The Chapala government’s initiation of street repairs in Ajijic last week sparked a spirited controversy over appropriate materials, with some inhabitants opposing any use of concrete that alters the town’s rustic appearance and others praising the introduction smoother and more durable surfacing that benefits pedestrians and vehicular traffic.

Embarking on his first official working tour of the Lake Chapala area Friday, June 14, Governor Enrique Alfaro put a spotlight on the governmental thrust for rural activities, wrapping up the visit with the introduction of a sweeping regional development plan to achieve social and economic well-being balanced with the protection of natural resources.

While there are multiple sources to explore the history of Chapala, Ajijic, Jocotepec and Mezcala, up until now there has been no specific account on the background of San Antonio Tlayacapan.

Two couples identified as Central American migrants were recently discovered occupying a makeshift shelter nestled among trees on the rocky hillside bordering Chapala’s Avenida Hidalgo, situated just east of the retention wall adorned with a large mural.

Chapala’s weekly tianguis (street market), known as La Barata, will be moving from its usual location to a temporary venue on Avenida Gozález Gallo in the vicinity of the Cristiania Park.

This week’s guest writer is an artist and cultural promoter who pens an opinion column for the local Spanish language weekly Laguna. The edited English version of a recent text published under the heading “Lagunas Mentales” appears here with the author’s kind permission, due to its relevance for all residents of the lakeside area.