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How much do you know about the month of February? BY Kayli Liebenberg 1. How many days does February have in a non-leap year? A. 28 B. 29 C. 30 2. What is February’s full moon called? A. Snow Moon B. Sand Moon C. Sea Moon 3. What do we celebrate on February 14? A. Holi B. Easter C. Valentine’s Day 4. Who wrote the song My Funny Valentine? A. Frank Sinatra B. Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart C. Jeff Bridges 5. In February 2015, a photo of what article of clothing created a viral debate over its true colours? A. A pink and white shoe B. A black and blue dress C. A white and gold hat 6. Which US human rights activist was assassinated on February 21, 1965? A. James Reeb B. Malcolm X C. Martin Luther King Jr 7. What are February’s zodiac signs? A. Aquarius and Pisces B. Cancer and Gemini C. Scorpio and Libra 8. On February 20, 1962, who became the first US astronaut to orbit the Earth? A. Buzz Aldrin B. Neil Armstrong C. John Glenn 9. What are February’s birth flowers? A. Violet and primrose B. Violet and daisy C. Lilly of the valley and daisy 10. On which date did Chinese Lunar New Year fall last year? A. February 1 B. February 10 C. February 15 11. Which Marvel movie was released on February 16, 2018? A. Avengers Infinity War B. Madame Web C. Black Panther 12. Which English singer/ songwriter was born on February 1, 1994? A. Ed Sheeran B. Harry Styles C. Sam Smith 13. Millie Bobby Brown was born on February 19, 2004: which US magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2018? A. Time B. Vanity Fair C. Us Weekly 14. In which country is Groundhog Day celebrated on February 2? A. United States B. Canada C. Mexico 15. On February 1, 2004 which social networking website was launched? A. Instagram B. Twitter C. Facebook 16. Which Foo Fighters album features the track February Stars? A. The Color and the Shape B. One by One C. Sonic Highways 17. Laura Ingalls Wilder was born on February 7, 1867: which of the following novels did she not write? A. Farmer Boy B. The Children of Green Knowe C. The Long Winter 18. What is February’s birthstone the amethyst associated with? A. Magic B. Royalty C. Priests 19. Which British band released the album Abbey Road on February 26, 1969? A. Led Zeppelin B. The Rolling Stones C. The Beatles 20. Which of these horror movies was released on February 14, 1991? A. Child’s Play B. The Silence of The Lambs C. Friday the 13th

How much do you know about the month of May? 1. In which country do people traditionally dance round a May Pole on May 1? A. France B. Germany C. England 2. When is Mother’s Day celebrated in Hong Kong? A. Three weeks before Easter Sunday B. First Sunday in May C. Second Sunday in May 3. Who is often credited as the “mother of Mother’s Day”? A. Mother Teresa B. Anna Jarvis C. Carrie Lam 4. What is May’s birthstone? A. Sapphire B. Ruby C. Emerald 5. What are May’s zodiac signs? A. Taurus and Gemini B. Capricorn and Scorpio C. Leo and Cancer 6. Which English crime author was born on May 22, 1859? A. Agatha Christie B. Sir Ar thur Conan Doyle C. Wilkie Collins 7. Which Wiccan festival falls in May? A. Beltane B. Litha C. Mabon 8. Which famous sci-fi film franchise celebrates “May the Fourth” as a fan holiday? A. Star Wars B. Star Trek C. Doctor Who 9. In ancient Roman mythology, May was named after which goddess? A. Aurora B. Minerva C. Maia 10 Which American aviator completed the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight on May 21, 1927? A. Amelia Earhart B. Charles Lindbergh C. Orville Wright 11. Which album did Billie Eilish release on May 17, 2024? A. Hit Me Hard and Soft B. Happier than Ever C. Guitar Songs 12. What is May’s birth flower? A. Lilly B. Honeysuckle C. Sunflower 13. Which major American sports league usually starts its playoffs in May? A. The MLB B. The NFL C. The NBA 14. What is the name of May’s full moon? A. Bird Moon B. Tree Moon C. Flower Moon 15. Tuen Ng Festival falls on May 31 this year: which sport is it associated with? A. Dragon boating B. Kung fu C. Table tennis 16. In Norse mythology, which creature is said to appear in May, signifying the arrival of summer? A. Dragon B. Kraken C. Phoenix 17. Which international film festival is held annually in May? A. Cannes B. Sundance C. Academy Awards 18. Whose birthday, falling on May 5, is celebrated with a holiday in Hong Kong? A. Andy Lau’s B. Bruce Lee’s C. The Buddha’s 19. Who inspired Henry Cavill, born on May 5, 1983, to take up acting? A. Guy Ritchie B. Russell Crowe C. Daniel Craig 20. Which competition is held at the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, May 3 to 6? A. Bun scrambling B. Bun eating C. Bun throwing

How much do you know about the month of June? BY Kayli Liebenberg 1. What are June’s zodiac signs? *A. Gemini and Cancer* B. Pisces and Taurus C. Leo and Scorpio 2. In the Northern Hemisphere, which day is the longest of the year? *A. June 21* B. June 23 C. June 30 3. What is June’s birthstone? A. Opal *B. Pearl* C. Amethyst 4. When do we celebrate Father’s Day in Hong Kong this year? A. June 8 *B. June 15* C. June 22 5. Which greenfield music festival, held annually in June, is the largest in the world? *A. Glastonbury* B. Green Man C. Burning Man 6. What is June’s full moon called? A. Blackberry Moon B. Blueberry Moon *C. Strawberry Moon* 7. Which US state hosts a Superman Celebration annually in June? *A. Illinois* B. Indiana C. Iowa 8. In Greek mythology, which goddess is associated with June? A. Athena *B. Hera* C. Demeter 9. Which famous comedian, known for his silent films, was born on June 16, 1890? A. Oliver Hardy B. Buster Keaton *C. Stan Laurel* 10. On June 9, 1898, the British signed a 99-year lease for Hong Kong: when did the lease expire? A. June 1, 1997 B. June 31, 1997 *C. July 1, 1997* 11. Which famous singer known as ‘The King of Pop’ passed away on June 25, 2009? A. Prince B. George Michael *C. Michael Jackson* 12. Which actor, who starred in Shawshank Redemption, was born on June 1, 1937? *A. Morgan Freeman* B. Tim Robbins C. Bob Gunton 13. What is June’s birth flower? *A. Rose* B. Snowdrop C. Daffodil 14. Which ground-breaking author, born on June 25, 1903, wrote 1984? A. Virginia Wolf *B. George Orwell* C. James Joyce 15. In June 2002, which singing competition premiered on TV? A. The X Factor *B. American Idol* C. America’s Got Talent 16. What do we celebrate on June 5? *A. World Environment Day* B. World Oceans Day C. World Rainforest Day 17. Which Hong Kong-based actor was born on June 27, 1962? *A. Phillippe Joly* B. Tony Leung Chiu-wai C. Leslie Cheung 18. How much did Kurt Cobain’s acoustic guitar from Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged performance sell for at auction on June 21, 2020? A. US$2 million B. US$4 million *C. US$6 million* 19. Which sabbat do Wiccans celebrate in June? A. Lammas B. Ostara *C. Litha* 20. American country singer June Carter was born on June 23, 1929: who did she marry in 1968? *A. Johnny Cash* B. Carl Smith C. Roy Orbison

How much do you know about the month of July? 01. Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon on July 20 in which year? A. 1960 B. 1965 *C. 1969* 02. What is July’s full moon called? *A. Buck Moon* B. Deer Moon C. Fawn Moon 03. When does HKSAR Establishment Day fall? *A. July 1* B. July 20 C. July 31 04. Who did Julius Caesar name the month of July after? A. Himself *B. His family* C. Cleopatra 05. Which civil rights activist was born on July 12, 1997? A. Thandiwe Abdullah B. Greta Thunberg *C. Malala Yousafzai* 06. Which album did Taylor Swift release on July 7, 2023? A. Red (Taylor's Version) *B. Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)* C. 1989 (Taylor's Version) 07. What is July’s birthstone? *A. Ruby* B. Emerald C. Pearl 08. On July 25, 1909, who was the first man to fly an aircraft across the English Channel? A. Sully Sullenberger B. Charles Lindbergh *C. Louis Bleriot* 09. What do the French celebrate on July 14? *A. Bastille Day* B. Armistice Day C. Ascension Day 10. Which South African president was born on July 18, 1918? A. Desmond Tutu *B. Nelson Mandela* C. Jacob Zuma 11. Which major cycling event traditionally starts in July? A. Milan-San Remo *B. Tour de France* C. Tour Down Under 12. Which US actor born on July 3, 1962, starred in Born on the Fourth of July? A. Stanley Tucci *B. Tom Cruise* C. Sean Penn 13. Where did the first Disneyland open on July 17, 1955? *A. Anaheim, California* B. Penny’s Bay, Lantau C. Marne-la-Vallée, France 14. The inaugural FIFA World Cup was held where in July 1930? A. Argentina B. Bolivia *C. Uruguay* 15. At which Spanish festival, held in July, do people run with bulls through the streets? A. Las Fallas *B. Fiesta de San Fermín* C. Feria de Sevilla 16. Which movie made US$356 million worldwide during its opening weekend in July 2023? *A. Barbie* B. Oppenheimer C. Sounds of Freedom 17. Which popular item of summer clothing was showcased in Paris in July 1946? *A. Bikini* B. Flip flops C. Crop top 18. Who wrote 4th of July – Ashbury Park (Sandy)? A. Bruno Mars B. Billy Joel *C. Bruce Springsteen* 19. Which sporting event, held in July 1967, was the first UK television programme to be broadcast in colour? A. Rugby World Cup *B. Wimbledon Tennis Championships* C. Cricket World Cup 20. Amazon opened as an online bookseller in July of which year? *A 1995* B. 1997 C. 2000

How much do you know about Audrey Hepburn and her films? 01. When was Audrey Hepburn born? A. February 27, 1927 B. March 1, 1928 C. May 4, 1929 02. In The Nun’s Story , what is the name of Hepburn’s character? A. Sister William B. Sister Luke C. Sister Jenny 03. Which meal is referenced in the title of one of Hepburn’s films? A. Breakfast B. Lunch C. Dinner 04. Which 40s film marks Hepburn’s European debut? A. Dutch in 7 Lessons B. It’s a Wonderful Life C. The Best Years of Our Lives 05. What was Hepburn’s middle name? A. Katie B. Kaitlyn C. Kathleen 06. How many William Wyler films does Hepburn star in? A. 2 B. 3 C. 4 07. In which country was Hepburn born? A. England B. Belgium C. France 08. What was Hepburn’s favourite food? A. French fries B. Tiramisu C. Pasta 09. Who plays opposite Hepburn in Funny Face ? A. James Stewart B. Gene Kelly C. Fred Astaire 10. Which movie starring Hepburn is titled after a woman’s name? A. Sabrina B. Mary C. Dorothy 11. How many Best Actress Oscars did Hepburn win? A. 1 B. 3 C. 5 12. What was Hepburn’s final acting role? A. The Unforgiven B. Always C. They All Laughed 13. Which film launched Hepburn to international stardom? A. Charade B. Roman Holiday C. The Children’s Hour 14. What is Hepburn’s character’s cat called in Breakfast at Tiffany's ? A. Fred B. Cat C. Doc 15. How old was Hepburn when she made her acting debut? A. 17 B. 19 C. 22 16. What was Hepburn’s favourite designer brand? D. Chanel E. Burberry F. Givenchy 17. Which film sees Hepburn star alongside Albert Finney? A. How to Steal a Million B. Two for the Road C. Paris When It Sizzles 18. Who does Hepburn play in Charade ? A. Elizabeth Roffe B. Regina Lampert C. Susy Hendrix 19. During WWII, what was Hepburn’s name temporarily changed to? A. Edda Van Heemstra B. Lieke Van Dijk C. Esmée De Smet 20. In which film does Hepburn’s character tell a horse to “move [its] bloomin’ arse”? A. My Fair Lady B. Wait until Dark C. Bloodline Answers: C B A A C B B C C A A B B B B F B B A A Take more of our quizzes here

Play ・ Think ・ Create in Discovery Bay! BRAIN BOOSTER! CHINESE NEW YEAR FUN FACTS! Chinese New Year is one of the most exciting festivals in Hong Kong, and this year it starts on February 17! Learn how to say Gong Hey Fat Choy (pronounced Gong-hee-faat-choy) – Happy New Year in Cantonese. 🪭 RED PLUS GOLD EQUALS LUCK Red and gold decorations are used to bring happiness and good fortune. 🐉 DRAGONS BRING STRENGTH Dragon dances are performed to scare away bad luck and welcome a happy new year. 🧧 RED PACKETS SHARE BLESSINGS Adults give kids (and people who help them) red packets (lai see) containing a HK$20 note. 🥟 DUMPLINGS LOOK LIKE TREASURE Because of their shape, eating dumplings is a way to wish for wealth and good fortune. 🏮 LANTERNS SHOW THE WAY Brightly lit lanterns stand for hope, happiness and good luck. 🐎 2O26 YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE Each year is named after an animal in the Chinese Zodiac, like the Horse, Goat or Monkey. Draw a CNY Fire Horse! 🖍️ Use paints, crayons, pencils, or anything you like. Any size, any style – just have fun! 🔥 The CNY Fire Horse loves red, so don’t be shy with bright, fiery colours! 📬 Ask a grown-up to email your artwork to rachel@arounddb.com. You might see it in the next issue! You can discover more about CNY by picking up Hong Kong author Sarah Brennan’s Chinese zodiac series of children’s books. The one to read this year is The Tale Of A Dark Horse : it’s 135BC and Emperor Han Wudi is desperate for a horse... but not just any horse. The horse he wants is tall, dark, handsome, and as free as a gipsy. Will Wudi get his wish? sarahbrennanblog.com MAKE IT! HEART MESSAGE JAR FOR VALENTINE’S DAY A sweet surprise filled with kind words for someone you love 🚩 YOU'LL NEED An empty jar or small container Coloured paper (pink, red, white) Scissors Pen or marker Stickers or washi tape Optional: ribbon or glitter ✂️ HOW TO MAKE IT Cut your paper into small heart shapes Write kind messages on each heart (You make me smile, I love you, You’re the best!) Fold the hearts and place them inside the jar Decorate the outside with stickers or ribbon Give it to someone special on Valentine’s Day ❤️ TRY THIS Make one for mum, dad, grandparents, or a friend Add one heart for every day of February Use different colours for different people BONUS PUZZLE! WILD MAZE FUN Print it out, think smart, and find the path Read more Kids Corner articles here

City of Spires REPORTING BY Elena M. Zepeda DELIVERING THE CHARM OF CENTURIES PAST with a fresh modern vibe, Old Town Prague is a visually rich living museum. Its winding cobblestone streets are lined with a vibrant mix of historic architecture and trendy cafés and galleries. With more than 300 churches rising above its rooftops, the Czech capital truly earns its nickname: the City of Spires. DIVIDED BY THE VLTAVA RIVER , Prague is united by the iconic Charles Bridge. Built in the 14th century out of Bohemian sandstone, the bridge is lined with 30 baroque statues, plus a throng of street artists, musicians and souvenir sellers. It’s best seen at sunrise in the early morning mist, or at sunset right when the sky turns gold. HEARTY AND COMFORTING CZECH CUISINE is all about tradition and rich flavours. Think tender beef in creamy svíčková sauce, crispy pork knuckle and the ever so wonderful trdelník pastries packed full of sugar and nuts. Remember to pair your meal with a famous local beer like Kozel or Pilsner Urquell. Savour the city’s culture one bite (and sip) at a time! PERCHED HIGH ON HRADČANY HILL , Prague Castle is a masterpiece of medieval and early Renaissance architecture. Spanning over 70,000 square metres, it is one of the largest castle complexes in the world, also home to St Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. Golden Lane, on the castle’s southern wall, is lined with tiny, 16th-century houses – many just a few metres wide. JOSEFOV, PRAGUE’S JEWISH QUARTER , preserves centuries of culture and history. Visit the Spanish Synagogue, built in 1868 in ornate Moorish Revival style, and the Gothic Altneuschul, Europe’s oldest active synagogue, built in 1270. As you wander Josefov’s narrow streets, be sure to explore the Old Jewish Cemetery with its tightly packed tombstones dating back to 1439. PRAGUE IS A CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS and arguably it’s the nightlife that makes it one of Europe’s most-visited cities. Whether you’re up for a classic cocktail at Hemingway Bar, live jazz at U Malého Glena, or an avant-garde, steampunk experience at Cross Club, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, and more. AT OLD TOWN SQUARE the incredible architecture spans 800 years from medieval to Art Nouveau and it’s here you find Prague Orloj, the oldest astronomical clock still operating. Built in 1404, it has an astronomical dial showing the location of the sun and moon, and a calendar dial indicating the month. Sculptures of the apostles pop out when the clock strikes the hour. Read more Escapes articles here

6 classic love stories GONE WITH THE WIND: MARGARET MITCHELL (1936) Scarlett O’Hara is a beautiful and smart Southern belle who always gets what she wants… that is, until her beloved Ashley Wilkes marries someone else. When dashing Rhett Butler arrives on the scene, he falls for Scarlett, admiring her strength and ambition. Though they marry, Scarlett’s continued obsession with Ashley undermines their chance of happiness. REBECCA: DAPHNE DU MAURIER (1938) A young, unnamed narrator embarks on a whirlwind romance with Maxim de Winter, a wealthy widower – they marry in Monte Carlo before moving to Manderley, his grand Cornish estate. There, she finds herself overshadowed by the lingering presence of his first wife, Rebecca, and she begins to realise that some pieces of the past refuse to stay buried. JANE EYRE: CHARLOTTE BRONTË (1847) Jane, an orphan who suffered from constant mistreatment in her childhood, grows into a strong and independent young woman. She becomes the governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with her mysterious boss, Mr Rochester. When he reveals the shocking truth about his past, Jane must choose between following her heart or her principles. SENSE AND SENSIBILITY: JANE AUSTEN (1811) Elinor and Marianna Dashwood are two sisters who could not be more different: one is ruled by her head, and the other by her heart. After their family fortune passes to their brother, the sisters, confined by society’s expectations, must find financially viable husbands. Marianne’s romantic approach stands in her way and, surprisingly, so does Elinor’s cautiousness. LITTLE WOMEN: LOUISA MAY ALCOT (1868) Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, the March sisters, grow up in New England with big dreams and even bigger hearts. They each want different things out of life: Meg seeks the domestic ideal, Jo wants independence, Beth hopes to never leave the family home, and Amy pursues status and security. Each sisters’ wish is fulfilled though in very unexpected ways. WUTHERING HEIGHTS: EMILY BRONTË (1847) Growing up together, Catherine Earnshaw and the orphaned Heathcliff form a deep, passionate bond – they run wild on the Yorkshire moors, share secrets and understand each other completely. When Catherine breaks up with Heathcliff, and marries Edgar Linton for his money, Heathcliff is consumed by bitterness and sets out to wreak his revenge. Find more Good Reads articles here

Harvey Law Group unpacks the Netherlands Startup Visa Program Celebrated as one of the happiest countries in the world, the Netherlands is cherished for its progressive values, picturesque landscapes and a lifestyle that perfectly balances work, leisure and wellbeing. What you might not know is that the Netherlands is also one of Europe’s fastest-growing startup hubs, and that the Dutch government reaches out to overseas entrepreneurial talent through the Netherlands Startup Visa program. In place for over a decade, the Netherlands Startup Visa program is recognised as a fast-track gateway for ambitious foreign entrepreneurs to launch an innovative startup business in the Netherlands. What’s more, obtaining the Netherlands Startup Visa is one of the most efficient and straightforward options for those looking to relocate to the Netherlands and eventually achieve Dutch citizenship or long-term residency. BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM The Netherlands Startup Visa program has no upper age limit for applicants and does not impose any personal net-worth requirements or minimum business investment requirement. Additionally, the program boasts a fast 90-day processing time. In 2024, the Netherlands secured its spot as one of the strongest economies in the EU, with a GDP per capita of EUR 63,000. This economic strength creates significant opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow startup businesses. In addition, the government offers favourable tax benefits for new businesses, including the starter’s deduction, which can be utilised up to three times within the first five years of entrepreneurship. An attractive pathway to obtaining residency, the Netherlands Startup Visa program allows applicants to include their spouse and dependent children under 18 in their visa application. With access to world-class education and healthcare, your family can enjoy a high quality of life while you focus on building and growing your startup. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA The Netherlands Startup Visa is offered to individuals from countries outside of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. To qualify, you must present a viable and innovative business idea, which can contribute positively to the Dutch economy. You must also prove that you have sufficient funds to reside and develop your startup business in the Netherlands. Another critical aspect of the eligibility criteria is that applicants must secure support from a government-approved facilitator. The facilitator serves as a mentor, and provides tailored support to address specific needs during your time in the Netherlands. VISA APPLICATION PROCESS The process of applying for the Netherlands Star tup Visa typically starts with drafting a comprehensive business plan that highlights your active role in developing the proposed venture. This business plan is then reviewed by your chosen government-approved facilitator, who may request an interview. If the facilitator deems the business idea promising, they will confirm your enrolment in their incubation program with a signed agreement. Applicants then prepare and submit their residence permit application package to the Netherlands immigration authority (IND). PATHWAY TO PERMANENT RESIDENCY Successful applicants receive a one-year startup visa residence permit. At the end of one year, residence permit holders can apply for and transition to a two-year residence permit. This self-employment residence permit allows you to continue living and working on your star tup in the Netherlands for an additional two years. This transition is contingent upon meeting key requirements, such as demonstrating the active development of your star tup. After the two-year permit expires, applicants may apply for a five-year extension. Once you have accumulated five continuous years of legal residence in the Netherlands, you can apply for either permanent residency or citizenship. Both applications require you to pass the civic integration exam at a minimum language level of A2. Keep in mind that applying for Dutch citizenship often requires you to renounce your current nationality, unless you meet specific exemptions. Given this, many people choose to pursue permanent residency instead, which allows them to maintain their original nationality while enjoying the benefits of living in the Netherlands indefinitely. KEY NOTES When working with an experienced facilitator, the approval rate for Nether lands Star tup Visa applications is an impressive 90% but it is crucial to recognise that the process present s its own challenges. With over 30 recognised government-approved facilitators, some cater exclusively to niche sec tor s, and each facilitator has distinct selection criteria, complicating the process of finding the right match for your star tup. Developing your business as planned is equally critical. If the facilitator provides inadequate guidance, this can hinder your star tup’s growth and viability. Furthermore, ensuring that your startup visa application is prepared accurately is a vital step in the process and presents its own complexities. It is essential to engage a reputable firm that specialises in business immigration law. Your application package must be carefully prepared; this includes ensuring that all documents are accurately translated, completed and apostilled. To successfully navigate these challenges, engaging with reputable legal counsel who have a strong reputation in the field is essential. At Harvey Law Group, we have over 30 years of experience in immigration law and have established partnerships with facilitators. Our team specialises in reviewing business plans, and matching you with the right facilitator for your startup, streamlining your acceptance into the facilitator’s incubation program. HLG’s experienced lawyers are dedicated to ensuring your application and all legal documentation are prepared with precision, significantly increasing your chances of success. Please contact us for advice. Read more Client Talk articles here

CNY FLORAL CONE-MAKING WORKSHOP - FEBRUARY 7 Get ready for the holidays by making your own CNY floral cone on February 7 from 11am to 1pm at Discovery Bay Office Centre. The family-friendly class is led by Let Hope Bloom Florist (lethopebloomhk.com), with residents of all ages welcome – groups of up to three people get to make one flower cone. Register on a first-come- first-served basis at FB @db.community.hk. CNY WEEKEND MARKET - FEBRUARY 14 & 15 The DB Weekend Market is living up to its (new) name this month, providing a lively CNY celebration over two days. As you browse the outdoor stalls in DB South Plaza on February 14 and 15 be sure to pick up a free Fai Chun – Lǎoshī Yeung of Hong Kong Calligraphy (hongkongcalligraphy.com) is providing residents with handwritten spring couplets to welcome good fortune, prosperity and happiness for the coming year. DATE NIGHT - FEBRUARY 14 DB is set to become Hong Kong’s most romantic destination this Valentine’s Day with Tai Pak Beach transformed once again into a breathtaking candlelit spectacle. More than 7,000 LED candles arranged to form an 8-metre illuminated heart, surrounded by a galaxy of smaller hearts, create the perfect setting for a romantic photo op. You can also expect live music, with local buskers The Flame performing at 6.30pm, 7.45pm and 9pm. And you can catch Disney’s dazzling drone display from the beach at 9pm – a magical moment not to be missed. Another highlight for February 14 is DB’s Valentine’s Day Bouquet & Dining Offer, available for preorder via Klook until February 8, with packages starting at HK$1,530. Six DB restaurants – Peony’s, Figo’s, JOO, ONA and Café Bord de Mer & Lounge – are presenting themed menus across Chinese, Western, Korean and Mediterranean cuisines, making it easy to tailor the perfect date-night experience. Each thoughtfully designed package includes dinner for two, a bouquet of premium Ecuadorian roses from Bloom, an exclusive Love Lock gift box and two return ferry tickets (should you need them). Couples can also choose to have their personal love messages displayed on huge screens at DB Ice Rink and Central Pier 3, a charming opportunity to share your story in a grand way. LAI SEE PACKET RECYCLING - FEBRUARY 20 Do your bit by getting behind CM’s Lai See Packet Recycling Campaign running from February 20 to late March. You’ll find recycling boxes, where you can deposit as-new red packets at the DB Office Centre, DB Pier ticket counter and local management offices. To find out more, visit FB @db.community.hk. VALENTINE’S DAY RACE - FEBRUARY 15 The Trail Hub’s annual Valentine’s Day Race is scheduled for February 15 this year. Starting and finishing at Treasure Island on Pui O Beach, you can choose to run either the 15-kilometre Tough Love or the 9-kilometre Easy Love, both open to teams of two. All partners must finish the course together. To find out more and enrol, visit thetrailhub.com. CNY LION DANCE PARTIES - FEBRUARY 18 It’s CNY Lion Dance Party-time on February 18, the second day of the Lunar New Year, at Club Siena (11.10am) and DBRC (1.15pm). Expect traditional dot-the-lion-eyes and catch-the-lettuce ceremonies, followed by a festive lion dance performance. Everyone is invited to get into the spirit by dressing in traditional Chinese costume. To find out more, visit dbrc.hk. Dates For Your Diary FEB 07 | GATHER AT THE CNY PLANT MARKET in Community Green Square from 2pm to 4.30pm. Visit FB @db.community.hk. FEB 08 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP! Meet at the Nim Shue Wan gate at 2.10pm. Email dana@plasticfreeseas.org. FEB 14 & 15 | SHOP THE DB WEEKEND MARKET in DB South Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit handmadehongkong.com. ALL MONTH | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit FB @dbmf.collection. AXIS PERFORMANCE  - NEW IN DB NORTH Physio recovery hub Axis Performance launched on January 24 in DB North promising real results for active lifestyles. The team’s expert physiotherapists provide the human touch – personalised recovery programmes with assessment and progress tracking – and you can also get a free AI-driven body assessment. Find out more at db_axisperformance. DB ESG FAIR  - FEBRUARY 28 With a focus on eco-friendly, sustainable living, DB ESG Fair is scheduled for February 28 this year, from 1pm to 5pm at DB South Plaza. You can expect educational exhibits, engaging booths, interactive games and live performances, plus an emphasis on well-established community-wide initiatives, such as the DB Food Waste Collection Scheme, DB Family Farm Project and Green DBers Programme. [PHOTO BY Sarin Ale] BAKE SALE FOR GOOD  - FEBRUARY 8 Preeti Sharma of My Pet Shop at DB North Plaza is hosting a Bake Sale on February 8 from 10.30am to 2pm. DB bakers are invited to donate their creations with proceeds going to local animal shelters (Catherine Puppies, Four Paws and Tails of Lantau); Helping Hand (a local non-profit supporting the elderly) and a Hong Kong-based domestic helper with stage-4 cancer. Preeti is also running a raffle to help boost contributions. To get involved, call 2987 8873. A BREATH OF DISCOVERY 2.0 - OUT NOW The second edition of DB nature guidebook A Breath of Discovery is out now, inviting you to immerse yourself in DB’s glorious flora and fauna. The compact guide lists scenic local hiking trails, ecological highlights, Instagram-worthy spots and cultural places of interest. Pick up a free copy at either plaza or download a digital copy at visitdiscoverybay.com. THE SNOW QUEEN - FEBRUARY 2 TO 7 DB’s The Performer’s Studio Theatre Company – a semi-professional troupe of 30+ child actors led by director-producer Emma Tielus-Ward – is staging Paul Boyd’s The Snow Queen from February 2 to 7 at the Hong Kong Arts Centre’s Shouson Theatre. A modern interpretation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, the show brings catchy songs, fast-paced choreography and larger-than-life characters. To find out more and book tickets, visit www.theperformersstudio.com.

A year into his role at Discovery Bay Anglican Church, Reverend Drew Courtright is less interested in milestones than in building trust – one conversation, one coffee, one ferry ride at a time REPORTING BY Elena M. Zepeda PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires A year into his role at Discovery Bay Anglican Church, Reverend Drew Courtright is less interested in milestones than in building trust – one conversation, one coffee, one ferry ride at a time On a weekday morning in Discovery Bay, Reverend Drew Courtright might be walking his three daughters to school, grabbing a coffee in DB North Plaza, or heading to the ferry for a day at St John’s Cathedral in Central. Like many residents, his life unfolds between playgrounds and timetables, school pick-ups and commutes. The difference is that, for Drew, those everyday interactions are also the foundation of his work. Drew arrived in DB in early 2025 to take up the role of Priest-in-Charge at Discovery Bay Anglican Church. His first service was Epiphany Sunday, January 5 – a fitting date, perhaps, for someone stepping into a new chapter. Now, a year on, he reflects on what it means to lead a small but growing congregation in a place defined as much by community life as it is by geography. “DB stood out as a perfect fit,” Drew opens. “When I saw the job posting in March 2024, it wasn’t just the role that caught my attention, I thought, this looks like a great place to live – especially with kids.” He and his wife arrived with their three daughters, now aged nine, seven and four, who quickly settled into Discovery Montessori Academy in the North Plaza. “All three are at the same school, just different age groupings. Same drop-off, same pick-up,” he says, clearly appreciating the logistical win. “It’s a small school, a good fit for them, and they’re happy. And my wife’s happy,” he adds with a laugh. “Happy wife, happy life.” For Drew, family life isn’t something that runs parallel to his role – it’s part of how he understands community. “Hong Kong feels very safe, very clean. There’s a lot of support in DB and we’re grateful to be raising our kids here at this stage of our lives,” he says. SUNDAY SERVICE AT S.K.H. WEI LUN PRIMARY SCHOOL Originally from the US, Drew was born in Greensboro, North Carolina and spent much of his ministry career on the East Coast. Before moving to Hong Kong, he served as the Associate Rector at St Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bedford, New York, where he worked through the challenges of Covid, helped grow youth and children’s programmes, and also served as a prison chaplain. Earlier still, he trained as a Curate in New Hampshire, attended seminary in Sewanee, Tennessee and did his undergraduate at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, an experience that broadened his sense of what life – and work – could look like beyond familiar borders. “My wife travelled a lot growing up, and I spent four years in the UK for university,” he says. “So we were open to living abroad if the right opportunity came along. We didn’t want to force it – but when Hong Kong came up, it just felt right.” The role itself is split between DB and Central. While Drew’s primary responsibility is the DB congregation, he is also part of the clergy team at St John’s Cathedral, one of Hong Kong’s most historic religious institutions. The cathedral runs multiple services across several languages each weekend and hosts a range of outreach programmes, including counselling services and long-standing support for migrant workers. “That balance really appealed to me,” Drew explains. “In DB, it’s very parish-based – I’m out in the community, meeting people, becoming par t of ever yday life. At the cathedral, there’s histor y, resources, colleagues and a lot of social outreach.” Discovery Bay Anglican Church itself was founded in 1983 and became a daughter church of the cathedral a decade later. “It’s young but not brand new,” Drew says. “It’s seen different seasons of Hong Kong life and a few different pastors. Right now, it feels like a healthy, happy season.” When Drew arrived, average Sunday attendance hovered around 60. Over the past year, that number has grown steadily, with recent averages just under 100, and 240 attending the church's 2025 Christmas Eve Nativity Pageant and Christingle service. But numbers aren’t what he leads with when talking about success. “The most important thing in the first year was building trust,” he says. “Getting to know everybody, learning about the church and the wider community, and making small changes that seemed easy and necessary and worthwhile.” THE DB CONGREGATION Some of those changes are personal: the bible studies class Drew runs on Wednesdays at his home, the stickers and badges he’s had made with the church’s logo for children’s backpacks. Others are more practical: a refreshed website, a modest Instagram presence, an advertisement in Around DB, and a brand-new banner outside S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School, where the church meets every Sunday at 10am. “People need to know we’re here,” Drew says, “but they also need to know we’re not trying to sell them something. The truth is people don’t often look for spiritual help until they know they need it. My role is to be friendly and connected… but not overly pushy, because if you push church, people push it back.” Sunday services, Drew explains, are intentionally straightforward. The gathering lasts an hour. Children begin the service with their families before heading off to age-grouped ‘Discoverer’s classes’ run by parent volunteers. “I think less is more,” he says. “People are busy. I like to offer something grounding and meaningful, and then let them get on with their day.” Beyond Sundays, Drew spends much of his time meeting people one-on-one for coffees, lunches, walks, and conversations that may or may not circle back to faith. He stresses that his role isn’t limited to church members. “Living in a community like this, you get to meet people from everywhere: different backgrounds, different beliefs, different stories. It’s not about them coming to church or not; it's about providing some care and a listening ear. So readers can reach out to me. We have a website; I've got an email address – dcourtright@stjohnscathedral.org.hk – I’d love to meet up and listen and talk.” That approach seems to resonate with the community. The DB congregation includes families, single professionals, retirees, domestic workers, and residents whose first languages range far beyond English. Roughly 15 percent of attendees are Chinese, with both Mandarin and Cantonese speakers represented, alongside expats from more than a dozen linguistic backgrounds. BAPTISM AT DB ANGLICAN CHURCH “What brings people together here isn’t hobbies or social circles,” Drew reflects. “It’s something deeper. And that can be quite powerful in a transient city. Church can hold a community together and provide a home-away-from home.” Looking ahead to 2026, Drew isn’t planning dramatic reinvention. “More of the same, but deeper,” he says. “Helping people get to know each other and experience community together, supporting children and youth programmes, expanding the choir, and focusing on my school chaplain role at S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School. “We like to have fun, we like to laugh,” Drew finishes. “This year, we had a Blessing of the Backpacks service when back-to-school time came around, and a Blessing of the Costumes just before Halloween. I’d like to say that I take God seriously, but I don’t take myself or church too seriously. You know, we want reverence and appropriateness, but I’m not fussy, and if kids are making a little noise in the congregation, it’s great. It’s a sign of life.”

After kids, sexytime doesn’t disappear - it just gets quieter, messier and far more strategic. Andrew Spires reflects on love in the age of bedtime battles PHOTOGRAPHY BY Laura Babb & Depiction by Svetlana My wife and I have had some wonderful Valentine’s days full of excitement and passion. And then we had kids. Romance is very different these days though it’s still worth fighting for. Keeping a marriage alive and kicking is challenging at the best of times. I met my wife when I was 24, 20 years ago. We’ve been married for 12 years and we’re lucky that, for the most part, we’ve ‘grown’ in vaguely the same mental direction, although my wife has definitely grown up more than me. I reckon we’re doing OK. Before kids, keeping the romance alive meant lazy weekends cavorting in various cradles of civilisation, spontaneous weekend getaways to a cosy Cotswold cottage, and stealing a drunken kiss in an alley after a night out. After kids, romance is finishing a sentence without being interrupted by a tiny philosopher asking “which is hotter, the surface of the sun or the centre of the Earth?”, and the greatest luxury known to humankind is half an hour of total silence. The arrival of children is less like gaining a family and more like having two adorable, chaotic roommates who have never paid rent, demand constant catering and boast a laissez-faire attitude to cleanliness. In this delightful chaos, romance doesn’t die; it just goes underground to hibernate, and when it does show its head, sexytime becomes a carefully planned cover t mission executed with the precision of a heist movie. Romance in the Spires’ household has morphed from: Pre-Kid: “My darling! Your eyes are like pools of starlight, reflecting the infinite cosmos of my soul.” Post-Kid: “Have you seen their school trousers? They’re not in the laundry pile. You get the small one to bed and I’ll sort the dishes.” After 10 rounds of “I’m itchy, I’m thirsty, I’m hungry and I don’t want to go to school tomorrow”, both monkeys are finally asleep and I’ve fought hard to retain consciousness, the last thing on my mind is a passionate tussle with my wife. I used to go all out with Valentine’s Day. We’d mostly eat in and I’d spend hours prepping a gastronomic feast. I’d craft a romantic playlist and have Marvin Gaye serenading us as we sipped wine and tucked into Tournedos Rossini before retiring to the bedroom which would be decorated with petals and beautifully scented candles. I’d gift my wife a massage and we’d fall asleep content and cuddled up together. Nancy and Andrew’s pre-wedding shoot, 2014 Once we had kids, the candles became a fire hazard as one child is a moth-like creature drawn to the light and the other would use the candle to set fire to a breadstick. Marvin Gaye was replaced by the Huntrix soundtrack on a continuous, soul-crushing loop. The wine became a form of sedative to make the mess more bearable and take the edge off doing the dishes for the 12th time that day. The gourmet meal is reduced to whatever all four of us will eat without complaining and I can knock-up around my work, their homework and the laundry. The only use Vaseline gets in my house is for dry elbows. The romantic gesture is no longer a surprise weekend in a ritzy five-star hotel. It’s the slow dance in the kitchen at 11pm after the kids are down, the dishes are done and the house has been put back to some sort of order – the music replaced with the wonderful sound of silence. It’s a foot rub on the sofa as we stare mindlessly at something dreadful on Netflix. What’s to be done? Date Night is a great idea but it never quite works out the way we plan. We don’t have a helper so we require my wife’s mother to help out, meaning it’s always on the back of our minds that we can't stay out too late, and the entire evening is haunted by the spectre of our children. We make a pact not to mention the kids but that usually lasts for about half an hour at best. So, is the romance dead? No. It has simply evolved from a blazing, carefree bonfire into a pilot light. It’s there, perpetually on, ready to flare up when given the slightest fuel. A break in childcare due to a tutor visit – bingo! A sleepover at a friend’s house (the kids, not us) – get in there! You need to be ready for any lucky break. The alternative is routine. I have a friend based in the UK, who books a session of bedroom gymnastics with his wife at the same time and same day each week. That does rather take the frisson of excitement out of it but it gets the job done. In the end, the secret to keeping romance alive after kids is to radically redefine what romance is. So much of my time revolves around the kiddos that I often forget my wife is the same person she was before the kids came along. She has the same need to be loved, thought about and cared for that she’s always had. I do my best to make sure she still knows I love her. I make her a cup of tea every morning whilst she sleeps. I leave little notes in her suitcase if she travels for work. I send her random unsolicited messages of profanity but I’m not sure how much she appreciates those. Romance for us, these days, is holding hands whilst we walk behind the kids as they chat nonsense, catching a look together to acknowledge the little superstars we’ve brought into the world. It’s supporting each other in our various endeavours and appreciating life isn’t all roses on the other side of the work fence, and importantly, it’s checking in with one another to make sure we’re OK. I like to break my life down into phases. When I was a young kid growing up on a farm – that’s phase 1. Then a teenager, phase 2. Then a young adult finding my way through terrible jobs and relationships. Then meeting and marrying my wife of nearly 20 years – that’s phase 4. Then came the tiny terrorists, which put me on phase 5. I call this phase of my life ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ – based on the true story of Chris Gardner who battles homelessness and single-handedly raising a kid whilst trying to make it at life. Whilst I do have a roof over my head, I’m juggling work, kids, the house and a marriage… and I’m not scared to admit it’s hard. But the thing about phases is they come to an end, and this phase too shall pass. That’s a shame as having small(ish) kids is really fun and I’ll miss this phase a lot once it slides out of view. But I am looking forward to date night and a romantic lie-in on a weekend with my beautiful wife. So, is the romance dead? No. It has simply evolved from a blazing, carefree bonfire into a pilot light