Ask a Laobeijing: On the New Year, Hutong Restorations & Trump
By Dominique Wong
'Ask a Laobeijing' is a regular series where we chat with a laoren about their thoughts on different issues. This month, we met Zhang, 66, keeping watch on Beiluoguxiang.
What was most memorable about your 2016?
"I’ve been a street-watch volunteer for about four or five years. I take great pride in the area – look around, you can see the hutong is very clean and peaceful. Plus, during my watch this year, I never saw fighting or disruption.
This year was particularly good because the local government refurbished the street. The road was repaved and building fronts refreshed. I think hutong restoration is definitely a good thing because it maintains the buildings’ appearance and ensures they don’t become shabby.
Nothing too exciting happened for my family this year. But regarding global news, I heard about the recent US presidential election. I don’t know that much about it but apparently Trump won’t be as good as Obama. And I’ve heard the relationship between our countries may not be as friendly.
I hope the New Year will bring fortune and happiness."
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