CHECKING IN FROM 2017 ...

It has been too long and yet, FINDING CHINATOWN: AN AMERICAN STORY continues.  

I was in Detroit. last week, the end of another longterm project, to photograph my 20th visit there and at the top of my list, a search for what remains, so little of the Chinese presence in that city.  My first photograph there, way back in 2011 was of the dark, cold (January) street on Cass where once the Chinese community first flourished.  Today all that's left is the sign, "Welcome to ... "

That said, Detroit hold surprises and for me, this trip was to a decrepit old building behind fences, the old STanley Hong Mannia (Manilla) Cafe, know as a great Chinese restaurant and entertainment venue.  

It's been purchased now and about to be renovated. Its history: Owned by a Chinese immigrant to Detroit, and with the help of Nathan Johnson, a known Black architect of the city, the Chinese restaurant was a busy gathering place for Detroit.  It's google architecture attracted many and along with his brothers, STanley Hong attracted musical acts, hiphop stars and others to a terrific DEtroit scene.  https://www.metrotimes.com/music/music-venue-at-former-chinese-restaurant-with-ties-to-detroit-hip-hop-clears-historic-district-commission-28596162

Jen Lyons, a NY/Detroit promoter is planning to bring back the magic ...