Gannon University's Detroit ABST: "Lettuce" Begin

February 27, 2017

Today was the day! Our group finally arrived at Earthworks for our first day of orientation. As they say “the early bird catches the worm,” so bright and early, we loaded up the van and drove to the west side.

Upon arriving, we saw the multiple greenhouses and garden plots surrounding one side of the parking lot and some lots across the street.

This morning we were able to meet with Shane, one of the leaders at Earthworks, who we have been in contact with for the last couple of months. Shane is knowledgeable in all things Detroit and agriculture, but he has a special knack for drawing you into deep thoughts.

“I want you to introduce yourselves and include what you call home, along with your favorite food,” he first stated after settling in.

We rambled through lists of homemade desserts, pastas, and delicacies. Shane brought to our attention that we have such a close relationship with food. It goes beyond just a physical response and enters an emotional center within us. Food is comfort. Food is joy. It can tie whole communities together.

The orientation this morning was all about learning as we expanded our perspectives on Detroit. We found that growing our own food is tied to our very roots. Our ancestors had to plow their land and we are finding the love in doing it once again.

After a few hours of touring and discussing our expectations for the week ahead, the group sat down to lunch in the soup kitchen. Tommy, Julianna, and Jessica found themselves sitting next to a wonderful gentleman who discussed all of his favorite things about his city. He wanted to know all about our trip and after the conversation, asked to take a picture with them, stating that he would be praying for them the rest of the year.

In the afternoon, the hard work began when we split off into two groups to perform pruning and mulching.

The hours were spent attempting to figure out what parts of the tree to clip and/or climbing them to search the tops. No one was hurt (except maybe some egos). Three others were truly breaking a sweat shoveling mulch and flattening out the soil.

Afterwards, we were able to start pruning some grape vines. Even though this was one of the most confusing tasks of the day as we struggled to define new baby branches, it was incredibly rewarding. It felt as though we were saving all the future baby grapes.

When 3 PM hit, we were ready to head over to Belle Isle. It was incredibly beautiful, especially in the off season. Some sandy beaches provided the perfect backdrop for our reflection period.

Today was full of so much. We started it with learning, then hard work, and then some reflecting. It was great to see Earthworks for the first time and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the week has in store.