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

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 2109 0036 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000 HEALTH & WELLBEING

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

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

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

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

HOTELS

HOME & REPAIRS

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

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6674 6194 2611 9193 9045 2914 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2109 4962 2988 8123 2786 9699 2385 9677 2109 9277 2179 6678 9264 8597 6688 2167 9662 1747 6443 6597 3473 8700 5400 4109 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383

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

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

PROPERTY AGENCIES

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 HOTELS

LEARNING CENTRES

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

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

LEARNING CENTRES

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488

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

2984 0222 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 5662 8552 2984 1265 2504 4788 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 8733 3661 1694

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

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

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

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

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

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

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

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

Apple Travel

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

Positive Steps

2812 2660 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

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

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

2233 3000 2987 1851

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

Harvey Law Group

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

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

OTHER SERVICES

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH

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

Tree of Joy

PetcoDB

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

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

Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com

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

Amity Shoes Care Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

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

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

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

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

LEARNING CENTRES

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

Future Stars Dance Academy

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

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

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

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

9327 0507

74

April 2016

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

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

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

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

Please explore the website, or call Michèle to see any of the listings. +852 60550146 www.HKBoatsandHomes.com

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

2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 2987 2987 2987 6238 2987 1919

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS 2987 1373 2914 2133 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 8898 2987 1777

Around DB’s May 2016 issue is coming out

May 1

AQUABLU

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

22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner Café Duvet Café Pascucci Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203 2987 0966 2591 1422 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Kiraku Tei

2987 2886

Koh Tomyums

2987 0767

Sportsmanship

La Création Bakery

2987 1829

McSorley’s Ale House

2987 8280

Mirch Masala, North Plaza

2987 1337

Moofish, North Plaza

2987 6318

Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza

2172 7099

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

Pacific Coffee

2987 1662

Paisano’s, North Plaza

2673 4445

Peony Chinese Restaurant

2500 1950

Salt & Pepper

2336 8001

Solera

2555 0772

Subway

2914 0005

Super Super

2914 1308

The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar

2777 8411

Uncle Russ, DB Plaza

2682 0068

Uncle Russ, North Plaza

2682 8110

Zaks

2987 6232

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

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

Vikings Football Club Professional Soccer Coaching From ages 18 months to 12 years Tel: 9533 2600 vikingshk@outlook.com www.vikings.hk

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

Action X, North Plaza Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Ltd. Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club GigaSports

2911 4833 2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 2320 1238

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES

King’s Chinese Chess Academy

Offering Chinese Chess tutorials for adults and children chinesechessprofessional@gmail.com 6093 1590 www.chinesechessprofessional.com

Discovery Bay Cricket Club An internationally acclaimed club which provides a structure under which players, regardless of age or ability, can thrive.

Tel: 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

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

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

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

Babyland Bo Bo House Epicland Toysland

2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Limousine Rental

Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services

6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351

DB NUMBERS

TRANSPORT SERVICES Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline VIP Logistic Services Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 1213 2987 9368

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

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

WELLBEING

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

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

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

2987 0614

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266 Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena

2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382

View the business directory

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

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

@ www.arounddb.com April 2016

75

OUT THERE

L

ast year I wrote a piece about 100,000 tons of half frozen rotting meat for sale in China. And, no, I did not make that up. I am reminded that back in the eighties the cops in Hong Kong discovered a warehouse with stolen, dried chicken wings stacked to the roof. The loot’s origin was unknown but millions of chickens were clearly minus their flappers, so it was reasonable to assume that the rest of their anatomy was in that great wok in the sky. The Agricultural and Fisheries’ Department of Pedantry got a forensic team involved and began a meticulous count, which took months.

Then, to demonstrate the advantage of a university education, inspectors divided the total count by two to get the precise number of former fowls, settling on an agreed tally of 33,762, 101. Enter the department’s Obsessive Compulsive Division (OCD) who insisted the figure could not be exact. Studies, they whined, showed that one in 127,000 chickens are born deformed with only one wing.

Common sense was poised to enter the fray when forensics stumbled upon something unexpected and stunning.

Random comparisons, wing by wing, over thousands of samples, showed conclusively that all the samples were of the left. Even though the team had checked less than 25% of the appendages, the odds in favour of such an outcome were astronomical.

Illustration courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

The right-wing connection

76

The mathematics faculty of Hong Kong University was contacted to speculate. Game Theory, String Theory, Probability Theory, Chaos Theory and other more exotic numerical options were employed.

More wings were counted and the result was the same – not a single right wing. Great minds were left scratching intellectual heads, leaving a conundrum which became known (to me, anyway) as The Puzzle of the Purloined Poultry Parts.

A WING AND

A PRAYER

Peter Sherwood presents The Puzzle of the Purloined Poultry Parts

Professional mathematicians of every stripe agreed that the odds, if indeed random, were greater than the late Chairman Mao winning the men’s singles title at Wimbledon. There had to be an answer (these blokes are not PhDs for nothing). But no dice.

Then, for a giggle, a primary school teacher in Discovery Bay (one Ms Poulet) gave her class five minutes to find an answer. Could it be, the kids said, that the opposing 33, 762,101 digits of the Gallus gallus domesticus had been sent to a right-wing

Seeing profit in the poultry enigma, I formed a company and packaged some wings with a dehydrated soup mix to sell to supermarkets in China – and said a prayer for success. The rest is history, and a guide to why I’m writing this April Fool’s Day article instead of taking it easy on a beach in Thailand.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 17 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter April 2016

organisation in America’s conservative heartland, and the balance was destined for Communist China? Ms Poulet passed her student’s theory to the investigating committee and was laughed at, but for the wrong reasons.

@ www.arounddb.com