The Golden City REPORTING BY Elena M. Zepeda ONE OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S most vibrant coastal cities, San Francisco delivers world-famous landmarks, diverse neighbourhoods and standout cuisine. Built on steep hills, the city never feels flat or predictable. Victorian homes cling to near-vertical roads, cable cars negotiate tight corners, and nearly every turn reveals a different view of the bay. REACH ALCATRAZ ISLAND by crossing the cold waters of San Francisco Bay. Once home to some of the nation’s most infamous criminals, Alcatraz has become one of America’s most haunting landmarks. Walk through the narrow cellblocks, get to know the former inmates’ life stories, and learn about their most daring (though always unsuccessful) escape attempts. SAN FRANCISCO’S CHINATOWN is one of the city’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, established in the 1850s. Enter through Dragon Gate to explore streets hung with lanterns, and lined with shops, markets and, of course, restaurants. From historic temples to bustling food spots, Chinatown is a wonderful area to explore at your own pace while experiencing a strong sense of culture. ESCAPE TO GOLDEN GATE PARK: San Francisco’s largest at 1,000 acres, it offers a mix of gardens, walking paths and open green spaces. The Japanese Tea Garden is a highpoint known for its koi ponds, curved bridges and traditional tea houses, as is the Botanical Garden featuring plant collections from all around the world. VISIT THE PAINTED LADIES on Steiner Street, one of San Francisco’s most photographed and film-featured landmarks. Colourfully painted Victorian homes crop up throughout the city but the ‘ladies’ on ‘postcard row’ are a must-see, fronted by picturesque Alamo Square Park and backed by the city’s ultramodern skyline. FISHERMAN’S WHARF is where all the fun happens, complete with shops and arcades, historic ships and scenic bay views, seafood restaurants and street performers. Make your way to Pier 39 to watch sea lions lounging on floating docks, and ride the two-storey carousel. This is the place to try San Francisco’s famous and comforting clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE, built in 1933, is best experienced up close. Rent a bike and ride across it, passing beneath the iconic red towers, and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. You can stop at scenic viewpoints to watch the fog roll beneath your feet, before continuing on to the charming coastal town of Sausalito for a relaxed waterfront break.

Six survival stories where extreme weather changes everything ISLAND OF THE BLUE DOLPHINS: SCOTT O'DELL (1960) Karana’s tribe leaves the island, and she is accidentally left behind and forced to survive alone for years. Isolated by storms and harsh weather, she develops courage, independence and a deep connection to the natural world. O’Dell presents nature as both dangerous and sustaining, shaping Karana into a resilient and compassionate survivor. LIFE OF PI: YANN MARTEL (2001) When his ship sinks during a tempest, Pi Patel is stranded on a lifeboat with Richard Parker, a Bengal tiger. The sea immediately becomes both his jailor and teacher. Martel describes the storm with terrifying beauty, showing nature as unpredictable, overwhelming and strangely spiritual: an extraordinary survival adventure ensues. THE PERFECT STORM: SEBASTIAN JUNGER (1997) The terrifying force of a real Atlantic mega-storm traps the crew of the Andrea Gail at sea. Junger combines real-life research with vivid storytelling to depict towering waves, hurricane winds and the helplessness of humans against nature. The storm is depicted with brutal realism, creating tension, tragedy and awe through its relentless, destructive power. THE STORM: ARIF ANWAR (2018) Shahryar reflects upon his family’s history, beginning in a village on the Bay of Bengal, where a poor fisherman, Jamir, and his wife Honufa, prepare to face a cyclone of historic proportions. Anwar’s far-reaching historical fiction interlaces multiple storylines across continents and decades, with a narrative sweep that mirror the storm’s devastating path. THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ: L. FRANK BAUM (1900) A violent cyclone transports Dorothy and her dog Toto from the prosaic world of Kansas into the magical land of Oz. Baum presents the cyclone as a symbol of both danger and transformation – it launches Dorothy into a technicolour, often terrifying world and, despite all her adventures and newfound friendships, she soon realises there’s no place like home. TYPHOON: JOSEPH CONRAD (1902) A steamship sails directly into a devastating typhoon in the South China Sea. Conrad creates intense suspense as Captain MacWhirr and his crew struggle against massive swells and violent winds – the typhoon dominates the story, symbolising nature’s overwhelming force and testing the courage, endurance and sanity of everyone on board.

With the long school break around the corner, many parents are wondering how to keep their kids connected and entertained. Find out where summer camps come in – and check out our top picks YIFAN MANDARIN yifancamps.com The Yifan Mandarin Summer Camp at DB North is fully immersive and features themed, activity-based sessions. The week-long camps run through August 6, Monday to Friday, 9.15am to 12.15pm, for kids aged 3.5 to 5.5 years. Multi-week discounts are available. 一帆中文夏令營在愉景灣開展已逾十七年, 致力於為孩子們創造沉浸式語言環境，全面提升中文能力！！ WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: admin@yifanmandarin.com GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI guidepost.hk Stories come to life in the Guidepost Montessori Storybook Adventure Camp, where each week is inspired by the imaginative worlds of well-known children’s authors. Young campers, aged 2 to 6 years, explore these stories through creative art, hands-on building, science experiments and playful problem-solving. Weekly camps are on offer through July 31 at the school’s DB North campus. WhatsApp: 9126 6211 Email: admissions@guidepost.hk BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN bayview.hk Bayview’s Ultimate Summer Fun programme runs through August 14 at DB North. The camp is open for kids aged 3 to 5 years and 6 to 8 years for morning or full-day sessions. The morning programme includes music and movement, S.T.E.M., arts and crafts, outdoor games, cookery and gardening. In the afternoons, the multi-sport programme features fun physical games and access to Bayview’s bouncy castle, trampoline and swimming pools. Tel: 6114 2436 Email: info@bayview.hk HK SURFING LESSON hongkongsurfinglesson.com Hong Kong Surfing Lesson’s one- or three-day, non-overnight camps run through August 26 at Lower Cheung Sha Beach. Children, aged 5 to 14 years, get their own surfboard to maximise their surfing time. Camps are run by professional ISA-qualified instructors, who help kids progress by making surfing fun and safe. Lessons are also available daily for kids aged 3 to 17 years, families and adults – from beginner to intermediate levels. WhatsApp: 6199 0904 Email: info@hongkongsurfinglesson.com HARRY WRIGHT harrywright.com.hk Harry Wright Swim School’s Summer Holiday Programme runs at Club Siena through August 15 for swimmers of all ages, including adults. Choose from the Daily Programme (Monday to Saturday, 6 days), or Weekly Camps (3-day and 5-day options, June 29 to August 14). With 50+ years of excellence, low ratios and internationally accredited coaches, swimmers are in expert hands. Both club members and non-members are welcome – enrol at Club Siena or DBRC reception. Tel: 2575 6279 Email: swimming@harrywright.com.hk

With the long school break around the corner, many parents are wondering how to keep their kids connected and entertained. Find out where summer camps come in – and check out our top picks As the school year ends and summer begins, many families in Discovery Bay look for ways to keep children active, engaged and happy during the long break. In a community known for its close-knit, family-friendly atmosphere, summer day camps have become an important part of childhood. Unlike traditional overnight camps, local camps are usually shorter, closer to home and centred around specific activities such as watersports, outdoor adventures, language learning and creative arts. Beyond simply filling time, these camps offer lasting developmental benefits. One of the greatest advantages of summer camps is the chance for children to try new activities in a relaxed and supportive environment. During the school year, academic schedules of ten leave little room for experimentation, but camps encourage curiosity, creativity and fun. Whether learning to swim, practising conversational Mandarin or discovering painting, children can immerse themselves in a single interest. These experiences may even inspire lifelong passions. Camps can also support learning in enjoyable ways. Language camps encourage conversational practice without the pressure of grades, while creative and problem-solving activities build curiosity and critical thinking. Because this type of education feels more like play, children often develop a more positive attitude toward learning. Although local camps do not usually involve overnight stays, they still help children build independence. Spending time in a new environment, meeting new people and participating in activities without parents nearby all contribute to greater self-reliance. Small successes, such as reciting the alphabet for the first time, or standing on a surfboard, can significantly boost confidence. For younger children especially, day camps provide a gentle balance between independence and the comfort of returning home each evening. Summer camps also play an important social role in DB, where children attend many different Hong Kong-wide schools. Camps bring local children together, helping them form friendships outside their usual circles. Through teamwork and shared activities, children develop communication, cooperation and conflict-resolution skills in a relaxed setting. For shy children, shared interests often make social interaction easier and more natural. Emotionally, camps help children develop resilience and empathy. Trying new activities an d f acing challenges teaches them that progress takes time and mistakes are part of learning. Being part of a group also encourages children to support one another and celebrate shared achievements. At a time when screen use continues to increase, camps provide valuable opportunities for physical activity and outdoor play. Regular movement supports physical health, improves mood and boosts energy. Outdoor camps also expose children to nature, which has been linked to reduced stress and improved wellbeing – especially important for children growing up in a busy city like Hong Kong. Ultimately, summer day camps help create a balanced childhood that includes creativity, social connection, physical activity and personal growth. They offer DB kids opportunities to discover new interests, gain confidence and build lasting friendships, making summer a season of joy, growth and discovery. YIFAN MANDARIN yifancamps.com The Yifan Mandarin Summer Camp at DB North is fully immersive and features themed, activity-based sessions. The week-long camps run through August 6, Monday to Friday, 9.15am to 12.15pm, for kids aged 3.5 to 5.5 years. Multi-week discounts are available. 一帆中文夏令營在愉景灣開展已逾十七年， 致力於為孩子們創造沉浸式語言環境， 全面提升中文能力! ! WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: admin@yifanmandarin.com GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI guidepost.hk Stories come to life in the Guidepost Montessori Storybook Adventure Camp, where each week is inspired by the imaginative worlds of well-known children’s authors. Young campers, aged 2 to 6 years, explore these stories through creative art, hands-on building, science experiments and playful problem-solving. Weekly camps are on offer through July 31 at the school’s DB North campus. WhatsApp: 9126 6211 Email: admissions@guidepost.hk BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN bayview.hk Bayview’s Ultimate Summer Fun programme runs through August 14 at DB North. The camp is open for kids aged 3 to 5 years and 6 to 8 years for morning or full-day sessions. The morning programme includes music and movement, S.T.E.M., arts and crafts, outdoor games, cookery and gardening. In the afternoons, the multi-sport programme features fun physical games and access to Bayview’s bouncy castle, trampoline and swimming pools. Tel: 6114 2436 Email: info@bayview.hk HK SURFING LESSON hongkongsurfinglesson.com Hong Kong Surfing Lesson’s one- or three-day, non-overnight camps run through August 26 at Lower Cheung Sha Beach. Children, aged 5 to 14 years, get their own surfboard to maximise their surfing time. Camps are run by professional ISA-qualified instructors, who help kids progress by making surfing fun and safe. Lessons are also available daily for kids aged 3 to 17 years, families and adults – from beginner to intermediate levels. WhatsApp: 6199 0904 Email: info@hongkongsurfinglesson.com HARRY WRIGHT harrywright.com.hk Harry Wright Swim School’s Summer Holiday Programme runs at Club Siena through August 15 for swimmers of all ages, including adults. Choose from the Daily Programme (Monday to Saturday, 6 days), or Weekly Camps (3-day and 5-day options, June 29 to August 14). With 50+ years of excellence, low ratios and internationally accredited coaches, swimmers are in expert hands. Both club members and non-members are welcome – enrol at Club Siena or DBRC reception. Tel: 2575 6279 Email: swimming@harrywright.com.hk

Discovery Bay events from the past few months EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Three Sheets Marquee and Bar’s eighth anniversary party was packed with residents and their families on June 6 who enjoyed the opportunity to get together, have a drink or three and listen to live music. There was an open bar on Sapporo Draught from 4pm to 6pm. [PHOTOS BY Col Sim Photography. WHOLE-COMMUNITY EVENTS AT DC Discovery College students were busy in the lead-up to the long vac, presenting an Ensemble Evening on May 19 and a TEDx Youth Talk on June 8. Both events were free and open to the whole community. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF DC.] SEA CUCUMBERS IN SAI KUNG The DB-based Sea Cucumbers made a splash at the Sai Kung District Dragon Boat Race on June 19. Competing in high-energy heats along the Sai Kung waterfront, the Men’s Team placed second in the Bronze Cup Final, while the Ladies’ Team finished sixth in the Gold Cup Final. The Small Mixed Team placed fifth in the Excellence Cup Final, and the Standard Mixed Team placed seventh in the Gold Cup Final. AT THE DB NIGHT MARKET On June 13, Handmade Hong Kong hosted the first DB Weekend Night Market of the year, with over 60 local artisans and homegrown brands showcasing handmade accessories and crafts, plus specialised products for kids and pets. The DB Weekend Market is now on summer break and will return in September. [PHOTOS BY Andrew J.C. Spires.]

FOURTH OF JULY AT SMOKEY JOE’S Smokey Joe’s in DB North is the place to celebrate July 4, with Chef Joey Daze serving up a sizzling US Independence Day feast. Alongside his popular burgers, steaks and sliders, expect all-American favourites like chilli-cheese hotdogs and standout Texas Twinkies – slow-smoked, bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with brisket and cheese. Vegetarians are well catered for too, with Impossible Burgers, fresh salads and hearty sandwiches. The festivities kick off at noon, with a happy hour from 3pm to 7pm. Expect baseball on the T Vs and classic American tunes on the speakers. To book a table, call 5784 7101 or visit smokeyjoesdb.com RACE LANTAU 2 PEAKS Registration is open for the Lantau 2 Peaks, organised by Action Asia Events, and the two peaks in question are, of course, Lantau and Sunset. There are two distances: the 24km (two peaks: elevation gain 1,889m), which you can run solo, with a partner or in a team of four, and the 15km (half peak: elevation gain 854m), which is run solo. To sign up to race on October 4, visit actionasiaevents.com [PHOTO COURTESY OF Action Asia Events.] LEARNING CHINESE ONLINE Trusted by 1,000+ non-native learners globally, Hong Kong-based Linguabox specialises in online Mandarin and Cantonese instruction. Tailored learning pathways for adults and international school students target academic success and real-world fluency. Students gain the confidence and skills to communicate effectively with native speakers, and are supported by a specialised, exam-aligned curricula (IB, IGCSE, HSK, YCT). To find out more, visit linguaboxgroup.com HARRY WRIGHT SWIM SCHOOL: 50+ YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Having celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025, Harry Wright Swim School continues to build on over five decades of empowering young swimmers and shaping Hong Kong’s aquatic culture. From parent-and-child lessons to elite swim squads and adult classes, it offers something for every age, every ability and every ambition. Harry Wright has been a trusted swim partner for families in DB for decades, offering expert-led lessons at Club Siena. With a structured progression system, small group sizes and professional coaching that meets international standards, Harry Wright’s community-driven values continue to resonate with DB families. This summer, Harry Wright is running an extensive summer holiday programme at Club Siena through August 15 for all ages, including adults. The daily programme runs Mondays to Saturdays, while weekly camps (three-day and five-day options) run through August 14. A new adult class is also available on Saturdays through August 15. Both club members and non-members are welcome to enrol at Club Siena or DBRC reception. Over the past five decades, 18 Olympians, 22 Asian Games and 13 Commonwealth athletes have trained with Harry Wright, representing Hong Kong and countries around the globe. Recent notable alumni include Siobhán Haughey and Ian Ho. For more information and to enrol in the summer programmes, call 2575 6279, or visit harrywright.com.hk [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Harry Wright.] NO BUTTS DAY On No Butts Day, July 4, thousands of volunteers worldwide hit streets, parks, trails and beaches to collect discarded cigarette butts. The campaign highlights the environmental harm caused by plastic cigarette filters, and calls for their ban. You can join the effort in DB by organising your own clean-up or taking part in an existing event. To help contribute to the global count, visit nobuttsday.org SHOUT-OUT TO TAICHI KHO Congratulations to sometime DB resident Taichi Kho who achieved a landmark Asia Tour victory on June 14 by winning the International Series Morocco at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat. The 25-year-old golfer, who developed his game at DB Golf Club, finished at 19-under par, edging two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson by one stroke after making a crucial birdie on the 18th hole in the final round. The victory earned Taichi his first International Series title and his second Asian Tour victory as a professional. ELDERLY HEART CARE SEMINAR Seniors, families and carers are invited to attend an Elderly Heart Care Seminar on July 30, focused on mental health protection. The seminar is being held at DB Office Centre, from 12pm to 1pm, and is led by a Lifeline senior counsellor. Admission is free. To find out more and enrol, visit FB@db.community.hk MURAL REFRESH AT DB NORTH In case you haven’t noticed three walls at DB North Plaza have been transformed by fun, anthropomorphic murals celebrating DB’s pet-friendly environment. The wall paintings were created by Art Dreamers, a Hong Kong social enterprise that partners with schools, charities and non-profits to host art workshops and community mural projects, notably Project C – Cats in a Dreamy Rose Garden in Yau Ma Tei. Students from S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School helped Art Dreamers put the finishing touches to the DB North murals on June 20. SMOOTHIE-MAKING WORKSHOP Hong Kong food-tech startup Food With Benefits is hosting a Zero Food-Waste Smoothie-Making Workshop on July 18, from 11am to 12.30pm, at DB Office Centre. The fully interactive workshop combines nutrition education with sustainability themes, teaching participants how surplus produce can be upcycled into healthy and delicious smoothies. Instruction is in English and Cantonese; all ages are welcome. Find out more and enrol at FB @db.community.hk. DB TRANSPORT APP Long-time DB resident Christoph Lamprecht has developed DB Transport, a free app that delivers instant, offline timetables for our internal buses, external buses and ferries. Fast and easy to browse, DB Transport features a smart filtering system that surfaces the routes that are relevant to you (and hides the rest). It also includes favourites, live departure countdowns and a search function – in English and traditional and simplified Chinese. Most importantly, it’s completely free – no ads, no tracking, no sign-up, no upsell. Download it at App Store and Goggle Play. SUMMER SECURITY REMINDER The idea that burglaries in DB spike every summer is largely an urban myth. However, holiday periods can create opportunities for burglars because more homes are left unattended. While DB periodically experiences burglary incidents, the risk appears to be driven more by vacant properties, hillside access routes and construction-related vulnerabilities than by the season itself. Offenders have been known to approach properties from hillside areas and use darkness, vegetation or scaffolding associated with renovation works to access upper-floor units. Recent incidents demonstrate that burglaries still occur in DB despite Hong Kong’s generally low burglary rate. In late May, at least two break-ins were reported in the same residential block within nine hours. At the same time, burglary figures across Hong Kong have been trending downward. Police reported that 2025 recorded a historic low of 816 burglary cases, the lowest since records began in 1969, and that burglaries during Easter, summer and Christmas holiday periods fell significantly following targeted anti-burglary operations. Security priorities vary depending on whether you live in a stand-alone house, ground-floor unit or upper-floor flat, but the same basic precautions apply: • Lock all windows and balcony doors • Be especially vigilant during renovation or scaffolding works • Consider installing CCTV or alarm systems • Store valuables in a bank safe-deposit box • Inform building management if you will be away • Arrange for someone to collect your mail and deliveries • Use timers for lights so your home seems occupied Remaining vigilant and reducing access opportunities remain the most effective burglary deterrents.

How much do you know about Martin Scorsese and his films? 01. What is Martin Scorsese’s full name? A. Martin Charles Scorsese B. Martin Marcantonio Luciano Scorsese C. Mar tin Luciano Scorsese 02. What is Scorsese’s first short film called? A. After Hours B. What’s a Nice Girl Like You Doing in a Place Like This? C. Mean Streets 03. Which Scorsese film follows a child adventuring in a Paris train station? A. Kundun B. Hugo C. The Age of Innocence 04. When is Scorsese’s birthday? A. November 17, 1942 B. November 19, 1943 C. November 17, 1940 05. The Departed is inspired by which Hong Kong action film? A. Infernal Affairs B. Gallants C. Naked Killer 06. What sport is Raging Bull focused on? A. Wrestling B. Boxing C. Football 07. How many times has Scorsese been married? A. 4 B. 5 C. 6 08. In the opening sequence of Casino, what happens when Sam Rothstein gets into his car? A. He gets shot B. He gets arrested C. The car explodes 09. What instrument does Jimmy Doyle play in New York, New York? A. Violin B. Saxophone C. Trumpet 10. Which famous actor has Scorsese collaborated with in 10 of his films? A. Leonardo DiCaprio B. Joe Pesci C. Robert De Niro 11. In Taxi Driver, who does Scorsese play? A. A taxi driver B. A wrestler C. A passenger 12. Which Scorsese film is based on stockbroker Jordan Belfort’s memoir? A. The Wolf of Wall Street B. Silence C. The Irishman 13. What object symbolises Teddy Daniel’s unresolved trauma in Shutter Island? A. A gun B. A glass of water C. A police badge 14. Which Scorsese film is inspired by Nicholas Pileggi’s Wiseguy? A. The Gangs of New York B. The Departed C. Goodfellas 15. Who plays vicious gangster Tommy DeVito in Goodfellas? A. Robert De Niro B. Ray Liotta C. Joe Pesci 16. In Taxi Driver, what does Travis Bickle say to himself in the mirror? A. “I amuse you? I make you laugh?” B. “He ain’t pretty no more.” C. “You talking to me?” 17. Which film won Scorsese the Best Director Oscar? A. Casino B. Cape Fear C. The Departed 18. In which neighbourhood is Mean Streets set? A. Brooklyn Heights B. Harlem C. Little Italy 19. What is Alice’s dream career in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore? A. Dancer B. Singer C. Actress 20. Who plays Jesus in The Last Temptation of Christ? A. Willem Dafoe B. Harvey Keitel C. Martin Scorsese Answers: A B B A A B B C C C C A B C C C C C B A

Dive into the dark, addictive and often dangerous world of online fame A TOUCH OF JEN: BETH MORGAN (2021) In A Touch of Jen, a young couple, Remy and Alicia, become obsessed with an influencer named Jen: they constantly check her social media, analyse her posts, and build a fantasy version of her life in their heads. When they get a chance to meet her in real life, their fixation becomes unhealthy and intense, and soon escalates into violence. AESTHETICA: ALLIE ROWBOTTOM (2022) Aesthetica follows Anna, a former Instagram influencer, who plans to undergo an experimental surgery that would reverse all her cosmetic procedures and return her to her ‘natural’ face. A slow, unsettling character study of what fame and beauty culture can do to a person over time, the novel explores self-objectification, feminism and ageing in a nuanced way. ANON PLS: DEUXMOI & JESSICA GOODMAN (2022) A fictionalised version of DeuxMoi, Anon Pls. centres on Cricket, assistant to a celebrity stylist, who starts an anonymous Instagram account sharing celebrity gossip. When it blows up and goes viral overnight, Cricket gains fame, influence and insider access. No one knows she’s behind the account but the bigger it gets, the harder it is to stay anonymous… FAKE ACCOUNTS: LAUREN OYLER (2021) Fake Accounts explores the gap between how people present themselves online and who they are in real life. An unnamed woman learns that her boyfriend is secretly running a conspiracy account on Instagram, and the discovery completely changes how she sees him. She becomes obsessed with the idea of truth and identity and starts to question whether anything is real… INFLUENCE: SARA SHEPARD & LILIA BUCKINGHAM (2021) A tense YA drama, Influence follows four teenage influencers living in Los Angeles whose lives look perfect online but are actually full of pressure, secrets and rivalry. The story starts as a look into influencer life – followers, sponsorships, drama – but quickly turns into a mystery when tensions between the girls escalate and one of them ends up dead. THE INFLUENCERS: ANNA-MARIE MCLEMORE (2025) A sharp, character-driven satire of influencer culture, The Influencers centres on a powerful social-media matriarch whose empire collapses after a murder and arson – leaving her five daughters as suspects. It’s less about the ‘who did it’ and more about family dynamics, identity and exploitation. Multiple perspectives give the novel a chaotic, very online feel.

PIXAR SUMMER FEST The new Pixar summer event at Hong Kong Disneyland starts on June 12 and runs through August 31. Highlights include a Pixar Water Play Street Party, a new night-time drone/ projection show (Pixar Pals Spectacular) and Pixar character meet-and-greets, plus themed food and merchandise. The event starts just five days after the park’s 20th anniversary celebration ends. Find tickets at hongkongdisneyland.com. THE NEXT CHAPTER Every year, Island Dance chooses a special theme for its annual show. For this year’s production, The Next Chapter, teachers took inspiration from different book genres, ranging from children's books, to Shakespearian classics, contemporary fiction and non-fiction. You can catch The Next Chapter live on stage at Y-Theatre, Chai Wan on June 13 and 14, with 300 Island Dance performers (140 from DB). For tickets and to find out more, head to islanddance.com.hk. TEDX YOUTH TALK Students at Discovery College are holding a TEDx Youth Talk on June 8 from 5pm to 7pm. The event, being held at the school’s ground floor theatre, is free and open to the whole community. This year’s theme is ‘Kaleidoscope’, and you can expect an exciting evening filled with stories, questions and bold ideas – the student speakers are eager to speak up, stand out and share their visions for the future through their unique ideas and experiences. To register in advance, visit eventbrite.hk; for more on DC, visit discovery.esf.edu.hk. PROVERSE PRIZES Founded by long-term DB residents, the late Dr Verner Bickley, MBE and his wife, Dr Gillian Bickley, the International Proverse Prizes for writing submitted and previously unpublished in English (may be in translation) are open for entry through June 30. They are the Proverse Prize for single-author book-length fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, and the Proverse Poetry Prize for single poems. You need to be at least 18 to enter, but otherwise everyone is eligible, whatever their place of birth, residence, nationality or citizenship. New and experienced writers are all welcome to send in their work. Entry documents and full details are available at proversepublishing.com. For enquiries email info@proversepublishing.com; or you can enter at proversehongkong.submittable.com/submit. CONTACT LENS PACKAGING RECYCLING Contact lens packaging, particularly the plastic blister packs and foil lids, is notoriously difficult to recycle. While many opticians and retailers offer specialised recycling programmes for these items, there’s a simpler solution for DB residents. You can drop separated blister packs and foil lids at the DB Office Centre weekdays (9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm) and on Saturdays (9am to 1pm). PUZZLE SWAP CHAT GROUP A new WhatsApp group dedicated to puzzle swapping has launched in DB, giving jigsaw enthusiasts a simple way to exchange puzzles rather than store or discard them. The Piece of Mind community operates on a one-for-one swap system and encourages members to share clear photos, puzzle details and convenient exchange locations within DB. Organisers ask that puzzles are complete where possible, securely packaged and never resold for profit; members are encouraged to arrange swaps privately. Scan the QR code to join: UNI BEAR UPCYCLING WORKSHOP The Uni Bear Used Clothing Upcycling Workshop on June 13, from 11am to 12.30pm at DB Office Centre, is open to residents aged 6 years and up, with children aged 6 to 12 years accompanied by an adult. This is your chance to give used clothes a second life by transforming them into teddy bear-wear. The workshop is being held in English and Cantonese by representatives from Dress Green, a design-driven social enterprise dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion by upcycling old uniforms. To enrol and find out more head to FB @db.community.hk. Dates For Your Diary JUNE 13 | SHOP THE DB WEEKEND MARKET in DB South Plaza from 2pm to 9pm. Visit handmadehongkong.com. TUESDAYS | RECYCLE EVERYTHING at the Green@Community collection point from 10am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm. ALL MONTH | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit FB @dbmf.collection.

AMPCONTROL DB’S HAT TRICK AT THE SOCCER SEVENS Congratulations to Ampcontrol DB for taking the honours in the Masters Tournament at the HKFC Standard Chartered Soccer Sevens. The Masters team clinched the championship by defeating All Stars 1–0 in the Shield Final on May 24 at Hong Kong Football Club. Since 2017, the team has reached the final of the tournament on several occasions and they won the Masters Trophy in 2018 and 2025. [PHOTOS BY Nigel Baillie.] AT THE ACTION SPRINT TRAIL SERIES DBAY The DB leg of Action Asia Events’ Action Sprint Trail Series headed out from DB South Plaza on April 26 with over 250 runners. There were two distances – 9km and 12km – with the 12k including the climb over Tiger’s Head. Chan Ka Keung won the Men’s 12km and Dolores Rofiqoh won the Women’s 12km. Chris Davis and Colette Monahan took the 9km titles. [PHOTOS BY William Leung.] ENJOYING HELPER APPRECIATION MONTH Helper Appreciation Month enables all of us in the community – individuals, schools and businesses – to give of our time to ensure that DB helpers feel the love and have some well-deserved fun. A series of informative and empowering free events were held in May.

HONG KONG LOTUS FESTIVAL Hong Kong Lotus Festival kicks off on June 1 at Po Lin Monastery with peak blooming anticipated from late June through early July. This is your chance to see thousands of potted lotuses (symbolising rebirth, resilience and spiritual awakening), and enjoy themed art, music and mindfulness activities. Sign up for tea ceremonies, incense-making workshops and sutra copying led by the Lantau monks. Entrance is free. TUEN NG FESTIVAL Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, Tuen Ng Festival falls on June 19 this year bringing dragon boat races and cultural celebrations across Hong Kong. While the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races is scheduled for June 27 to 28 at Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade, and the DB Dragon Boat Gala happens in October, June 19 sees hotly contested community races off Stanley Main Beach, Aberdeen Promenade, Sai Kung Waterfront Promenade, Shing Mun River Promenade and Tai Po Waterfront Park. SAKE JUMP Headed our way from Japan, Sake Jump is making its Hong Kong debut from June 6 to 8 at 1881 FWD House, with over 20 breweries from 13 prefectures, including Fukushima’s Otokoyama and Iwate’s Kikunoji, showcasing their premium brews. You can also enjoy sake cocktails crafted by Tokyo’s acclaimed mixologists, participate in masterclasses, and engage in meet-the-brewer sessions. Look for tickets at FWD MAX. WESTK CABARET FESTIVAL The inaugural WestK Cabaret Festival runs through June 7 at West Kowloon Art Park’s Xiqu Centre, delivering a mix of local and international performances, including cabaret, dance and musical comedy. With Patti LuPone headlining on June 3, further highlights include Spanish cabaret HisPanic – Copla (June 2 to 3), drag artist Jens Radda’s Skank Sinatra (June 4 to 5), and Parisian cabaret Paradis Latin – Mon Premier Cabaret (June 6 to 7). Purchase tickets at Cityline and Art-mate. DANIEL CAESAR ON TOUR Grammy-winning R&B artist Daniel Caesar is bringing his Son of Spergy Tour to AsiaWorld-Expo on June 2. This all-standing, arena-scale concert features chart-topping hits like Best Part and Peaches, and is described as a “reimagined” experience of his past work, leaning into a more experimental, still soulful sound. Fans can also look forward to hearing plenty of new material from Son of Spergy, Caesar’s fourth album. Find tickets at Live Nation HK. LADY WHITE SNAKE Hong Kong’s Chinese Culture Festival runs through September, with over 280 stage events, exhibitions and workshops. The festival is themed ‘Legends’ and highlights Chinese folklore, poetry and arts from the Sui and Tang dynasties. Be sure to catch Lady White Snake at Hong Kong Cultural Centre from June 12 to 13 – produced by the Shanghai Grand Theatre, the dance-drama merges ballet and Chinese dance to present a contemporary reimagining of the (terrifying) classic legend. Purchase tickets at Viagogo. SOCK IT 2 ME TBC Improv HK is bringing unfiltered puppet chaos to Fringe Dairy at the Fringe Club on June 5 with Sock it to Me, a fully improvised show strictly for adults. Expect outrageous felt-faced characters, unscripted scenes, wild songs and humour that pushes the boundaries. With no script and no censors, every performance is unpredictable as the puppets take over for a night of hilarious mayhem. The show may include strong language and mature themes, and children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Look for tickets at Eventbrite. SHAHZIA SIKANDER AT THE M+ Last chance to be wowed by the work of Pakistani American artist Shahzia Sikander showing at M+, West Kowloon Art Park, through June 21. Sikander is known for reworking the tradition of Central and South Asian miniature painting in bold and contemporary ways. Her art spans painting, animation, mosaic, and sculpture, often exploring themes such as gender, migration, empire and colonial history through layered, surreal imagery. Entrance is free. HK ICH CENTRE FUN DAY The 10th anniversary Fun Day being held at Sam Tung Uk Museum’s HK ICH Centre is a must for culture vultures of all ages. From June 13 to 14, you get to enjoy Hakka folk songs, Indian festival workshops, shadow puppet shows, craft workshops, tea culture demonstrations and guided heritage tours, all inside the restored 18th-century Hakka walled village. The event is interactive, cultural and especially good for children who like hands-on activities. Entrance is free. TAI O DRAGON BOAT WATER PARADE At Tai O on June 19, the annual Dragon Boat Water Parade blends spiritual tradition with festive competition. Statues from local temples are placed on sacred sampans by members of three fishermen’s associations and escorted through the waterways by dragon boats. Crowds gather along the canals to witness the colourful procession. Following the parade, the associations stage a friendly race before the dragon boat competitions begin, accompanied by drumming, cheering and celebrations throughout the village.