Memories and COVID-19
In these years, the overall population growth in 8th avenue has stalled and has declined slowly just like what other Chinese communities went through. The first wave of Cantonese settlers moved to Bensonhurst, searching for new opportunities. The first group of Fujianese immigrants in the 2000s saved enough money to afford a house in suburban areas such as Philadelphia, Long Island, and Staten Island. This is happening around us and I can see it as the immigration wave has diminished after the Obama years. Throughout the conversation with my long time friend who now lives in Florida, she talked about her memories of 8th avenue. She specifically mentioned the grocery store we always go to after school. The store was always crowded with students who wanted to buy snacks, quick foods, and beverages. What was special about the place was the joy we shared as students, as the place we would go for some comforts and girl talks. Even when she was visiting us, we always...
