The Four Corners region is home to many talented writers. A new book and nonprofit are giving them a platform. Read more
Squirrel Congress' ghost tour popsicle tasters were beloved in Cortez, so the group decided to create full-sized popsicles for local events. The proceeds go to support community nonprofits like Good Sam's Food Pantry.
If you live in Cortez, you know Squirrel Congress. In 2023, the group launched its Cortez Ghost Tours, introducing locals and visitors to the city’s (spooky) history. The tours were an instant hit, beloved by locals not just for the entertainment but the quirky popsicle tasters the group would hand out. The success of the tours and tasters proved a boon for the broader Cortez community; Squirrel Congress’ volunteers donated the group’s proceeds to support local nonprofits and community groups. In early 2024, seeing another opportunity to help the community, one of the group’s volunteers pitched a new idea: create and sell full-sized popsicles made using local ingredients. LOR’s funding helped Squirrel Congress purchase a popsicle machine, bicycle cooler, menu board, and other equipment to launch their new operation. Watch the video below to learn how Squirrel Congress is using corn and tomato-peach popsicles to support local growers and fundraise for Cortez nonprofits.
Filmed and edited by Aaron Lewis, AaA Media.
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Nicci Crowley
nicci@lorfoundation.orgNicci prides herself on being a connector of people and ideas—a trait that’s central to her work as the LOR Foundation’s community officer in Cortez, Colorado. She listens to community members to understand the challenges they collectively face and then… Meet Nicci
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By Ilana Newman, The Daily Yonder Read more
Hundreds of apple trees were going unharvested in Montezuma County each year. One group of Cortez locals wanted to give growers a hand. Read more
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