Open Circle
Loretta Downs presents “Dementia: The Long Goodbye” at Open Circle, at the Lake Chapala Society, Sunday, February 4, 10:30 a.m.
Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally. Early-onset dementia is increasing in people under 65.
By 2050, 153 million people are expected to be living with dementia worldwide, up from 57 million in 2019, largely due to an ageing population.
There is no cure for dementia, but much can be done to support both people living with the illness and those who care for them.
Downs is a gerontologist who has been working with aging and dying for over 35 years.
She will describe some important realities of this destructive disease using research studies and personal experience. She will explore ways in which having dementia or caring for someone who is losing memory can transform a stressful burden to fertile ground for personal growth.
Fire prevention fundraiser
Funds are desperately needed to create fire prevention and fighting equipment at The Ranch, a no-kill shelter for dogs. A fundraiser will be held Monday, February 5, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Manix Restaurant (open for events only) Ocampo 57 in Ajijic. Polanco and Steadman will entertain. An Italian buffet dinner with a vegetarian option will be served. Shared seating, make new friends, or call Manix, 331-065-0725, to reserve a table for eight. Tickets, 500 pesos, can be purchased at Its Kinda Bazar, Hidalgo 86 in W. Riberas del Pilar, The Scandinavian Bakery in Centro Laguna Mall and Blue Rose Bistro, Carretera 224 in West Ajijic.
Ranch Adoption Day
The Ranch, Lakeside’s oldest dog shelter, will be holding its monthly “Adoption Day” at the Lake Chapala Society on Wednesday, February 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. You can meet several great adoptable dogs and learn about ways to help The Ranch through fostering, sponsoring dogs or volunteering. Adoption Days are held on the first Wednesday of each month near LSC’s blue patio. They have some sweet dogs for you to meet!
Fashion show
Tickets are going fast for the popular fashion shop of quality used clothing to benefit the School for Special Children to be held at the Moon Estate in West Ajijic February 8, 2 to 5 p.m. Tickets are 200 pesos, but if you donate four or more gently worn items, you get half price off on your ticket. Appetizers are provided and wine is available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the school. Contact Heather Hunter 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..
Mardi Gras
American Legion Post 7 Chapala is ready to party. The Legion Auxiliary is hosting its annual Mardi Gras dance party and shrimp/sausage boil, Friday, February 9, cocktails at 2 p.m. and dinner at 3 p.m. Music by Tito and the Cuban Zona Band, best party mask competition, complimentary mask and beads, games, raffles, tarot card readings, blingy party wear encouraged. Limited seating. Tickets, 400 pesos, can be reserved 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..
Cooking Club
A friendly fun competition cooking event by the Lakeside Cooking Club will be held Wednesday, February 21, 4 p.m. at the Lakeside Presbyterian Church, San Jorge in Riberas del Pilar. The theme is Mardi Gras/Carnaval. A 50-50 Raffle, and a great door prize will be on the menu, as well the option to cook or present your favorite savory or sweet Mardi Gras or Carnival dish. To sign up for a cooking/presentation slot, email 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.. You can choose to be in competition or not in competition. It is a tasting menu so everyone will be able to experience various dishes. Those not presenting are charged 200 pesos. There is no charge for those cooking or presenting. Wine is available for 50 pesos per glass. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to reserve your place at dinner.
Let the good times roll! Laissez le bon temps rouler!