Several years ago, on a break between travels, I took two trips from my home in the suburbs to the city of Detroit. One included my first visit to Eastern Market. The next, my first plunge into Dally in the Alley. And my, how things have changed!

Now, I live in the city. Detroit is where I start and end my day. Its city lights cast shadows across my backyard. Its fresh, autumn breeze brushes across my window sill. Its lively spirit echoes across my dining room table. I’m here. And more importantly, so is Detroit.

It used to be easy to write Detroit off as a wasteland or empty void. But, no longer. The people – my neighbors – have made their presence known. They have collaborated – Food Lab Detroit and Eastern Market developed Detroit Kitchen Connect. They have grown – vendor tents and footprints only seem to multiply at Dally. They have said, “No, thank you” and worked for the change they want to see. It’s incredible to be here. Thanks for keeping the lights on, people of Detroit. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you.