Dia de los Muertos is a beautiful time to reflect.

At this time of year, the San Fernando Valley is covered in marigolds for Dia de Muertos. It is the season for ofrendas, pan de muerto, and faces painted in colorful skull patterns. It is a time for music, performances, family, and friends getting together. It is a time for remembering and honoring those we love. It is the kick-off of a sprint to the end of the year.

Dia de los Muertos is a beautiful time of year to reflect. Each year, we at Connectopod make strides at perfecting and expanding our craft. And yet, we encounter roadblocks and setbacks as well.

The Annual Canoga Park Dia de los Muertos Family Festival is always a favorite event to attend. We love seeing our community partners, including Marcia Melkonian from the Canoga Park Library, Senator Caroln Menjivar on her paletero bike, and Tree People giving out trees to community members. And of course, no party is complete without the Gr818ers setting the tone with dance, music, and heart. We cannot say enough good things about these community partners! It is such a great time sharing space with these folks.

Several long-time supporters stopped by our booth. Board member, Gabe Evans stopped by to show support, make a craft, and share some laughs. Connectopod producer, Nysha Prasad, stopped by for a few hours to record interviews as part of our "Audio Ofrenda." And Connectopod alum, Angie B. stopped by after her work shift in the neighborhood to share updates on her life. We met so many new people. This was truly an awesome day of community, food, and fun.

It was a great day to celebrate as a community. We are still here! We are still creating! We are still working to create the community and world that we want for ourselves and our children. Thank you to our community, and most especially, the Canoga Park neighborhood, for helping us to celebrate this special time of year.

Stay tuned for a special Connectopod Audio Ofrenda Episode out soon.