It’s never too surprising to see changes in our neighborhood during a brief time away. One never knows if neighborhoods will be gone or new buildings will pop up at lightning speed. So after returning from a three week holiday, here are some things noticed in Shunyi:
*The stores and restaurants are still standing, but billboards and fencing are all around the Radiance/Mrs. Shanen’s strip center. The billboard photos show future villas – a new compound going up? Or just advertising for a developer? The businesses are still open and most do not plan to move until the last minute, although newcomers in the area might not realize what’s going on.
*BJU will expand their Pinnacle office area into where the Trek bike store used to be. Soon, an eye clinic and a radiology department will be added to their ever-growing services in Shunyi. No word yet on when these services will be available.
*The U.S. Studies program held on Wednesday afternoons at River Garden (service of the American Employees Association of the U.S. Embassy) is looking for a teacher. Beginning with the January 18 class, teachers will be paid for three hours per week at $25 per hour. Classes run from 5-6pm for the remainder of the school year. Contact Dirome Anthony at 8531 4602 or AnthonyDR@state.gov.
*Back by popular demand and just in time for CNY gifts, Shayne’s Treasures will host a four-day sale of rubies, sapphires and emeralds from Friday, January 13 – Monday, January 16 (10am-5pm daily). Save 50% off stones or 30% off ready-made jewelry pieces during this event. Call 8042 2203 for information.
*You know A-Z Kids for the fun play place and great birthday parties, but did you know they can help your kids with homework? Starting on February 1, A-Z Kids offers a homework club with staff to help your children. Bus services are even provided. Call 8559 2883/6 for details, and visit their website at www.a-zkids.cn
*Drivers in the area used to take a short cut to River Road. It was directly across from the now Care for Children Family Services (on the corner where River Garden ends) just before the river and bridge. However, during various phases of construction, it was closed and drivers went further along before cutting over. Well, it appears there is now a path again along the river, and with the plant vendors gone for the season, it may be passable for car traffic. It does look to be one way – at least space-wise – although I have yet to see cars on that path to determine for sure.
