Laguna Chapalac - June 05, 2021

Open Circle

Ilona de Borhegyi presents “Living with the Vatican” at the Open Circle gathering at the Lake Chapala Society (LCS) on Sunday, June 6, 10:30 a.m.

Says Borhegyi: “Working for the United Nations in Rome, Italy for 30 years included living through many historical highlights of Vatican influence on Italian culture and international politics. Papal activities were part of everyday Italian news and the Holy See spoke at all of the U.N. international meetings. As a foreigner myself, it made watching three foreign popes operate at global level more personal. This will not be a talk about religious issues. Instead, it will include personal observations, humorous anecdotes, and some history on the Vatican and the Holy See, and how the Vatican interacts with Italy and the European Union.”

Ilona de Borhegyi is a retired Information Officer of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and still maintains a home in Rome. She began visiting Lakeside in 1998 and has been an active member of the community since 2014.

Chapala Birders

Lake Chapala Birders is an informal group of bird observers led by John and Rosemary Keeling.

The bird walks are open to all those interested in birds, both beginners and experienced birders. Reserve a place at least two days ahead of each bird walk or bird trip, and mention if you can provide a vehicle or are looking for a ride. RSVP 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..

After months of hosting very small groups, the Birders propose to get back to normal gradually with larger groups, but masks will be worn in compliance with regulations. In May, the Birders visited Lake Atotonilco, the east lakeshore of Chapala and Tapalpa.

Wednesday, June 9, the Birders will leave at 8:15 a.m. for the Rosa Amarilla Loop (a 60-minute drive) from Donas Donuts. Expect to see a variety  of grassland birds and possibly a white-tailed hawk. Bring refreshments for the morning and sandwiches for the 12:30 p.m. lunch stop. Return time is about 3 p.m.

For more information, see ChapalaBirders.org or call John Keeling at 376-766-1801.

Mel’s opens for relaxation

Mel’s Casa Social is holding a grand opening Monday, June 7, 4 p.m. There will be live music, a DJ and free samples available. Enjoy pickleball, jenga, air hockey, billiards, foosball, ladder toss, cornhole toss, beer pong and the swimming pool. Zaragoza 44, Ajijic.

Mel’s moto is “Good Food, Good People, Good Times! Life’s Too Short For Anything Else.” RSVP: 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..

Driver’s license

Study the course to obtain a Jalisco driver’s license with Alfredo Perez, Monday, June 14, 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Lake Chapala Society veranda. Then go to Guadalajara to obtain your license. LCS members only. Enroll on the LCS website.