The really useful magazine August 2018
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MUST HAVE THIS MONTH 14 Back to school What to put in your backpack
4 Snapped! Sai Kung’s social life THE PLANNER
FIVE MINUTES WITH...
6 Happening in August What’s on this month
16 Catherine Lumsden Founder of Catherine’s Puppies
NEWS
LOCAL
10 What’s going on? In your backyard
18 Brushstrokes of affection Meet local artist Gary Yeung
CRIME
COVER STORY
12 Police blotter What have the Sai Kung police been up to? GIVEAWAYS 13 Free stuff Fab things to win
20 Readers’ Choice Awards: The results You voted, we counted
DINING 30 Holistic Nutrition Ally van de Pol guides Carolynne Dear towards a greener lifestyle. Plus Nibbles. EDUCATION 34 Shrewsbury International School Take a look, ahead of the grand opening ZIM CITY
PETS 44 Hot dogs Heatstroke in dogs. Plus Walkies. GARDENING 45 In the garden What to plant in August VINES IN SAI KUNG 48 The weekend waltz Steven Vines reports on illegal parking in Sai Kung
40 Paul Zimmerman explains… Ideas for promoting cycling VILLAGE FOCUS 42 Nai Chung Old Village A hidden secret in an unexpected place
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“CAUSE A LITTLE BIT OF SUMMER’S WHAT THE WHOLE YEAR IS ALL ABOUT.” JOHN MAYER
SAIKUNG.COM | 1
editor’s letter
A
lthough it’s been a bit of a rainy July, Sai Kung has made the most out of the summer, with brave junkers battling the rough seas! It’s that time of year again when you all came together to vote for your Sai Kung favourites. With a few new categories sprinkled in, we were able to shine some light on many different businesses and areas around the town. Check out who won on page 20. The town is full of such talented and charitable people! I was lucky enough to get to meet Catherine Lumsden and some of the adorable puppies she is currently looking after. Check out all the cuteness on page 16. Stationary shopping for the new school year was always one of my favourite things to do – nothing makes you more productive than a new pen! We make back-to-school shopping easy for you on page 14. I hope August brings more sunshine and smiles to the town, and I wish good luck to everyone heading back to school.
Editorial
Managing editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Acting editor Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Sub-editor Kay Ross, kay@hongkongliving.com
Design
Graphic designer Sonia Khatwani, sonia@hongkongliving.com Alvin Cheng, alvin@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing
Sales director Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Sales & Marketing executive Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Corrie Tang, corrie@hongkongliving.com Johnny Wong, johnny@hongkongliving.com
Accounting
Assistant Operations Manager Charles Lau, charles@hongkongliving.com
Publisher
Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com
Thanks to
Jeramy Lee Sally Andersen Gary Yeung Catherine Lumsden
contributors
Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
saikung.com
talk@hongkongliving.com
Kaitlyn Lai
Sally Anderson
Gabrielle Tse
… is studying Comparative Literature a nd English in Scotla nd. Born a nd raised in Hong Kong, she is a diehard fa n of dai pai dongs a nd karaoke. She loves to explore the concrete ju ngle she calls home, whether it be u nearthing aesthetic cafés a nd breathtaking galleries hidden in twisted alleys or simply discovering a trendy boutique.
… arrived in Hong Kong in 1984 with the intention of just passing through. After two years of living aboard a yacht she moved to La mma, where there were a lot of stray dogs. After learning about the government’s AFCD Centres, where all dogs were routinely destroyed, she set up Hong Kong Dog Rescue in 2003. The rest is history.
… is a first-year Law a nd Literary Studies student at HKU who loves all things creative. Her blood is proba bly half-ink, halfboba tea by now. As well as writing, Ga bby also loves painting, scrapbooking a nd volu nteering with kids. She’s passionate a bout cultural linguistics, a nd drea ms of pu blishing her poetry a nd short fiction someday.
@saikungmag
facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine
HONG KONG
Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd.This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Hong Kong Living Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.
Want to write for Sai Kung Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | SAIKUNG.COM
cover by: alvin cheng
hongkongliving.com
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people Snaps from Sai Kung
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say cheese Snaps from Sai Kung
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planner AUG 4
Bob Dylan Live Come gather ’round people, wherever you roam, because the critically acclaimed legend Bob Dylan is coming to perform in Hong Kong for the first time since his Nobel Prize win. $488-$1,288. 8.30pm. Hall 5BC (Expo Drive Entrance), Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com
AUG 4
Stand Up Paddleboard Explorer Clinic Let’s glide across the water! Learn paddle boarding in the gorgeous Deep Water Bay. $590 with the APA Outdoor Shop. asiapacificadventure.com
Throughout August
Ocean Park Summer “Carnimal” Get ready to be surrounded by Caribbean beats, traditional Brazilian acts and animalthemed grand parades. Included with General Admission, Ocean Park Hong Kong. oceanpark.com.hk
THROUGHOUT AUGUST
Rock-climbing Summer Courses at Verm Kids aged 4-15 can scale rocks at Verm’s challenging and exciting summer bouldering and sports climbing courses. $1,300 for 4 classes. 4/F, Kodak House 1, 321 Java Road, Quarry Bay. vermcity.com
UNTIL AUG 12
Chinese Opera Festival Learn more about the roots of Hong Kong through this traditional artform. Hong Kong City Hall, Central and Hong Kong Space Museum, TST. cof.gov.hk
UNTIL AUG 3
Johnnie Walker x LKF Presents International Cuisine Celebration Get up to 50% off restaurants in LKF and win prizes with accumulated spending. Complimentary Johnnie Walker Highballs with your reservation. Lan Kwai Fong, Central. feedmeguru.com
AUG 3
International Beer Day Get your pints at the ready this Friday!
UNTIL AUG 5
“Bosshard in China” Explore 1930’s China in this exhibition of blackand-white photographs and documentary films by Swiss photo-journalist Walter Bosshard. Free. The University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong. umag.hku.hk
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UNTIL AUG 12
International Arts Carnival 2018 For kids: a fantastic line-up of theatre, music, dance, film and magic. With workshops and backstage tours. hkiac.gov. hk/2018/en/index.html
AUG 3 - 8
International Baby/Children Products Expo Over 1,000 stalls selling more than 100,000 types of children’s products, and a crawling contest for tots! $30 for adults; $20 for children under 1. New Wing Hall 1, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. hkmb.hktdc.com
AUG 4, 11, 18
Beach Aerial Yoga Practise aerial yoga on the beach! Aerial hammocks, hoops and flying poles provided. $560. 12.30-4pm. Meet-up in Sai Kung, hike together to Sai Long Wan. bamboo-yoga.com
happening in August The therapeutic walk will end with a tea ceremony, with tea leaves foraged from the forest itself. Individual: $280, Pair: $450. 8.30am-12.15pm. Sai Kung. kembali.org
AUG 18
South Island Art Discovery Walk Discover Hong Kong’s vibrant street art in this walk organised by Accidental Art, as a specialist explains the local art market. $350, 2-4.30pm. Meet at the Circle K, Wong Chuk Hang Station Exit A. accidentalart.co/south-island-artdiscovery-walk
AUG 18 - 26
Sai Kung Bulldogs Football Trials
AUG 4
AUG 16-20
Yoga-nna enjoy stretching by the sea. Free. 3.30-4.30pm. Pier 10 Central Pier. yogacommunity.org
Hong Kong is known as a “food heaven”, and for good reason. This leading food trade event gathers over 900 exhibitors, offering a selection of the finest delicacies from all over the world. $40. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai, hktdc.com/hkfoodexpo
Yoga Class at Pier 10
AUG 5
Birthday of Kwan Tai, the God of War The birthday of Kwan Tai, highly regarded by police and the secret “black societies” of Hong Kong, is celebrated on the 24th day of the 6th Lunar month. Man Mo Temple, 124130 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan.
AUG 7
Let’s Make Music A non-profit campaign by Making Music Being Well Hong Kong to celebrate music’s therapeutic properties. Client groups are invited to perform and share how music has enriched their lives. Free. Lecture Theatre N203, 2/F, North Tower, PolyU West Kowloon Campus. facebook.com/ mmbwhk
AUG 7
Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park
Hong Kong Food Expo
The Bulldogs are holding summer football trials and summer workshops. No matter what your skill level is, you’re welcome to join and learn. Free. Wai Man Road, Playground Football Pitch, Sai Kung. saikungbulldogs.com
AUG 18
Restorative Nature Therapy Practice Immerse your senses in nature and reconnect with your soul.
Hong Kong Ballet’s ALICE (in Wonderland)
AUG 17-26
Fall into an effervescent fantasy! ALICE (in Wonderland) has arrived this season, bringing together contemporary style and a timeless tale. Tickets from $100. Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST. urbtix.hk
AUG 19
Momentai Pop Up Market Grab a variety of items, ranging from delicious olives to silk bedding. Starts at 11am. Shop ’til you drop at Kiosk 1, Sai Kung Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung.
Get ready to lose your voice. Former Linkin Park member Mike Shinoda’s first solo performance tour. Tickets from $488. Star Hall, Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay. premier. hkticketing.com
AUG 23 - SEP 2
AUG 15 - 21
AUG 24 - 26
Peppa Pig’s Great Vacation Join Peppa and her friends for an unforgettable vacation! Eleven fun and interactive zones for both parents and kids to learn, play and create lifelong memories. $200. Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. hkticketing.com
Restaurant Week
Restaurant Week features a range of special offers at restaurants across the city if you use the DiningCity App. Various restaurants. restaurantweek.diningcity.hk
YOGA BOU Intensive with Michiko Minegishi This three-day intensive workshop is suitable for all levels of yoga lovers. Rehabilitative Yoga Bou uses a rod to help soothe muscular tension. $3,680 for Pure cardholders; $4,600 for non-cardholders. 14/F, The Peninsula Office Tower, TST. pure-yoga.com
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planner galleries, accompanied by high-quality tea sets and wine. Indulge in fine art, street art and culinary art all at once! $750 for one, $1,314 for two, 2pm-5pm, gathering point at Amanda Wei Gallery, Central. accidentalart.co
AUG 25 AUG 25
French Storytelling Slip into the magical world of French “contes de fées” (fairytales). Open to all ages and all levels. Free, register at eventbrite.com. 1.30-2pm. Alliance Française de Hong Kong, Jordan Centre, G/F-3/F, 52 Jordan Road, Kowloon. afhongkong.org
Hong Kong International Reggae Ska Festival Are you reggae for the city’s biggest celebration of Jamaican music? PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central. hkirsf.com/ festival
W Hong Kong 2018 X Summer Crush Pool Party
AUG 11
Soak up the summer with the hottest DJs, a whimsical AR photo booth, cocktails and Champagne. From $400. WET Pool, W Hong Kong Hotel, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon. hkclubbing.com
AUG 25
Big Band Night: “All That Swing” A Saturday Night Jazz Orchestra, led by Taka Hirohama. Tickets from $120, 9.3011.30pm. Hong Kong Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central. hkfringeclub.com
AUG 25
AUG 25 - 26
A tour through SOHO’s hidden art
This irresistible fairy-tale opera is coming to
Eat-Pray-Art Immerse Day
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“The Magic Flute”
Hong Kong! Enjoy Mozart’s musical genius and the Chinese cultural context of this East-meets-West performance. Tickets from $100. 7.30pm. Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall, Central. urbtix.hk
happening in August
BOOK NOW Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com
timeless classics. $888. 8pm. Arena, AsiaWorld-Expo. lushington.com
SEPT 15 - 16
SEPT 29 - 30
Ballet Classics for Children: Carnival of the Animals
SEPT 1
GlamFest Kowloon Bazaar 2018 Shop ’til you drop at this lifestyle bazaar, including lucky draw, freebies and wine tasting! 11am-8pm. Regal Kowloon Hotel, 71 Mody Road, TST East. kowloonbazaar.com
SEPT 5 - 9
The Amazing Bubbleman Square bubbles, round bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles and even people inside bubbles! Mesmerising fun for your children (and your inner child). Tickets from $395. Various times. Drama Theatre, Hong
Young animallovers and ballet fans unite at these interactive performances, including Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty. Tickets from $200. Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST. urbtix.com
24-Hour Charity Dinghy Race Join in Hong Kong’s only aquathon, with free entry and trials for the public. Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Hiram’s Highway Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. hhyc.org.hk
SEPT 19
The Killers HK Tour Get ready to rock and roll! The Killers are back in town with their latest hits and
Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
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credit: Ron Berg-pixabay
news
18-year-old Boy Struck by Lightning in Ma On Shan Country Park
Bathroom Break Saves a Life
Eighteen-year-old Ian Lo passed away after being struck by lightning while hiking with friends in Ma On Shan Country Park in earlu July. When emergency services personnel arrived they were unable to revive him. Although it wasn’t raining at the time, a thunderstorm warning had been issued earlier that day. Lo was a young baseball athlete from South Island School who had just finished his IB examinations. He will be remembered lovingly by his family and friends.
A taxi driver had a luckily escape after a tree fell onto his car during the torrential rain on July 15. The driver, aged 66, had stopped at a bus stop along a road in Sai Kung for a quick bathroom break. He then returned to his cab and watched in disbelief as a tree slammed down on it, denting the roof and smashing some of the windows. Luckily no was was harmed in the incident, but please remain cautious on the roads during heavy wind and rain.
credit: Maxpixer.net
Foodpanda expands delivery service to Sai Kung
Burmese Python Caught in Local Village The police and a professional snake-catcher, David Willott, caught a Burmese Python in a Sai Kung village in July. The Burmese Python is the largest snake in Hong Kong, growing up to six metres long. Although it isn’t venomous, it can display aggressive behaviour. Snakes are a protected species in Hong Kong, so interfering with or killing one may lead to fines and imprisonment. If you get bitten, move away calmly, note the snake’s appearance, apply pressure to the bitten area and call 999 as soon as possible.
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The much anticipated expansion has finally happened! As of July 18, Foodpanda began offering its delivery services in the town, giving hungry residents a new hope for their take out services. So far the restaurants involved in the delivery service are Paisano’s and Cali-Mex, but we are sure many restaurants will be joining up with this service in the foreseeable future.
in your backyard Overheard on the 101 “Check out the flower display in the public loo, opposite the wet market, bus stop number 3” “Rumour has it that Sai Kung magazine won best magazine in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards” “Where have all the cows gone?” “Did you hear the storm? I could have sworn it was above my house” “Seahorses in Sai Kung, whatever next?!”
Slow Broadband Angers Football Fans Residents were left outraged during the FIFA World Cup as slow broadband and Now TV services disrupted crucial moments during some games. The untimely bouts of static were deemed unforgivable by many local residents. With half a million residents in Sai Kung, broadband companies are behind the times regarding internet speed. Hopefully the situation will soon be improved.
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on patrol
Reports from Sai Kung Police Senior Inspector Jacky Chan reports on recent cases in Sai Kung Fallen trees cause havoc but no danger Due to the recent bad weather conditions, three trees fell down recently. On July 15, a tree fell onto a house in Long Keng Village. Luckily the house was vacant and no one was injured.
‘Watch’ out An online deception case was filed after a man agreed to buy a Rolex watch on a Facebook marketplace. After the man deposited the money, the seller and the watch were nowhere to be found. The police are still investigating the case.
Not so safe A thief stole $10,000 from a safe inside a local shoe shop. Police believe the thief was an insider who gained access through the back door. Once in the store, the thief found it relatively easy to steal the money as the safe had been left unlocked. CCTV footage showed a masked culprit with a stick outside the shop on multiple occasions. The police are still investigating the case.
Missing girl not missing A 23-year-old girl was reported missing by her family on July 15, but the report was withdrawn later that day after the girl went to the police station, explaining that she had been hiking and diving with her boyfriend in Tan Ka Wan. Police
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do not believe there were any suspicious circumstances.
was damage to the bicycles, no serious injuries were recorded.
That’s my spot! There were 13 cases of disputes and assaults in July, with many being parking disputes at Pa Sha Wan after cars had snuck into spots that others were patiently waiting for.
In a net of lies The Marine police caught five illegal immigrants from China in Sai Kung waters on June 27. The immigrants were travelling in a speedboat and claimed to be fisherman, however the police found no fishing nets or rods onboard the boat and believed the culprits were too smartly dressed. They have been detained at Sai Kung police station for further questioning.
Dramatic crash causes dizziness At 2am on July 8, two private cars collided at the junction from Man Kung Wo Road to Hiram’s Highway. A 28-year-old driver and a 17-year-old passenger were sent to hospital in a conscious condition after reporting feeling dizzy. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.
Tenant “steals” his own belongings On June 30 a tenant went to an apartment on Sai Kung main street after his lease ended to collect some items, including a TV. The landlord called the police, claiming the flat was being burgled, but police believe the TV actually belonged to the tenant. The investigation is still underway.
Bike blunders There have been five recent cases of traffic accidents involving cyclists in Sai Kung, with cars knocking bikes off the road. Although there
For more information, contact Sai Kung Police Station, 1 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 3661 1630
giveaways
win at hongkongliving.com
Back to School Special Set
Sterling silver bracelet and necklace
Up for grabs: Back to School Special Set: 1 Cover, 1 laptop sleeve and 1 silicone keyboard From: Make it COLOURFUL believes in the empowerment and expression of the personality of children and young adults by printing unique designs onto covers for their personal MacBooks. They’ve created a large collection of designs to suit all tastes. Their products also protect children against the harmful radiation from their devices. makeitcolourful.com.hk/
Up for grabs: Three bracelet-and-necklace sets in magical unicorn, sweet rose and precious key charm. From: Stella Rose was created by two Hong Kong-based mums to fill a gap in the market for high-quality, meaningful gifts for girls. Each collection set is handcrafted and uses real gemstones. In addition, the versatility of the designs lets girls get creative by styling their jewellery according to their own preferences. stellarosecharms.
Up for grabs: A Priority Pass for two at the 24Hour Charity Dinghy Race held at The Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Sai Kung. From: The Priority Pass allows you to enjoy a one-time free trial of one water sport activity for two people; and the Priority Pass Session is available from 9:00am to 10:00am on 30 September 2018. hhyc.org.hk/
Massage treatment package Photo Credit: Herman Ng
Priority passes for Hebe Haven
Up for grabs: Five free ‘Meridian Neck & Shoulder Massage with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum’ + ‘Hot Stone Stomach or Back Massage’ From: Swiss O, with over 30 years of beauty expertise in Hong Kong, is proud to present one of its best-selling treatments, “Meridian Whole Body Massage with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum”. The Detox Soothing Oil with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum from Swiss Organic is well known for its anti-aging properties. swissobeauty.com
Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get all our giveaways delivered straight to your inbox: saikung.com/subscribe
SAIKUNG.COM | 13
must have this month
Have a stylish start to the new school year
Herschel Survey Backpack 510 from Herschel $ Shop 28-29, LCX, Level 3, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui herschel.com.hk
Pencil Case - Genius $128 from Bookazine Shop UG-46, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong bookazine.com.hk/eshop
Mister Men and Little Miss Bottle 0.4L $169 from Monster Kid Shop 324, 3/F, Landmark Prince’s, Central monsterkid.com.hk
Crayola Scents Inspiration Art Kit $300 from Toys“R”Us L2-02, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong toysrus.com.hk
Personalised Bento Box $349 from Stuck On You stuckonyou.hk
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must have this month
Very Busy Doing Nothing Sticky Notes 5.95 GBP from Ohh Deer ohhdeer.com
Large Pencil Case $199 from Stuck On You stuckonyou.hk
QuietControl 30 Wireless Headphones From $2,588 from Bose Shop 2011, International Finance Centre, Central bose.hk
Scented Glitterarty Gel Pens $85 from Bookazine Shop UG-46, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong bookazine.com.hk/eshop
Individual Power Combo Special $188 from Make it COLOURFUL makeitcolourful.online Leather Personal Planner Large $590 from kikki.K Shop 411, Level 4, Ocean Centre, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui kikki-k.com
Para’kito Wristbands $165 from Escapade Merlin Building, 30-34 Cochrane Street, Central escapade.com.hk
Staple-Free Stapler $45 from Muji Shop 197-198, East Point City, 8 Chung Wa Road, Tseung Kwan O muji.com/hk-en
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five minutes with commitment – you’re not just thinking about yourself anymore; you have to make allowances for another responsibility. There’s absolutely no reason for anybody to purchase a dog in Hong Kong. There are so many dogs in shelters and dogs abandoned when people relocate, which is sadly very common here. There are too many dogs in need of a home for anyone to breed them for financial gain. The shelter and the responsibility have taken a massive toll on everything really. I’m constantly letting friends down and cancelling commitments. One of my goals this year has been to try and maintain more of a balance so that my life doesn’t revolve only around dogs, because that’s a slippery slope. I’m very privileged because I don’t have to work. I have time to dedicate to the dogs, but ironically I have less time than most people in full-time employment. A lot of dogs don’t make it onto social media because they don’t even make it. I want the page to be positive, about rescuing dogs and the aftermath of that, which is good. People honestly don’t want to see some of the cruelty and conditions that the dogs are in – I don’t need to share that.
Catherine Lumsden
Sai Kung’s person of the year and founder of Catherine’s Puppies I used to volunteer for another rescue group, and while I admired their work, I wanted to do something a little more focused on finding homes for dogs. And honestly it’s so much easier when it’s puppies. I still get attached to some of the puppies, but we have so many that finding them a home is more important. There have been a few over the years who have meant more to me than others, particularly the ones I’ve had to bottle-feed and some of the older dogs we’ve rescued – I felt really attached to them. My mum used to rescue animals when I was young so I guess it’s in my blood. I never saw myself doing this, but now I really can’t see myself doing anything else. I’ve basically lived in Hong Kong for half my life. I’m originally from Birmingham but have been in Sai Kung for 10 years. It’s one of the
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very few places in Hong Kong where you could lose your purse, walk into a local shop and ask “Can I borrow $100 to get home?”, and someone will give it to you. Although I look after puppies all day, I also have four dogs of my own: two bulldogs and two mongrels named Maximus, Soloman, Mini and Tux. Everyone asks “How do you do it?” I don’t know. It’s incredibly stressful and emotionally more challenging than I can put into words. This year we’ve lost a lot of dogs to parvo, which has been devastating – it’s been the worst year we’ve ever had, emotionally and financially. People need to fully understand the commitment of having a dog. It’s not just about having a cute puppy for a few months; it’s about a financial and emotional
Dogs have changed my life – they pretty much monopolise it. They should be a great addition to your family, but I don’t think your life should revolve solely around your dog, just as I don’t think it should revolve around any one particular thing.
Mandy adopted Toby during our interview on July 13
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local
Brushstrokes of affection Local artist Gary Yeung captures the fading cityscape with his brush, reports Gabrielle Tse.
Y
ou might’ve come across a man perched on the Sai Kung streets, painting the surroundings quietly. He’s Gary Yeung, a local artist who wants to record our city before the hustle-and-bustle sneaks her away. The painter has been enthralled by Hong Kong’s urban scenes all his life. “When I was younger,” Yeung reminisces, “I used to draw Connaught Centre (now Jardine House) over and over again.” He has many fond childhood memories. “We weren’t rich, but my mom only wore tailor-made cheongsams. There’s an elegance and pride in our history.” Nowadays, when everyone owns a smartphone camera, painting might seem a tad anachronistic. But Yeung insists in the importance of paper over film. “When you sketch,” he explains, “you understand your subject more intimately. Slow observation
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brings a connection that split-second flashes can’t provide.” “Furthermore,” he adds, “painting tells a story. When you paint live, you never know what’s going to happen next.” That closed door may swing open, that sleeping dog may slouch away. “As you paint, you end up recording time with your art.” Hong Kong’s cityscape remains a recurring motif in his works. In 2013 , Yeung co-founded Urban Sketchers Hong Kong, a group of artists who draw on-location, plein air artwork of the city. Their manifesto demands raw
authenticity, and for good reason: “Because our sketches are done on the spot, they live,” he explains. “They tell stories.” And unlike their subjects, stories never disappear. “Hong Kong is changing rapidly,” Yeung says. “As an artist, what conservation I can do is by recording fleeting moments.” Yeung paints plenty of old buildings, both colonial and traditional, most of which face the threat of demolition. Wistfully, he laments the world’s pace. “Everything is becoming monolithic,” he sighs. “Big chains are killing local
gary yeung What to bring in your outdoor sketching kit: • A small sketchbook • A watercolour pan palette – just the size of your sketchbook. Tubes can be too wet in an outdoor environment! • Water brushes – more flexible than traditional brushes, less fuss! • Mosquito repellent.
mom-and-pop stores, and isolation is stifling community. The human connection is so diluted – there’s no more warmth.” Fortunately, that warm touch is still present in Sai Kung, where Yeung has lived for two decades. He’s painted many portraits of Sai Kung, and is the artist behind the beautiful
street mural of cows. “I like Sai Kung because of its sentiment,” he says. “It keeps tradition, as you can see from the lively celebrations in Tin Hau Temple. Our unique local stores that make you feel taken care of. ” “Also,” he adds, “Sai Kung is tight-knit. Our locals and expats are all involved in this
community. We thrive together.” Sai Kung retains a uniquely human quality that charms all. Our city has a thousand morphing faces. But Yeung steals each moment, and preserves them in his eternal canvas.
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cover story
Readers’ Choice Awards 2018 The best of Sai Kung, voted by you!
Best Restaurant
The Conservatory
Now an established part of Sai Kung’s dining scene, The Conservatory has earned its place as Sai Kung’s best restaurant for the second year running. The restaurant, owned by Clearwater Bay-based couple Robert and Kim Cooper, serves up a range of Mediterranean-style small plates, including the everso-popular risotto balls. This restaurant is perfect for sharing or just having a light bite to eat while you enjoy their extensive wine selection. 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, enotecagroup. com/home-all
What’s our high-street lacking? A - Clothing stores B - Baby supplies C - Book shops D - Flower shops E - Homeware stores
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E A 15% 20% D 25% C 10%
B 30%
readers’ choice awards
Best New Restaurant Momentai
Momentai is Sai Kung’s new buzzword because of the sheer popularity of this seafront restaurant since it opened in October last year. Located on the waterfront promenade, the restaurant has sweeping views of the ocean while still being in the heart of the town. The menu offers a range of healthy, homemade dishes, including Poke bowls and a hearty weekend roast each week. Kiosk 1 Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, facebook.com/momentaila
Best Seafood Restaurant
Best Place for Date Night
Chez Raymond de Paris
Chun Kee Seafood Restaurant
Taking the award for the best seafood restaurant in Sai Kung, Chun Kee is hard to miss along the waterfront, with large water tanks containing every type of fish you could dream of. Sit outside and soak in some local atmosphere while dining on fresh seafood, which you can pick out yourself from the tanks. The restaurant is also a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike, with their dimsum being a popular breakfast choice. 87-89 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung
Tucked away on Po Tung Road, Chez Raymond de Paris is a quiet, cozy spot. French owner and head chef, Chez Raymond is dedicated to sharing his love of timeless French classics and the highest-quality ingredients, without shortcuts. Many customers rave about his fullblood Wagyu steaks. And with good reason, suppliers include a specialist breeder in Tasmania who raises a limited stock and feeds them a daily treat of dark chocolate. Wines are expertly selected to be perfect matches with the dishes. G/F, 183D Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, chezraymonddeparis.com
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Best Breakfast Classified
The popular restaurant chain has become a regular spot for coffee catch-ups and casual brunches. With breakfast choices ranging from Eggs Benedict to muesli, there’s something for everyone. The large bench-like tables are unique to the restaurant and provide the perfect communal space for diners. 5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, classifiedfood.com
Sai Kung wouldn’t be Sai Kung without • • • •
Best Bakery
The cows Dogs in prams Sanpans The guy with the parrot on his shoulder
Best Local Business
Stage Right! Mushroom Bakery
Everyone’s go-to bakery, offering a selection of bread, cakes and other goodies, Mushroom Bakery has claimed the title of best bakery in Sai Kung. You can be sure to find friendly staff, fresh produce and a delicious ham that will be carved right in front of you. 26 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung
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Taking the award for best local business this year is Stage Right! Since 2011 they have been teaching children how to become confident, self-expressed, joyful performers. With shows such as James and the Giant Peach, Alice in Wonderland and Aladdin, mums and dads can be sure their children will have a fun-filled experience. STAGE RIGHT! Office: G/F, 81B Sai Kung Road, stagerighthk.com
readers’ choice awards
Best Fitness Class The Studio
It can be hard to keep fit when you have a busy schedule, but with its many classes and times, The Studio makes it easy for you to fit fitness into your lifestyle. They offer everything from Pilates to personal training and even aerial yoga. This is the second year in a row that The Studio has received a Readers’ Choice Award, making it the place to go for all your fitness needs. 1/F, 28 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, new.thestudiosaikung.com
What does Sai Kung need?
Best Day Spa
An MTR station Marks & Spencer Vegetarian food More parking
Sense of Touch
Just a stone’s throw away from the square, you’ll find peace and tranquility at Sense of Touch. The open and white reception area contrasts with their dimly lit and relaxing treatment rooms. The spa has won Sai Kung’s Readers’ Choice award many times before, and this year is no exception. It’s easy to see why – with their many treatments and serene environment, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. G/F, 77 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, senseoftouch.com.hk
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Best Hair Salon
Best Local Sports Team
Tala’s Hair and Beauty
Sai Kung Stingrays
Maintaining a good image is important for Sai Kung residents, which is why you’ve voted Tala’s as the best hairdresser. The salon is well known for its local customers and the bright and bubbly owner, Mojdeh Kazemi. Even with Tala’s move into the old town, their loyal and loving customers have embraced the new location, and with the modern decor and a rooftop area, it’s no surprise that this salon is still your number one. 37 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, talashair.com/2016
The iconic pink uniforms and passion for all things rugby make the Sai Kung Stingrays your Readers’ Choice Award winner once again this year! This team has become a staple amongst the Sai Kung community, with many parents, sponsors and enthusiastic players supporting it since it was founded in 2006. Interested parents can register their children at saikungstingrays.com
Best Photo/Instagram Opportunity
Wallart
Sai Kung is full of unique and interesting places, perfect for those photo moments. The recent addition of wall art, including the Sai Kung Buffalos painted by Gary Yeung outside of Bacca’s, has brought more colour and culture to the town.
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Sai Kung Pier
One of the most beautiful areas of the town has to be the waterfront, with the pier being voted as the most photogenic area of Sai Kung!
readers’ choice awards
Best Vet Pets Central
We know how much you love your furry friends, so it’s important to have a trusted vet to make sure they’re in good hands. You’ve voted Pet’s Central as Sai Kung’s best vet once again, and it’s no surprise. With their specialist services, large range of products and professional care, you can get all your pet needs in one place. Their Parents Club will be opening later this month, so there’ll be even more for you and your pet to experience. Shop 4, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, petscentral.com/hk
Best Preschool
Best Place to Get Your Phone Fixed
Sai Kung Telecom (Cindy’s) Woodlands
With its spacious setting and friendly atmosphere, Woodlands claims the title of best preschool in Sai Kung once again this year. It makes everyone feel welcome by offering English, bilingual and pure Mandarin classes for children. Woodlands has nine locations around Hong Kong, including its Sai Kung school in Marina Cove. Shop D, 6/F, Marina Cove, Shopping Centre, Sai Kung
This phone shop has played Monopoly around Sai Kung, with three different locations in the past 13 years, but that hasn’t affected customers getting all their phone needs sorted. They are taking home the award for being the best place to get your phone fixed – for $500 you can get your iPhone screen fixed (depending on the model) in just an hour. Shop 52A, G/F, Sai Kung Town Centre, 22-40 Fuk Man Road, facebook.com/SaiKungTelecom
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Best Beach Tai Long Wan
Arguably one of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong, Tai Long Wan is popular for its clear blue waters and almost empty white sandy shores. Even its remote location in the country park hasn’t stopped Sai Kung hikers from voting Tai Long Wan the best beach.
Village of the Year Sha Kok Mei
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readers’ choice awards
Best Place to Take the Kids
Sai Kung’s Person of the Year Catherine Lumsden
“I feel totally overwhelmed and full of gratitude and i wouldn’t be able to do what i do, without the support of people from Sai Kung. I am very blessed to be in such an amazing community and they do appreciate the work that i do.” facebook. com/catherinespuppies
The swimming pool
In the summer months kids love splashing about, so it’s no surprise that you voted the Sai Kung swimming pool as the best place to take children. With its two flumes, plenty of sprinklers and a waterfall, you can be sure the kids will be entertained for hours. There’s even a snack shop located inside the pool area to give the little ones an extra boost. Wai Man Road, Sai Kung
Best weekend escape route A - I don’t leave my house on weekends! B - Sai Sha Road C - Hiram’s Highway
Best Hike
Sharp Peak
As one of Sai Kung’s most challenging hikes, Sharp Peak has been deemed suitable for only experienced hikers. The trail may be strenuous but the sweeping views of Tai Long Wan and its four beaches make it all worth it, which is why you’ve chosen it as the best hike in Sai Kung. Although the peak is 200 metres shorter than Ma On Shan, the steepness of the climb is what makes it so challenging.
How to get there: From Sai Kung Pier, take the number 7 minibus or the number 94 double decker to Pak Tam Au.
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Most useful Cantonese phrase?
Best Bargain
Fai dee la! - Faster Dong leng cha siu tim m’goi - Iced lemon tea, less sugar please M’goi! - Thank you
Sai Kung’s Best-kept Secret
Lunch at Zeugma
This casual-dining Mediterranean restaurant has caused quite the buzz since it opened beside the bus terminal. They serve kebabs, salads, hummus and whole roast chickens, perfect for dining in or taking out. You voted their lunch deal as Sai Kung’s best bargain. 74 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung
Sai Kung Astropark
Best Local Magazine
Although the Astropark has been open for over eight years, it is still very much unknown throughout the community. Tucked away inside the Chong Hing Water Sports Centre, you’ll find a range of stargazing facilities, including telescopes and inclined benches for comfortable stargazing. For the perfect night under the stars, you can even camp here if you give advance notice. Chong Hing Water Sports Centre Country Park, lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Space/Astropark
Best Sai Kung rumour you’ve heard The MTR is coming to Sai Kung The old Casa is becoming a Little Cove
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Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay Magazine
readers’ awards readers’ choice choice awards
Readers’ Choice Awards 2018
WINNERS
Sea Lagoon $10,000 four-hour weekday evening cruise with drinks and snacks for five people, starting from 7pm. sealagoon.com Winner: Andre Leroy
The Studio
The Picture House/ Enoteca group
A package of 5 group classes worth $750 new.thestudiosaikung.com/
4 x $500 dining vouchers enotecagroup.com/ thepicturehouse/
Winner: Denise Soriano
Winners: Sherrin Loh Hayley Atkinson Stevie Lai Trina Case
The Hive
Momentai
$3,000 two-month part-time membership thehivesaikung.com.hk/
2 x $500 dining vouchers facebook.com/momentaila/
Winner: Donald Dunn
Winners: Peggy Chu James Harrison
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village dining focus
Fit Family Holistic nutritionist Ally van de Pol guides Carolynne Dear towards a greener (and leaner) lifestyle
T
he road to Ally van de Pol’s place is steep and winding and the views are magnificent. As befits an holistic nutritionist and firm supporter of the plant-baseddiet movement, her studio and gym sit nestled in the thick jungle of Sai Kung’s hills, just off the MacLehose trail, and boast a fine veggie garden of their own. I’m in a green frame of mind before I even knock on her door.
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A keen athlete since her schooldays, van de Pol has always had an interest in wellness. But the lure of university parties, followed by a brief career in marketing and then a move to Hong Kong, saw her eating and drinking too much and overtraining to compensate. A health scare and a number of running injuries prompted a lifestyle overhaul, and with a clutch of new fitness and nutrition qualifications, she launched
Dragon Fitness and Coaching two years ago. She now runs personal training and nutrition workshops from her gym and studio in the wilds of Sai Kung. As for me, I’m fed up with carrying around a few surplus kilos and feel my body isn’t responding to diet and lifestyle as it used to. No longer will a couple of days of crackers and cottage cheese shift the fat (an old university trick), and too much alcohol before bed has me
holistic nutrition up all night rather than comatose. And hangover-free mornings after? Forget it. So basically I’m in a rut, fed up with counting calories, and could do with encouraging the kids towards a healthier lifestyle as well. I think it sounds like a tall order, but van de Pol takes it all in her stride. Kids’ nutrition, she says, is hugely important to her. “I would love to be able to get in at school level with some of my classes – the younger that children get on board, the better. Their relationship with food by age 20 is indicative of how they will live their adult life, so they really don’t want to be overweight and making bad choices in childhood. Healthy habits now will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.” We run through the weekly family menu. It’s a predictable mix of Westernstyle nursery dishes (think spaghetti bolognese, lasagne, cottage pie and so on), roast dinners, cheese-based pasta dishes, chicken noodle soups and dumplings, ribs or chops and veggies. Breakfast is cereal, and lunch is usually sandwiches or cold pasta salads and muesli bars. I lost my inspiration for school lunches sometime after the last opium war. As for myself, I fall back on toast most mornings, with the odd boiled egg thrown in for good measure, and a sandwich or “light salad” for lunch (usually at my desk). By 3pm I’m cracking open the chocolate Hobnobs. “It’s not terrible,” says van de Pol. “But there are definitely improvements to
Healthy alternatives
be made.” The biggest stumbling block seems to be the family breakfast. Over the years I’ve tried to limit the cereal choices to Weetabix and Special K, but Smyth is vehemently anti-cereal and anti-dairy. “There is nothing nutritious in a box of cereal; those flakes are laden with sugar and the nutrients aren’t naturally found, they’re added in.” And she admits she gave up dairy a long time ago in favour or nut- or oat-based milk drinks. She argues that while dairy milk is brilliant for raising baby cows, it contains far too much protein to be useful for humans. Human breast milk – perfectly formulated for human babies – contains around 5% protein, and cows’ milk – perfect for growing heifers – has about 25%. That means our kidneys are overloaded trying to process the
Van de Pol’s tips for success Boost your brekkie - try smoothies with fruit, spinach and nut milk; porridge and fruit, or eggs with veggies. Half and half - fill your plate with half to two thirds veggies and make these guys the star, rather than meat. Veggies contain myriad phytonutrients and are low in calories and high in resistant starch (fibre). Fabulous fruit - fruits bring so many nutrients to the table. They’re easily digested and nobody ever got fat from eating them because fructose does not elevate blood sugar in the body in the same way as table sugar. Nuts about nuts (and pulses and seeds) - these guys are powerhouses of nutrients, phytonutrients and resistant starch and can easily replace meat.
Take time for tea - a smaller lunch or a larger snack works at 3 or 4pm – try fruit, nuts, hummus or guacamole with veggies or raw balls. Lose the dairy - it causes inflammation, its protein levels are too high for humans and it contains antibiotics and hormones; not to mention the horrific conditions that dairy cows are kept in and the environmental ramifications of dairy farming. Try making your own nut or coconut milk. Banish the booze - it’s full of empty calories, it’s a toxin, and it stresses the body by releasing cortisol, which aids fat storage around your middle. Indulge in alcohol as just an occasional celebratory luxury.
excess protein. The list of breakfast alternatives runs to omelettes, eggs and spinach, porridge (“add raw cacao powder for a healthy chocolate hit if the kids need enticing”), chia pudding or a simple serve of fruit. Van de Pol’s hack for lunches and snacks is to over-cater the night before so there are always plenty of leftovers, and then to keep a big bowl of mixed salad and a fruit salad permanently topped up in the fridge. “Leave the dressing in a separate jar so the salad doesn’t go soggy, then whatever you’re having for lunch – an omelette, or leftover roast chicken from last night – grab a plateful of ready-made salad to go with it.” She suggests adding nuts, seeds, grains, chickpeas, beans or some avocado to bulk it up. And she recommends kale or bok choy as a more nutritious alternative to salad leaves. A pre-made fruit salad makes it easier to opt for a healthy snack mid-afternoon rather than making a beeline for the biscuit tin. “Add coconut cream, honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon – I probably have about four or five serves of fruit a day. Don’t be scared of it; the natural sugar is balanced with a heap of goodness, including vitamins and fibre.” Other snack ideas include sliced apple with peanut butter, a handful of nuts, hummus and veggie sticks, or raw balls (see recipe overleaf). “Have it in the fridge, all ready to go. Don’t go hungry,” she urges. As for dinner, keep your plate topped up with veggies or salad. “The ratio should be around three quarters vegetables to one quarter meat or protein. Carbs are also good, but stick to wholegrain rice, potatoes (there’s nothing wrong with a potato – it’s low in calories
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village dining focus Recipe guide Breakfast Nut milk Soak one cup of mixed, raw nuts in two to three cups of water overnight. Drain and discard the water and blend the nuts with four more cups of water until almost smooth. Strain the blended mixture through a muslin or nut milk bag and refrigerate. Keep the nut meal for biscuits, cakes and breads. Chocolate smoothie Add a cup of nut milk to the blender with a handful of ice, two tablespoons of raw cacao powder, three or four dates (pits removed), and an optional splash of vanilla extract.
Snacks Beetroot hummus Roast, steam or boil a whole peeled beetroot. Place in the blender with a drained can of chickpeas, the juice of a lemon, a tablespoon of tahini, half a teaspoon of ground cumin and a little water or olive oil for your prefered consistency. Season, then serve with
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crackers or crudités. Flax-seed crackers Preheat oven to 100°C and line a large baking tray with parchment paper. Soak one cup of flax seeds with three tablespoons of chia seeds in one cup of water for 20 minutes. Add three tablespoons of sunflower seeds, three tablespoons of pumpkin seeds, three tablespoons of za’atar or fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme work well) and one teaspoon of salt. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet and bake for one hour, then flip and bake for another hour-and-a-half. Break into pieces when cooled. Raw balls Blend one cup of sunflower seeds, one cup of nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, etc.), one cup of dates (pits removed), two tablespoons of raw cacao powder and a little water or lime juice. Mould into balls and refrigerate.
and contains a heap of fibre, but opt for a jacket spud rather than mash or roast), quinoa, sweet potatoes and so forth. Try and avoid pasta, even wholegrain.” As far as the kids are concerned, she recommends getting your own house in order first. “More often than not, the kids will follow. If you’re tucking into a fun-looking, bright-pink beetroot dip, they’re likely to ask if they can try it. And then you can start moving forward with other dishes.” She also suggests keeping a food diary, noting down everything that passes your lips. “It will make you think harder about the choices you’re making.” As for alcohol, van de Pol recommends limiting it as much as you can. “Don’t get into the habit of pouring a glass ‘because it’s Thursday night’ or ‘because I’ve had a bad day’. Save it for special occasions. Of course we all like a drink and to let our hair down, and I put my own hands up to having the odd blow-out, but it really isn’t good for us, so keep it in check.” Ally van de Pol is the founder of Dragon Fitness and Coaching. For more information about her nutrition workshops, visit dragonfitnessandcoaching.com
holistic nibbles nutrition
NIBBLES
Limited-edition durian McFlurry
Let’s Jam! brings back Durian Jam
Durian lovers, come and grab your McFlurries! Made with real D24 durian sauce swirled into a McDonald’s signature vanilla soft serve, this decadent McFlurry will be the perfect addition to your summer. Rumour has it these ice creams are selling out fast so get one while you can! Shop 1-3, G/F, Sai Kung Garden, 16 Chan Man Street
To all durian enthusiasts, Let’s Jam heard you and they’re bringing back their durian jam! Get your hands on a jar for $108 per bottle and avoid a sticky situation. To order, go to 2 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung. letsjam.hk
Frozen seafood spot Tucked away in the alley between Starbucks and Kidnapped is Boatat Foods Market, a frozen-food shop specialising in seafood. It opened last month and is debuting with some sweet deals such as “Happy Friday” discounts, reasonably priced Irish organic mussels and the widest choice of oysters in town! Shop 17, G/F, Sai Kung Garden, Chan Man Street, Sai Kung
New hotdog joint Nine Point Five on Fuk Man Road is the newest addition to Sai Kung’s fastfood scene. They serve up a range of unique hot dog combinations, including the Warrior Dog with crab meat and cucumber and the Show Dog with smoked salmon and prawns. Choose from a range of tasty snacks and sides to accompany your dog. 37 Ko Fu Building Block A, Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung. facebook.com/ NinePointFiveSK
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education
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education
Open Day SHREWSBURY
W
hilst the rest of us are enjoying a peaceful summer, over in Tseung Kwan O a team of people are busily putting the finishing touches to Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong. On August 29, they’ll open their doors to a swarm of eager primary-school children who are ready to experience a brand-new school and all that it has to offer. So what awaits the children? As is to be expected when a school is purpose-built from scratch, the bright, spacious campus is entered via a grand sweeping staircase and is spread across six floors. Students will be aged between Nursery and Year 6, with two year groups on each floor. There’s an impressive auditorium seating over 400 people, a recital suite, a language centre, a gymnastics hall, a dining hall, not one but two swimming pools (one is for the real littlies learning to swim), and of course the obligatory sky track.
therefore familiar with both the Hong Kong education system and the challenges of establishing a school from the ground up. In his words, Shrewsbury HK has worked hard to create an environment with “traditional educational values and innovative teaching methodology”. The tradition obviously stems from the links with the UK school; founded over 450 years ago, Shrewsbury UK is one of the original nine British public schools, in good company with the likes of Eton and Winchester. Academically, therefore, the core programme of study at the new school will be linked closely to the English National Curriculum whilst simultaneously acknowledging its international status.
It’s all Chinese to me Of particular focus are Mandarin lessons, which will be a taught daily to all children throughout the school.
Tradition meets modernity As founding principal, Ben Keeling is a well-known name amongst parents, having played an integral role in the set-up of Kellett’s Kowloon Bay campus in 2013. He is
To spearhead this, Shrewsbury recently appointed Dr. Suyi Wang as Chief Academic Officer for Chinese Studies for its international schools. Her role will be to
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education design the “ambitious” Chinese curriculum, adapting it to ensure that these young students are learning in the most efficient and enjoyable way possible. She will be supported by Ms. Haze Kwok, who takes on the role of Chinese Master Teacher, responsible for implementing the programme. The school is acutely aware that it will have a combination of native, near-native and nonnative students and will adapt accordingly. On the topic of simplified vs. traditional, the schools says it will teach simplified characters, however students familiar with traditional characters “will be well supported through their learning journey”. When the school is at capacity it will have 1,000 students, with six classes in each primary year group. Lessons will be themed and taught as a combination of academic study together with exploratory and collaborative learning. Most of the teaching staff have been recruited from the UK, further evidence of Shrewsbury’s intentions not just to play lip service to the English National Curriculum but also to provide teachers who are up to date with current standards and expectations.
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Shrewsbury from above
British schools are known as much for what goes on outside the classroom as what goes on inside, and Shrewsbury Hong Kong is no different. The school intends to make the most of its rural location close to mountains, forests, hiking trails and parks,
offering an education beyond academics. There will also be an in-school dining facility. Rather than eating separately, teachers will sit with the children during lunchtime, encouraging conversation and a focus on manners.
education
Principal’s Office
Shrewsbury – Ben Keeling What led you to work in education? I believe that the education of young children plays a critical role in the development of society. I moved into teaching from a career in design – I wanted to better utilise the critical thinking and communication skills I had developed. What’s your Hong Kong story? My wife was born in Hong Kong. The opportunity to work here, and to bring my wife “home” seemed too good to miss. The birth of our first child just a few months ago further connects our family to the region. What does Shrewsbury bring to the Hong Kong education scene? We provide a uniquely focused experience for primary-aged students. Which parts of the school/campus are you most proud of? Our campus reflects our commitment to
specialist provision. Distinct spaces for the teaching of athletics, gymnastics, dance, drama, design, music, performing arts and science have all been carefully considered to ensure best access for children aged between three and 11. What are your thoughts on technology during primary school? While technology brings a multitude of benefits and supports seamless collaboration, we must also be mindful of the need to consciously support the development of personal relationships. A sense of balance, through intelligent selection, is critical in ensuring the very best outcomes for all students. What do you do when you are not at work? Away from school I live a relatively quiet life – I enjoy walking and running, spending time with my family, reading and the cinema.
What was the last book you read? I read “Room on The Broom” by Julia Donaldson to my son before bed last night! What was your favourite subject at school? It would be very difficult to choose between Mathematics and Design. Where do you take friends who are visiting Hong Kong? One of my favourite things about Hong Kong is the diverse range of opportunity available. From the beautiful waterfront in Sai Kung to the densely packed alleyways of Mong Kok and the glitz and glamour of Central – I enjoy showing off the variety of life here.
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education
Indoor sports facilities
Next stop With no plans to extend its provision to a secondary school, Shrewsbury will instead offer an advisory service to parents as they consider their children’s next steps. As the school intends to develop good relationships with all the major senior schools, there will be no “feeder” concept – no one school will be favoured above others. Instead, the school will offer informed and unbiased guidance. There is also the possibility for pupils to move to Shrewsbury in the UK for their secondary
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schooling, provided they meet certain academic criteria.
Hong Kong, making the school an option for all.
The school is a five-minute walk from LOHAS Park MTR, although the school expects most students to arrive by bus. Unlike in some locations, parents are not prohibited from driving children to school each day, however Shrewsbury will strongly encourage students to use the organised bus service. Rather than a door-to-door service, there will be pick up points located in all major parts of
When the school was in its planning stages, Shrewsbury made a definitive decision that its Hong Kong offering would be a “primary specialist” rather than a jack-of-all-trades catering for every group. As such, the school is very much designed with small children in mind. But as we all know, small children have big potential, and Shrewsbury provides the perfect environment for them to start realising it.
education
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zim city
Ideas for promoting cycling
I
ride bikes. Born in Holland, I have been doing so since I was four. When I’m visiting family there, the bicycle continues to be the best way to get groceries and enjoy the city and countryside. In Hong Kong, the range of my day-to-day transport is more efficiently covered using my motorcycle. Here I ride a foldable bicycle once in a while for leisure, or to check out where improvements can be made to the cycling infrastructure. It should be no surprise that Designing Hong Kong has long promoted cycling. We are pleased to see that it is now the Government’s policy to promote cycling as a green mode for short-distance commuting, where road safety permits, in new towns and new development areas. Using bicycles for the “first-mile” and “last-mile” connection to public transport services expands the catchment areas of train stations and minimises the need for mechanised transport. With this pro-cycling policy we see tracks and parking added – albeit slowly – throughout the New Territories. Factors affecting the safe increase in cycling are the availability of existing cycling facilities, the width of the road reserve relative to the amount of vehicular traffic, and the presence of other cyclists. Safe sharing of village roads is a problem yet to be recognised. The official cycling policy is different for older urban areas, where the Government
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Tseung Kwan O cycling track
does not encourage the use of bicycles as a mode of transport. For this reason it is not adding facilities. This gets silly, with the absence of bicycle parking spaces at the new Ocean Park and Wong Chuk Hang MTR stations leading to illegal parking. We regularly see bicycles being used for short-distance delivery of all type of goods – from fresh chicken and pork to cooked lunches and gas bottles. But the demand for cycling by commuters in older urban areas is likely to remain limited to a hardy few.
maintain and cause concerns over random parking. The solution is to change to a system of docked shared bikes and a dense network of parking docks that trigger the start and end of payment. As a start, rental bikes should be made available at MTR stations. In Holland, the rail company offers rental services of high-quality bicycles. The OV-fiets (in Dutch, OV is short for public transport and fiets is bicycle) is a quick and healthy way to complete your rail journey. How about it, MTRC?
It’s different for sports and recreational riders. The West Kowloon Cultural District is preparing for cyclists, and the Development Bureau is keen to incorporate cycling facilities in designs for the harbourfront. Kai Tak will have an extensive network of separate tracks and the shared use of footpaths through parks and, hopefully, housing estates. A pilot test is now underway at the Kwun Tong Waterfront Promenade, whereby cyclists and pedestrians can share footpaths branded “greenway”. Cycling will continue to grow as a localised activity. Given the challenge of transporting bicycles, this provides opportunities for rental businesses like those in Taipo and Sha Tin, the end points of popular routes around Tolo Harbour. Experiments with dockless shared bikes rented through smartphone apps started in 2016. But these are proving expensive to
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the coconvenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.
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village focus
Nai Chung Old Village Kaitlyn Lai discovers a hidden secret in an unexpected place
M
any make their way to Sai Sha Road to enjoy Sai Sha Café’s famous Thai cuisine and see the extravagant light display, but what few might notice while feasting on exotic delicacies is that opposite this busy café actually lies the quiet, modest Nai Chung Old Village. In the village, you will be met with rows of three-storey brick houses, wet clothes flapping about on balconies and the occasional dog barking at you from behind the gates of someone’s front garden… the typical village you find everywhere in the New Territories. Don’t turn back just yet. If you walk as far as you can into the village and look on your right, you’ll spot a pink, three-storey building standing alone in the corner, away from the rest of the houses.
Nai Chung Old Village
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Near this odd building you’ll spot a path that leads to the village car park. Within 15 steps is a narrow slope, semi-hidden between overgrown weeds. Peer down and you’ll notice that this path leads towards what looks like someone’s abandoned boat workshop – but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Make your way down the secluded trail and you’ll find yourself in a clearing with the most beautiful view. Mountains that rise above the clouds, their cloaks of greenery reflected on clear waters, ripples made by sea kayakers
How to get there From Sai Kung, take the 299x or 99 doubledecker bus and get off at Nai Chung (Sai Sha Road). paddling to their destinations. If you ever wished as a child to walk through a wardrobe into Narnia, as Lucy did, this is definitely the Hong Kong equivalent of such a venture.
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woof
Hot dogs Hong Kong Dog Rescue’s Sally Andersen advises on heatstroke in dogs. Keeping cool in the Hong Kong summer months is enough of a challenge for human residents battling the heat and humidity between air-conditioned homes and offices, but at least we can sweat and don’t have to wear all-year-round fur coats. Dogs sweat through their paws rather than their pores, and pant to cool down, but heatstroke is all too common and it can happen very quickly, especially in flat-faced breeds such as pugs
and bulldogs, whose breathing is restricted at the best of times. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, getting it to a vet as soon as possible is vital, because early treatment can mean the difference between life and death. Signs to look out for are very heavy panting and bright-red gums, so by that stage you should already be on your way to the nearest
vet clinic. If possible soak the dog in cool, not cold and certainly not iced, water to bring its body temperature down. However the best way to avoid heatstroke in dogs is to stay out of the sun in the middle of the day. Instead, walk early in the morning or in the evening. By choice dogs will find shade to rest under when it gets too hot, so forcing them to go out in the sun for walks isn’t fun for either side. Even going to the beach might sound like a good idea, and dogs generally love it, but remember the sand gets extremely hot and there is also the danger of your dog swallowing too much sea water, so you still need to be careful. Even though most dog owners in Hong Kong don’t exercise their dogs enough, at this time of year it’s sensible to reduce the hiking time if you usually head for the hills at weekends, and try to choose routes that will provide shade, and swimming if possible. Spending time at home just playing with your dog will help to use up some of that extra energy, or try teaching it tricks and practising obedience training. Brain work is as tiring for a dog as it is for humans, and it’s a safe way to keep your dogs happy until the cooler weather arrives.
Walkies
In Sai Kung with dog-walker Elsie
N
athan is a mongrel currently under the care of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Hong Kong. Although he is only one year old, many people assume he is much older because he was born with cataracts, a clouding of the lens in the eye, which leads to impaired vision. Elsie, a volunteer dog-walker for the SPCA, usually takes Nathan on a walk along the Sai Kung Promenade, turning around at the entrance of Seafood Street and going back and forth. The Promenade not only comes with a view, it’s also lined with restaurants, making it a rather crowded path filled with both locals and tourists, especially those heading to Seafood Street. Nathan is a very shy dog, so by taking him on walks along the promenade Elsie hopes that he will become more comfortable with
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interacting with humans. “We keep our hopes up that someday, someone will come by and offer him a home,” she said. “Being sociable definitely goes a long way towards the success of a dog’s adoption, especially with mixedbreeds like Nathan.” In a plea to potential dog adopters, Elsie pointed out that most people nowadays tend to favour purebreds such as Golden Retrievers, Samoyeds and English Bulldogs. She continued: “Being the owner of a mongrel myself, I feel like the loyalty of mongrels is often overshadowed by the sole fact that they don’t belong to one recognised breed. I hope that one day, people will get over their discrimination against these sweet creatures. They need all the love they can get.”
in the garden
What to plant in August?
M
y dear fellow Hong Kong gardeners, August has arrived with her scorching heat! The average temperature is from 26°C (79ºF) to 31ºC (88ºF), and we shall have plenty of rain, perfect for growing magnificent summer plants. Should you tend to it carefully, your garden will surely look splendid this season! Cuttings of African Marigolds, Salvias, Marguerites and Acalyphas may now be made. Here is a tip: if you wish to revive faded cuttings, plunge the stems into hot water and allow them to remain there until the water cools. Afterwards, cut off the stem and proceed to put the cuttings into cold water, as one usually does. Sow seeds of Chinese Balsam and Sunflower. The Colony would be very badly off if it were deprived of these charming plants! If put in now, cuttings of Linum Trigynum root readily. The first batch of Violets and Freesias may now be potted. These choice blooms thrive in the Colony’s temperate weather, and are favourites for their beauty amongst the general public. If you have put in any Croton cuttings last month, they will be ready for potting off towards the end of August. The growths of Lilium longiflorum will have died down by the end of the month and the bulbs may be taken up and kept dry. Order bulbs of Lilium speciosum and Lilium auratum from Japan. Make haste, for they are quite in demand! Palm seedlings from seeds sown in March may now be potted off, if not already done. Stalk short beans you have sown last month. Also, seeds of the following may now be sown: Mustard and Cress, Chinese Spinach, Lettuce, Sweet Corn, Chinese Green and White Cabbage, Celery, Tomatoes, and Carrots. Mosquitoes are plenty this season, so make sure they do not breed in your bird baths and trouble your plants. A good way of deterring these nasty pets from laying eggs on the water is to put a few drops of vegetable oil on the surface. Worry not, the birds will not be affected. Finally, make sure to dig over all vacant ground, so that it will be in good condition for sowing seeds in September and October. How charming your garden shall be this summer! I trust that by nurturing your garden, you will be nourished in both body and soul. Well done, my fellow gardeners!
By William James Tutcher F.L.S. (1867-1920) Superintendent of Hong Kong Botanical Gardens. Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.
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To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772
marketplace
To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772
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stephen says... Living history In July the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), Chung Ying Theatre Company, Caritas Hong Kong and the Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council organised something called the Community Oral History Theatre Project for the Sai Kung District, held in the Hang Hau Community Hall.
The weekend waltz
This was an interesting venture, targeted mainly at senior citizens, with a drama performance and audience participation in oral-history telling. The drama consisted of an excerpt from a play titled A Tale of Two Circles (in Cantonese), performed by elderly participants of the Central and Western District’s Community Oral History Theatre Project. They talked about their lives and the history of that area. It’s a pity there wasn’t a Sai Kung version of this performance, because Sai Kung District has a rich history, some of it still visible and stretching further back than than the colonial era. However this is a great initiative that will hopefully spur more oral-history projects.
Sai Kung’s illegal parking routine
Village elections
I have finally worked it out – the best way to describe the handling of traffic and illegal parking in the centre of town on Saturdays and Sundays is in terms of what may be called the Sai Kung Weekend Waltz The choreography is sometimes erratic but always purposeful. First to waltz are vehicles of all shapes and sizes. They pirouette around the roads before finally clustering around certain pavements and other spaces. Then in come what are known as the ballet’s danseurs, the heavy hitters of the ballet, who are disgorged from a fleet of white vehicles with flashing lights. Unlike the unruly rest of the corps de ballet, these dancers wear uniforms and have walkie-talkies and an interesting stage prop known as the ticket book. There is a scurrying as some members of the corps rush to move their vehicles, but not everyone is on stage so the danseurs take out their fat ticket books and gracefully swoop down, adorning the vehicles with little white slips. This goes on for a while but finally the danseurs depart and the corps de ballet reassemble their vehicles precisely where they were before. It is a moving scene as some of the dance company – those who did not pirouette quickly enough – mournfully regard their white tickets, while others gleefully prepare their vehicles for a fresh parking pirouette. When the curtain finally falls on the proceedings it can be said that there is a reassuring feeling of
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much activity leading to nothing, as although the stage has been filled with movement, everything returns to precisely where it was before. To take a small liberty with the works of the waltz maestro Herr Johann Strauss II, this set piece could easily be named An der Schonen Blauen Sai Kung – with apologies – this translates as The Beautiful Blue Sai Kung. Apparently it has something to do with traffic control.
Finally, did you register as a voter for the village elections? If you didn’t, the deadline, 16 July, has passed for this year but there will be another opportunity. Most people assume that registration is confined to so-called indigenous residents, but it is open to anyone who has lived in a village for more than three years, although some seats are indeed reserved for indigenous villagers. Admittedly these elections produce pretty predictable results and many seats are not even contested, but that’s no excuse for not trying to make a difference.
A timely warning The tragic death of Ivan Go in the Ma On Shan Country Park in early July is a timely reminder, at least to me, to be more alert to the dangers of hiking. The 18-year old was struck by lightning and did not recover. In another case, back in 2016, a 42-year-old man was also struck by lightning while hiking in Pak Tam Chung. Fortunately he survived. I have to admit that despite the often sudden and sometimes violent changes of weather, and having witnessed some extreme landslides in the country parks, I am prone to dismissing the dangers on the grounds that most of the time the parks are both safe and delightful. This remains the case but a bit more caution is obviously required. Nowadays I carry more water when hiking and pay more careful attention to keep my footwear in good condition so as to have a better grip on the sometimes very slippery surfaces. There is no need to be over-dramatic about the dangers, but a fatality sure focuses the mind.
Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.
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