Dear Curiosity Journal,

I’m still in awe of the generosity of our friends Ruthie and Luke Zahm for hosting the Dia de Muertos Fundraising Dinner at the Owl Farm on Sunday. The money raised will help support the 3rd Annual Driftless Region’s Dia de Muertos Celebration to be held at Keewaydin Farms on Saturday, October 7th. This is a free community event co-hosted by Driftless Curiosity and the Mexican Folk Art Collective with the intention to preserve Mexican traditions, promote cultural understanding, uplift underrepresented artists, offer a safe space to process grief, and mindfully explore pathways to healing. We count ourselves fortunate to be in relationship with such influential advocates who believe in our work. Chefs Luke, Jorge, and Ryan prepared an incredible meal for around 100 guests. Alejandra and her children vibrantly performed a number of traditional Mexican folk dances for a captivated audience. Gaby exhibited her stunning paper mache pieces throughout the Owl Farm, transforming the venue into a colorful art installation. Children excitedly batted the candy from one of Gaby’s pinatas, and everything felt alive with festivities. The intersection of farming, food, art, culture, and kindness is a happy place to spend a Sunday afternoon. It was enough to make us feel like dancing at the end of the dinner. We are sending so much gratitude to the Zahms, Gaby, Ryan, Alejandra, Jorge, the Driftless Cafe, Tortilleria Zepeda (best masa ever), Ometochtli Mexican Folk Dance Group and all of the volunteers and guests who came out to make the fundraiser a success. You sure know how to make us feel seen and loved 🙂

~Joy