Happy Chinese New Year! The fireworks are quieting down, although the celebrations continue until the 15th day. Slowly but surely, stores and restaurants in the Shunyi area are getting back to regular business hours, and the international schools are now in session. Other things going on:
- The first bit of news I was planning to share was simply – and fantastically – that there’s a huge Tai Tais clearance sale this Wednesday (Feb 9) inside the Chen Hao Furniture store (next to Happyland Pottery) from 10am-5pm. Stainless steel pieces are up to 30% off, SQ products (Shao Quen home décor) 50% off, and all soy candles, chopsticks, zodiac box sets and non-consignment items are 30% off. But I’ve since found out why there is such a sale. Very suddenly, all businesses within the Chez Trois/Palette Vino/Tai Tais/Shayne’s Treasures/Clicia’s Designs building are GONE. With only two hours to clear out due to very unfortunate circumstances, it’s anybody’s guess about what is to happen with the space there. Perhaps development? Rumor has it that some Pinnacle tenants will not have their contracts renewed because of development projects in the works. And it was like adding salt to the wound to learn that Alameda was going to move into part of that building, but now those plans have completely fallen through. For the time being, Tai Tais merchandise is available its Chen Hao Furniture store location, and both Shayne’s and Clicia’s will operate out of Yosemite, starting with a great sale on gemstones (40%), ready-made pieces (15%) and Marjorie’s bags (15%). Call Clicia at 139 1110 5431 for directions.
- The CNY Eve fireworks celebration was loud and plentiful on Feb 2, but it also sadly claimed someone’s life within the Dynasty Garden Villa in Shunyi. Local authorities issued rules for all neighboring compounds immediately after the tragedy:
-Fireworks are only allowed in designated areas, and none within the compounds.
-Use the following authorized fireworks brands only: Yang Long, Panda and Dou Dou.
-Do not store more than one box of fireworks or fireworks exceeding 30 kg at home.
-Use only normal sized fireworks. - Mercurius World Travel’s new location within the River Garden clubhouse has changed the date of their grand opening party from Feb 10 to Saturday, Feb 19. Times and other details will be posted in next week’s update.
- This weekend ISB will host a double-charity event featuring art and fashion! From 2-10pm come meet Yang Zi and see his collection of photography and water colors. From 6:30-10pm, enjoy the annual Charity Fashion Show with a silent auction and raffle. Proceeds from the events go to Li Jiang Orphan School. See the detailed blog about this event for more details or check out the events section of the website.
- Don’t forget about the parent workshop at BSB on Thursday, Feb 17 at 2:30pm. Learn about “Helping your child with Homework” for parents of children ages 5-11. Deputy Head Christian Bishop leads this workshop and welcomes all parents. Please pre-register at ella.zhao@britishschool.org.cn and provide your name and the age(s) of your child.
- Amazing job, patrons of the Roundabout book sale! Held at BSB just before CNY break, this book sale and proceeds donated from the accompanying BSB bake sale raised RMB 43,304 – ALL of which will go towards charity! They will still sell books at BSB until Wednesday, February 16, and Roundabout will top off the book baskets regularly, so come check it out!
- Monkey update? The last heard was the monkey had gone from Yosemite to Dragon Bay. I have not heard that it has been caught or that its rightful owner has claimed their pet. Continue to be watchful and contact authorities if you spot the animal in your neighborhood.
