'Foreign Lei Feng' creates intimate community

Bai Yunlong has the chubby, genial look of an American chef in his uniform that puts diners at Frost, his eatery in Beijing, at ease. But the 48-year-old, whose birth name is Jeffrey Powell, is also adept at making his Chinese neighbors comfortable, especially when he offers them free lessons in English.

Powell, who came to Beijing 12 years ago, is a veteran of the Chinese capital's food and beverage industry, having worked as a consultant for Flamme, Gung Ho! and Element Fresh. He also owns and operates Frost, a burger joint-cum-nail salon located in the Sanlitun shopping district, and owned its next-door neighbor, Back Alley Bistro, until the latter closed last year.

He is an extrovert and speaks Mandarin fluently, which has made him popular in the neighborhood. When an old Chinese landlord complained that communicating with foreign tenants was a headache, the amicable American gave a ready response, "That's OK, I can teach you English, for free."

At first, Powell made his small eatery the classroom. But as the number of students grew, he had to rent a larger space for classes.

He said he finds it worthwhile to give up some of his spare time in exchange for a more intimate community.

"I teach the people English because it helps everyone interact in the community and get along better," he said.

Sanlitun might be the most "exotic" area in Beijing, with more than 3,000 foreigners living there. After the neighborhood management committee called on volunteers to help foreigners better integrate into the community, Powell signed up without any hesitation.

"I've lived here for years. I can help them adapt to the new environment quickly."

He advises foreigners about problems such as visas or pets. He also helps the elderly and children cross the street, or reminds people to be careful when playing with fireworks.

He has been called the "foreign Lei Feng" by neighbors, which is high praise considering Lei Feng is the role model for several generations of Chinese people.

"I'm flattered," he said, "I just feel happy when helping others."

Powell loves traditional Chinese culture. Every year when the Sanlitun community plans a few small shows or festival activities, he invites his expat friends to join the fun.

The American chef is also keen on traditional Chinese food.

Every Spring Festival, he make dumplings with his Chinese neighbors. During Lantern Festival, he eats tangyuan, a kind of sweet dumpling, and participates in solving tough lantern riddles. During Dragon Boat Festival, he and his neighbors make zongzi, glutinous rice stuffed with different fillings and wrapped in bamboo or other large flat leaves.

"You learn more about Chinese culture and food that way," he laughed.

When asked about his future plans, Powell gave a straight answer, "No plans to go anywhere."

"My wife and children are here, and my business and work are here. I like Beijing and the particular neighborhood we live in."

caoxiating@chinadaily.com.cn