Around DB October Issue 2019

OCTOBER 2019

Asia’s wackiest theme parks Eco-friendly decorating James Smith takes up the mantle as DC principal

Time to get serious about the Team FEAR Challenge

FRIGHT NIGHT

Helping kids learn to handle fear (and not just at Halloween)

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

FREE

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We are proud to celebrate 30 years in DB! One of the first businesses to open in Discovery Bay, After three decades, we know that Headland Homes is celebrating 30 years at the forefront our specialty matching right of the local property market. is The family-runthe business, We are proud to headed up by director Christine has grown properties to DBKing, residents.

cater to all of DB and to all budgets.”

Ask Christine why Headland Homes continues to play a significant part in the DB property market, and she cites 3 all the personal her years of solid experience – and celebrate 30years, years in DB! CAPERIDGE exponentially over the surviving both the Asian referrals and recommendations provided byPROP satisfi ed Gross: 1600sqft’ Saleable: 1359sqft 751 2 financial crisis in decades, 1997 and SARS in 2003, After three we know that and the team clients. “We are the kings of designer deals,” she is looking confidently to the future. our specialty is matching the right says with a smile. “We specialise in luxury residential properties DB residents.

“We believe DB will to continue to expand,” says Rachel properties, and we 3 pride ourselves on our first-class CAPERIDGE 17M Nicholson, Christine’s daughter and partner in the service, 2expertise and honesty.”

Gross: 1600sqft’ personal Saleable: 1359sqft PROP 751 business. “We are geographically located in the heart There’s also the fact that Headland Homes is a of Lantau yet close to Central, the airport, Shenzhen welcoming family-run business – three of Christine’s and Macau. The fact that we remain still slightly off the four children are on board, and even husband Brian beaten track is what makes DB what it is today – special, plays a part. “If you look at the successful companies peaceful and a thriving multicultural community far from in Hong Kong; most are run by families,” Christine says. the madding crowd.”

2 CHIANTI “So, I took a leaf out of their book and it’s definitely a Gross: 1022sqft’ Saleable: 780sqft PROP 3882 recipe for success.”

To keep up with the times, Headland Homes1 is marking its 30th anniversary with a big rebranding project, 2 It turns out each family member has something unique CHIANTI 9.6M which sees the introduction of a new website and a new Gross: 1022sqft’ Saleable: 780sqft to bring to the table. “Katie [Jepson] has a knack for PROP 3882 1 corporate colour. renovation and investment projects, Charlie [King] has The soon-to-relaunch website will be easier to navigate, a reputation for getting you the best deal, and I’ve have better search functionality, and will let people save specialised in the marketing for the business,” Rachel and share property listings. There’s an eco-angle too, explains. thanks to the introduction of an e-flyer that cuts down “Mixing your personal life with business can get tricky, on paper usage. especially when you are trying to enjoy some family 3 2 “Our newBEACH slogan is ‘Your DB agent,’” Rachel says. timeHILLGROVE and can’t stop talking shop. But then again, it’s our Gross: 1368sqft’ Saleable: 1295sqft Gross: 699sqft’ Saleable: 591sqft PROP 6226 us 2 it was 1 that PROP 2 with what we do “We started off doing Headland3 Drive when the393 personal involvement has got BEACH HILLGROVE 70K 20K Gross: 1368sqft’built Saleable: Gross: 699sqft’ Saleable: first phase but1295sqft since then we have expanded and where591sqft we are today.”

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CONTENTS

Join your community online

October 2019

PROFILE - 29 Discovery College Principal James Smith

IN FOCUS - 32 How to cross the Team FEAR finish line

EDUCATION - 42 What kids gain from reading scary stories

TOP TIPS - 49 Eco-friendly home decorating

ESCAPES - 52 Asia’s wackiest theme parks

32 REGULARS

If you have a story idea, email rachel@baymedia.com.hk To publicise a local event, email elizabeth@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email corinne@baymedia.com.hk

AGENDA

23

SPOTLIGHT Blaine Whittaker

39

WISH LIST October must-haves

60 68

08

DB EVENTS

26

GIVEAWAYS

58

HK HAPPENINGS

DB FACES In and around the plaza

61

CLASSIFIEDS

64

PROPERTY

OUT THERE Peter Sherwood talks back

65

LOCAL NUMBERS

For graphic design, email corinne@baymedia.com.hk Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 Fax 2987 0533

ON THE COVER Discovery Bay is a popular haunt on October 31

We also publish…

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YOUR GUIDE TO HONG KONG’S ‘GREEN JEWEL’

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OCTOBER 2019

Asia’s wackiest theme parks Eco-friendly decorating James Smith takes up the mantle as DC principal

Time to get serious about the Team FEAR Challenge

FRIGHT NIGHT

Helping kids learn to handle fear (and not just at Halloween)

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

FREE

To read the cover story, turn to page 8

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

2019 / 2020

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF FOOD & DRINK • LIVING • PETS • SPORTS • PASTIMES • EDUCATION • HEALTH • BEAUTY • SERVICES • TRAVEL & EXCURSIONS • COMMUNITY

www.arounddb.com Publishers in Lantau since 2002

SCHOOL BUS SERVICE AVAILABLE FROM CENTRAL PIER

PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Elizabeth Jerabek elizabeth@baymedia.com.hk ART DIRECTION Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk GRAPHIC DESIGNER Duey Tam duey@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Alexander Grasic alexander@baymedia.com.hk SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Nikki-Ann Yee nikki@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHERS Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com Col Sim www.colsimphotography.com CONTRIBUTORS Jane Drew Elizabeth Kerr Ray Robertson Peter Sherwood Dorothy Veitch Samantha Wong PRINTING Champion Design & Production Co. Ltd Flat C & D 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd Hong Kong

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in AroundDB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person.

The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

© BAY MEDIA GROUP LTD

www.colsimphotography.com

TARAVANA RACE & BEACH FESTIVAL

The Taravana Race, a new Outrigger & Surfski Change Race of single and double craft, saw elite paddlers from across the territory race 68 kilometres around Lantau on September 7. Team Tuimana placed first in the OC1 men’s race, Team Iniki in the OC1 women’s race and Team Rhkyc Vahine in the OC2 mixed. The event also delivered a Polynesian Beach Festival on Tai Pak Wan, with live music, dance performances and food stalls.

s t n e v e y t i n u rece nt c om m

THE HOTTEST

IN DISCOVERY BAY

www.arounddb.com October 2019

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DB EVENTS

WORLD CLEANUP DAY

On September 21, 80 eco-enthusiasts met on Sam Pak Wan for a beach clean hosted by Discovery Bay International School and DB Green. After two gruelling hours, to mark World Cleanup Day, 48 bags of rubbish weighing 186 kilogrammes were removed from the beach.

Photos courtesy of Jonny Haines

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

DB EVENTS

DISCOVERY COLLEGE UNIVERSITY FAIR

Students and parents had the opportunity to meet university representatives from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Asia and Europe at the Discovery College University Fair on September 19.

www.evoqueportraits.com

THREE SHEETS ANNIVERSARY PARTY

When DB Plaza bar Three Sheets celebrated its first anniversary on September 14 a good time was had by all.

www.colsimphotography.com

MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL FUN!

Club Siena hosted an early Mid-Autumn Festival celebration for representatives of the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association on September 8, and at a Discovery Bay Recreation Club event on September 13, club members enjoyed an arts-and-crafts workshop, lantern riddle games and Chinese tea and mooncakes.

www.dbrc.hk

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

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DB EVENTS

TRISHA HUGHES BOOK LAUNCH

DB resident Trisha Hughes celebrated the publication of Victoria To Vikings: The Circle of Blood at a book signing on September 21 at Bookazine in DB Plaza. The fun continued late into the evening at Zak’s. Victoria To Vikings is the third instalment of Trisha’s V2V trilogy, which traces 1,500 years of British monarchy all the way up to Elizabeth II.

www.evoqueportraits.com

SPLASH SWIMMERS GRADUATE

On finishing a 12-week swimming course with Splash, over 20 helpers celebrated at a certificate-giving event on September 8 on Tai Pak Wan.

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PUB QUIZ FOR IRISH DANCERS

DBers showed their support for the Melissa McDermott School of Irish Dance at a McSorley’s Ale House quiz on September 7. Proceeds from the pub quiz benefited dancers at the school, who are competing in this year’s European Irish Dancing Championship in Milan.

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

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Get into course with big variety

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Enjoy beautiful coastline of Sai Kung

DB EVENTS

YOUR GUIDE

E H T TO

L A I T N E S UPCOMING ES COMMUNITY EVENTS

BINGO NIGHT

DB BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

D’Café

Discovery College

October 4 & 25

October 19

Photo courtesy of Miriam Safadi

stock.adobe.com

Win a jackpot prize of HK$1,000 and enjoy an evening of fun and games, starting at 8pm. Tickets cost HK$20 per bingo game, with a maximum of two cards per player, and a minimum spend of HK$80 on food and beverages. For more information, visit www.dbrc.hk.

The DB Basketball Tournament Community Health Cup runs from 11am to 6pm and is open to spectators. Join the group in promoting healthy living and community cohesion. Players (men only) need to enrol by October 4. For more information, visit the LoveTogether DB Facebook page or call 2238 3601.

DB SWIMMING GALA Discovery Bay Recreation Club October 20

ROTARY CLUB STRESSBUSTER Peony Restaurant October 15

www.arounddb.com

Cheer on swimmers in both individual and parent-childrelay races from 2pm to 5.30pm. The event is open to Discovery Bay Recreation Club members only, with a HK$80 entry fee per race. The enrolment deadline is October 16. For more information, visit www.dbrc.hk.

KIDS IN THE PARK Siena Park

At the annual Kids in the Park, hosted by Discovery Bay International Community Church and Discovery Bay Alliance Church, families can expect www.evoqueportraits.com a fun afternoon out, with games and activities from 2pm to 5pm. For tickets, priced at HK$20, visit www.dbicc.org.

October 26

rotaryclubdiscoverybay.org

The Rotary Club of Discovery Bay gets together for dinner twice a month, and at the meet on October 15, DB-based guest speaker Bruce Taylor, a Reiki master and energy healer, is sharing effective ways to release chronic stress and fatigue. Guests and visiting Rotarians are welcome. To register, and for more information, visit rotaryclubdiscoverybay.org.

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

HAVE YOUR PRELOVED

ITEMS COLLECTED at your home on October 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29 and 31 from 2pm to 4pm. WhatsApp Nikki Boot at 9677 6676.

ADOPT A PET through Hong Ko ng Paws Foundation (PAWS) in DB Plaza on October 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 2pm to 6pm. Call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

HALLOWEEN HIJINKS Throughout DB October 31

www.evoqueportraits.com

There’s fun to be had on the night of October 31, with DB families dressed up to trick or treat everywhere you look.

But, to get a head start on the Halloween hijinks, make your way to EpicLand on October 26 for an ‘epic’ haunted house party, or Club Siena on October 27 for a spookily themed artsand-crafts workshop and costume contest.

To find out more, visit www.epiclandhk.com and www.dbrc.hk.

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET across from Haven

Court on October 5 from 2pm to

4.45pm. Call 2238 3617.

ENJOY FREE YOGA FO

R HELPERS classes at Yoga Bay, DB North Plaza on October 6, 13, 6704 9851/ 9150 7019 or visit yog 20 and 27 from 7am to 8am. Call abay.hk.

SHOP THE DISCOVERY

in DB Plaza on October 13 fromBAY SUNDAY MARKET 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com .

JO

IN A BEACH CLEAN-UP with Plastic Free Seas from 2pm at Nim Shue Wan on October 19 to 4pm. Visit plasticfreeseas.org.

HE

LP YOUR HELPER! Enrich HK wo rkshops equip helpers with the tools to save, budget and plan for a future with greate r financial security. Visit www.enric hhk.org.

CONGRATULATIONS CALVARY CHURCH

LULU LAI

TOR MESOY

agnusconsulting.hk

www.arounddb.com www.calvaryhk.com

Join Calvary Church in celebrating its eighth anniversary in Discovery Bay. The English-speaking international church holds services at DB Community Hall on Sundays at 10.30am. For more information, visit www.calvaryhk.com.

Head to Toe spa in DB North Plaza is celebrating its second anniversary. DB resident Lulu Lai opened the business in 2017 to offer a range of professional massage services for a full pampering experience. For more information, visit the Head to Toe Facebook page.

DB-based entrepreneur Tor Mesoy’s Musings on Leadership, published last month, draws on his 25 years of experience as a leadership coach and management consultant. Tor was a partner at both McKinsey and Accenture before founding Hong Kong-based Agnus Consulting. To grab a copy of the book, head to Tor’s book launch at the American Chamber of Commerce in Central on October 25, or visit www.amazon.com.

www.arounddb.com October 2019

17

DB EVENTS

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

COMPETITION

ROBIN ARMSTRONG HK INTERNATIONAL MEMORIAL TROPHY LEARNING ACADEMY

#beautifuldb2019

www.studyhkila.com

Photo courtesy of Gary Rollinson

The Robin Armstrong Memorial Trophy football tournament on August 24 saw teams playing 7‐a‐side football at the Discovery Bay International School pitch to honour Discovery Bay Football Club co-founder Robin Armstrong, who passed away in November 2017. The players raised funds to benefit Robin’s family, his wife Bunty and his children Ava and Owen.

On September 12, Hong Kong International Learning Academy organised a bake sale to help fund Tai O Community Cattle Group’s One Collar, One Life (Saving Feral Cattle) fundraising campaign. And on September 13, inspired by fellow student and cancer survivor Hannah Meeson, the students held a ‘dress gold day’ to raise funds for childhood cancer research charity St. Baldrick’s Foundation. The student-led initiatives raised a combined total of HK$6,000.

FOR A GOOD CAUSE THE EXTRAORDINARY FAIRIES

SPORTY GIRLS JOURNALS

Photo by Kristian Lavarone

Celebrate the beauty of DB by voting for your favourite photo in the #beautifuldb2019 photography competition, sponsored by Love.

Together@DB. Turn to page 24 to see the finalists’ photos, and cast your vote on the Around DB Facebook page from October 8 to 15. The winner and runners-up will be announced, and have their photos featured in the November issue of Around DB. To find out more, visit www.arounddb.com.

NEWinDB UNCLE RUSS REUSABLE MUGS

www.extraordinaryfairies.com

Help raise funds for Hope Hong Kong, a support group for women and families who face the challenges of infertility and pregnancy loss, by purchasing a copy of local author Orchid Bloom’s children’s book, The Extraordinary Fairies.

Orchid also hopes to bring professional counselling trainers to Hong Kong to train more local counsellors. To find out more, visit the Gift Compassion fundraising campaign on www.fringebacker.com.

18

Photo courtesy of Alicia Lui

Created by Alicia Lui, with and in support of Women in Sports Empowered Hong Kong, Sporty Girl Journals features two DB athletes, Nikki Han and Liza Avelino. With the book, Alicia aims to “inspire girls to dream big and bold, and find joy and passion in sport.” To help get it published this month, head to www.kickstarter.com.

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

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Go green with an Uncle Russ reusable to-go cup, which can be labelled with your name and kept for your convenience at the coffee shop in DB North Plaza. In addition to doing your bit to reduce plastic waste, you will receive two stamps on your loyalty card for each coffee you buy. For more information, visit unclerusscoffee.com.hk.

AWESOME BAMBOO SOCKS

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DB EVENTS

LANTAU HIGHLIGHTS JAZZ ON THE BEACH Pui O

October 5

ROTTEN HEAD FESTIVAL Tung Chung

October 26

www.kevinku.com www.jazzonthebeachhk.com

The 2019 edition of Jazz on the Beach at Treasure Island Beach Club promises to be another big hit, with internationally celebrated jazz musicians Sybil Thomas and Kevin Guffy set to make an appearance, alongside in-demand local artists Elaine Liu, Café 852 and Fusion Five. Jazz on the Beach is a ticket only event; visit www.jazzonthebeachhk.com.

At the all-new Rotten Head Music & Craft Beer Festival you can expect 10 top music acts performing at Tat Tung Road Park and 10 local craft breweries, showcasing 30 of their labels. The event is also set to deliver pop-up shows, the Handmade Hong Kong market, food stalls, a baby disco and kids’ area. It’s HK$350 on the door. Kids under 12 get in for free, and 12- to 17-year-olds pay HK$120. To find out more, visit www.rottenheadfest.com.

SAVE the DATE BOX OF HOPE November 4-8

REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE

OPERATION SANTA CLAUS WALK November 16

November 11

Photo by Maxine Parry www.dbis.edu.hk www.dbis.edu.hk

Box of Hope is back for its 12th year, pledging to collect a massive 33,000 shoeboxes. All kids need to do is find a box, decorate it and fill it with goodies and essentials for those in need in Hong Kong and throughout Asia. To get involved, visit www.boxofhope.org.

20

At the second Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) Remembrance Day Service, the community is invited to come together to give thanks, and remember servicemen and women who have fought to keep us safe in conflicts across the world. For more on DBIS, visit www.dbis.edu.hk.

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

For Discovery Mind’s 14th annual sponsored walk in aid of Operation Santa Claus, residents are encouraged to dress in their festive best as they walk from Tai Pak Wan to Siena Park.

Reaching out to 13 charities in Hong Kong, including groups that offer support for vulnerable youngsters and the elderly, the Operation Santa Claus campaign raised over HK$17 million in 2018.

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NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG Meet the HomeSolutions Team

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Isabella Meiting Lai Languages: English, Cantonese and Mandarin EA Licence No: S-569226 +852 9664 8581 isabella@homesolutions.hk

SALE $14.3M

Tanja Gelderblom

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SPOTLIGHT

DB’s got talent

Blaine Whittaker, one of the most sought-after saxophonists in Asia, talks about his Hong Kong-based band, and his international career as a studio and touring musician

W

hat is the biggest crowd you’ve played to? Guangzhou with

Jacky Cheung – 50,000 or 60,000 people. I’ve played with a bunch of Canto-pop stars, guys like Justin Lo, George Lam, Joey Yung, Alex To and Khalil. I love the feel of a huge production, but I also love the intimacy of performing in a small club. The jazz scene in New York City (NYC) when

you studied and performed with greats like Wynton Marsalis, George Coleman, Vincent Herring and Dakota Staton must have been amazing. On and off over the years, I’ve made it a

point to spend time in NYC to study from great players and play with the best rhythm sections in the world. Steel sharpens steel – you always come away playing better and more focused. I’ll never forget Wynton inviting me over to his apartment one day and we jammed together and he showed me all kinds of things in order to improve as a player. You started out touring with

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

the James Morrison sextet in the early ‘90s. How was that? Playing with James at that time was quite an all-

encompassing thing – a bit like a family. Intense performances and always exciting music. And you’ve toured with Cliff Richard… Great guy. Great fun. And he’s very healthconscious, as am I. We’d end up in the hotel gym in whatever city we were in, and we would chat quite frankly about all kinds of things. Do you still enjoy touring? Not really. I hate airports and flying. These days I love waking up in Hong Kong. Discovery Bay is relaxing and chilled. Everything’s here that I need. Tell us about your band. It’s a six-piece lineup; we launched our latest album Strange Universe here and toured China with it.

I work with some of the finest instrumentalists and vocalists in town, and I try to deliver high-end improvisation on a platform of soul- and grooveoriented compositions. You also perform with big-name international artists who are on tour in Hong Kong. Would you like me to drop a few names? Nils Landgren, Roy Hargrove, Mary Wilson, The Temptations, Laura Fygi, Martha Reeves, Bobby Taylor, Alex Sipiagin and Blur. How do you feel about Hong Kong’s music venues? We could use a couple more – without places to play, there’s no scene. We’ve lost a couple lately, like Gecko Lounge and Grappa’s Cellar, which is disappointing. These ‘hole in the wall’ music venues are vital for the culture. What brought you here? My girlfriend (now wife) got a great job at Discovery College, so I followed her over from Oz. We met when we were both playing in our school band – best-looking trombone player I’ve ever met. Your sons Saxon, 13, and Jarvis, 11, are already

performing as a guitar duo. How would you feel if they followed you in their choice of career? I’m quite happy to see them become fully

fledged young musos, it’s exciting to watch them develop.

FIND IT For more on Blaine Whittaker, and to purchase a copy of his latest album Strange Universe,, visit www.blainewhittaker.com.au. You can catch him on stage at Peel FrescoFind Music Lounge on October 4. more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com October 2019

23

#beautifuldb2019:

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION Your sneak peek at the finalists’ photos Whether it’s beautiful sunrises over Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, or scenic views from mountain-top peaks, Discovery Bay is full of beauty everywhere you look. Help us celebrate the beauty of DB by voting for your favourite photo in the #beautifuldb2019 photography competition. The finalists’ photos are pictured here, and you can cast your vote on the Around DB Facebook page from October 8 to 15. The winner and runners-up will be announced, and have their photos featured in the November issue of Around DB. Visit www.arounddb.com for more competition information.

Jules Angeline

n o e t Vo k o o b e Fac -15 8 . t c O

Col Sim

Prizes for the finalists:

• First prize: A stay at the Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, plus dinner buffet and breakfast buffet for two • Runner-up prizes: Dinner buffet for four, lunch buffet for two and afternoon tea for two The organiser has the discretion to use the photos for promotion purposes and reserves the right of final decision in the event of any disputes. Terms and conditions apply.

Reto Fuchs Timothy Redel

Eva Theuille

Richard Gordon

Michael Gesche

Martina Stevens

Raymond Ip Kristian Lavarone Jessie Leung

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

GIVEAWAYS

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO WIN PRIZES! Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply.

Scan the QR code, or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form

Win tickets to Rotten Head Music & Craft Beer Festival Rotten Head Music & Craft Beer Festival is offering two readers a pair of tickets, each worth HK$350, to the rockin’ family-friendly event at Tat Tung Road Park, Tung Chung on October 26.

www.kevinku.com

Rotten Head Music & Craft Beer Festival is set to deliver pop-up shows, the Handmade Hong Kong market, food stalls, a baby disco and kids’ area.

There are 10 music acts on the bill and 10 local craft breweries are showcasing 30 of their labels. It’s HK$350 on the door, kids under 12 get in for free, and 12- to 17-year-olds pay HK$120. To find out more, visit www.rottenheadfest.com.

Win afternoon tea for two at HanMade Teahouse HanMade Teahouse in DB North Plaza is offering two readers an afternoon tea set for two, each worth HK$550 (including service charge).

Photo courtesy of Han Gao

HanMade Teahouse offers premium teas and blends, along with healthy and delicious teacakes, plus fresh flowers, Bonsai trees, vases and home accessories.

In blending her teas and making her cakes, owner Han Gao avoids artificial flavourings, colourings and additives. The afternoon tea set includes flaky pastries, teacakes, two types of sandwiches and Greek yogurt parfaits with freeze-dried fruits. To find out more, visit the HanMade Teahouse Cakes Flowers Facebook page.

Win all four of Trisha Hughesʼ books DB resident Trisha Hughes is offering one reader a signed tetralogy of her books, Daughters of Nazareth and the V2V historical fiction trilogy, worth HK$800.

www.trishahughesauthor.com

The V2V series comprises Vikings to Virgin, Virgin to Victoria, and the recently published, Victoria to Vikings: The Circle of Blood. The trilogy covers 1,500 years of British monarchy all the way up to Elizabeth II, the longest reigning female monarch in history.

Trisha’s first book, the bestselling memoir Daughters of Nazareth, was first published 18 years ago. For more information and to purchase Trisha’s books, visit www.bookguild.co.uk.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Nicholas Beckwith and Wai Hung (Carter) Lam for tickets to see James and the Giant Peach; Christian Blanc and Hina Joshi for tickets to see The Gruffalo; Ivy Luk, James McCaddon, Andrew Spires and Lawrence Tan for tickets to Sake Walk.

26

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

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PROFILE

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

On the crest of a wave

J

Discovery College welcomes a new principal – James Smith – to steer its course for the future and, as Elizabeth Kerr discovers, the school is in safe hands

ames Smith is a busy man. The newly appointed principal of Discovery College (DC) has been caught up in the backto-school whirlwind these past few months and over the summer he took a well-earned vacation

in France. “We’re very fortunate with the ability to travel during school holidays,” he says. “While any teacher will tell you that most holidays are still ‘working holidays’ where you have a lot to do to catch up on things and prepare for the new term, the

chance to explore a new place and spend time with the family... is wonderful. I feel very grateful that my job allows this.”

And, so it is, for the purposes of this interview, we’ve ‘talked’ by  email. Technology to the rescue.

www.arounddb.com October 2019

29

PROFILE

A little bit of background

Principal aims

An educator by training, James grew up in Cheshire, in northwest England, and studied at the University of Oxford before moving home to begin his teaching career – something he’s convinced was in the blood. James’ father, mother and grandfather were all educators, as were a gaggle of other relatives. “Looking back, I probably should not have found it surprising that I would choose a career in education,” he says.

“Education was always hugely important in my household.”

James moved to the SAR in 2007 to take up a teaching post and quickly grew attached to the city. “I realised I would be here for a long time,” he says. “I met my wife here and we have two children, both of whom were born in Hong Kong, so it’s very much home for us.” James likens his first 12 years here to a Monopoly game (“Though sadly I have not managed to buy any hotels as yet”), having at one time lived in both the New Territories and on Hong Kong Island, while working at King George V School (KGV).

Eventually he landed on Lantau, in Tung Chung, where he and his wife, a lawyer, currently live.

“I love being connected to both the Tung Chung and Discovery Bay communities, and while I have enjoyed all the places we have lived over the past few years, there are so many aspects of life on Lantau that make it a particularly great place to be,” he says.

It was at KGV, also part of the English Schools Foundation network, that James caught wind of, and took an interest in, DC’s educational model, “which nurtures and cares for children from their first entry into primary,

“We’ve got an exciting time ahead and I want to make sure our future direction reflects the values and ideas of our whole community” all the way through graduation.”

He saw DC as a “genuine” and “powerful” community school with tremendous parent support and a truly committed staff, and he jumped at the chance of teaching there. “I also saw how serious the College was about character education and focusing on building the characteristics of exceptional learners and future leaders. So, for those reasons, when a job came up, I was delighted to apply,” he recalls.

James spent three years as the head of secondary at DC before his appointment as principal this year. And for the record, yes, both his kids attend DC, which to date has not been embarrassing for them. “They are quite young at the moment, so I think the fact that Dad is the principal is a nice novelty,” he reasons. “But I’m thinking they might not feel so positively about it when they are teenagers!”

It’s clear that thirtysomething James has a good rapport with DC students of all ages, and when interacting with them he’ll take the rough with the smooth. “An amusing thing about working with young people is that sometimes, particularly with younger students, they have trouble working out adults’ ages,” he quips. “The record-breaking attempt at guessing my age was from a young lady who thought I was 67.”

Taking up the mantle as principal means the relatively young (given his accomplishments) James brings his own perspective on challenges facing education today.

“I see the main challenge being linked to social and technological change, which is occurring at an unprecedented pace,” he says.

“If education were to stay the same as it has been in previous decades, our students would risk being unready for the challenges of the lives they will lead. We need young people who can collaborate, create and innovate, manage themselves and their wellbeing, and lead others.”

Although his three-year stint as DC’s head of secondary has made him familiar with the school’s work with wellbeing, character education, student agency, community engagement and so forth, James says his first task as principal is simply to listen and learn from those around him. “I am starting by seeking to understand from students, staff and parents, where they see our priorities in the next few years,” he explains.

As James settles into his first year as DC principal, he says he considers himself lucky to be supported not only by an experienced and talented staff, but also an active and strong Parent Teacher Association and School Council.

“A key responsibility of any school leader is promoting true collaboration between all school stakeholders who share the school’s mission and vision,” James concludes. “We’ve got an exciting time ahead and I want to make sure our future direction reflects the values and ideas of our whole community.”

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IN FOCUS

in it to win it!

Photos courtesy of Steve Corbin

Ahead of the Team FEAR Junior Challenge on November 17, Samantha Wong outlines what’s involved and provides some advice for the fearless competitors

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

Juniors (under 9-11) compete in teams of three

T

All competitors (under 9-19) tackle an assault course

eam FEAR Junior Challenge is an adventure race, designed by adventure racers. It’s a gruelling multi-sport event – definitely not child’s play – so it’s important to know what to expect going in.

You’re not allowed to see the course beforehand but you can get a good idea of what you’re about to come up against by talking to friends who’ve completed the challenge before. Be sure to read the course overview and take a look at the 2018 course maps on the Team FEAR website.

There are three courses of varying length and difficulty – one each for the juniors (under 9, 10 and 11 categories), intermediates (under 12 and 13) and seniors (under 14,

16 and 19). Juniors compete in teams of three, intermediates and seniors in teams of two. Juniors are looking at completing a gruelling 10-kilometre course, while the senior course, at 15 kilometres, is the most demanding.

When making your way around the course, you follow the ribbon markers – yellow (juniors), blue (intermediates) and pink (seniors). Race officials wear red tops – remember there are over 300 marshals ready to provide you with guidance and back-up along the way.

Train hard Whether you’re in it to win it, or simply hoping to stay the course, you need to train hard in the leadup to Team FEAR. Course design

Seniors (under 14-19) are expected to abseil

varies from year to year but in previous years all participants have had to mountain bike, swim, trail run, coasteer and clamber through an assault course. In addition, both intermediates and seniors have been asked to complete a kayak leg, with seniors also tasked with abseiling and, though this was not compulsory, jumping off a boat or pier into the sea.

The first competitors usually cross the finish line in two hours, and everyone (900 last year) is expected to finish within four hours.

All in all, you need to be fit, as well as fearless, to enter Team FEAR, and it’s likely that at least some of the challenges involved are already part of your weekly routine.

Do you regularly cycle to and from  school? Are you a trail or track

www.arounddb.com October 2019

33

IN FOCUS

tires and an adequate number of gears. It’s vitally important that brakes work and can stop the bike, that the derailleurs (gearing) don’t make the chain jump off, and that there are no other safety shortcomings, for instance loose bottle cages or chain guards.

Coasteering is part of the challenge for all competitors

The kayak section (under 12-19) is particularly tough

runner? Maybe you are in your school’s swim club? Focus your training on aspects of the course that you are less good at, there’s not much point in beating out the competition in the cycle leg, if you’re the last runner to finish.

Another tip? Have a few practice swims in the sea with your clothes on before race day – it’s very different to swimming in a pool in your bathers. You should try a bit of mountain biking in advance too, as it’s not the same as biking on roads.

The kayak section of the course is particularly tough, since it tends to be one of the last legs weary competitors are asked to complete.

Have a few practice paddles ahead of the event if you can but don’t panic if this isn’t possible.

Lantau Boat Club marshals will be offering advice from their positions on the beach and in the water on race day.

34

The sea-jump is not compulsory

Train hard ahead of the race but remember to pace yourself, you don’t want to be wiped out on the big day. It’s important to stick to a realistic training schedule, and if you’re one of the younger competitors, you may want to ask your parents for advice.

Importantly too, you need to train with your teammates to familiarise yourself with their strengths and weaknesses. You need to finish the race together and, as the saying goes, a chain is as strong as the weakest link. Find out who will need encouragement during the race and keep them thinking positive.

Get your bike checked You’ll have to wheel your bike around the course if it fails the Team FEAR safety check on the evening before the race, so make sure it’s in prime condition. You need a proper mountain bike with good

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

Note that both Bike Hub and Bike Energy Lab in DB supply bikes that are speed-specific and tailored for young people, and they will also service bikes.

If you prefer to fit and check your bike at home, there are plenty of YouTube videos you can use as reference. Pay particular attention to the positioning of the handles and seat. When you are seated you should be able to lean slightly forward with your arms straight and your toes should just be able to touch the ground. This means you can push off from the ground for a fast start and extend your legs almost fully as you peddle, allowing you to put more power into every rotation.

Lung Kee Bikes is providing bikes for hire for this year’s race, and delivering them to DB. After the bike check on November 16, all bikes will be waiting for competitors at the relevant part of the course.

Think about what you eat In the lead-up to the race, you need to focus on your diet to make sure your body is in tip-top condition. It’s important to eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products and grains because a well-balanced diet provides you with the nutrients you need. Everyone has different levels of comfort regarding eating around training, so you need to trial what works best for you.

Eating two to four hours before you get out there will allow plenty of time for your food to digest.

Good breakfast options for the morning of the race include  pancakes topped with fruit and

IN FOCUS

nuts; porridge or granola with milk or soy milk; eggs and multigrain bread; fruit salad with Greek yogurt; or bagels with cottage cheese. And treat yourself to a fresh fruit or vegetable juice.

reason adventure racers drop out of Team FEAR, so it’s a good idea to bring some carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks (Gatorade or Pocari Sweat) too. Nutrient-rich snacks that will boost your energy levels (without taking up too much space in your backpack) include cereal bars, nuts, dried fruit and bananas.

The focus should always be on fuelling up properly before a race, but for a tough challenge like Team FEAR, you’ll also need to refuel on the go. Every competitor has to carry 1-litre of water with them, to drink ‘little and often’ throughout the race. Dehydration is the number one

So, don’t be scared! Competing in Team FEAR is a lot of fun, just make sure your team (and your bikes) are ready for the challenge.

Good luck!

FIND IT • Bike Energy Lab, www.bike-energy-lab.com • Bike Hub, www.bikehub.club • Lung Kee Bikes, 2656 2221 • Team FEAR Junior Challenge, www.team-fear.com Find more topical local topics @ www.arounddb.com

TEA

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Put some snacks in your pockets to keep your energy levels up during the race • Comfortable running shoes with a good grip • A well-fitting bike helmet – you wear one at all times and it must be properly done up • Gloves, ideally half-fingered cycling gloves, to protect your hands • An official race t-shirt, so that the marshals can identify you

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STILL PROCRASTINATING ABOUT WRITING YOUR WILL? BE SURE TO READ THIS PRECAUTIONARY TALE If you die without making a will, your assets will be distributed according to the law and not necessarily according to your wishes. There are many things to consider, but with a little preparation the process can be less painful and expensive than you might think – and certainly preferable to the chaos and confusion that can happen if there is not a will in place.

In my capacity as Managing Director of Carey, Suen Will Services, I’d like you to consider the below example of what can go wrong without a will. … This real-life example concerns two German men, one living in Germany, the other in Hong Kong, who were partners in a Hong Kong-based business. They didn’t have a written business agreement as the partner residing in Germany was concerned about German taxes. The partners trusted each other as they had been best friends for years.

I went to see them about drawing up a will for Hong Kong, and any other place they held assets – including Germany. I also advised them to draft some form of business protection as the company was worth around US$25 million, of which they split 50%. If either one of them died, how were they supposed to pay out the value to the deceased partner’s loved ones without affecting the business?

A few months later the business partner living in Germany was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I wrote his will and rushed it to the Adventist Hospital, suggesting that he sign it immediately, with the doctor and myself as witnesses. He declined and took the will back to Germany with him. I asked him to send me copies of the signed and witnessed documents.

He died before he validated his wills. His family – wife and daughter in Germany, one son in Spain and the other in Hong Kong – had to apply to the courts to claim his assets. His business partner denied the family access to the 50% value of the company.

There is no official partnership agreement, so the family is looking at a huge legal battle to prove ownership and to claim equity. As most of the family members live in high tax jurisdictions (Germany and Spain), they will also incur needless taxes on the estate as it is not being distributed through request but by the law.

All of this could have been much simpler and much easier for the family had there been a signed and validated will with a Deed of Trust to ensure that Dad’s half of the business would have passed on correctly.

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39

EDUCATION

Facing up to

fear

Photo by Annie Spratt – unsplash.com

It’s important that children learn to handle feeling afraid, and the best place for them to do that is in the pages of a book.

Ray Robertson reports

42

H

alloween is a strange sort of festival, one that cuts with a doubleedged sword. Despite all the treats, sinister tricks lurk in the shadows. Children revel in the dressing-up and love eating all the candy, but the supernatural element of things that go bump in the night is never far from their minds. And yet, or perhaps because of this, children love All Hallows’ Eve.

As parents, we have a responsibility to know the limits of what our children can handle. We don’t want to force them to hear a scary story, if they’re not ready for it. On the other hand, we can’t protect them from their own developing emotions, emotions that are best explored and managed in the safety of their homes and with the attention of their parents. It’s important that children learn to handle feeling

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

afraid, and one of the best places for them to do that is in the pages of a book.

Once upon a time The first scary books most kids read, or have read to them are fairy tales. Our children are weaned on versions of the Brothers Grimm’s medieval morality tales, in which beasts and innocents face off in

dark forests or forbidding castles.

The consequences of these clashes aren’t always pretty, and there’s a lot of fear to get through before the ‘happily ever after.’

ghosts and witches and evil fairies don’t exist. Reading scary stories means visiting places where impossible things are suddenly, temporarily, possible.

Classic fairy stories from Sleeping Beauty to Snow White are big on dark supernatural forces – wicked witches cast cruel spells that mess with fair maiden. These stories have some really tough life lessons to impart (that have nothing to do with magic), and this is one of the reasons we continue to read them to our kids. But we also continue to read them to our kids simply because they love them.

In this way, scary stories play an important role in children’s emotional education, allowing them to identify and control their fears. They give them the chance to experience a really potent fantasy and almost live it, without any of the consequences. They get to experience fear in a controlled environment (in the fantastical world of the book) in the safety of their own homes.

Of course, children love all the good magic that’s expressed in fairy stories – fairy godmothers turn rags into ballgowns, animals talk and everything ends happily. So, is it that which makes them love fairy stories, that prevents them from simply being scared witless by them? In part. But it’s important to know that children learn to make the distinction between fantasy and reality very early on. By age seven, most kids know the difference between what is real and what is not and, once they are able to do this, most can cope with the scares they experience in the make-believe world of a book.

It’s true that scary stories can cause nightmares (none of us has ever really come to terms with the horror of Bambi’s mother’s death), but, generally speaking, the fears children experience in madeup stories are manageable. Kids can handle the fears they face in Neverland because Neverland doesn’t actually exist.

Kids are instinctively drawn to scary things because they rely on the continuing safety of the real world. And in the real world,

The best children’s books are written in such a way as to help kids differentiate between what is real and what is not. A common device sees a book open in the real world, one with which young readers are familiar, that is populated by characters not unlike themselves. Then, after a page or two, something happens to these characters, which means they transition into a world of make-believe.

The Pevensies walk through a wardrobe and find themselves in Narnia, Max goes to sleep before sailing through night and day to meet the Wild Things.

Children know when the bridge between reality and fantasy has been crossed, and they adjust their fear threshold accordingly.

Happily ever after The other side of it is that kids, like adults, actually like to suspend disbelief every now and then, and really feel the fear. It’s fun for them to get so caught up in a scary book that they scream when the flying monkeys swoop down on Dorothy, or when James attacks Bella in the dance studio. What they are enjoying is the thrill, the

hyperarousal of the fight-or-flight response within safe parameters.

Essentially then, kids are turned on by fear and their ability, through reading, to confront it and cast it aside. They find a way to control how scared they want to be.

Scary stories help turn children into readers; the adrenaline rush of seeking out danger and then stepping away is what makes them return for more. It’s exciting for them to discover that they can get through the fear, and that they can put the book down whenever they choose.

Children benefit from all this because they learn to grapple with the range of emotions – anxiety, sorrow, confusion, surprise, anger – that fear invites. They come away from a scary story with new tools for managing or controlling their reactions to fear. Call it a new confidence or self-awareness, but it becomes part of how they deal with trauma going forward. Essentially, what they learn is courage. It becomes easier to stand up to a bully at school once you have fought ghosts, monsters or zombies within the pages of a book.

There are multiple reasons why book series like Harry Potter and Twilight captivate young readers.

Children connect to the vulnerability of characters, they live vicariously through their potentially fatal challenges and, when the last page is turned, they return to their real lives having survived Voldemort or the Volturi.

Vampires are scary. Dementors are too. Kids love to be scared, but not too scared. A parent’s job is to understand this, to invite discussion and make a variety of stories available. And to leave the night light on.

Find more on education @ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com October 2019

43

Check out the new Best of Lantau featuring a brand new expert panel!

Available throughout DB and across Lantau. Pick up a copy at your favourite local Lantau store.

SPONSORED CONTENT

F

ounded in 2003, YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) is known for the achievements of its students, as well as the accomplishments of its many alumni around the globe. Building on the foundation of whole-person education provided, graduates have carved out their own paths in a wide cross-section of fields.

Their professional success is complemented by their continuing personal growth, which enables them to pursue their dreams and serve their communities.

Photos courtesy of YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

As the only Direct Subsidy Scheme English-medium school in the Islands District, 70% of YHKCC’s student body is from overseas, which results in a dynamic and international learning environment.

With students harking from some 45 countries, the school sees itself as a mini United Nations, cultivating eye-opening life experiences and a strong respect for different cultures around the world.

The teaching staff at YHKCC is equally cosmopolitan. The school’s curriculum is enriched by professional, passionate teachers who come not only from Hong Kong but also from overseas – the US, UK, France, Ireland, Japan, Australia, Korea and more. Using their professionalism and cultural perspective, YHKCC teachers are able to create a broad learning spectrum both inside and outside the classroom.

In its dedication to whole-person development, YHKCC uses a student-centred approach to learning, which gives students the critical thinking skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.

By empowering students with a sense of autonomy, YHKCC enables them to become confident and responsible global citizens, who are capable of overcoming challenges and are dedicated to giving back to society.

YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College:

Exceptional achievements derived from a whole-person education

YHKCC’s whole-person philosophy hinges on the belief that a healthy and happy sense of self is the prerequisite to a student’s success. To help foster this sense of personal wellbeing, YHKCC prioritises opportunities outside the classroom. In addition to a wide range of extra-curricular activities and clubs, students are given the opportunity to attend local and overseas community-service trips and dedicated life-skills learning camps.

Academic achievement and performance are supported by the strong bond and partnership among

YHKCC’s teachers, parents and students. Accessible information and transparent communication are facilitated by the school’s open communication platforms, which include the Student Council and Parent Teacher Association, regular information evenings, a monthly meeting for parents with Principal Dion Chen, and parent-teacher/ student-teacher conferences.

YHKCC is dedicated to building a caring community of students, each of whom has a healthy sense of wellbeing and a strong core of values that will guide them on their future path.

Admissions Briefing 2020-2021 (F.1 Students) • Date: October 12 • Time: 2:30pm to 4:30pm • Venue: YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Chung Yat Street, Tung Chung • Register: Online at www.yhkcc.edu.hk or by scanning the QR code For more on YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, visit www.yhkcc.edu.hk. www.arounddb.com October 2019

45

SPONSORED CONTENT

St David’s College:

Photo courtesy of St David’s College

Fostering a sense of belonging in boarders

46

A

s chaplain at St David’s College in North Wales one of my priorities is to foster a sense of belonging in students in order to unlock learning and enable future success. Everyone needs to belong. It’s an important truth to remember as many cultures around the world are transitioning to a more individualistic lifestyle.

However, studies show that human

beings crave community and the lack thereof can be emotionally, psychologically and spiritually damaging. Conversely, if you can find a place where you feel a sense of belonging – where you are valued, celebrated and validated for who you are – then you will flourish and find fulfilment.

I am sure that every parent wants their children to have a sense of

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

value and an inspired purpose for their lives.

For 35 years, I have made a career of encouraging young people to chase their dreams.

It has been an exciting journey watching what young people can do with their lives. Recently, I had the honour of meeting 30 of my pupils from the 1970s. None had been an exceptional academic,

How to gift a sense of belonging to children 

Create your own community no matter where you go by making time to remember family traditions and rituals. Make an effort to get out of your comfort zone to learn about a new community’s values and celebrations, and share this with your children



Be careful with transitions and remember to provide reassurance as children can feel fragile around changes, for instance when starting at a new school



Don’t let anyone steal your child’s dream by providing unconstructive criticism or unhelpful feedback. Make it a priority to be a ‘dream builder’ for your children by listening to them and validating their experience



Set short-term goals to help your child build a path forward toward a long-term future goal



Encourage your children to ask parents, teachers and friends for help with setting goals and creating accountability. Helping them build a support network will prepare them to navigate failures along the way to achieving their dreams

as far as I remember, but most had discovered a passion – rock climbing, sailing, canoeing, music, sport, art. They had all gone on to fulfilling and varied professions – an accountant, a doctor, a cattle dealer, a police office… several were entrepreneurs. Some 35 years later, each of them wanted to give back to St David’s College in recognition of the learning environment that had empowered them to find their passion.

mechanical, but especially classic cars, and his dream was to start his own business in trading and restoring rare vehicles. He came back the following day and talked for another hour or two.

Andrew’s story

Andrew is what we sometimes describe as a ‘third culture kid.’

Raised in a culture other than his parents,’ and a new boarder at St David’s College, he struggled with a sense of abandonment and estrangement. Internally and externally, Andrew was alone.

But in the Chaplaincy Centre, he

Not long ago a pupil at our school, Andrew, arrived at the door to my Chaplaincy Centre. Andrew had been sent to us by a staff member who was concerned about his regular habit of acting out and not paying attention in the classroom. I invited Andrew in and he talked for almost three hours about his goals and aspirations. Andrew knew what he wanted to achieve, but the steps to harness his passion were evading him. Andrew was fascinated by anything

Just by being listened to and taken seriously, Andrew felt empowered to ask if we could help him start to achieve the short-term goals that would help make his long-term dream a reality.

discovered three keys to unlock his future potential: a place of acceptance where he felt valued, someone with the time to really listen and accept his story as he told it, and someone who validated his dream and believed in his ability to achieve it.

Real learning happens when a child is valued, listened to and encouraged to try without a fear of failure. A support network that can provide a sense of security and encouragement is essential to the learning process all the way through childhood to adulthood.

Andrew’s story may seem extreme, and perhaps it is, but it makes clear what every child and young person needs – to be valued, listened to and believed in.

FIND IT St David’s College, Llandudno, Conw y, North Wales is an independent boarding and day school specialising in whole-person education. Registration is open for September 2020 and beyond.

For more information, visit www.stdavidscollege.co.uk. www.arounddb.com October 2019

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TOP TIPS

Eco-friendly home decorating Greening your home decor is easier than you might think, and not only will it reduce your carbon footprint, it could save you a heap of cash.

Jane Drew reports

Photos courtesy of unsplash.com

“H

ave nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” So said William Morris at a lecture before the Birmingham Society of Arts and School of Design in 1880. It’s still a good maxim to live (and decorate) by but for the contemporary home decorator there’s something missing – there’s no reference to our desire to live in an environmentally conscious way. If Morris were lecturing in Birmingham this month, he would probably say: Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be both eco-friendly and useful, or believe to be beautiful.

Reduce your spending

So how do you go about creating an environmentally aware home filled with useful and beautiful ecofriendly pieces?

If your home decor is looking tired, just painting the walls can make all the difference. Choose eco-friendly paints that are free

Tip one: shop less. Eco-friendly decorators don’t follow home fashion, nor do they shop for recreation. They might donate or sell items that aren’t “useful” or that they no longer consider “beautiful” but they won’t replace items for the sake of it, and they’re not interested in keeping abreast of current trends.

Eco-friendly decorating isn’t about constantly buying new or more; it’s about breathing new life into old pieces and reworking what you already own.

Upcycle and repurpose

of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to both your family and the environment.

Another quick fix? Move the furniture around, refresh photo frames and rearrange your artwork.

It may take a bit of work but DIYing your old stuff into new stuff is more satisfying than buying new.

By switching up the upholstery on a faded sofa, you can reinvent a room. You can also re-stain or repaint wooden pieces to give them a fresh new look and cover any visible signs of wear-andtear. If your creative side refuses to come out, hire someone else to do the job. Upcycling is much cheaper than buying new, and the upcycled pieces will still feel new to you.

Finding new uses for old objects is

www.arounddb.com October 2019

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TOP TIPS

another fun way to green your home.

Turning a piano into a bookshelf or a phone booth into a couch is too much to ask of most of us, but a simple project like using old suitcases or trunks as a side table, or turning a sewing machine table into a vanity can be an interesting, eco-boosting exercise.

Turn on to vintage There are times, of course, when you really need a ‘new’ piece of furniture, and your best option is to buy vintage. Investing in sturdy, timeless designs will ensure that your home decor never goes out of style and, if the vintage item you find has stood the test of time thus far, it’s likely to serve you well long into the future.

The monthly flea market in DB is a good first port of call for pre-loved furnishings of all kinds, or you can head to one of the warehouses in Shenzhen or Zhuhai to pick out a couple of antique-look Chinese pieces, many of which have been put together using wood salvaged from genuine collectables. If you can’t find anything to your taste locally, eBay is a great place to explore the vintage vibe.

Think sustainable If vintage really isn’t your thing, you’ll likely have to pay a bit more for contemporary pieces that are genuinely eco-friendly.

Look to brands that are focused on ethical labour standards and fair trade; firms that give back to the artisans and communities who make their pieces and are passionate about cutting-edge design. And remember it works out cheaper to splurge on a quality sustainably sourced piece that will last a lifetime, than to pay peanuts for something that you will need to replace in a year or two.

A chic vintage-look kitchen decked out in reclaimed wood

Eco-friendly decorating isn’t about constantly buying new or more; it’s about breathing new life into old pieces and reworking what you already own In the hands of the right designer, modern eco-friendly materials are varied enough in colour, texture and purpose to offer myriad options.

Top choices include wood – as long as it’s Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified or reclaimed – slate, recycled glass, organic cotton, bamboo, cork and hemp.

Donate what you don’t need If you prefer to buy second-hand when purchasing something, it follows that you will choose to donate or sell an item that you want rid of. Even if you don’t make much money, the item has transferred its value to someone else (and more importantly, hasn’t ended up in a landfill). Don’t assume that just because it is used or old or no longer to your taste no one will want it.

Find more top tips @ www.arounddb.com

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

Donating unwanted items locally helps everyone involved without harming the environment, and there are plenty of ways to do this within DB. You can place small household items, toys and clothes in the Environmental Toy Houses located at Brilliance Court, La Costa and Midvale Village. The items donated are collected by local social enterprise DB Mothers & Friends, which redistributes them to people in need. DB Mothers & Friends also arranges doorto-door collections of larger household items each week for a small fee. Another option for clothes is to donate them to the Salvation Army via the collection bins located behind DB Post Office and at Midvale Village.

Alternatively, there are lots of DB-based Facebook groups for buying, selling and swapping items, as well as ‘swapping corners’ in many of the villages.

Your unwanted armchair or bookcase may be just what someone else needs to complete their functional, beautiful and eco-friendly home decor.

ISMARTHOME One Stop Concept Store FURNITURE | KITCHEN | INTERIOR DESIGN

Visit our design studio to learn more about new modern materials.

Design Studio Rm 24, 1F & 4F Eaton House, 380 Nathan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Furniture Showroom 88-7A Ho Tung Bridge, Kwu Tung, Sheung Shui, N.T., Hong Kong.

www.ismarthome.hk | Hotline: 8208 2995

ESCAPES

UNDER-THE-RADAR ASIAN THEME PARKS

Photos courtesy of unsplash.com

TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travellers Choice award for the best amusement park in the world just went to Universal’s Islands of Adventure in Florida.

But that’s quite a schlep from DB. Dorothy Veitch explores some wild alternatives much closer to home

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Edo Wonderland, Nikko, Japan

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

G

Chimelong Paradise, Guangzhou, China

lancing through TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travellers Choice award leaderboard that ranks the 25 best amusement parks in the world, you probably won’t be surprised to find that the top four are in Florida, namely Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Magic Kingdom Park, Universal Studios Florida and Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Somewhat surprisingly, Puy du Fou in Les Epesses, France, described as a “Renaissance Festival on steroids,” comes in at fifth place. But what is genuinely surprisingly (read disappointing) is that only one Asian amusement park makes it on to this year’s list – Universal Studios Singapore places 21st.

(1603–1868) known as Genroku, and it’s populated by staff in period costume, who play the part of Edo-era citizens. Visitors are encouraged to dress up as samurais, warlords, princesses and geishas, and the staff treat them according to their social status.

That’s right, no mention of hot family favourite Legoland Malaysia in Johor Bahru, or even of the ‘happiest place on earth,’ right on our doorstep. But living in Discovery Bay, most of us have done Hong Kong Disneyland, likely Legoland too… so, here’s a look at five truly out there Asian theme parks that have yet to get on everyone’s radar.

Chimelong Paradise, Guangzhou, China

Edo Wonderland, Nikko, Japan Complete with tofu and shrines, Edo Wonderland is based on the golden era of the Edo period

The park has seven theatres where traditional ninja and oiran shows are performed, and there are live outdoor shows, street performances, parades and seasonal festivals. Visitors can attend workshops to learn ninjutsu, traditional Japanese archery, shuriken throwing and samurai-sword fighting.

Boasting over 60 rides and attractions, Chimelong Paradise is the largest amusement park in China.

Thanks to a Kids Land and Happy Kingdom, there are plenty of fun rides for families but thrill seekers head to the Screaming Zone, in which the roller coasters are graded from ‘thrill’ to ‘extreme.’ The 10 Inversion Roller Coaster does what it says, while the Dive Coaster is nearly 61 metres tall and reaches speeds of up to 105  kilometres per hour. www.arounddb.com October 2019

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ESCAPES

Chimelong Paradise is linked by a bridge to Chimelong Water Park, and you can buy admission tickets that provide access to both parks.

Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad, India The brainchild of film producer Ramoji Rao, who wanted to build a studio complex similar to the ones in Hollywood, Ramoji Film City covers 8 squarekilometres and has been certified by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world. As movie lovers make their way through the permanent film sets, which include the railway station in Slumdog Millionaire, they are entertained by live stunt and street shows, plus Bollywood dance extravaganzas.

The land surrounding the studio delivers an amusement park for kids (Fundustan), a bird park, butterfly park and bonsai garden. Adventure lovers can head out into the mountains for ziplining, archery and bungee jumping.

Everland, Yongin, South Korea South Korea’s first family theme park, opened in 1976, Everland is still one of its most popular, and now boasts over 50 rides and attractions. From small beginnings, it has developed into a fully-fledged resort with a speedway, water park, golf course and museum. Set in lush gardens, Everland hosts a Tulip Festival from March to April each year.

Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad, India

There are four themed areas: ZooTopia combines a petting zone and pony rides, with a small zoo. European Adventure homes amusement arcades and a Mystery Mansion where visitors can shoot at ghosts. Magic Land offers up a log flume, futuristic flying ride and robot ride, plus an Aesop-themed village. American Adventure provides a taste of US history courtesy of a 1950s-themed live music venue and rodeo ride.

Everland, Yongin, South Korea

Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, Shilin, Taipei Providing a welcome step back in time for parents as well as kids, Taipei Children’s Amusement Park has just 13 classic rides including bumper cars, spinning tea cups, a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, drop tower and pirate ship. In addition to the rides, there’s an indoor play area and amusement arcade.

The park is small enough for young kids to get around in an afternoon and there’s plenty to do come rain or shine. The children’s theatre, operated by IF Kids Theatre Company, presents an exciting programme of family-friendly skits and shows most afternoons.

Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, Shilin, Taipei

Find more exciting escapes @ www.arounddb.com

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

FLOOR BY FLOOR

YOUR GUIDE TO

HORIZON PLAZA AP LEI CHAU

2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 2554 9089 About a 15-minute walk from South Horizon MTR Station Exit C Show this to your taxi driver: 香港鴨脷洲利榮街2號新海怡廣場

26/F CARPET BUYER www.carpetbuyer.com

Scan the barcode for further directions

7/F GARDEN GALLERY www.gardengallery.com.hk

CARPET BUYER 50% Discount Outlet

Asia’s largest rug warehouse stocks 5,000 handmade rugs.

A discount outlet with 50% off fine, tribal, modern and shaggys.

2850 5508 sales@carpetbuyer.com

Established in 1996, Garden Gallery specialises in outdoor and landscape supplies, ranging from outdoor furniture and gardening equipment to lighting, storage, tents and all kinds of barbecue stoves.

2553 3251 info@gardengallery.com.hk

8/F HARBOUR 1976 www.harbouroutdoor.com.au

Harbour 1976 offers premium indoor and outdoor furniture collections designed to withstand the great outdoors. The lifestyle brand focuses on unique design, incredible durability, and a deep sense of culture derived from Australia's beautiful coastline.

2754 6188 info@harbouroutdoor.com.au

G/F Natuzzi Stylish selection of exclusive home furniture G/F Roche Bobois Celebrating the French Art De Vivre around the world 2/F Sonder Living Premium home furnishings and lifestyle products 5/F OvoHome Exquisite custom-made furniture 6/F Indigo Stylish and eclectic furniture 7/F Garden Gallery Quality European outdoor and landscape supplies 7/F MOD High-end furniture and stylish home accessories 7/F Nook Living Stylish Italian furniture design at competitive prices 8/F Bowerbird Home Thoughtfully curated furniture, accessories and homeware 8/F Harbour 1976 Uniquely designed outdoor furniture with incredible durability 8/F Organic Modernism Fine and functional home and office furniture 9/F Barbecue in All Wide range of barbecue and living gear 9/F Everything Under The Sun The latest quality outdoor furniture for high-end homes 10/F Areahome Indoor and decorative items for the home 11/F Flexa Eco-friendly kids’ furniture 11/F Spaceman Space-saving furniture 12/F Infurniti Homes Sophisticated classical furniture with a contemporary twist 12/F Sun Garden Premium Quality outdoor and barbecue supplies 15/F Irony Home Top-grade indoor and outdoor furniture 16/F Patio Mart Quality outdoor lifestyle products at reasonable prices 16/F Phoenix Curtains Fine classic and modern curtains, plus custom-made sofas and upholstery

7/F NOOK LIVING www.nookliving.com.hk

8/F ORGANIC MODERNISM www.organicmodernism.com

Nook Living offers modernstyle designer furniture and accessories. It also specialises in custom-made wardrobes.

2276 4315/ 2698 0937

Organic Modernism is a Brooklyn based company specializing in nature-inspired pieces made of bronze and American walnut.

info@nookliving.com.hk

2556 9499 horizonplaza@ organicmodernism.com

16/F

16/F PHOENIX CURTAINS

Phoenix Curtains is a onestop shop for curtains, blinds, custom-made sofas and upholstery.

TAKUMI

Takumi supplies stylish and timeless Japanese and Malaysian indoor furniture.

2517 2000

2866 6686 5242 9369 (WhatsApp) info@phoenixcurtains.com.hk

16/F Takumi Japanese and Malaysian indoor furniture and accessories 19/F Toys Club Quality toys for kids of all ages 20/F Fink - The Art of Living Unique decorative items for the home

20/F Oriental Home Chinese, Mongolian and Tib etan antiques and bespoke furniture in different styles 26/F Ad Lib Oriental antiques, vintage Western lights and decorative arts 26/F Carpet Buyer Hand-made Persian rugs (antique), tribal carpets and contemporary rugs

26/F PAIDI Kids World Quality eco-friendly children’s furniture and beds 26/F Zzue Creation Outdoor furniture of all types by wellknown international brands 28/F Tree Traditionally crafted, sustainable furniture in contemporary designs

HK HAPPENINGS

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH!

Hong Kong Cancer Fund (HKCF) is making it easy for everyone to do their bit for breast cancer awareness this month. There are numerous ways to take part www.cancer-fund.org/pink in the charity’s Pink Revolution – you can attend or host a pink fundraiser, shop pink (many brands are donating part of the proceeds from select products to support HKCF’s free breast cancer support service) or simply dress in pink. To get involved, visit www.cancer-fund.org/pink.

UK SUBS LIVE

Across Hong Kong

Throughout October

MOM Livehouse, North Point October 6

FIREWORKS DISPLAY FINALE Macau Tower shorefront, Macau

The world’s best pyrotechnics teams have been battling it out in the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest, with 12 nations competing for the coveted winning trophy this year. You unsplash.com can enjoy the stunning finale from vantage points across Taipa Island and the Macau Peninsula. Entrance is free. To find out more, visit en.macaotourism.gov.mo.

October 5

SUMMER SOIREE POOL PARTY

www.wikimedia.org

Inspired by The Damned and The Sex Pistols, punk legends the UK Subs formed in 1976 and haven’t stopped touring since.

Regularly headlining to over 20,000 people, the band has sold over a million records without any substantial radio airplay, and is performing in Hong Kong for the first time. For advanced tickets, priced at HK$390, visit ticketflap.com.

UK EDUCATION FAIR

Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers, Tsim Sha Tsui October 12

Le Méridien Cyberport, Aberdeen

October 5

unsplash.com unsplash.com

Le Méridien’s Summer Soiree Pool Party, the last of the year, is big on French Riviera glamour. Imagine yourself on the Côte d’Azur, as you while away the afternoon listening to ambient chill out music. Brunch and backgammon are optional. For tickets, starting at HK$300, visit ticketflap.com.

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October 2019 www.arounddb.com

‘It’s not magic, It’s Britannia!’ At the Britannia Studylink UK Education Fair representatives of more than 20 British boarding schools, including St David’s College in North Wales, are on hand to answer questions about the boarding school system and discuss the benefits of studying in the UK. To find out more and to register, contact ben@britannia-study.com or visit www.britannia-study.com.

HK HAPPENINGS

HONG KONG CYCLOTHON

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

Viewpoint: Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon welcomes thousands of amateur and professional cyclists from around the world. The hotly contested Hammer www.togoparts.com Hong Kong (the series’ finale) returns for the second time this year, and there are numerous other races to enjoy, including the Family Fun Ride and CEO Charity and Celebrity Ride. For more information, visit www.discoverhongkong.com.

October 13

WINE AND DINE FESTIVAL

Central Harbourfront Event Space, Tamar October 30 - November 3

AUTUMN SONATA

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui Five world-class singers from the Nordics are collaborating with Malmö Opera Chorus and Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra in the Asian debut of the Golden www.togoparts.com Globe film-turned-opera Autumn Sonata. Ingmar Bergman’s heart-wrenching 1978 screenplay was transformed into an opera in 2017 by Finnish composer Sebastian Fagerlund. To find out more head to www.worldfestival.gov.hk; for tickets, starting at HK$220, visit ticket.urbtix.hk.

October 18-20

CROSS-HARBOUR RACE

unsplash.com

The CCB (Asia) Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival annually delivers world-class food, drink and entertainment. In addition to wine-pairing meals designed by master chefs, and signature dishes from Hong Kong’s top hotels and restaurants, there are well over 400 booths featuring everything from single malts to craft beer. General admission is just HK$130 on the door.

HALLOWEEN STREET PARTY Lan Kwai Fong, Central

Victoria Harbour October 31

October 27

www.nwd.com.hk

Some 4,000 swimmers are expected to cross Victoria Harbour in the biggest New World Harbour Race to date.

This year, a brand-new route has the course running from Wanchai Golden Bauhinia Square Public Pier to the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui. There are several categories for competitors, from Youth (starting at 12 years old) to Masters (50 and above), and the minimum course length is 1 kilometre.

For more information, visit www.hkharbourrace.com.

unsplash.com

Party with ghosts, superheroes, zombies and everything in between at Hong Kong’s party central on the spookiest night of the year. Dance the night away and enjoy eerily themed food and drink. To find out more, visit www.lankwaifong.com. www.arounddb.com October 2019

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DB FACES

Snaps COMMUNITY

Photos by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

Find more familiar DB faces @ www.arounddb.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar!

T Congratulations to last month’s winner: Reto Fuchs (@retofuchs)

60

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

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

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

corporate & business services Alcoholics Anonymous

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

Alcoholics No dues or fees.

Anonymous

Church Office: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org

24hr hotline:9073 6922 www.aa-hk.org

corporate T8 can&help support with: business services

• • • • • •

Virtual office Company formation Corporate services Book-keeping Administration support Visa Applications

Unit 2, G/F, Office Block 1, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North, Hong Kong Email: info@t8-consulting.com Tel: 2517 8248 www.t8-consulting.com

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

Michael, a HK resident, is available to deliver documents & small parcels around HK. Available full- or part-time.

Call 9145 6731 to leave a message

HEALTH & WELLBEING

VR, HYPNOSIS: INDIVIDUAL &/ OR COUPLES THERAPY Virtual-reality programmes for PTSD, addictions, phobias (fear of flying/ public speaking/ bridges/ enclosed spaces/ storms) • Couples’ conflicts • Overeating • Career/relationship stress • Anger management • Nail biting • Exam jitters Divorce/ post-divorce/ career coaching • Quit smoking quickly.

Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, Hypnotherapist.

Contact 2575 7707, www.mindmatters.hk

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HOME SERVICES

SPORTS

PRIVATE MARTIAL ARTS COACHING

FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY IN DB • Natural face rejuvenation & massage with facial reflexology

FTC RELOCATIONS

• Mind & body deep relaxation & healing with facial reflexology • Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s & dementia prevention & improvement with facial reflex therapy

• Local & international moves • Long/ short-term storage • Handyman services • World-class service – competitive rates • Operating on DB & Lantau

• Children’s learning support with (face, hand & feet) reflex therapy

Contact 2814 1658, sales@ftc.hk, www.ftc.hk

Contact Tina at vatyh@netvigator.com, 9855 7086 (WhatsApp)

Well known in the Hong Kong MMA community, Marc Guyon guides you through your journey to become a martial artist. As a former whitecollar-turned-professional fighter, Marc’s understanding of looking for peak performance in all your occupations & activities is like nothing in Hong Kong.

Contact 9303 2996, marcguyonkungfu@gmail.com, www.marcguyon.com

TUITION & COURSES

MATHEMAGIC IS AT DB PLAZA

HOME SERVICES TRIMCO HK LIMITED

AKASH MOVING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

• Painting

• Local packing, moving, storage & handyman service • All kinds of transport services • Inbound shipment clearance • Having stuff delivered from China? They are not delivering to DB Or Lantau? Have it sent to the Akash office in Kwai Chung & delivered to your home.

• Decorating • Renovation • Cladding • Tiling Contact Steve Donovan at 6149 0894 (call or WhatsApp), trimcohk@gmail.com

Contact 2421 8088, info@akash.hk, www.akash.hk

Support classes in mathematics & sciences now available for: • Year 7 to Year 13 • IGCSE • IB (SL or HL) • A level (Standard & Further Modules) • SATs/ PSATs/ LSATs • UKCEE Home tuition available as well as online classes.

Contact Karim Arditi on 9135 4724 (call or WhatsApp), mathemagicMD@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/HLmathemagic, www.hlmathemagic.com

GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY

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

Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found.

Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks.

For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or Baguio 6776 8400 Email: baguiowong@hotmail.com

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

Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.

© Anna Kari

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

www.arounddb.com

Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com

PROPERTY

DB PROPERTY FOR RENT STYLISH APARTMENT IN GREAT LOCATION

Bright, beautifully decorated apartment with every modern luxury. Sleeps one couple & one child. Conveniently located in walking distance of DB Plaza, the bus terminus & ferry. Available for short or long stay. Contact the owner at corinhk@yahoo.com

LUXURY APARTMENTS IN SIENA 2

Spacious 600 square-foot apartments – quiet with sea views over park, near Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Fully furnished with washer/ drier, bed linen, kitchenware, 55” TVs, wi-fi, NOW TV & sound bar. Contact the owner on 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

TWO-BED IN CHERISH COURT

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

Contact Jacqueline on 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

ONE-BED WITH HOME OFFICE

Lovely 645 square-foot flat, great location, one bedroom, spacious office & over-sized Western kitchen. Available fully furnished, for short- or long-term rental. Contact the owner at justinsmith3333rental@gmail.com

If you are looking to rent or sell a property and would like to see it listed on this page, email corinne@baymedia.com.hk

CLOT HING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

2428 2566 FOOD, RES TAUR A N T S & BA RS

A Tavola Bar & Grill Airport Izakaya Andante Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Curry Lounge Dosirak House Essence Restaurant - Novotel Citygate Federal Palace Restaurant Kimos Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Melody Thai Moccato Coffee Shop My Thai Olea Restaurant - Novotel Citygate PizzaExpress Pizza Hut Delivery Regala Café & Dessert Bar Resto Restaurant Rouge - Regal Airport Hotel Skycity Bistro Tung Chung Pizza Zentro Garden

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HE A LT H & W EL L BEING

Bayside Dental Bon’s Mobile Pet Grooming Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre North Lantau Physiotherapy Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical Rainbow Voice and Soundhealing

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HOT EL S

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

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L E A RNING CEN T RES

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

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SOCI A L , SP OR T S & EQUIPMEN T

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

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FI T NESS, SP OR T S & W EL L BEING

Pause by the Banyan South Lantau Paddle Club Thai Palin Massage Thai Sa Baai Treasure Island Group

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

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HOT EL S

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383

Kind Hing Trinity International Kindergarten & Nursery Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten Mui Wo Language Cafe

2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 2984 0006 5511 6107

PROPER T Y AGENCIES

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RE TA IL

Friendly Bike Shop Greenstyle Organic & Healthcare INSIDE Island Wines Lantau Base Camp Lantau Grocer Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques Tony’s Salon Value Vigilantes VIBE Book & Music Shop ZenvarA

2984 2278 9802 0553 2890 8606 9521 8481 2983 8428 2702 0050 2882 8710 2988 1368 2984 0990 6132 9120 9088 2370 9586 3459

SERV ICES & OT HERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Miriam Safadi Photography Parteezi Phoenix Wills

9662 1747 2984 0060 5145 0227 6112 9842 6108 8471 T R A NSP OR TAT ION

U T IL I T Y, SERV ICES & E MERGENC Y HOT L INES

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

FOOD, RES TAUR A N T S & BA RS

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bathers Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) Cafe Isara China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar Kebab Korner La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Le Jardin de Sophie Long Island Mucho Gusto Robert’s Market Stoep @ High Tide Restaurant The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Water Buffalo Treasure Island Restaurant

L E A RNING CEN T RES

HOME & REPA IRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Mr. Chan 24-hours Handyman Shun Yu Engineering

SOUTH LANTAU

TUNG CHUNG

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

www.arounddb.com October 2019

65

DB NUMBERS COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB Anglican Church DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Care Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza Trinity Chapel

2987 2259 2987 2987 2987 2987 2666 2834 2987 2987 2259 2987

0855 3422 8136 4210 7061 5633 6183 7276 7575 9003 3422 9909

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Action X, North Plaza Nomadic

DAILY NECESSITIES 2987 2987 2448 2987 2947 2366

4401 7486 1180 4089 9092 6534

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of China HSBC Parsons White Wealth Management The Stephen Putnam Practice

2160 8585 2233 3000 2433 6981 2914 0388

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Café Bord de Mer & Lounge, North Plaza Caffe Pascucci Cali-Mex, North Plaza Coyote Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s Epic Foods, North Plaza Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Gilmore’s by the Golden Pig Healthy Chicken, North Plaza Hemingway’s il Bel Paese Island Café Koh Tomyums La Creation & Châteraisé McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Moofish, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant PizzaExpress Solera Starbucks DB North Plaza Subway The Pier Bar Three Sheet Marquee Bar TigerLily Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s

d-clutter DRS Company Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Hung Kee Co Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

6323 9156 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987

1417 0360 1313 4488 5087 1041 0222 7082 0789 0789 9268 4428

Tree of Joy A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & a cooking class Contact 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

Woodentots Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring & nurturing environment in DB Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Contact 6108 9131, woodentotsdb@gmail.com

LEARNING CENTRES 3102 2977 2987 8460

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

LEARNING CENTRES

HOME

2987 2298 2295 8288 2295 8299 2591 1426 2904 7698 2987 2848 2987 0036 2172 6111 2987 2915 2987 9123 2662 9168 6933 6990 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 6318 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2465 2426 2555 0772 2246 8372 2914 0005 2520 2166 2987 0966 2997 8688 2840 1188 2987 6232

Discovery Mandarin Tutoring Service Certified native Chinese teachers.

Experienced in supporting IB & IGCSE learners to excel in all aspects of Mandarin: listening, speaking, reading & writing. Contact 9801 1055 to book a 20 minutes free trial lesson

Discovery Montessori School A reputable & well-known international school for authentic Montessori Bilingual (English & Chinese) Education for children aged 1 to 12 years. Beautiful campus & highly qualified teachers (15 years+ experience). Contact 2987 1201, enquiry@dms.edu.hk, www.dms.edu.hk

Future Stars Dance Academy Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined & safe environment. Contact melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com, Futurestars Dance Academy Hong Kong Facebook page, Instagram: @futurestarsHk

Island Dance ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, tap & Bollywood classes at DBRC, Club Siena & DB Plaza. Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week.

Contact 2987 1571, 9159 0663, info@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk

Little Explorers The longest running playgroup in DB, Little Explorers eases the transition between home play and kindergarten for children, aged 18 months and up. Contact 9327 0507, littleexplorers@team-fear.com

PapyrusEDU A family-friendly centre offering 3D Modelling & Printing, LEGO Education After School, Junior Food Art. Lifestyle morning programmes: Decoupage, Porcelart, Food Artist. Contact 6360 1715, info@papyrusedu.com, www.papyrusedu.com

Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori Academy, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Dr. Bear Education Centre Early Adventures Playgroup Epic Adventurers Eye Level Education Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza La Petite Enfance Kindergarten L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie Education centre Les Petits Pois Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza Mathemagic – home tutoring Mathnasium SKH Wei Lun Primary School Treasure House Zhi Zhi Chinese

October 2019 www.arounddb.com

2436 2142 7331 1000 8088 8088 2202 9206 1201 4338 6264 9644 0098 0000 6327 3198 8808 0813 0813 0813 2436 0507 3909 4724 3362 8608 4217 2966

MULTIMEDIA Bookazine Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd

2987 1373 2914 2378

OTHER SERVICES

Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 2416 8618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com, www.harveylawcorporation.com

Martina Stevens Photography Photographer based in Discovery Bay specialising in small and exclusive projects. Newborns, Maternity, Family and Lifestyle photography.Contact 9487 5242, martina@martinastevensphotography.com, www.martinastevensphotography.com Gillian florist, North Plaza P-Solution The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

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6114 2914 2987 3969 2987 2987 2914 2812 2987 2987 6762 2987 2441 9366 6302 2416 2459 8191 8191 8191 6114 9327 2480 9135 2628 2987 2987 9648

2529 2987 2987 2987

8256 1777 1368 5151

DB NUMBERS PETS Kristy’s Paradise - Cat Sitter in Discovery Bay Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery Ready, Pet, Go!

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES 6201 2987 2987 5721

7749 8873 0428 6181

Bo Bo House DB Party Time Toysland

2987 4230 9502 2381 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS EPS Property Consultants Headland Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property OKAY.COM

2987 2987 2987 2987 2102

2023 2088 2987 6238 0829

DB Golf Cart Services DB Transportation Services Limousine Rental Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2987 5303 2987 2987

2727 7351 3489 0208 9368

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

HK Dragons Football Club Football for girls & boys aged 2.5 years to 14 years. Contact 2987 4274, dragons.hk

Tekkerz Football programmes for boys and girls for age groups U5 up to U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com

Action X, North Plaza Club Siena, North Plaza DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Rugby, Netball, Hockey & Dragonboat Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club Embody EpicLand, North Plaza FIT 852 Greenwich Yoga School, North Plaza Kapuhala Train-in-Space, North Plaza MAS FIT MGK Fight Club Nutrition and Fitness with Emilie YogaBay, North Plaza YogaUp, North Plaza

To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0577, or email info@baymedia.com.hk

2911 2987 6473 9255 2987 2987 2987 6624 2441 9680 9685 6101 9387 9303 6385 6704 8197

4833 7382 4277 6133 9591 7273 7381 8712 0098 7665 8366 8434 0735 2996 5425 9851 5591

2345 8333 2678 4242 7502 2345 3601 3388 6046 4511 1694 7000 6738 1473 0788 5000

@ www.arounddb.com

WELLBEING

The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio BODYPUMP, BODYBALANCE, GRIT, BODYSTEP & Zumba (fitness, toning & kids). Piloxing, yoga & Pilates, RPM (indoor cycling), plus Latin, belly & wedding dance. Classes for adults & children, & personal training. Contact 5194 9630, info@thebeat.com.hk, www.thebeat.com.hk

3651 2728 2678 2987 2987 3651 2238 2238 2987 2435 3661 3467 2987 2835 2811 2824

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Bay Spa

ay Spa a

Massage, facials & nail services in DB Plaza. Contact 9837 0969 (Tel/ WhatsApp)

Elly House of Beauty

Highly skilled skincare specialist committed to providing the most effective skincare services to the DB community. Also postnatal abdominal binding & jamu massage.

Contact 6131 9039, Elly House of Beauty Facebook Page, www.ellyhouseofbeauty.com

Ingredients of Wellness Mindfulness training for children, teens and their parents and teachers. Offering Mindfulness Matters!, Mindfulness in Education (for adults), AMT Mindfulness Teacher Training. Contact 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com

Nail Spa: 2987 2266

Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza DB Pure Spa Elly House of Beauty Freedas Maximum Care Nest Care, North Plaza Salon De Coiffure

Massage: 2988 1111

2987 9794 6131 2987 2987 2499 2987

0283 0918 9039 4555 2060 8826 4112

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www.arounddb.com October 2019

67

OUT THERE

Dialogue with a deity

Making the most of his direct line to God, Peter Sherwood discovers how He feels about curling, Donald Trump and electronic messaging

I

was having a chat with God, as I sometimes do when there’s no one around. Suddenly, He replied. “What do you want!?”

Taken aback I said I didn’t want anything. “Then why the endless babbling? I’m sick of it. As if I don’t have enough cosmic stuff to sort out, I have to tune into your bleating. Listen up! You want to get in touch, then go through the proper channels.”

“OK the truth: I was just having a small wager with myself on the tennis.” “Djokovic,” He said.

“Pardon?” “Novak, you heard. And you’re betting with yourself? Well, that should be a sure-fire success.”

Illustration by Terry Chow

I was stunned that God had time for tennis. “Sure. I like all sports.” “What about curling and synchronised swimming?” “Well, almost all.” I checked in with the remnants of my sanity while He continued: “I’ve not told anyone before. But who do you think helped 17-year-old Michael Chang win the French Open in ’89?’ “Your secret’s safe with me.” “It better be, or your deepest regret will feel like a blessing. And I’m fond of rugby.

Football’s too tribal.”

68

I said I was flattered that He had time for little old me. “I don’t have time,” He roared, “and now there are 7.3 billion of you lot. I screwed up, allowed you Sapiens to win too much. I haven’t been fair.”

“Not fair to who?” “The wildlife, green stuff, pigs and chickens et al. Big mistake. I could easily have spliced a DNA strand or altered a chromosome to keep you marauding expansionists in caves.

So much for that little experiment.

Trouble is you breed like hamsters.”

“And yet, you still have time for sports?” “Call it a weakness. I don’t have many – the hydrogen bomb and Donald Trump were not my finest moments. And Lionel Messi and Roger Federer don’t exactly balance the equation.”

Why is the world a mess?

“You seem frustrated, God.” “Right, and wasting my energy on an intellectual pygmy like yourself.”

“Well you didn’t have to reply,” I

said indignantly. “I don’t have to do anything, I’m God.” Sensing the moment had come to put my recent assertiveness training into practice, I said, “And what am I, nothing!?” “Less than zero, actually. I don’t know why I bother.

I should be speaking to Stephen Hawking.” “He’s dead.” “Yeah, well don’t blame me.”

Theologically, philosophically and sensibly, there could be no logical response. Hard enough standing in a busy street pretending I was on a hands-free smartphone. But the ruse was observed from on high. “Wonder why the world’s a mess? Try living with a trillion electronic messages flying around the heavens every second. And a billion pictures of everyone’s morning coffee and moronic cat.

Galactic interference on a major scale. My infinite wisdom, even with 6.517 languages and thousands of dialects – all fluent – can’t get through the blitz of meaningless microwave madness, if you’ll forgive the crude alliteration.”

“Would you prefer I stop talking?”

“Hey, dummy, I’d prefer you all stop talking. You’re driving me nuts.”

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 20 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter @ www.arounddb.com October 2019 www.arounddb.com