December 2012 issue

December 2012

‘TIS THE SEASON

FEED THE WORLD

DB RESIDENTS SHARE INSPIRATIONAL

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE

HOLIDAY TALES

TALK BUSINESS

DB TEENS

“Better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”

CHINESE PROVERB

Get

festive!

Xmas decorating made easy and oh so eco-friendly Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com

Publishers in DB since 2002

DECEMBER 2012

朝暉路 HEADLAND 2585

4 4

Luxury house with large garden and pool.

Stunning views, very unique.

頤峰 GREENVALE 1644

4 2

3

2

$34M

Fully renovated interior, wonderful living and dining areas, large garden, great location.

海澄湖畔 SIENA 1300

3

$45K

Beautifully combined unit, spacious living with modern open plan kitchen.

朝暉路 HEADLAND 1904

4

$166K

$11.5M

Great renovation throughout, modern kitchen and bathroom, close to Club Siena and school.

壁如臺 BIJOU HAMLET 1801

3 3

Beautifully renovated house, panoramic views.

Generous dining room, large outdoor areas.

霞暉閣 HAVEN 889

3 2

2

1

$14.8M

Nicely renovated combined unit with good layout, modern kitchen and well management.

觀景樓 CLEAR VIEW 958

2

$25K

Fully renovated with excellent sea views.

Bright and airy.

尚堤 CHIANTI 2128

4

$95K

$7.5M

Beautifully renovated. Spacious living and dining areas, bright and airy. Sea views.

海藍居 LA SERENE 1668

3 2

Breathtaking view overlooking the sea, excellent kitchen & bathroom, tranquil location.

海澄湖畔 SIENA 792

2 1

2

1

$11.5M

Beautifully renovated. Terrace with full sea views, great for entertaining.

頤峰 GREENVALE 517

1

$23K

Nicely renovated, spacious living and dining areas close to Club Siena.

蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE 1311

3

$70K

$11K/3.2M

Nicely renovated, balcony with stunning sea views. Great unit for an individual or a couple.

Big Crane Construction Set

Disgusting Science & Spa Science

Le Grand Garage

LeapPad Explorer

$425

$199

$899

$999

each

Micro Scooters

Blossom Cottage

Santa shops at...

from

$899

$720

Superstar Cool Keyboard & Stool

Shapes & Sharing Picnic Basket

$675

$199

(colours may vary)

Oven & Hob Set

Scalextric Rally Stage

$999 $1,450

Mixer Set

Raleigh Bikes

$499

$1,399 $1,290

from

Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building,12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 www.bumpstobabes.com

early learning centre

20% off

3 2 for

mix and match

Lights and Sounds Glamour Mansion $2,700 $2,160

Wooden Double-Sided Easel $750 $600

20% off

Parking Garage $600 $480

game items

20% off

* Terms and conditions apply, please refer to shop assistant for more details.

mothercare stores:

Ocean Terminal • Prince’s Building • New Town Plaza• Lee Gardens Two • MegaBox • Telford Plaza II

early learning centre stores:

Prince’s Building • Lee Gardens Two • MegaBox

www.mothercare.com.hk

Enquiry：2627 0057

CONTENTS FEATURES 20

54

DEAR READER

72

20 24 30 37 42 46 50 54

PROFILE Meet Discovery Bay’s carolling champs IN FOCUS Life-affirming tales for the festive season FAMILY MATTERS Tending DB kids’ cultural roots MONEY MATTERS Investing in Obama’s victory TALKING POINTS Entrepreneurial hijinks for DBIS teens ESCAPES Get your skates on! Ski Niseko!

ACTION DB horse riders explain their passion STYLE Cool tips on Xmas decorating

REGULARS 9 18 44 58 60 63 66 68 72

IN & AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news ACROSS LANTAU What’s happening island wide TECH TREND Our resident techie answers some FAQs HK HAPPENINGS Hot stuff from across the harbour DB FACES Candid community snaps CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, local businesses and more PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau DB MOMENTS Charles Chan (charitable) in China

The December issue is always one of my favourites. There’s so much to report on event wise, from Xmas fairs and panto productions to charity functions, and so many inspirational end-of-year stories to tell.

To get you into the festive swing, we kick off by interviewing three DBers who annually organise local carolling performances. You’ll want to turn straight to our style section, too, for practical tips on holiday decorating. It seems the big décor trend for 2012 is tradition, so dig out all your red, green, bronze and glass accessories. And remember to stick to recyclable, biodegradable items – or handcraft your own.

Since everybody celebrates the holidays in their own way, we take the opportunity to look at the challenges involved in instilling in DB kids a sense of their cultural heritage. Japanese, Jewish, Irish and Indian parents share their top tips. And should snow be something you or the kids are missing this season, check out our escapes section – but

only on the understanding that you’ll soon be booking a ski trip. The powder paradise that is Niseko, Japan, is that irresistible.

Our big news this year has of course been www.arounddb.com. We’ve been bowled over by the number of hits and posts, with thousands of visitors getting online. So thank you for that, and for your equally enthusiastic response to www.facebook.com/AroundDB. Be sure to keep your updates for events, promotions and openings coming!

Happy holidays!

December 2012

FEED THE WORLD

‘TIS THE SEASON

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE

DB RESIDENTS SHARE INSPIRATIONAL

DB TEENS

HOLIDAY TALES

TALK BUSINESS

“Better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”

CHINESE PROVERB

Get

festive!

Xmas decorating made easy and oh so eco-friendly Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com

Publishers in DB since 2002

On the cover: DBIS teen entrepreneurs Photo by Ben Tyrrell

Publisher

Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor

Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com Editorial Coordinator

Dana Winograd dana@arounddb.com

DB run for charity Photos by Tracey van Geest

Held on November 10, the DB 10K Charity Run raised close to HK$157,000 for SOS Lanka Action. This grassroots DB charity is going to use the money to reinstate or enlarge a number of houses, and install 15 toilets, in a tiny Sri Lankan village north of Colombo. The organisers would like to express their sincere gratitude to all the sponsors, volunteers, photographers and runners. DBers Thomas Kiprotich and Emma Bruce came in as fastest man and woman. You’ll find fabulous photos of race day, taken by Tracey van Geest of Inspired Images, plus race times recorded by Race Timing Solutions, at www.dbrunforcharity. org and www.arounddb.com.

Advertising

Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Art direction

Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography

Tracey van Geest tracey@inspiredimages.co Baljit & Radhika Gidwani photosdb@hotmail.com Illustration

Richard Leschinsky Accounts

Lise Dooling accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month

Andrew Dembina Martin W. Henneke Megaen Kelly Elizabeth Kerr Paula Lepore Burrough Catharine Nicol Karmel Schreyer Juan Miguel Sevilla Mary Singer General enquiries

info@arounddb.com Published by

Bay Media Limited Flat 230, Block D, DB Plaza Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2987 0577 Fax: (852) 2987 0533 www.arounddb.com 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.

All the fun of the DBIS fair Photos by Tracey van Geest and Simon French

Fun was had by all once again at the Discovery Bay International Food Fair on November 24. The food was fantastic, representative of seemingly every nationality, and everyone was wowed by the students’ incredible performances. It was also a great opportunity to get an early start on Xmas shopping! You can see loads of great photos taken on the day at www.arounddb.com.

IN & AROUND DB

Picnic in the Park – a sell out Photos by Tracey van Geest

The audience was 10,000-strong at Picnic in the Park (PiP) on November 3, helping make it DB’s biggest (and best) music and dance celebration yet. It was in fact standing or rather dancing room only. “We had many reports of people coming from overseas just for PiP,” notes Jim Alba-Duignan, one of the original organisers. While the dance performances were a blast, the quality of music was just amazing. “We had our first international act – Vinyl from Glasgow, Scotland,” says Jim, adding that the band funded the trip to DB themselves. Jim wants to thank the DB volunteers for their amazing contribution, as well as those who came over from elsewhere in Hong Kong to help. You will be happy to know that we’ve posted a lot of event photos for you to view in the www.arounddb.com photo gallery.

Sponsored walk for Operation Santa Claus Photos by Terry Spring

Some 700 people walked for Operation Santa Claus on November 17 – raising HK$700,000 (to date). The DMK walk started out at the kindergarten in Coastline and finished in Siena Park where the children were entertained by Andy the Comic, sponsored by Around DB. The DMK PTA organised a bake sale and face painting for the children. DMK principal, Jane Wilson wants to thank everyone who took part and also the local DB companies who sponsored the event. You can view loads of great photos of the day at www.arounddb.com (photo gallery).

December 2012

9

IN & AROUND DB

DB’s fearless at junior challenge Photos by Tracey van Geest

10

December 2012

Online registration closed within four hours this year, and there were an incredible 650 participants at the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge on November 25. The finish was moved from North Plaza to Tai Pak Beach which made for a very visible and exciting finale. U9s through to U19s all had a great day of it though a recent tragedy was in the thoughts of many. On behalf of everyone involved, race founder Steve Corbin would like to send his condolences to the family and friends of long-time competitor Antoine Ponticelli, who was killed in a traffic accident just prior to the event. “Antoine’s family was keen that his place be taken up and the race go on,” Steve adds.

Triathlon kids at Siena Photos by Vincent Ypersiel

On November 11 Club Siena and Siena Park were abuzz with the anticipation of 80 kids aged five to 12, at the start of the Ageas-Sports World Triathlon Challenge. As event organiser, Siegfried Verheijke of the Lantau Buffalos explains: “Now in their third year, the so-called Lantau Calves races are a big hit with kids and parents alike. They give our youngsters a true sense of accomplishment. The competitors proved to be real heroes and while some crashed their bikes, they all got up again and finished the race!� Prizes were awarded to the top three finishers in each category, to the youngest Calf and the bravest Calves! Look to www.arounddb.com and www.lantaubuffalos.org for race results and more photos.

Fun for all the family at Discovery College Photos by Martin Shock and Tracey van Geest

The Discovery College Family Fun Day on November 10 was as successful as always, with fantastic entertainment by the school bands and choirs. The Apron Strings Cooking School Junior Master Chef challenge was a highlight.

Last year, Phoebe Whalley won the competition; this year, her sister Sophie Whalley kept up the family tradition and took first prize, followed by Sarah Buring in second place and Krijin Toor in third. Go to our event gallery (and photo gallery) on www.arounddb.com to see more fun photos of this event.

International regatta just offshore Photos by Kevin Lewis

The Standard Life Asian Open Regatta is one of the biggest catamaran events in Asia for professionals and amateurs alike. This year, it was staged in the waters between Discovery Bay and Hong Kong Harbour, on the weekend of November 3. The competition tested the mettle of dozens of international and local competitors in four catamaran classes (Dart 18, F18, Hobie 16, and Open). Four-time world champion, Dutch national racer Coen de Koning chalked up victories in all five of the Saturday races in conditions which forced numerous competitors to retire. Al and Liam Doherty took three victories in the Dart 18 class to clinch the title, with Neels Brink and Felix Mak finishing first in the Open class. Go to www.arounddb.com to see more photos.

December 2012

11

DECEMBER 2012 DECEMBER AT A GLANCE

IN & AROUND DB

WHEN

WHAT

WHERE

December 1

Plant Market

Across from Haven Court

December 1, 2-6pm

Island School Christmas Fair

Island School, Mid-levels

December 1, 2.30-4.30pm

Let’s Sing and Dance Together family event

DB Plaza

December 1-2

DBRC Annual Tennis Championship

Discovery Bay Recreation Club

December 2, 10am-4pm

DB Farmers’ Market

DB North Plaza

December 2, 7-9pm

Best Music, Best Taste promotion

D’Deck Promenade

December 2, 12-5pm

Flea Market

DB Plaza

December 5, 6pm

Carols on the Pitch

Discovery Bay International School pitch

December 8, 10am-9pm

YMCA International Fun Fair

YMCAHK Christian College, Tung Chung

December 8

MSIG HK50 trail run

Starting at DB North Plaza

December 9, 10am-4pm

ACCESSDB Rehabus Launch

DB Plaza

December 13

Joao Mascarenhas performs

22°North

December 13-15

Godspell

Hong Kong Arts Centre, Admiralty

December 16, 4-6pm

The Nativity Celebration (Ecumenical Event)

DB Plaza

December 23, 12-6.30pm

Santa Claus Fun Day

DB Recreation Club lobby

December 24, 6pm

DB Anglican Church Christingle Service

SKH Wei Lun Primary School

December 31, 7.30pm

New Year’s Eve Hollywood Gala

Club Siena

If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact dana@arounddb.com

Please visit www.arounddb.com to participate in our competitions. Simply click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). You have until December 10 to submit your answers.

Chance to win Christmas

high tea for two

COMPETITION

The Nutcracker Christmas promotion at the Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel (near the airport) is truly a joy to behold. As well as the stunning decorations, the hotel is providing gingerbread-making classes for kids and log cake-making classes for adults, plus chocolate spa treats, and not to be missed festive dining options! Call 3969 1888 to make a booking.

Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel is offering two readers high tea for two (up to HK$438 per winner) at The Lounge, from December 3 to 26. For your chance to win, go to the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) by December 10 and tell us which yuletide treat kids can learn to bake at the hotel.

22°North for

hot Brazilian jazz

Award-winning musician, composer and music director Joao Mascarenhas will be providing the musical entertainment at 22°North on December 13. Joao began his career in Brazil working with several national and international artists and orchestras, including the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra of Sao Paulo and You Records. In France he directs specialised Brazilian music groups. To make a booking, call 2987 2298.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Christina Maneja and Paula Hannan for the Hip Little Bubba gift certificates; Grazyna Bobrowska for the Reishi Renewal Therapy Treatment from Spa MTM; Diana Marr for the LMFAO tickets; Amy Shitu for tickets to see Cabaret Sauvignon; Liz Hern and Marion Udall for the Little Red Riding Hood – The Panto tickets; and Sally Fontaine and Susanna Yan for tickets to see Beauty and The Beast. Please call our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

12

December 2012

DECEMBER 2012

IN & AROUND DB

Bone marrow DBers starring Bradley Wayburne transplant in Godspell Be a superstar with

for Rocky Perez

Following in the footsteps of his parents Dawnna and David, who set up DMR School of Ballet in DB over 20 years ago, Bradley Wayburne has just formed his own DB company, The MM Look. As Bradley explains: “Our concept is a brand new idea of photography. Our photo shoot helps you feel like a superstar for the day and then we create your own magazine spread or comic strip with the results.

We offer two unique services. The first brings out the glamorous model in you and the second shines a light on your hidden hero within." See for yourself at www.theMMlook.com.

Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation is presenting Godspell on December 13, 14 and 15 at the Hong Kong Arts Centre’s Shouson Theatre in Admiralty.

Adapted and directed by Lindsey McAlister, the exuberant and up-todate production features many a DB talent. You can purchase tickets, from HK$180 to HK$250, at www.urbtix.hk or call 2111 5999.

Giveaway for

Chinaphiles

COMPETITION

Natalia Segura recently moved from Shenzhen to Discovery Bay. She and her friend Ruth Stevenson have just published This is China, An Expatriate’s Perspective, which is on sale in the US and on Amazon. Discussing the project, Natalia explains, “It has been, and continues to be, our hope that the book inspires both intrigue and self-reflection”. This is China, An Expatriate's Perspective is full of eye-opening stories, humour and simple truths.

Natalia and Ruth are offering two books and five calendars (featuring their photography) to seven readers. For your chance to win, go to the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) by December 10. You’ll need to tell us where in China the authors lived.

Many of you may know DB resident Rocky Perez and his family. Rocky urgently needs a bone marrow transplant – and a donor. As his wife Debra explains, “The doctors are running out of options but they are willing to try one last round of chemotherapy. However, without a bone marrow donor in place, even if Rocky does achieve remission the prognosis is not good. Without a donor he likely only has months to live.” Perhaps you can help?

To get on the Hong Kong Bone Marrow Donor Registry, call 2710 1206.

Sign up for a

trail run

December 8 sees the second leg of the MSIG HK50 series right here in Discovery Bay. With three different races there is something for everyone. You can go for the relatively easy 14-kilometre, the harder going 27-kilometre, or the ‘I’m really fit and I know it’ 50-kilometre race. The trail runs all start and finish at the Auberge Hotel in DB North Plaza, so if you are not participating, go down and cheer people on to the finish line. For online registration visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

December 2012

13

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN & AROUND DB

Do your bit for a Ugandan nursery school Last month, we featured an article about Jeanette Thorsen and her family’s altruistic commitment to the Bajjo Hope Nursery School in Uganda. Jeanette has got the Discovery Bay Recreation Club on board, so from December 5 to 23, you can drop off all your new or used books (mainly in English), stationery items, educational materials and toys (not too bulky) at the club for donation. All these items make meaningful and useful gifts for the less fortunate children at Bajjo Hope. To find out more go to www.hope-for-children.org.

Nativity celebration in DB Plaza

Xmas hamper campaign Every Christmas, thanks to SOS Lanka Action, useful plastic wash basins filled with basic food items are given to needy individuals and families in Sri Lanka. The funds are raised here in Hong Kong and the basins and food items are all purchased from small local vendors in Sri Lanka. You can donate either a HK$200 basket for a family of four or a HK$300 basket which is good for a larger family. Contact bernie@sos-lanka-action.org or visit www.sos-lanka-action.org to find out more.

Christingle and a Santa visit at SKH Wei Lun The kids can catch up with Santa on December 2 at 3pm in the SKH Wei Lun Primary School hall. And on December 24 at 6pm, DB Anglican Church will hold its hugely popular Christingle Service which includes a Nativity play. If you would like your child to join in the fun, email markrogers@discoverybaychurch.org.hk.

Carols at DBIS There’ll be mulled wine for adults, hot chocolate for kids and mince pies for everyone at Carols on the Pitch this year. Held at the Discovery Bay International School pitch on December 5, the carolling starts at 6.30pm – but get there a little earlier for Xmas eats. Expect a mixture of class performances, music ensemble performances (by the school choirs and orchestra) plus congregational Christmas songs for everyone to participate in. And don’t miss the special appearance of you know who after the carols are finished! Learn more about the event from DBIS music coordinator Clare Lambert in our profile section.

14

December 2012

On December 16, from 4pm to 6pm, Trinity Roman Catholic Chapel, Church of the Incarnation, DB Anglican Church and Discovery Bay International Community Church are coming together to bring Christmas to the plaza. At The Nativity Celebration (Ecumenical Event) there will be carol singing followed by a narration of The Nativity story. This year, to honour the true spirit of Christmas, the DB churches hope those attending the sing-along will make a donation to the ACCESSDB Rehabus. For more information turn to our profile section, or call 2987 4210/ 2987 7061.

Fun day with St Nick On December 23, from 12 noon to 6.30pm, head to the Discovery Bay Recreation Club lobby for the Santa Claus Fun Day. A family ticket costs HK$150 and entitles you to a professionally shot family photo with St Nick (taken by PhotosDB.net), entry to the Games and Xmas Arts-and-Crafts Corner (two per family), and a bag of Christmas goodies. Call 2987 7381 to find out more.

Hollywood gala to ring in the New Year At the New Year’s Eve Hollywood Gala at Club Siena you can dress up like a movie star and walk the red carpet.

Tickets are priced at HK$630 for adults and HK$310 for under 12s (nonmembers HK$820/ HK$380) which includes a buffet dinner and a glass of mulled wine or fruit punch.

The bash starts at 7.30pm, with Jordan Deep playing live from 9.30pm on. There will be a lucky draw and dancing all the way into 2013. Call 2987 7382 to make a booking.

The Autumn Music Series Experience some of Asia’s top mucisians

Thursday, 13 December

JoĂŁo Mascarenhas Brazilian Bliss

Call now to book: 2987 2298 Dinner included. Limited tickets available

Since 2002, Chef pour Toi has been catering for a wide variety of customers, be it either business or pleasure.

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 the knowledge to turn your event into a success, allowing you to focus on your guests while we do what we know best.

Contact us to get a quote for your tailor-made party.

Chef Pour Toi Ltd. 2987 5797

chef@chefpourtoi.com www.chefpourtoi.com

DECEMBER 2012 IN & AROUND DB

Find out how to educate your toddler

for free!

COMPETITION

Sqooll was founded in Hong Kong by Julie Stockdale, an early childhood educator and mother of a two year old. Her goal is to provide busy parents with the convenient and cost-effective tools they need to teach their toddlers at home and prepare them for pre-school. Simply sign up at sqooll.com and every month a new Sqooll Activity Pack is sent direct to your door. As your child grows and develops, Sqooll learning activities progress with them.

Julie is giving away a three-month Sqooll membership (valued at HK$1,314) to two lucky readers. For your chance to win, go to the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) by December 10. You’ll need to visit sqooll.com to tell us three of the six lesson types found in Sqooll’s monthly activity packs.

Playgroups in

DB

BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN, DB NORTH PLAZA

12 months to 6 years, 6114 2436 ramesha@bayview.hk, www.bayview.hk Early Childhood Educational Centre (Bilingual English-Mandarin). Unique in DB with an outdoor play area, gardening activities, pet caring, daily art education, themed-based circle times, science activities and more!

CRAFTYBABES, DB PLAZA

Kabliji kids give Around DB

the thumbs up

We ran a profile in the October issue on DB resident Ajit Gidwani, highlighting the 22-year-old’s altruistic involvement with Kabliji School, near New Delhi, India. Ajit, now a tennis coach at Club Siena, began volunteering at the school during his Gap Year. On a flying visit to the school in October, he showed the kids the Around DB article – and he has shared this photo of their appreciation.

If you would like to help, contact Ajit at ajit_gidwani@hotmail.com.

FUNFIT, CLUB SIENA

6 months to 6 years, 9380 5771 info@funfit.hk, www.funfit.hk An active learning programme which helps develop your child’s balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills, hand eye coordination and much more! We are caring for our children’s future health and fitness.

LITTLE EXPLORERS, PHASE 1

2 years up, 2987 2897, 9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com Caring and stimulating learning environment with an emphasis on learning through play and having loads of fun! A well-established playgroup in DB.

MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB, DB PLAZA

2 to 4 years, 2987 0272 info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, www.midgetgemskidsclub.com Established and dedicated DB Plaza playgroups in English, German, Mandarin and Spanish. A great environment with the emphasis on the fun factor.

MUSIC TOGETHER, DB NORTH PLAZA

Newborn to 24 months, 9239 6447 crafty.babes@hotmail.com, www.craftybabes.com An informal, accompanied playgroup for babies. The focus is on helping everyone, young and old, to make new friends, learn to be creative and have a fun time!

6 months to 4 years, 2325 3999 musictogether@yahoo.com; www.musictogether.com A well-established music and motion programme from the USA since 1987.

DUMPER TRUCKS AND DAISIES, DB PLAZA

MYKIDZPLACE, SIENA 2

12 months to 4 years, 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com A modern approach to both traditional and Montessori methods, all geared towards the needs of your children and their preparation for further education.

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP, IN THE GREENS

18 months to 6 years, 6496 8662 my_kidz_place@yahoo.com.hk Mandarin playgroup sessions for children. A native teacher speaks only Mandarin throughout the class to create an environment where children can pick up the target language effortlessly with various interactive activities.

20 months to 4 years, 9511 2107, 2987 9644 info@earlyadventures.net, www.earlyadventures.net A warm and caring environment where children are offered interesting activities to help them achieve their full potential. A well-established playgroup with bright and spacious facilities. Morning and afternoon sessions available.

PLAYTIME, CHERISH

FIRST FRIENDS, SECOND FRIENDS, AT CLUB SIENA

PLAYTIME’S MUM AND BABY/ PLAYTIME’S NEW PHONICS, CHERISH

8 months to 3+ years, 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com, www.firstfriendshk.com DB’s longest running playgroup offering both parents and children’s groups.

Small classes guaranteed. Thousands of toys and fun!

18 months to 4 years, 2623 4099, 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com A playgroup run by a Montessori-trained teacher with lots of experience. A great place to learn in a caring environment. Playtime is open five days a week.

6 to 18 months/ 2.5 to 4.5 years, 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com New courses offered by a well-experienced Montessori-trained teacher on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 2.15-3.30pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-4.30pm.

ADVERTORIAL

Merry Guilt-Free Shopping Christmas Promotion at Citygate Outlets

With the fabulously festive Guilt-Free Shopping Christmas Promotion at Citygate Outlets, Tung Chung, you can shop more than 90 international brand names, all offering discounts of up to 70%!

Join the Guilt-Free Shopping Grand Lucky Draw for a chance to win a HK$50,000 shopping voucher To make the holiday season even more joyful, simply spend HK$1,000 or above by credit card or EPS in a single day at Citygate Outlets, you can get a free Christmas gift – an exclusive “365 Days of Guilt-free Shopping calendar with desktop accessories” plus an entry to “The Guilt-Free Shopping Grand Lucky Draw.” By entering the draw you have a chance to win a fabulous Citygate Outlets Shopping Voucher worth HK$50,000 for a mega shopping spree at Citygate Outlets! Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the holiday excitement at Citygate Outlets!

Amazing Christmas performances ensure a delightful shopping experience While ransacking the stores, you’ll also appreciate the mall’s glorious X’mas decorations, with stunning 10 metre-tall LED Christmas trees. And don’t miss the fun-filled live performances by magicians and jugglers, who have chocolate Santas to give away.

Festive performance schedule Date

Time

Venue

December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 25, 26, 29, 30

2pm-2.45pm

G/F Citygate Outlets

(Every Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday)

4pm-4.45pm

Level 2 Citygate Outlets

For enquiries and further details of the Christmas Promotion at Citygate Outlets, Tung Chung, please contact Citygate Outlets Customer Service Hotline on 2109 2933.

Trade Promotion Competition Licence no: 39594

ACROSS LANTAU

DECEMBER 2012

YMCAHKCC

Palm Beach

Fun Fair Christmas

party

On December 8 from 10am to 9pm, head to the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College International Fun Fair in Tung Chung. Parents, students and friends will once again celebrate different cultures, enjoy ethnic food, shop the bazaar and watch talent and fashion shows. Last year, over 2,000 visitors made a day of it. To find out more or book a booth at the bazaar, contact Marvis Wong at 2988 2028, marvis.wong@ymcacc.edu.hk.

The Christmas season at Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel (close to the airport) is going to be magical! You can snap a family portrait in front of the two-storey high Christmas tree, or join in a Nutcracker hunt! Afternoon tea in The Lobby includes mince pies; and roast turkey, log cakes and Christmas pudding are on offer at the SkyCity Bistro buffet. Besides the good food and pampering spa treats, kids as well as adults can take cookery classes with Pastry Chef Dick Chan. Turn to page 12 for a chance to win afternoon tea for two at the hotel.

Start celebrating Christmas on December 2 from 11am at Palm Beach in Cheung Sha. The Lantau Children’s Choir will be performing at 12pm and the kids will enjoy a visit from Santa at lunchtime. Bring a bag of candies and a plate of food to share. For the specifics and to RSVP, email barbshaupt@hotmail.com.

A gift for your

complexion During the holiday season, MTM Spa recognises that the skin becomes dull, fatigued a n d d e hyd r a te d. Yo u m ay want to rejuvenate with its new Custom-blended Reishi Mask.

In just moments, this rich and milky smooth mask restores a healthy glow, firms the skin and diminishes fine lines. For more information, visit the MTM Custom-blended Skincare Centre at Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung or call 2923 6060.

COMPETITION

Festive fun at SkyCity Marriott

MTM Spa is offering one reader a Custom-blended Reishi Mask treatment, valued at HK$1,380. For your chance to win, go to the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) by December 10 and tell us how the mask improves the complexion.

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DECEMBER 2012

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PROFILE

here we come

a-carolling

The ecumenical Christmas celebration in DB Plaza is an annual highpoint

Four churches in DB are joining together this month to share the Christmas spirit with the community – through an ecumenical celebration. Juan Miguel Sevilla talks to two of the organisers, Reverend Mark Rogers and Pastor James Buckner

E

ach year, restaurateurs, retailers and social groups in DB take it upon themselves to bring lashings of holiday cheer to residents. As a result, all of us spending Christmas here are in for a very merry time of it.

To kick start the celebrations, four churches in DB, namely the Trinity Roman Catholic Chapel, DB Anglican Church, DB International Community Church (DBICC) and Church of the Incarnation, are holding a joint production, The Nativity

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December 2012

Celebration (Ecumenical Event). There’ll be a whole lot of carolling involved – more than you can shake a candy cane at – so be sure to head down to DB Plaza on December 16. Together, the churches aim to introduce The Nativity of Jesus (and carolling) to a new generation and, for those who grew up with it, evoke the traditional spirit of the season.

Reverend Mark Rogers of DB Anglican Church and Pastor James Buckner of DBICC are two of the main organisers of the production. Some 50 DB residents will be participating,

PROFILE

Carols on the Pitch with DBIS is a joyful community event

including a local singing group and musicians, plus the combined church choirs.

Reverend Mark explains that the churches have enjoyed a good turnout at ecumenical celebrations in the past.

“Around 200 people are expected to gather in the plaza this year and sing along,” he says. “People like hearing the story of The Nativity and participating in the carolling.”

“Carols remind many people of their most important family holiday as a child and adult,” adds Pastor James discussing the show. “For most, those are fond memories, and so the celebration brings a touch of ‘home’ to DB.”

Not just for Christians Whether one hears them for the first time or the hundredth time, carols enchant; they also have the ability to bring people together regardless of nationality or creed.

Reverend Mark points out that the story of The Nativity, too, has a universal appeal. On the one hand, it is the story of the birth of Christ, and on the other, it is the story of a child born into humble circumstances. This theme resonates not just with Christians but with everyone. Noting that The Nativity lends itself to different interpretations, Reverend Mark believes it is possible to strike a balance between the story’s original themes, while at the same time remaining contemporary and relevant.

The first hour of The Nativity Celebration will consist of popular carols, as well as favourite non-religious songs like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. A biblical account

Find more local community groups and events

Carolling with DBIS Clare Lambert music coordinator at Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) is coordinating the school’s annual Carols on the Pitch being held on December 5 at 6pm. “Carols on the Pitch is not just a school event but welcomes everyone within the DB community,” she says. “The event used to be held in the school theatre however as it got bigger and more popular it was moved outside so more people could participate and join in with the carols.”

Last year’s turnout was 2,000 and this year even more people are expected to attend. “A variety of people enjoy the event – mums, dads, grandparents, toddlers, teenagers and helpers – from a mixture of nationalities and countries,” explains Clare. “It really is a whole community event.”

This year will be slightly different as every DBIS student (both primary and secondary) will perform.

The DBIS orchestra and choirs will lead the community congregational carollers.

In explaining the concert’s huge appeal, Clare notes that Christmas carols uphold worthwhile traditions and values; they are timeless. “Singing creates a happy atmosphere in people,” she adds. “Participating in a Christmas carol concert helps to spread happiness throughout our school and beyond into the community in which we live. DBIS promotes itself as one big happy family and we hope that everyone will feel a part of it after attending the concert.”

www.arounddb.com December 2012

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21

PROFILE

of Christ’s birth will follow, narrated in both Chinese and English, and interspersed with classic carols.

“The song will continue forever,” concludes Pastor James.

“It is my prayer that this song will be the heart song of many in DB both young and old.”

Enduring appeal While carolling is part of a great tradition, the way it is viewed is changing in our rapidly evolving world. “Sadly, in a few cultures, it is becoming less and less received,” says Pastor James. “But here in DB, the DBICC family and my friends in the Holy Trinity, DB Anglican Church and Church of the Incarnation will continue to sing each Christmas season.”

Both Reverend Mark and Pastor James are sharing their passion with the younger generation. DB Anglican Church is presenting a Christingle Service on Christmas Eve at SKH Wei Lun Primary School; the DBICC is hosting the Christmas play Word on the Street at Discovery College on December 2. Both churchmen believe in having kids participate in and observe a traditional Christmas, so that the faith can be passed to future generations.

Find it • The Nativity Celebration (Ecumenical Event) is being held in DB Plaza on December 16 at 4pm • DB Anglican Church is presenting a Christingle Service on December 24 at SKH Wei Lun Primary School at 6pm • DBICC is hosting the Christmas play Word on the Street at Discovery College on December 2. The DBICC choir has also been invited to sing at the DB Golf Club on December 15 • Carols on the Pitch is being held at DBIS on December 5 at 6pm

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IN FOCUS

As a Sea Shepherd campaign photographer, Gary has faced down giant Japanese whaling ships

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December 2012

IN FOCUS

facing the giants Gary habitually takes on major eco-challenges

Year’s end is a perfect time to celebrate who we are – and our boundless ability to overcome the obstacles in our path.

Three Discovery Bay residents share two very different stories of success, with Karmel Schreyer

I

t is often said that courage is not the absence of fear or despair, but the strength to conquer them. So how does one find the courage to face down life’s most daunting challenges?

Physical, emotional or spiritual, life’s tests come in all forms.

In the process of dealing with these we find that success is not found only when confronting the giants in our path, but when we face down those that are within us – the giants of fear, despair and failure.

Gary Stokes – eco-warrior Gary Stokes of Hemingway’s DB is first and foremost a committed eco-warrior, on a mission to save the natural world. As the Hong Kong coordinator of marine conservation non-profit Sea Shepherd, he has proven his mettle by going into ‘battle’ against Japanese whalers in Antarctica. Even more recently, he has made cleaning up Hong Kong’s plastic-strewn coastline in the aftermath of Typhoon Vicente a very personal mission.

On December 2, 2010, Gary was a campaign photographer with Sea Shepherd when the activists set out to confront and shut down illegal Japanese whaling operations. With a self-imposed ‘research’ quota of 1,035 whales, the four whaling ships met with overwhelming resistance from the objectors, who harassed their operations and drove them out of Antarctica.

December 2012

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25

IN FOCUS “I was on board the Bob Barker, the ship that saw most of the action and pursued the whalers over 2,000 miles almost all the way to Chile,” explains Gary. “We reduced the whalers’ quota to 10% of what they were hoping to kill, and with the additional pressure of the Chilean authorities, the whalers threw in the towel and returned to Japan, hopefully never to return.”

Gary admits to wrestling doubts and fears, and questioning whether in endangering himself he’s making the right choices. “I do think about what I am doing, especially now that I am a father to two young children,” he confides. “But each success makes me feel I’m doing the right thing.”

in Discovery Bay. After that I was constantly dealing with some sort of illness. I had pneumonia, shingles, fluid on my lungs and sores in my mouth. All of this resulted in my dropping from 130 pounds to 112 pounds. I also suffered from double vision.”

On July 1, 2008, Sandra started to lose her short-term memory. Talking on the phone with friends she kept repeating herself and afterwards could not remember the conversation. “I asked Sandra if she was feeling alright and she broke down,” says Roey. “She was anxious and confused. I too was scared.

We made an appointment with a neurologist, who sent Sandra for an MRI scan.” The diagnosis was central nervous system lymphoma: brain cancer.

Whether in mortal danger, Determined to stay strong during the confronting whaler’s ships from a Sandra with Roey during her six months of chemotherapy, Sandra small Sea Shepherd craft, or taking treatment for brain cancer embarked on a rigorous diet and supplement on a major eco-disaster and striving to regimen, and took up meditation. She credits key clean up Hong Kong’s coastline and save its affirmations – ‘I love myself’ … ‘I have a strong burning marine wildlife, Gary clearly gains strength and desire to live’ – with empowering her. Sandra inspiration from his co-volunteers. He is full also had her hair cut. “Roey said to me that of praise for the dedication and passion when he shaved my head it gave me more of the Sea Shepherd activists. And of confidence,” she explains. all those who toiled in the baking sun this summer, cleaning our Sandra sees her doctor for check-ups beaches, he says, ““The sheer every four months. “It used to be after determination to getting the job seven years of remission you were done has been astounding. cured,” she explains, “but now it is We have seen families on the after five years. In my mind I choose beaches with members as to know I am cured now.” young as two and as old as 82 (maybe older).”

For Sandra and Roey then, failure was never an option. Roey likens their Hopefully Gary is finally able to journey from the point of diagnosis to believe that his efforts, and the Sandra blooming in DB today being on a treadmill. “We had a deep faith efforts of eco-warriors like himself, that at the end of the ‘workout’ Sandra was are a real-world reflection of that going to be perfectly healthy,” he says. “When I change they wish to see. speak of faith I don’t mean it necessarily in a religious sense. From the very moment that Sandra was diagnosed Sandra and David Roe – wellness warriors with cancer I trusted that she would be completely healed.

I cannot say that I did not have moments where my faith Sandra Roe can be called a wellness warrior, and has been was challenged, however any challenges were quickly living as one for most of her life, since she beat Hodgkin’s overcome by letting a deep inner knowing wash over me.” disease at the age of 14. Sandra’s warm manner and serenity belie a disciplined determination to emerge the The couple were also empowered by support received from winner. And now she is cured – victorious. She explains her family and friends around the world. “Prayer, meditation more recent challenge – overcoming brain cancer. and physical support surrounded us completely,” says Roey. “It was like a warm blanket that wrapped around us.

“In 2005 I travelled to Hong Kong on a holiday and fell in Inside this support we were able to develop a deep trust love. I moved here in 2006 and David (Roey as I call him) that everything would work out perfectly.” and I were married in 2007 up at the pagoda on the hill

Find more inspirational local stories

26

December 2012

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IN FOCUS

Taking up the narrative, Sandra says, “We chose to believe that I would survive, and that in every negative there is a positive. We focused on health, healing and love. We chose to look at all of the incredible things that we gained. The most important for me was that I am alive… being with my love, enjoying the smallest of things, and surrounded by beautiful people. My relationship with Roey was wonderful before but it has grown deeper. The most important thing though was that when I looked in the mirror I was able to say, ‘I love myself’. This was truly a powerful shift in my being.”

After treatment, Sandra wrote a children’s book series about funny things that had occurred. “Laughter is the best medicine and I did a lot of it during my treatment, which I know helped tremendously,” she says. Sandra aims to publish the first book next year with part-proceeds going to cancer research.

Our own stories will be different. But everyone has – or will have – their story just the same. Facing down those giants of fear and despair, helping others face them, too, is a part of life. Maybe it is the meaning of life.

Inspirational messages From Gary: “We need a consciousness shift to save ourselves from us! I’m often asked why I bother. I want to be able to look my children in the eye and say that I’ve tried my best to save the natural world.” Contact Gary at www.garystokesphotography.com/blog.

From Sandra: “Life is so much richer now as I define myself from the inside. I see the world through different eyes, the small everyday occurrences are special and saying hello and smiling at people fills me with joy. Please feel free to email Roey and me for support at sandra@geltour.com.”

FAMILY MATTERS

roots and Illustration by Richard Leschinsky; photos courtesy of Deirdre McCarthy, Kyoko Funo and Ohad Hecht

Maintaining a family’s cultural heritage is a challenging task in the international enclave of Discovery Bay. But what better time to focus on this than during the holidays, says Mary Singer

30

December 2012

FAMILY MATTERS

wings D

ecember brings with it so many special religious days, for so many different denominations, with even the ‘faithless’ celebrating December 21, the winter solstice, with a little pagan revelry to help drive out the darkness. Most importantly, Christmas/ Xmas/ the holidays provide us with a time for family; a time to uphold our own traditions and ensure that our children have one foot firmly planted in the good earth of the homeland.

Wise parents give their children roots and wings. Variations of this notion are attributed both to American journalist Hodding Carter and to ancient Chinese wisdom. Whatever the provenance, the idea is sound. And savvy DB parents are good at putting theory into practice, by sending their children to heritage camps in summer, or to mother-tongue clubs at school, for instance. Here are some stories about successfully strengthened cultural bonds.

Lucky to have a bit of the Irish When the O’Connor Barton Irish Dance School set up shop in Discovery Bay over a year ago, DB mum Deirdre McCarthy was pleased that her daughter Adilah could then, quite literally, follow in her footsteps. Irish dance played a big role in Deirdre’s childhood. “I was brought up in the UK – my parents met through the Irish community in Manchester,” she explains. “My mum was an Irish dancer and lived with her Irish cousins in Ireland during the war.

Their whole social life was based around Irish culture.”

Deirdre recalls dancing and music holidays with fondness and is now thrilled to share that experience with her child.

“I was delighted when Adilah chose to do Irish dancing,” she adds. “Not only is it a new and fun experience, but the dancing lets us hold on to a little of our past and pass it on, albeit in a diluted version, to the next generation.” Adilah recently took part in her first Irish dance feis (competition) which included the requisite national dress. “I enjoy the lessons and I am looking forward to dancing in [my mum’s] heavy shoes,” Adilah said happily, in the lead-up to the event. Mum Deirdre adds, “I think the happiest people are my parents, Eamonn and Mary McCarthy, who love receiving video clips from time to time.”

A feel for Japan in Hong Kong Kyoko Funo, married to a Chinese-Canadian, started Gakken in 2008, so her daughter and other DB children could gain a nuanced appreciation and understanding of all things Japanese. “When my daughter Felicia [now seven] was younger, she would mix English and Japanese words and grammar. I wanted her to speak beautiful Japanese sentences, and to identify her roots and nationality. I decided to start my play/ study group to create a Japanese

December 2012

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31

FAMILY MATTERS

At Sanskriti class, DB kids explore their Hindi heritage

Irish dancer Adilah with mum Deirdre

Jonathan and Yuval with a menorah

cultural environment and give the children a chance to learn Japanese writing and reading.”

to start the New Year ‘clean’. That’s why we wear new, white clothes, to represent purity and new beginnings.”

There are 20 students at Gakken now, from tiny tots to teens. “Gakken students have a lot of homework, so their parents support them to keep up their Japanese studies at home,” Kyoko says. “The changing of seasons is quite noticeable and wonderful in Japan, so we enjoy the four seasons through Japanese poetry, words, crafting and celebrations at Gakken.”

There is plenty in the Jewish tradition to draw on, and Ohad and his family like to share, visiting their children's school to talk about Jewish holidays. “My wife brings some customary food, explains the holiday, and tells a story or does some kind of activity,” Ohad explains.

It sounds like a lot of fun. For example, the students will learn kakizome (Japanese calligraphy) after New Year, and get rid of the dreaded oni (devil) by throwing beans out the doorway during Setsubun in February. They celebrate Hinamatsuri (the doll festival) and Tango no sekku (the boy's festival) in spring, make kakigori (shaved ice desserts) in summer, and in autumn there’s Shichi go san, a special day just for seven-, five-, and three-year-olds. “The students enjoy these events,” explains Kyoko, “and we parents can see the great impact and success they are having.”

Sharing the riches of Jewish tradition “As an Israeli family, the most important thing for us is to teach our children the holiday traditions,” says Ohad Hecht, who moved to Discovery Bay from Israel 10 years ago with his family after a five-year stint in Vienna. “At Rosh Hashanah [September 16], we eat apples dipped in honey to symbolise a sweet new year. We throw breadcrumbs into the river [or ocean] as a symbol that we cast our sins away,

Find more kids’ activities

32

Festival-related craft activities at Gakken

December 2012

For families looking to educate their kids in Judaism, DB’s centre of Jewish learning, Chabad Lantau is a great resource. Here Rabbi Mendy Ajzenszmidt offers teen clubs and after-school programmes.

Jewish-diaspora teen Niamh Neville recently celebrated her Bat Mitzvah, a significant coming-of-age tradition.

Many friends attended the ceremony, solemn, musical, and amusing at times, and the culmination of many months of intensive study for Niamh. Her friend Parisa Wootton felt honoured to be a part of the Jewish ritual, as an invited guest. “I was really impressed with the way Niamh recited the Torah, and how she had studied and understood all the verses she read,” says Parisa. “I also enjoyed how it was a gathering of all the people important to Niamh and how it turned into a party and celebration! It was nice to watch Niamh make a commitment to her religion.”

A subcontinental feast of culture Geetangali Dhar, managing director of Brilliant Learning International Ltd, is a pioneer in popularising the use of

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

New Classes at Discovery College Introducing Disco Freestyle/ Hip Hop classes every Monday for Boys and Girls aged 5 - 16 by Ms. Gem. Starting in January 2013!

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FAMILY MATTERS

Hindi language among the younger generation of Indian diaspora in Hong Kong. In particular through the school’s signature programme Sanskriti. She explains, “Sanskriti in Hindi means 'heritage' and that is what we are offering.

Apart from producing fluent speakers, the aim is to impart a sense of connectivity and become knowledgeable about one’s motherland. It is very heart-warming to get feedback from parents when the children are able to talk in Hindi or write a letter.”

Sanskriti Idol, Utsav Annual Day celebrations and holiday camps are a few of the activities on offer. “In 2012/ 2013 our fourth batch of students will be ready for the Government of India Hindi Examinations. So far our students have passed with flying colours,” says Geetangali.

Seven-year-old Aryan attends classes with several of his DB schoolmates and loves it. “Many Indian families speak English at home, so it is good to have a time set aside where my son can learn about Bollywood movies and conversational Hindi,” says mum Cherie Mittal. “When we go back to India in the summer, he doesn’t feel like a foreigner.”

“Parents definitely want their children to know about their roots. The need is more distinct living outside India as one gets encouraged by seeing other nationals fluent in their respective languages,” says Geetangali. The school has a mix of students of American, Australian, British, Canadian, Chinese, Romanian and Indian ethnicity. Geetangali explains, “The unifying cultural interest makes us one big Sanskriti family.”

Find it • Brilliant Learning International Ltd, 2148 2711, www.brilliantlearning.com.hk • Chabad Lantau, 2523 9770, www.chabadhk.org • Gakken, 6183 0930, gakkendb@yahoo.co.jp • O’Connor Barton Irish Dance School, dance@oconnor-bartonid.com, www.oconnor-bartonid.com

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MONEY MATTERS

Obama victorious – more quantitativeeasing policies inevitable (www.havredailynews.com)

bite the bullet With the US election over, it’s back to reality.

Martin W. Hennecke takes a look at the US debt crisis and how international investors can best stay on top

I

t’s quite clear that quantitative-easing policies in the United States have not really been working in terms of stimulating economic growth. And now that the US election is over, perhaps there will be a bit less of an effort made to make awful economic and employment statistics look good.

A country in crisis

The reality simply is that more Americans than ever are out of the labour force, and the number of people surviving on food stamps has risen to an all-time record high (nearly 15%). The official unemployment statistics are quite meaningless as they don’t include those who have given up looking for jobs.

For a better understanding take a look at the graph overleaf, which does include the long-term unemployed.

It’s not just the official US$16 plus trillion official national debt we should be talking about. This figure measures only a small portion of the government’s total liabilities, as it leaves out, for example, the obligation to pay hundreds of trillions of dollars in Social Security and Medicare benefits.

Accordingly, the total actual unfunded liabilities of the US, a number also referred to as the total financial shortfall or the

Regardless of the official employment numbers, which some analysts still hotly contend to be real, nobody can argue about the escalating debt problem that the US has got on its hands.

December 2012

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37

MONEY MATTERS Not in labour force (LNS15000000)

Monthly change in US total debt

The number of Americans out of work has risen dramatically since 2000

The actual fiscal gap may be as much as US$202 trillion

11 years of food stamp participation

US] are about two years away from where Greece was when it had its debt crisis”.

So it seems that, regardless of whether it is working to boost the economy or not, the US may require massively expanded quantitative-easing (money-printing) programmes going forward. This may enable it to escape the debt trap and avoid national bankruptcy through the reduction of the unsustainable debt/ unfunded liabilities burden in real terms, via inflation/ currency devaluation.

Nearly 15% of Americans now rely on food stamps

fiscal gap, has been calculated to add up to a staggering US$202 trillion. This as per Laurence J. Kotlikoff, a professor of economics at Boston University and frequent contributor to publications by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as well as the Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis Review.

It was actually suggested earlier this year by the former Comptroller General of the US (the person officially in charge of ensuring the fiscal and managerial accountability of the US Government from 1998 to 2008), David M. Walker that, “We [the

Obama focusing on the economy (www.blogs.reuter.com)

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38

December 2012

Quantitative easing, after all, does work rather well in terms of creating currency devaluation, inflation (loss of purchasing power) and reducing a debt burden denominated in the currency that is being inflated.

Perhaps that is the real reason and intention of the everexpanding quantitative-easing programmes that we see in the US (and are likely to see soon in the Eurozone). It would have been the same if Mitt Romney had won the election instead of Barack Obama, because the president of the US has no choice at this stage but to print and inflate on a massive scale.

What this means for investors Accordingly, investors seeking a safe haven nowadays, especially those currently holding most assets in cash and bonds, are advised to carefully weigh up the risks of bonds and cash (mainly inflation, but also default risks depending on the type of bonds held), versus the upside potential (interest yields are at record lows implying little upside).

It’s time to consider investment alternatives offering greater inflation protection and/ or more attractive risk/ return profiles. Options include precious metals, selected commodities, equities and convertible bonds. The focus should be on those markets where good value and less debt risks are found.

Gold and silver remain particularly attractive asset classes, as they are the traditional inflation safe havens. Many

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MONEYMATTERS Net purchases and sales by central banks in tonnes

Since 2010, central banks across the world have been buying gold

other fundamental factors remain positive for the metals.

For example, central banks globally have turned into net buyers of gold since 2010 (following 20 years of net selling).

The central banks are led by China, which has continued to increase its gold reserves over the past several years, to bring those holdings more in line percentage-wise with those of the major Western powers. Notwithstanding, China currently holds only a small fraction of its reserves in gold (1.7% as per the latest reporting), significantly less than for example the United States (75.4%) or Germany (72.4%).

AroundDB_Dec_op.indd 1

Talking about Germany, the country seems to have rediscovered the importance of owning and storing gold safely as well. The German Federal Auditor’s Office recently asked the Deutsche Bundesbank to seek to inspect its gold reserves held with the New York Federal Bank, amid concerns about the physical existence and safety of its gold stored abroad.

Against this backdrop, the demand for gold/ precious metals as an inflation hedge should remain positive, if not intensify. As the Western debt crisis escalates and likely morphs into an inflation crisis, China’s growing fondness for gold (the country is expected to overtake India this year as the world’s top gold consumer) is likely to lend further sustainable price support.

Martin W. Hennecke is associate director of Tyche Group Ltd, an independent Hong Kong-based investment and financial advisory firm specialised in providing individually tailored portfolio management and comprehensive financial planning strategies.

Email Martin at mhennecke@tyche-group.com.

11/15/2012 8:48:24 AM

Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native English-speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs.

But the mandatory insurances required by the HK Government (including domestichelper insurance, house insurance, automobile coverage and life insurance), are always worth due diligence. This month, I want to wake you up to some things you may not have considered about your home insurance policies.

Home insurance Homeowners insurance is a security blanket. It is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophe. Therefore, when you are choosing a policy, don’t always look to save money – the best deal may cost you more in the long run. Here are five things you will want to consider and know about: 1. Shop around: When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere. Consider moving your auto policy too; bundling home and auto coverage with the same insurer can cut your total premiums.

2. You may have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflationprotection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure..

3. Small claims can cost you, too. Go with the highest deductible you can afford and bank the savings to cover the cost of minor repairs. Filing a claim for every broken window or leaky pipe makes for excessively high premiums. Better to save your home cover for the really big things like fire and theft and typhoons 4. Your home policy is the correct way to protect all your valuables like jewellry, watches, laptops, tablets, mobiles etc all over the world, most people wrongly assume that your travel policy protects these items… it doesn’t, its your home policy that gets to have the expensive stuff tacked on it

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.

TALKINGPOINTS

adding value

Photos courtesy of Ben Tyrrell

Ben Tyrrell’s new business programme for DB teens encourages young people to take ownership – in more ways than one.

Around DB reports

42

Bright-spark DBIS entrepreneurs – the O’Carrots

December 2012

TALKING POINTS

H

ong Kong born, DB resident, Ben Tyrrell is a successful entrepreneur determined to take his success a step further – by sharing his knowledge and passion with young people. “I’m not religious but it does feel like a calling,” Ben explains. “I would love to have had this opportunity as a 15-year-old, I really would.”

This calling involves mentoring Year 11 students at Discovery Bay International School (DBIS). A basic premise is the merging of business, social responsibility and environmentalism, which Ben believes is the only way forward for entrepreneurial success today. “I have a passion and interest in how entrepreneurialism can link to the environment. The idea that a business can become successful based on being evil is no longer valid. A social business model is really the only sustainable one now,” he explains.

“They will learn, from their own actions, how they will achieve profit, and that profit will be put back into the business,” says Ben. Having set up a company (O’Carrot) with shares and a shareholders’ agreement, students will be required to develop a pitch and find seed money (around HK$250 per student) from an investor. They will decide how to reinvest profits to grow the business in a socially responsible way. Innovation is also a prerequisite. If all goes according to plan, you may, before long, be enjoying purple carrots (yes purple, which is what most carrots used to be before the Dutch modified them centuries ago), organically grown and fairly traded, brought to you by Ben’s bright-spark entrepreneurs.

“I want the students to see that entrepreneurial activity can be an agent for change – that it’s the only route for change,” Ben states. “I want them to know that opportunities Mentor Ben advocates a socially responsible present themselves if you look for For Ben and his students, these business model them, and that entrepreneurship is about important notions will be triangulated taking ownership of your circumstances.” with another concept – keeping things He notes that, historically, the word company simple, getting back to basics. And what could simply referred to being amongst like-minded be more basic than basing a business around the people. “I want the students to get the message that food we eat?

HK$200 earned is more fun than HK$500 given,” concludes Ben, “because they’ve earned it, with friends.” These are In association with Handmade Hong Kong, organisers of ideas we can all buy into.

Discovery Bay’s frequent Backyard Bazaars and Farmers’ Markets, and also with Providence Family Farms, a USDA-, JAS-, and EU-certified organic farm and social enterprise located in Jiangxi province, Ben’s students are about What the students have to say to become good-food retailers, selling carrots at the DB Farmers’ Market in the North Plaza, December 2. “The Under Ben’s guidance, the teen entrepreneurs have set reason I chose carrots is because children see vegetables up a company and brand – O’Carrot. Their corporate as having no value. They are just something they see in the culture dictates that they are all part of the O’Carrot family, trading under one brand and one surname. fridge. But we are going to add the value,” says Ben. The concept of value-added is one of the guiding principles of Ben’s eight-week entrepreneur’s programme, which DBIS administrators have made compulsory for all Year 11 students. The students will be the decision makers in all aspects of the business: branding, packaging, advertising, costing, marketing, budgeting, logistics and more.

The teens will have to draw on their knowledge of all subjects, such as design (for marketing) and even drama.

“Stage fright exists in business, too,” explains Ben. “It will be great for shy kids to deal with the public when they are selling.” And then there’s the math and the humanities.

Find more topical local topics

• “It is fantastic learning the basics of business, from someone who has been through it, and being able to immediately put our ideas into practice,” Sjors O’Carrot • “It feels like we are finally managing our own business,” Apple O’Carrot • “By buying our organically sourced carrots, not only are you making a sensible food purchase but you are also supporting our entrepreneurial efforts and allowing us to continue to do projects of this nature,” Edie O’Carrot

www.arounddb.com December 2012

43

TECH TREND

tweet me right Account user Paula Lepore Burrough looks into the brilliance of Twitter and its capacity to enlighten

L Twitter for learning (www.socialtimes.com)

aunched in July 2006, Twitter, the so-called SMS of the internet, had over 500 million active users as of 2012, generating over 340 million tweets and handling over 1.6 billion search queries daily. But not many of us understand the true power of this social messaging tool. You can in fact compare Twitter to Wikipedia, as both give experts worldwide an opportunity to share their knowledge. With Twitter, you share information via 140-character tweets. Once you have created your following you have created a Personal Learning Network. The only thing you have to be afraid of is being instantly enlightened. That is the brilliance of a short tweet.

Your identity

Who to follow

Helpful hashtags

Twitter fun

It is important to set up your profile well. Post a decent photo of yourself, give a clear outline of who you are in the bio section, and include your job description. This will give your tweets authority, encourage the right sort of followers and help you seek out who you might want to follow in return.

Twitter, like any other social media, has trolls.

By not following them and limiting any interaction, you probably won’t even know they are there. Rather than seeking out users in your email contacts, who have a Twitter account, create a new group of professionals.

In deciding who to follow, if you want a clean slate, try one of these two options. Recruit your followers at a large group event such as a conference, then hand out your Twitter name in exchange for theirs. By the end of the day you will have a new mass of people following you.

Alternatively, try clicking on Browse Categories and get a list of suggested accounts, or use the search box to type in an interest topic. Twitter then starts searching for you and suggests people you should follow based on your interests and others you are following.

This is what differentiates Twitter from other social media status updates.

A hashtag marks a conversation by using # before a word or series of words with no spaces.

Clicking on a hash-tagged word in any message shows you all other tweets marked with the same keyword. Interestingly this system was created organically by Twitter users as a way to categorise messages.

Hashtags help to organise content, and enable users to take notice of trending topics based on where they live and who they are following. Go to www.whatthetrend.com.

There are hundreds of tools to help you get the most out of Twitter.

Vidtwit is a great mobile phone app for taking videos that can be tweeted.

Tweetbackup archives conversations for later years. Trendsmap is a riot, for real-time mapping of Twitter trends across the world. Twubs is useful for discovering conversations through hashtags and a great place for registering your own hashtag for an event. If you start to get carried away (think Ashton Kutcher), Tweetdeck will organise feeds, find focus, even schedule tweets and manage multiple accounts.

Find more tech news

44

December 2012

www.arounddb.com

Now open in DB! Getting connected—

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All programs are suitable for children of all abilities.

For more information and registration contact us at: info@childdevelopment.com.hk www.childdevelopment.com.hk

Tel: 2914 2223

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Photos by Catharine Nicol

ESCAPES

powder

paradise

Hanging out in Hokkaido, Catharine Nicol heads to Niseko for ice-free pistes and super-cool après ski

I

’m weaving too fast through the trees, the fine powder kicking up into the air from my skis, catching the sun and glinting like diamonds. Through the airborne bling my eyes are searching out virgin routes while I’m simultaneously ducking branches, bowed by thick, precariously balanced wedges of snow.

It’s like an insane 3D game of pinball, except I’m the ball and if I hit the obstacles I’ll be toast. The sunshine flickers through the twigs, casting shadows like spiders over the white, glinting snow, but I don’t have time to savour the beauty. There’s no time to think at all – my body reacts automatically to the terrain and I’m hurtling downhill until I run out of energy, or fall, or both.

Leg muscles screaming in protest, I finally pop out of the trees back onto the piste, skidding to an ungraceful and breathless halt. I lean on my poles, waiting for my breathing to steady, laughing with exhilaration. It’s minus 8ºC but I’m warm inside my layers of ski gear. Below me the piste stretches down the mountain, below the far-off Mount Yotei skyline, while above me the lifts carry more skiers up to start their own furious descents of Niseko’s incredible pistes.

46

December 2012

Sumo snow The world has some extraordinary ski fields but in Asia, Hokkaido is generally acknowledged to be home to the finest powder. Niseko in western Hokkaido has the best combination of powder, off-piste skiing and après ski.

Named by the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido, the rather succinct ‘Niseko’ allegedly means ‘cliff jutting over a riverbank deep in the mountains’. Although the first lift was running back in 1961, foreigners were rarely seen here before the 90s. Nowadays, you share the slopes with Australians primarily, but also Chinese, Japanese and Singaporeans.

If you’re an expert skier or boarder, you’ll be heading to the challenging Strawberry Fields. This is where you can ski outside the gates to find the deepest powder with the fewest tracks, take on the avalanche course, or trudge up beyond the lifts to access the absolute peak and backcountry routes beyond.

If you’re a beginner you’ll appreciate the beautifully groomed, almost entirely ice-free pistes – the quality of snow makes for some of the most forgiving skiing you’ll

ESCAPES

Mount Yotei provides a stunning backdrop to Niseko’s incredible pistes

find anywhere. The early morning corduroy (smoothly ridged snow surface) helps you get your confidence in record time, and you can push your boundaries knowing that falling in powder is a laughing, rather than groaning, matter.

On the slopes Hirafu is Niseko’s central area where the majority of skiers stay.

Its pistes are linked to Annupuri’s on one side, descending into Niseko Village, and on the other to Hanazono. All of these slopes can be accessed on one mountain pass. The town is a mix of charming Japanese chalets and modern condos, with narrow streets leading between the restaurants and bars. Popular places to stay include The Vale, with its ski-in, ski-out luxury apartments, and Captain Hirafu, a 16bed cottage of doubles, twins, futons and bunks.

All skiers need fuel, and Niseko has some of the best skislope food and drink in Hokkaido. Boyoso has nailed the rustic, wooden chalet ambiance, warmed by a central stove over which coats, hats and gloves steam, while skiers tuck into local comfort food like ramen (noodle soup) and tonkatsu (pork cutlet) with curry sauce. The Lookout is what

you get when a canteen jumps into the pot with a five-star resort; Hilton-run, the Alaskan crab ramen is divine.



For a hot chocolate, warm saké or cold beer break, Paradise Hut is cute, but even better is 1000m Hut, with its log chairs, wooden tables and stuffed deer head watching over the fun.

Après ski By night Hirafu town turns into a buzzing entertainment district, with smoke from the teppanyaki grills wafting around the izakaya (rowdy bars), and high-end fine dining restaurants rubbing shoulders with tiny taverns.

Start your evening at J Sekka’s lounge, with drinks by the light of an open fire, or at Big Foot Lodge, where sitting at the bar watching the mixologist mix his rum-butter cocktails is as much fun as drinking the results.

For eats, check out Izakaya Raku’s divine scallops cooked in their own juice over a flame at your table. Yakitori Fuji, a dive bar serving snacks on skewers is always good. Yawara’s homey feel is cosy, and ABuCha2 is ultra-modern and

December 2012



47

ESCAPES

always popular with great local food. It’s best to book ahead.

When it’s time to party Gyu is Niseko’s top speakeasy, a bar hidden behind a vending machine door, with shots of yuzu liqueur poured on top of an enormous lump of ice the favourite order. The Ice Bar is a must see – you’ll have to ask around to find out where it has chosen to put down its icy roots, as it moves each year. Blo Blo, with its X-rated wallpaper and tiny cushioned nooks, is a great late night bolthole. And Wild Bill’s is for when you no longer care if you make first tracks the next morning.

But you will, because getting out there onto the slopes is completely addictive – in a good way. Physically challenging, mentally uplifting and spiritually renewing, ski holidays get you fit, free your mind and remind you how beautiful the world is. What are you waiting for?

Chilling out at the Ice Bar

When to go

January and February afford the best powder

Niseko’s ski season is quite long, stretching from December to May, weather depending. Avoid the Chinese New Year crowds if you can as you’ll have to queue for the lifts. The coldest temperatures in January and February result in the best powder.

Practicalities Cathay Pacific flies from Hong Kong to Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport in central Sapporo. From there, organise a bus trip, around two-and-a-half hours, to the Niseko Hirafu Welcome Centre.

Après ski atand Gyu For practical information from transportation accommodation, to where to ski, eat, drink and relax, log on to www.snowjapan.com and/ or www.skijapan.com.

Once you’ve arrived pick up a free copy of local magazine Niseko.com and check out the news and listings.

Stats • 57 runs, 1 ski pass • 27 chairlifts, 3 gondolas • 47 kilometres to ski • Longest piste – 5.6 kilometres • Steepest run – 37º • Night skiing until 9pm J Sekka for great on-piste eats

Find more exciting holiday destinations

48

December 2012

www.arounddb.com

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Merry Christmas

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C-031541

Photos courtesy of Kira Esterhuizen, Soha Kabbaj, Marie Wessler and Sabine Behrendt

ACTION

50

A love of horses often develops at an early age (www.horsebuzza.com)

December 2012

ACTION

saddle up DB has yet to open its own stables but talking to five local riders, Megaen Kelly discovers that where there is a will to ride there is a way

Kira with Red Winner in Tuen Mun

Sabine with Riding for the Disabled

W

e are captivated by their beauty, amazed by their speed, and enthralled by their strength and grace. When the horse bug hits, it hits hard – devotees extoling the sheer joy of the ride, and of becoming one, for a time, with another living being.

Fortunately, even here in land-strapped Hong Kong horse riding is a real option. The easiest way to mount up is to head to one of the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) Public Riding Schools in Tuen Mun, Lei Yue Mun or Pokfulam.

You can also book time in the paddock at Clearwater Bay Equestrian and Education Centre and at Lo Wu Saddle Club in the New Territories.

Horsing around Someone with decades of riding experience is DB mother of two Kira Esterhuizen, who regularly rides at the HKJC school in Tuen Mun. Originally from South Africa, Kira says of her involvement with horses – it was love at first sight. “I was introduced to polo ponies by a family friend. From that moment, any and every horse I could get on I would ride. The bonding with my horse, it's when I switch off and just enjoy.”

For wannabe riders Kira advises, “Horse riding is a fantastic sport. It is social, lots of fun and good exercise and it gets you outdoors. It takes dedication and never-ending practice to get better. There is always something new to learn.”

Soha finds horse riding easy and fun

The appeal of horses often strikes at a young age. Such was the case with DB resident Soha Kabbaj. Now 13 years old, Soha started riding in Tuen Mun three years ago. “I really enjoy being around animals and I had always wanted to be able to do something with them,” she says. “I wasn't doing many sports activities and when I got a spot for a lesson I found I immediately enjoyed horse riding. Just being around them really makes me happy. Horse riding is also a sport that I find easy and it is a lot of fun.”

A DB family with two generations of horse riders is the Wesslers. Mum Marie recalls the moment her interest was ignited. “My grandfather gave me a copy of the magazine the Arabian Horse Times when I was just six years old, and I was immediately smitten by the horse bug. I badgered my poor father until he broke down and bought me a pony when I was seven years old.”

Marie has passed on her love of horses to her 13-year-old daughter, Olivia, who has been riding at the HKJC’s Tuen Mun school since she was five. “I enjoy working as a team with the horse,” Olivia explains. “I like trying to achieve more each time I ride, and learning to do new things on the horse.”

Riding high DBer Sabine Behrendt also caught the horse bug early.

Originally from Germany, she started riding at age four. 

December 2012

51

ACTION

Now a mother of a young son, Sabine has taken her love of horses into the volunteer sector and works with the HKJC’s Riding for the Disabled (RDA) based in Pokfulam.

RDA in Hong Kong is a nonprofit-making organisation, which aims to teach disabled children and some Marie passed her love of horses on to her adults to ride a horse to the daughter Olivia best of their ability. Riding is widely recognised as one of the most beneficial forms of therapy the disabled can receive. It builds self-confidence, improves concentration and self-discipline and, at the same time, provides recreation and sport.

Sabine is quick to point out that RDA is always looking for new volunteers to support the riders, and that no previous experience with horses is necessary. “Buses come from special-needs schools in the morning, and it’s an amazing experience because the horses sense that the children need them,” she says.

Quipping that volunteer work is much more rewarding than having a ladies’ lunch, Sabine describes a particularly memorable experience. “I remember one boy who had severe cerebral palsy; he was nine years old and in a wheelchair. When he first came to us he would lie down on the horse to ride, after 10 weeks he could sit up without needing a brace. I will always remember his smile.”

From the horse’s mouth Sabine now only spends time with horses during her volunteer work with RDA. She comments on the difficulty of getting (personal) time on a horse, especially during peak hours and at the weekend, and opines regretfully that riding in Hong Kong is generally limited to the paddock.

“Personally I prefer trail riding outdoors in the countryside and unfortunately this is not on offer in Hong Kong,” Sabine says. “Riding in Hong Kong is basically focused on riding in the designated paddock or arena of the stable, usually under the supervision of an instructor. Experienced riders who book a so-called livery usually have a schedule of how many days they should ride under supervision/ in a class and how many days per week they can ride on their own, but still in the arena.”

This limitation is also mentioned by Kira. “Riding in Hong Kong is much more structured. At most of the riding schools

Find more local sport activities

52

December 2012

you have to take lessons if you want to ride. You can't hire a horse and go for a good hack.”

Like the two experienced riders, Soha sees a big difference in how horseback riding is approached in Hong Kong.

“I think that the way we are taught in Hong Kong is Now 13, Olivia has been riding since very different from how we she was five are taught in other places.

This is because in Hong Kong, the instructors care a lot more about the technique being perfect before moving on to different skills. Another main difference is that when you ride in Hong Kong, you are not allowed to groom them or tack them up as many of the ponies bite.”

But Soha concludes, “Horse riding is a very fun and interesting activity to participate in. If you have just started riding, it will be uncomfortable and very tiring but you shouldn't get discouraged! As soon as you get used to it, you will properly enjoy this sport.”

Find it • Beas River Country Club, www.hkjc.com • Clearwater Bay Equestrian and Education Centre, www.ceec.hk • Lo Wu Saddle Club, www.lowusaddleclub.org • HKJC Public Riding Schools, www.hkjcridingschools.com, www.hkjc.com • Riding for the Disabled, www.rda.org.hk

Adopt a pony with the HKJC Although it is reserved for members only, the HKJC Adopt a Pony programme is one to check out if you and your kids are horse obsessed! Little ones can adopt a pony of their choice and gear up with a welcome pack complete with jockey goggles. What's more, they can visit and ride their pony at the Beas River Country Club in the New Territories. Go to www.hkjc.com.

RDA Flag Day this month The RDA is hosting its annual Flag Day on December 29, from 7am to 12.30pm in the New Territories. Sponsors and volunteers are sought. All proceeds will go to the improvement and expansion of riding lessons provided to RDA riders. For more information, contact Karlie Lam at 2454 9961 or email flagday@rda.org.hk.

www.arounddb.com

Photos courtesy of Indigo Living and Little Miss Green The Party Queen

STYLE

It’s easy enough to go overboard with Xmas decorating.

Here are a few tips on avoiding the holiday tack trap, from Elizabeth Kerr

I

f you haven’t noticed the festive monstrosity that TST’s Ocean Terminal has become, or been bombarded with Jingle Bells in Wellcome lately then we’re here to remind you that Xmas is just around the corner. And with it the 10 pounds that comes with a solid few weeks of eating and drinking. And the year-end shopping frenzy. And television re-runs. Oh joyful season!

Fortunately DB doesn’t lend itself to Hollywood-ready battling neighbours, each trying to have the best and brightest holiday decorations. A dearth of lawns keeps that horror at bay. But going for a festive vibe can be more creative than simply hanging a wreath on the door. Everyone from Lane Crawford to Japan Home Centre offers scads of yuletide ornaments and accessories, and in fact you need look no further than DB Party Lovers for an exciting range of globally sourced celebration supplies. So a novel Noël home is only as complex as you make it.

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December 2012

Make recycling a central theme If you are looking for decorating tips, there are a few dos and don’ts to bear in mind. “Don’t overdo it on the decorations.

Moderation is the key to any space and especially smaller spaces,” stresses John McLennan, managing director of home interiors retailer Indigo Living. “If you have a family, don’t worry about the perfect look or the perfect tree, it is a family affair and the kids should be involved in every aspect. I always want a real tree as I love the smell but I make sure it is recycled after use.”

John’s point about recycling is crucial. Tracey Read, director of five-year-old party supplier Little Miss Green The Party Queen, offers some advice for any of us who worry about the sheer amount of garbage that a cocktail party or two will generate. And she warns that recycling is not as simple as it seems.

STYLE

deck the

halls Experts at Indigo Living suggest you choose a classic colour combination, with glass and bronze accents

“People don’t realise paper and plastic won’t be recycled if there’s any food on them. They just become garbage,” she warns. “So-called paper plates often have a plastic layer that prevents recycling as paper, and most plastic plates and such won’t hold up to re-use. Consumers aren’t made aware of that. When in doubt, forget about recyclable items and opt for biodegradable ones.” Tracey founded Little Miss Green The Party Queen in the wake of her son’s wasteful third birthday party, and now she supplies biodegradable bamboo tableware and cutlery among other eco-conscious items via her website.

There was a time when artificial trees looked just that, but shop around now and you’ll find any number of remarkably lush fakes that will last for years. “Eco-friendly and recycled materials are in,” agrees Kikka Meucci, director of interiors studio Class K. “Don’t use plastics unless they’re recycled – if you want super glittery objects choose glass.”

Decorate with a sense of tradition Aside from the perennially popular red and green what colours can we expect to see this year? “White,” states Kikka, without a pause, referring to the plethora of snowcovered fake trees and clear, classic lights. “Also in for 2012 are traditional items like advent calendars, nativity sets or anything natural.”

On colour John advises home decorators to keep the palette limited. He’s a fan of the traditional red, green and white colour palette, citing great childhood memories. But he adds, “[We] are also featuring antique golds mixed with glass and crystal for a very elegant table or tree. I suggest decorators pair this with an abundance of candles or flicker lights to create the perfect Christmas ambiance. Coppers and bronze are featuring strong this Christmas. It’s all about finishes that look like they have some history behind them.”

December 2012



55

STYLE

Indigo Living decorators light the candles and pile on the pine

Make it an eco-aware yule with DB’s Little Miss Green The Party Queen

“This year decorating can be a lot of fun involving the kids and using their creativity,” says Kikka, adding the whole DIY concept is still hip. “Dive into the knitted-item trend and opt for wood or glass accessories.”

Now your place looks – and probably smells – great and so thematic food (ginger bread!), drinks (spiked egg nog!) and accents aren’t out of the question. Talk to Jacinta Yu of one-stop celebration shop, Complete Deelite. Jacinta provides a delicious assortment of seasonal treats at her SoHo store, and she also hosts cookery classes in DB where you can master the basics (cookies and mince pies) or try hand-sculpting cakes and seasonal figurines.

Finally, with all its diversity, Hong Kong is up there with London, New York and Toronto on the poly-cultural map.

Enjoying Christmas traditions (turkey!) does not mean abandoning Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, so how do those among us not celebrating Christmas tap into all this yuletide gaiety?

candles including a set of nice scented candles and oil burners for my guests to experience and remember,” suggests Kikka. It’s easy to forget, living in the sub-tropics, that Christmas is heavily associated with cold weather. “I’d buy some wooden or mesh animal-shaped sculptures to liven up the living and dining rooms, and eco-furry white threads and rugs to lend a winter feeling,” Kikka concludes.

Cold is, after all, non-denominational.

Find it • Class K Ltd, Lai Chi Kok, www.classk.com.hk • Complete Deelite, SoHo, 3167 7022, www.completedeelite.com (Call 9278 5933 for cookery classes in DB) • DB Party Lovers, Discovery Bay, 9132 5249, www.dbpartylovers.com • Indigo Living, Ap Lei Chau, 2552 3500, www.indigo-living.com • Little Miss Green The Party Queen, Discovery Bay, www.missgreenpartyqueen.com

“Entering a house with a nice scent is always welcoming, and I would choose lots of differently shaped and coloured

Find more on DB-friendly design

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December 2012

www.arounddb.com

DECEMBER 2012 HK HAPPENINGS

What's

new

around

Hong

Kong

Boxing Day party

Fun for Operation

The Boxing Day Children’s Party at Hotel Nikko Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui East always pulls an international crowd of families. A top-notch international buffet lunch is followed by a magic show and the buzz of themed activity booths for children on December 26 in the hotel’s ballroom. Roast Christmas turkey, honeyglazed ham and baby lamb rack will be served. Kiddie favourites include mini pizzas and beef burgers, and spaghetti bolognaise. A children’s snack corner offers made-to-order marshmallows and popcorn. Activities include hands-on lessons in cartoon portraiture and temporary tattoo drawing. Prices are HK$368 per adult and HK$298 per child aged three to 11 years old. To make an enquiry or booking, call 2313 4503.

You may have already done your bit with DMK on November 17, but for the rest of this month and early January, look out for fundraisers attached to the twenty-fifth year of Operation Santa Claus – the annual combined effort

by RTHK Radio 3 and the South China Morning Post.

On December 6 morning, at Repulse Bay public Support Operation Santa Claus beach, sponsored teams will be competing in some amusing games; a team of local models will add a touch of pizzazz; and Radio 3 will be broadcasting live from the sand. Find out more about all events at osc.scmp.com.

for kids

Santa Claus

Absolutely beautiful vodka

On December 26 there’ll be magic shows and activity booths

Some four million unique bottles are on sale

Kids can learn to make cartoon portraits

58

December 2012

ABSOLUT UNIQUE, limited edition, individually designed and numbered vodka bottles might add a colourful talking point to a gathering. ABSOLUT re-engineered its production line and orchestrated randomness to achieve the desired end result. Splash guns and colour-generating machines were set up for the bright bottle-coating patterns and placement.

Each bottle is finished with a white, matt paper label that features each bottle’s unique number; 1,800 bottles of these collectors’ items are being made available in Hong Kong.

Get yours at City’super, Oliver’s, Voila, Ponti or Rare and Fine Wine, priced at HK$199 per bottle.

DECEMBER 2012 HK HAPPENINGS

C o m p i l e d b y A n d re w D e m b i n a

Celebrate with

Elton

Elton John and his band perform in town as part of the 40th anniversary of his first mega-hit single Rocket Man. His one night in Hong Kong is on December 4 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Trivia fact: in 1972, the single stayed in the UK charts for 13 weeks, and in the US Billboard chart for 15 weeks. Elton’s two-hour plus performance will feature some of the best-known songs from his 35 gold and 25 platinum albums. While PSY’s Gangham Style, 2012, may be a contender, the biggest selling single of all time is still Elton’s Candle in the Wind, 1997, which sold over 37 million copies.

For programme details go to www.hkticketing.

Elton rocking com.hk; for enquiries out in 2012 call 2853 7643.

Festive fare

from the philharmonic

Feast Italian!

While festive meals are being advertised all over the place this month, here’s an impressive, recently launched semi-buffet Sunday brunch that will continue beyond January 1. Upscale Causeway Bay restaurant Bella Vita offers starters and chilled and hot desserts buffet style; plus a pasta or foie gras dish, and a main course served fresh to order. Chilled seafood Bella Vita’s antipasti starters include Boston includes baby mozzarella lobster and Australian king with cherry tomato prawn; there’s also a superb antipasti, grilled rib-eye steak and fish dishes. Signature desserts are tiramisu, dark chocolate cake and freshly baked seasonal fruit tarts. From 12 noon to 3pm, priced at HK$498, inclusive of sparkling, white and red wine and juice. Children under six dine free. Call 2577 0699.

Find local event updates

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates A Viennese New Year

The kids may love the Hong Kong Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker. But for something more dramatic over the holiday season, consider the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra’s A Viennese New Year at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui. The concerts, held on the last two days of the year, feature the best-known selections from the greatest Viennese operettas, including The Merry Widow, Die Fledermaus and Wiener Blut. Under the baton of David Angus, music director of Boston Lyric Opera in the US, star performers include Scottish-born soprano Lee Bissett and French mezzo-soprano Aurhelia Varak. Suitable for children over six. Find more information at www.hkphil.org, and book online at www.urbtix.hk.

www.arounddb.com December 2012

59

DB FACES

C O M M U N I T Y

S N A P S

Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com

COMPETITION

Photos by Tommaso Giannetta, Terry Chow and Tracey van Geest

If you’d like us to consider your photos for DB Faces, email them to info@arounddb.com (subject line: db faces).

Around DB accepts no liability relating to the photos sent.

NAME THIS MOVIE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS! 1. The film focuses on eight couples in the lead-up to Xmas.

2. Richard Curtis writes and directs.

3. It begins and ends at Heathrow Airport, London.

4. Billy Mack (Bill Nighy) records the Christmas number one single in the UK charts.

5. Mark (Andrew Lincoln) declares his love using Dylan-esque word cards.

Hot flick (www.wallpapers.brothersoft.com)

Y

Congratulations to last month’s winner Maya Guiral. Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

our challenge this month is to name the movie pictured in the still above. We’ve provided a couple of clues to help you. The prize is a complimentary drink at Uncle Russ in DB Plaza every day for a week.

For your chance to win, contact us online at www.arounddb.com (homepage) before December 10. Simply click on the competition tab. Good luck!

Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal)

Christmas Services in Discovery Bay Church!

Come & Celebrate the Birth of Christ Sunday 2 December at 3pm St. Nicholas' Visit at Wei Lun School Hall Sunday 16 December at 4-6pm Nativity in the Plaza with other churches and schools Monday 24 December at 6pm - Christmas Eve Children's Nativity Play with Christingle at Wei Lun School Hall Monday 24 December at 11.30pm - Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at Wei Lun School Hall Tuesday 25 December at 10am - Christmas Day Family Christmas Celebration at Wei Lun School Hall

Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Christmas Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal) Daughter Church of St.John's Cathedral SKH Wei Lun Primary School, Discovery Bay Road 10:00am (English) Sunday

Email: markrogers@discoverybaychurch.org.hk Web: www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk Priest in Charge: The Reverend Mark Rogers Tel: 2987 4210 Mob: 5180 5106

Church of The Incarnation Sunday Services at SKH Wei Lun Primary School Chapel 10:30am Sunday For more information, contact The Church Office 2987 0723

Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY

FINANCE & INSURANCE

ROCKY NEEDS YOU! DB resident Rocky Perez, a Filipino musician, father & husband, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. After having a lung removed, he is now in desperate need of a bone marrow transplant. Please register with the Hong Kong Bone Marrow Donor Registry to see if you are a match. All you are required to do at this stage is have a blood test.

Call 2710 1206.

EMPLOYMENT FRENCH QUALIFIED TEACHERS WANTED La Petite Enfance is looking for French qualified teachers (‘Professeurs des Ecoles’). Other qualifications will be considered. Starting date: September 2013. For more information, contact 6710 0391, drh@la-petite-enfance.com TEACHERS AND TUTORS WANTED L’Ecole Française is looking for part-time teachers & tutors of French, English & Mandarin. Classes in Discovery Bay, Tung Chung, Kowloon & Hong Kong Island. Contact 8191 0813, or info@ecole-discovery.com

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

Need to lodge your Australian tax return?

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

Let us do it for you here in Hong Kong.

Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net

DO YOU HAVE AN AUSTRALIAN OR NEW ZEALAND PASSPORT?

Are you interested in saving 30-50% off your Life, Critical Illness & Income Protection insurance premiums?

For a no-obligation quote, contact Alex on 9365 8409, alex.walker@f-p.hk CIB License: 02018

Looking for a place to stay?

www.arounddb.com WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS

First time visit only

BOTULINUM TOXIN A MASSETER MUSCLE V-SHAPE FACE FOREHEAD WRINKLES

RESTYLANE®

NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO?

FILL LINES AND WRINKLES

 Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents

SCULPTRA®

 Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients

REPLACING LOST COLLAGEN

LATISSE® GROW EYELASHES LONGER, FULLER, DARKER.

Medicglow Tel: 2522 -2205/ 5499 -1288

11/F , 60 Wellington Street , Central , HK www.medicglow.com www.medicglow.com medicglow@gmail.com

 English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counselors Call 2523 8979 Now for Appointment http://www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 35 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest

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

December 2012

63

Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com KIDS

KIDS

MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-divorce coaching.

Resolve: • Fear of flying/ public speaking • Overeating • Couples’ conflicts • Career & command-training stress • Anger management • Phobias • Nail biting • Insomnia Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

HOME & REPAIRS

EXPERT MOVER

• Packing & moving • Cargo collection • Disposal service • Handyman services • Packing material supplies • Storage, with humidity control Professional quality service at a low rate.

Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk, or visit www.expertmover.hk

Established playgroup for children from 2 to 4 years.

Morning sessions with afternoons coming soon.

A wonderful environment where children learn through play with our qualified & experienced teachers.

Also offering Bilingual Gems, afternoon sessions in German & Mandarin.

Please contact 2987 0272, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

EARLY ADVENTURES PARTY TIME!

Need a venue for a party? Ideal playgroup environment with toys & activities. For further information, please call 9511 2107

TRAVEL

CONCORDE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS

MIDGET GEMS RENTAL

Have an idea for a children’s business? We have a clubroom available for rent, afternoon time slots. Please call Koren on 9176 2990

GEMS OCCASIONS

Looking for that perfect party venue for your little gem?

A colourful, safe & fun environment with toys & dress-up clothes.

We can provide an entertainer.

We also tidy up!

Please contact 9176 2990, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

French curriculum as per the French Ministry of National Education with English and Mandarin as additional languages.

For more information, please call 6710 0391 or email us at info@la-petite-enfance.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)

December 2012

WOWOW SALON!

Looking good & feeling great from head to tail?

More than just a grooming salon, we provide dog-sitting, dog-walking & dog-training services.

Please call Kelvin on 6038 9121

Leisure travel specialists since 1978.

Licence No. 350343.

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

TUITION & COURSES

La Petite Enfance Kindergarten is open for registrations for school year 2013-2014.

K1 to K3 classes available.

64

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

PETS

HOLIDAY CAMP AT MGKC

Come & join the holiday fun at Midget Gems Kids Club.

Get festive with creative arts & crafts, music & dancing & lots more.

From 9am-12pm, weekdays, for kids age 3 to 6.

Info@midgetgemskidsclub.com

MANDARIN CHINESE LESSONS

• For children & adults; small groups or individuals • Any level / place / purpose Call DB Mandarin Room on 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com

Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com TUITION & COURSES

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, gracias8@hotmail.com, or visit www.chinesemandarinsite.com

MATHEMATICS (GCSE, AS, SAT, IB, GMAT, ETC.) & ENGLISH TUITION Offered by a London University graduate (First-Class Honours).

Experienced in teaching adults, ESF & international school students.

Call 9121 0389

TUITION & COURSES PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

Programme designed by our specialist (Early Childhood Stage, MA in Education) • 12-lesson programme • Children age 6 to 16 • Solve problems • Increase awareness • Improve self control • Express anger & anxiety • Handle stress • Build up self esteem Please contact 9107 5655, gracias8@hotmail.com

Group and Personal Training Experts Give the gift of health this year, buy someone you love a personal training package and show them that you want them around!

Email or call us for details: Tel: (852) 6902 2250 Email: fitness@impactfitness.com.hk www.impactfitness.com.hk

Christmas Mandarin Camp Dec 24th – Jan 5th Art & Craft Mandarin Workshop All about Christmas / Chinese New Year

L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie is open for registrations for school year 2013-2014.

Full-time French Primary One (CP) and Primary Two (CE1) classes available.

Mandarin & Cantonese Adults Classes

French curriculum as per the French Ministry of National Education with English and Mandarin as additional languages.

LG 01, Office Block One, North Plaza Tel : 2480 3909 Email: db@mandarinformunchkins.com

For more information, please call 6071 3136 or visit our website at www.pmcuriehk.com or send an e-mail at info@pmcuriehk.com.

Enroll Now! Weekdays @ lunchtime (until Dec 22)

December 2012

65

Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB

PROPERTY DB

SHORT-TERM LET

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

MODERN FLAT FOR SHORT- OR MEDIUM-TERM RENTAL

NEW SHORT- OR LONG-TERM RENTAL

Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony.

Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Brian on 9098 6951, brian@headlandhomes.hk

Fully furnished, 1 bed plus study with extra beds & fully equipped kitchen. Sleeps 4. Broadband, wi-fi, DVD, LCD TV & split A/C. Linen & towels provided. Serviced twice a week. Contact 6475 2035, sharmilaproperty@ gmail.com or visit www.dbayhillsuites.com

GREENDALE COURT RENTAL

Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525

LUXURY MODERN FLATS TO LET

For lease. Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Cherry on 2987 2626, cherry@appletravel.com

Greenery Court, 1-bedroom flat with deluxe renovation. Modern & fully furnished with internet, 37’’ LCD TV & DVD. Contact Sandy on 9654 8862, sandylamdb@yahoo.com.hk

NICE SHORT-TERM RENTAL

Newly renovated studio flat with open kitchen, 5 minutes to pier. Fully furnished, with cable TV & broadband. Contact 2987 2468, dbshortlet@yahoo.com.hk

Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bed flats with sea views, near the North Plaza, Club Siena & tunnel. Serviced & fully furnished with washer/ dryer, bed linen & kitchenware. Plus wi-fi, broadband, blue-ray & home theatre.

Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET

LUXURIOUS 1-BED FOR LEASE

STYLISH SHORT-TERM RENTAL

Newly renovated, 550’ flat on a high floor with split-type A/C. Fully equipped with DVD & free wi-fi. Bedding & towels provided. Weekly cleaning available. Email dbaygreenish@gmail.com

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

CHERISH COURT TO LET

Fully furnished 2-bedroom, newly renovated flat. Tranquil with sea & Disneyland view, & wi-fi. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline at 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

FLAT FOR RENT

Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4.

Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband.

Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month.

Email dbstay4@yahoo.com

RENOVATED MODERN EXECUTIVE FLAT FOR RENT

550’ 1-bed apartment. Quiet, on a high floor, with mountain view. Fully furnished with open-plan kitchen. Well-equipped with LCD TV, broadband, telephone & wi-fi. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com

Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk

Fully furnished, with cable TV, DVD, wi-fi.

All linens & towels provided.

Contact 9159 2476, sweet_castillo2001@yahoo.com

PROPERTY OVERSEAS CHRISTMAS IN SAMUI

Just available. Stunning Villa Syama overlooking a cute semi private bay. Located close to everything, yet totally secluded. 6 ensuite double bedrooms, infinity pool and ocean views to die for! 3 hours from HK and two flights a day. Interested, call Chris for details on 9688 3309.

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

FRENCH VILLA FOR RENT

High-quality villa with magnificent sea views, 5 bedrooms & a large swimming pool.

Situated in the Calanques de Cassis National Park near Marseille. For more details go to k6marbel@gmail.com

RENTAL IN THE FRENCH ALPS

Secluded 2-bed duplex on the ski slopes of Les Arcs Paradiski in the French Alps. Sleeps 6/ 7.

Find out more at k6marbel@gmail.com

2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT

At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished.

Contact 9108 5525

Search 1000s of DB property listings!

@ www.arounddb.com

66

December 2012

Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com

Looking for investment opportunity?

4/F., Lee Fund Centre, No. 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, HK E-mail: grea@grea.com.hk C-049044

South lsland Industrial & Office Sales / Lease

Developers Designated Agencies Marinella South of Island Luxury by Nature

The Photographs, images, drawings or sketches of the property shown above only represent the artist’s imaginative impression of the development concerned. They are not drawn to scale and/or may have been edited and processed with computerised imaging techniques. Prospective purchasers should make reference to the sales brochure for details of the development. The developer also advises purchasers to conduct on-site visit for a better understanding of the development site, its surrounding environment and the public facilities nearby.

Hing Wai Ctr. 2,476’~6183’ @3700 up

Harbour Ind. Ctr. 1,050’ - 2,392’ 4M/17K

One Island South 5,334’/7,491’/12,825’

ole

t

S

• High efficiency • Potential Acquisition

• Ocean Park view • At a competitive price

Aberdeen Ind. Bldg.

3,150’ - 3,800’ 9.9M up

Grand Marine Center 1,852’ ~ 3,815’ 11M up

en

Ag

ol

S

• Sea/Mountain View • Central A/C

Tin Fung Mansion 1,610’ - 17,857’ @3800 up nt ge eA

• Water Front view • Well management

Kwai Bo Ind. Bldg.

1,820’ 11M

le

So

• Dream of quiet and spacious loft idea

• Convenient Location • Seldom Available

• Private terrace • Fantastic light

Southmark 749’ - 11,439’ @4,950up t en Ag

• A Grade commercial office • Swimming pool facility

9326 3293 / 6401 8889 2873 3600 Jeff

(S-130432)

Jacqueline (S-398189)

24 hours hotline

SL NUMBERS

Your ultimate guide in South Lantau

THINGS TO DO AFTER SCHOOL I N

S O U T H

L A N T A U

BIG MOUNTAIN YOGA Mui Wo Sports Centre, 9427 8647, dhugal@yahoo.com www.bigmountainyoga.com Learn how to transform and expand your body and mind with qualified Hatha yoga teacher, Dhugal Meachem. Yoga for kids is offered every Sunday morning.

DALCROZE Mui Wo Community Centre, 6627 4806, info@dalcrozecenter.com www.dalcrozecenter.com Dalcroze Eurhythmics is a fun-filled music pedagogy that uses movement games to teach the concept of music, develop creativity and nurture the imagination. For kids age 18 months up.

DRAGONS IN MUI WO Hard Court Football pitch, Mui Wo, 2987 4274, office@dragons.hk www.dragons.hk Dragons football training is offered in Mui Wo twice a week for children aged four and up. Kids are coached to participate in the Hong Kong Junior Football League.

HEALTH & WELL-BEING Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon

9473 3976 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990

HOME & REPAIRS Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Strong Engineering Wah Sing AV Company

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 9373 0792 2984 0587

HOTELS Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383

LEARNING CENTRES Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten

2985 5150 2984 0069 2984 0302 3689 6709 2984 0006

PROPERTY AGENCIES

GROOVY CREW Mui Wo Sports Centre, eva@dragons.hk, www.dragons.hk Groovy Crew offers dance classes on Tuesdays for children aged three to nine years old. Age-dependant courses include Groovy Babies, Groovy Girlies, and Disco Fun.

Easy Reach Real Estate Home Solutions Proper Trip Real Estate

2984 0618 3483 5003 2984 1666

RESTAURANTS & BARS

MUI WO RECREATIONAL GYMNASTICS Mui Wo Sports Centre, 9810 4207, rachel@smiletherapy.net For kids age three to seven, gym classes incorporate and introduce floor and vault skills, partner work and balance work with the aim of building physical confidence.

SHOTOKAN KARATE INTERNATIONAL OF HK Mui Wo Sports Centre, 9268 3731, admin@skif.com.hk, www.skif.com.hk Shotokan Karate has tremendous benefits for the body, mind and spirit.

Why not take a course with one of SKI’s Japan-trained instructors.

WORKSHOP G/F, 52 Mui Wo Rural Committee Rd, 9324 3754, chan_wai_ki@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/wkworkshop Workshop provides a quality visual-art and dancing education to inspire creativity and potential. Dance courses include ballet and modern-jazz dance. For kids age two and up.

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Casa Brasil Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear

2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 7471 2984 0498 2984 9720

SL NUMBERS RESTAURANTS & BARS Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Rome Restaurant Sun Fat Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep

3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 6331 8974 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 9160 5986 2980 2699

RETAIL Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Bizzie Lizzie (childrens clothes and toys) Friendly Bike Shop Park ‘N’ Shop Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern Wellcome

2134 1234 2984 2227 2984 2278 2984 0249 2988 1368 2406 8122 2987 0099 2984 7884

SERVICES & OTHERS Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio) Zoe Lyle Photography

2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 9062 0148 6351 8923 9834 5498

TRANSPORTATION Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company

Feijoada, Seafood Muqueca, Cheese Bread and many more..

Private Bookings - Kit for parties - Takeaway - Catering Shop A, G / F, Silver Centre Building, Mui Wo - Lantau Island Open: Monday to Friday 2 pm to 10:30 pm Saturday and Sunday 12 pm to 10:30 pm

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 9036 3132

Join your community live @ www.arounddb.com Photo by Terry Chow

Tel: 2984 7471

casabrasil.hk @ gmail.com

Your ultimate guide in DB

DB NUMBERS

FINANCIAL SERVICES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH

Discovery Speech Therapy Cabinet d’Orthophonie Clear Communication in French LG-06, Office Block One, DB North Tel: 8120 7835 info@discoveryspeechtherapy.com 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 Discovery Speech Therapy, Cabinet d’Orthophonie Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 8120 7835 2666 6183 2834 7276 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422

HSBC HSBC Expat Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

LEARNING CENTRES 2233 3000 2822 3927 2682 1210 2987 1851

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Season Art Kitchen Perfection Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

Tel: 9123 0863 Email: highlanddancehk@gmail.com

French kindergarten open for registrations for school year 2013-2014 from K1 to K3.

LG-05, DB North Plaza Tel: 6710 0391 Email: info@la-petite-enfance.com www.la-petite-enfance.com

LEARNING CENTRES

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

Online Boutique for Newborns & Infants Tel: 5600-7605, info@lullabylayette.com www.lullabylayette.com

Highland Dance classes now available at MI Studio.Teacher qualified by the SDTA. All ages welcome

2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2765 5700 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 1990 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Lullaby Layette

HK School of Highland Dance

Full-time French Primary One (CP) & Primary Two (CE1) classes.

Block two, LG8, DB North Plaza Tel: 6071 3136 Email: info@pmcuriehk.com www.pmcuriehk.com

Little Explorers A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun!

Tel: 9327 0507 Email: littleexplorers@team-fear.com

Apron Strings

Prince & Princess

Kids Wear & Accessories Shop G13B, G/F., North Plaza Tel: 2947 9228 Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm www.prince-princess.com.hk

Hands-on classes specially tailored for children, teens & adults Tel: 9735 5724 www.apronstrings.com.hk

Island Dance Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet & Tap Tel: 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

rush yoga ∙ fitness ∙ swim G/F, G35, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel: 2526 0720 Mon–Sun: 10:30am to 7:30pm www.rush.com.hk

Bayview House of Children

Early Childhood Educational Center (Bilingual English-Mandarin) 12 months to 6 years old For details call Ramesha on 6114 2436 ramesha@bayview.hk; www.bayview.hk

ColourStorm Art Centre Sunwood by Design

Playgroups, parties, art-jamming and art classes for all ages!

International Bodyfit Swimwear Exercise and Yoga Wear

Tel: 2325 3999

Tel: 6626 5470 www.sunwood-by-design.com

In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite shoes

2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store 7-Eleven Food Kiosk Fusion by PARKnSHOP GNC Mannings Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome

2987 4401 2914 1183 2987 7486 2987 9331 2987 1720 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES

AlcaMat Financial & Accounting Services Ltd Accounting & Taxation, Business & Operation Consulting, China Trade Advisory, Company Formation & Secretarial, Immigration Assistance Tel: 2851 8081, info@alcamat.com, www.alcamat.com

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December 2012

Address: LG-10, Office Block One, DB North Plaza. www.colourstormartcentre.com

Crafty Babes

Craftybabes is a fun, informal and creative playgroup for newborn to 24 months.

Tel: 9239 6447 Email: crafty.babes@hotmail.com, www.craftybabes.com

Dumper Trucks & Daisies

A Montessori based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child.

From 12 months to 4 years old Tel: 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com

First Friends & Second Friends DB’s largest & longest running playgroup Iin Porter 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com www.firstfriendshk.com

Midget Gems Kid’s Club Established playgroup for children 2-4 years Tel: 2987 0272 info@ midgetgemskidsclub.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

Music Together Well-established Music and Motion programme from USA since 1987 for 6-months to age 4 Tel: 2325-3999/6055-4443 LG-10, Office Block One, DB North Plaza.

Email: musictogether@yahoo.com www.musictogether.com

Playtime Kids DB

Playgroup run by Montessori trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. Tel: 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Discovery Montessori School DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery SKH Wei Lun Primary School

2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 2416 3088 8191 0813 2987 8608

DB NUMBERS Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten Treasure House

2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217

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

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES

RESTAURANTS

LEARNING CENTRES

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OTHER SERVICES

Super Super Kiraku Tei Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s

2914 1308 2987 2886 2682 0068 2682 8108 2987 6232

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Bo Bo House Toysland

Curves Women’s Fitness Centre Club Siena

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

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Tel: 2987 0772 curvesdb@gmail.com www.curves.com

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

At Home in DB Information & Services for Residents of Discovery Bay Expat Relocation, Newcomer Orientation, Tours, Courses, Networking

Movement Improvement Pilates, yoga, posture & fitness 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

www.athomeindb.com

Sportsmanship

PetcoDB Grooming & Pet Services Wth Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love Tel: 2914 0382 Email: info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com

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

2987 4538 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB Tel: 2914 1323 Email: bruce@sportsworld.hk

REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club

Lifestyle Homes

2914 2987 2987 8484 2987 9729 2987 2023 2987 2088 2987 6888 2987 6238 2987 2888

RESTAURANTS 22º North Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Solera Sopranos Subway

2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES

Tel: 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Casa Real Estate Ltd Centaline Property Agency Ltd Century 21 Newcourt Realty EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Kingsford DB Ltd Land Master Property Midland Realty

2987 4230 2987 7859

Limousine Rental

Apple Travel

Amity Shoe Care My Pet Shop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

Stuck on You Label It, Own It, Keep It! Tel: 2549 2245, 2987 2608 sales.hk@stuckonyou.biz www.stuckonyou.biz

Limo service in HK & China  pick up from / to DB Tunnel  direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport Tel: 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@yahoo.com DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

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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 Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room 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 2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELL-BEING

Body Talk Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders Tel: 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk

Little Miss Green The Party Queen Eco Party Supplies, Toys, Games & Gifts www.missgreenpartyqueen.com

DB Party Lovers

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

For all your party needs in DB 2987 2298 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2555 0772 2987 2915 2914 0005

Tel: 9132 5249 Email: dbpartylovers@gmail.com www.dbpartylovers.com

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB Tel: 2987 2266

Penny Scallan Design Unique and individual Tel: 6015 4050 hk@pennyscallan.biz www.pennyscallan.biz

Planting Ideas, Growing Minds.

Tel: 2987 2608 soyhongkong@gmail.com www.seedling.com.hk

The Skin Therapy Centre Fully qualified “International Beauty Spa /wellness trainer” with over 16 yrs experience in the Spa industry offering full range of beauty services here on DB Tel: 9604 6920, 2987 0764 www.theskintherapycentrehk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena

December 2012

2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382

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Photo courtesy of Charles Chan

DB MOMENTS

Charles sharing the love with Harmony Home orphans

a time for

giving

You don’t have to look far for a charitable DBer and this month Around DB sits down with the ever-so altruistic Charles Chan to celebrate his work in China

D

build a Harmony Home sports field – an outdoor, multifunctional basketball-size pitch,” he says. “And we want to provide some equipment, such as badminton and volleyball nets, and two table-tennis tables. Our target is HK$100,000. Then we could benefit about 700 villagers.”

Meeting Charles is a real privilege, truly inspiring. Right off the cuff he says things like, “Being able to give is a blessing.

The world is transformed with every little change.” And his fundraising efforts and hands-on aid work in China go all the way to proving him right.

Another project in the pipeline is to provide adult residents of the Harmony Homes with some simple baking equipment.

“This way they won’t have to rely on donations all the time,” says Charles. “They can do a little business to help keep their home running and feed themselves. All they need is support and opportunity.”

B resident Charles Chan of Sportsmanship is well known to many in the community for his tireless work with local kid gymnasts.

But did you know he has also been actively aiding the underprivileged and suffering in China since way back in 2005?

Charles was in Sichuan province after the earthquake in 2008, he frequently visits AIDS orphans in China and Taiwan, and most recently (this October) he was in Henan province delivering funds raised to three Harmony Homes. These institutions shelter not only orphans but the homeless and people living with HIV/ AIDS. Charles is also involved with Hong Kong charity Power of Love which helps build schools and other essential facilities in China, and supports Taiwan-based Harmony Home Association projects in China and Taiwan.

Charles says of his recent trip to Henan, “The areas we visited [XinCha and Shunchiu] were very poor but the Harmony Homes were actually not too bad – clean and tidy with good management. All the residents were very grateful that we visited them, and for the funds raised here in DB. They feel there are people out there who are supporting and caring for them. This gives them hope and motivation!”

In continuing his mission it comes as no surprise that Charles is now bent on a sports-related donation.

“Sportsmanship is raising funds to help one of the villages

Find more on charities and volunteering

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December 2012

As a seasoned altruist, Charles is all about doing things ‘wisely and effectively’. He notes that shipments of basic supplies and stationary are not needed as these can be bought in the rural areas. “The people just need the money to purchase what they need,” he says boldly. That said Charles is looking for long-term corporate sponsors to mail over regular supplies, such as diapers and milk powder, noodles and rice. He is also looking for advice on transportation and logistics.

Charles points out that DBers’ donations of warm, secondhand clothing are proving invaluable. Ever practical, he suggests we mail them directly to the Harmony Home Zhengzhou office for distribution. The world is transformed with every little change.

Find it • Charles Chan, sportsmanshiphk@gmail.com • Harmony Home Association, www.hhat.org • Power of Love, www.pol.org.hk

www.arounddb.com