The anthem
The 36-voice primary school choir of Ajijic’s Instituto Loyola took the first place in the annual state competition for the singing of the Mexican National Anthem on June 15.
The choir made it to the state finals after having won both district and regional competitions promoted by the Jalisco Education Department (SEP).
Eight schools from all corners of Jalisco took part in the category “schools with music programs and teachers.” The moment of determining the order of performance was very emotional.
Loyola had drawn the number three slot but the school scheduled to perform first had not yet arrived so Ajijic youngsters ended up performing second, earlier than had been anticipated.
With their impeccable discipline and like true performers, the choir members maintained their calm and focus for the moment that teacher Benjamin Bautista took the podium and raised the baton.
Those in attendance say that it was evident from the first notes that the many hours of practice had paid off. The choir prepared for the victory throughout the school year, with two rehearsals a week after classes under Bautista’s guidance and direction, accompanied by pianist Jesus Huerta.
When the choir took its bow, the singers pulled green, white and red kerchiefs from their sleeves and waved them in the air, provoking a thunderous applause from the audience.
Congratulations to Instituto Loyola for having the best primary choir in Jalisco and bringing this honor home to Chapala!
ASA
The Ajijic Society of the Arts (ASA) will meet Monday, July 2, 10 a.m. at La Bodega Restaurant (Calle 16 de Septiembre 124, Ajijic). The demonstration will be by Cindy A. Carl, who will show the process for transforming photos into graphic art. All are welcome at ASA, a gathering of about 100 local artists who exchange ideas and promote art in the Lakeside area. Coffee’s on at 9:30 a.m.
Gonzalez opening
Ajijic artist Efren Gonzalez will open an exhibition of new work on Friday, July 6, 3 p.m. at the Ajijic Cultural Center located on the north side of Ajijic’s principal plaza. He’s done lots of oil paintings and pastels, along with many watercolors in his new, loose style and a collection of drawings of nude models. Definitely worth a look. Refreshments will be served.
MAS
The Music Appreciation Society (MAS) will be selling delightful papel malecho art products created by the Centro de Integracion Tapalpa (CITAC) on CAN/AM Day, Monday, July 2, noon to 5 p.m.
The school gives educational support, emotional and therapeutic services and extra-curricular programs for children with physical and/or learning disabilities and their families. It focuses not only on normal education programs but also vocational training in the arts and music.
Papel malecho is the name used by CITAC for the technique of transforming recyclable materials into stunning, colorful works of art (see photo this page).
CITAC, located in Tapalpa, was the winner of the Jalisco state government award for Best Rural Organization in 2005.
For more information call 766-0010 or check out the CITAC website at www.citac.org.mx.
Venue change
Marianne Carlson, chief engine behind the Feria Maestros del Arte scheduled for mid-November, announced this week that this year’s event will have a change of venue.
The fair will move from the Chapala Yacht Club, where it has been for the last several years, to the Plaza de la Ribera (former Sol y Luna) in west Ajijic.
Feria Maestros del Arte attracts more than 100 Mexican artists and artisans each year, along with thousands of visitors.
Be sure to stop by the booth at the CAN/AM Day picnic on July 2 at the Lake Chapala Society. You’ll find lots of antique art objects for sale to help fund transportation for the artisans, who travel from all over Mexico to the Feria.
CASA
The meeting/competition of the Culinary Arts Society of Ajijic (CASA) held on June 18 featured Vegetarian Main Dish for Category A and Cookies, Bars and Brownies for Category B.
The speaker was Dr. Joe DeLeon, who presented an interesting talk about the healthy aspects of vegetarian and vegan diets. Judges were Leslie Martin, Peter Barker and John Prichard.
First place winners were Monica Molloy in Category A for her Eggplant Rellenos and Tomato Pepper and Smoked Red Pepper Sauces and Mary Ann Waite in Category B for her Salty Caramel Crunch Bars. Sally Myers took second place and Wayne Palfrey, third place in Category A and Alexandra Gordon and Karen Blue took second and third place, respectively in Category B.
Anyone interested in joining CASA should contact CASA president Pat Carroll at 766-3144 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Visit the CASA website at www.ajijiccasa.org.
New location
La Bella Vida has a new location at Constitucion 6 in Ajijic. The boutique and gallery have lots more space for viewing pleasure and are filled with beautiful things and unique art work. There are also plants and treasures for the terrace and garden. The Healing Arts studio has a wonderful, peaceful new area. Appointments are available at 766-5131.
Summer hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.