Open Circle
Open Circle has suspended its weekly program on the patio at Lake Chapala Society. Each week the group highlights a different video of a past presentation.
This week, Christian Robertson presents “How Local Bamboo Warriors Combat Climate Change.” It will be available for view Sunday, July 5, 10:30 a.m. at opencircleajijic.org.
Did you know that bamboo is one of the fastest ways to combat the effects of climate change? The Bamboo Warriors (coined by GR lakeside correspondent Dale Hoyt Palfrey) are working to plant three hectares (7.5 acres) of bamboo in the hills of Poncitlán to improve the local environment and create jobs for the next generation. They offer classes at the Family Development Agency (DIF) and are looking for ways to introduce bamboo to everyone in the region.
Robertson has 30 years of real estate experience in the United States and Mexico. He owned a koi fish farm for seven years in California. In his 20 years in Chapala, he has become passionate about reversing global warming and supporting disadvantaged Mexicans.
Democrats Abroad
The San Miguel de Allende Chapter of Democrats Abroad (DA) Mexico will host a July 4 party via Zoom, Saturday, July 4, 5-7 p.m. The aim is to connect all DA members throughout Mexico.
The party features breakout rooms so you can be with four or five other people on Zoom at one time. After 15 minutes you are automatically changed to another “room” with a new group of people. To RSVP and obtain sign-in password information, contact Hope Bradberry at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Also, Join the Lake Chapala Chapter of DA for a virtual annual general meeting on Monday, July 13, 4 p.m. An informative educational program will be offered, including reports from the Get Out the Vote (GOTV) Team, changes being implemented due to the adoption of new country-wide bylaws, an annual chapter financial report, and opportunities for volunteer involvement going forward in the age of Covid-19.
The meeting is free and open to all members, but RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Complete instructions will be provided.
Maestros del Arte
With the cancellation of the 2020 Feria Maestros del Arte, organizers of the annual event held each November at lakeside are exploring ways to help the the artisans, who will be unable to benefit from this year’s sales, as well as past artists in need.
In a recent newsletter, it was pointed out that if everyone who planned on attending this year’s Feria were to donate the 80-peso (US$3.32) cost of admittance, there would be “an amazing amount of funds with which to help artists through Covid-19.”
Information on how to donate can be found on the new Feria website, feriamaestros2.com/2020maestros. The website also allows visitors to purchase crafts and art items directly from the Feria artisans.
Canadian Club
The Canadian Club of Lake Chapala has announced that it will be taking a hiatus for the entire 2020-2021 season. In normal times, the club hosts a year-round speaker’s program. From September through April, other events include a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas party and Canada Day celebrations.
For more information, see canadianclubmx.com.