More Highway Missives.
Three weeks ago, this newspaper (along with local Spanish-language dailies) highlighted the deteriorating condition of the Guadalajara-Chapala highway. It seems someone in power took notice—perhaps their vehicle was damaged!
On a recent trip to Lakeside, we observed that 99 percent of the potholes between the Periférico and the airport had been patched. However, beyond the airport, the highway in both directions remains neglected, with over a dozen potholes per kilometer. These range from minor jostling bumps to severe, bone-rattling craters capable of damaging tires, rims, or axles.
We will continue to apply pressure in hopes that the authorities address this issue.
Lakeside Freethinkers
The September 17 meeting of the Lakeside Freethinkers will again be a virtual meeting on Zoom. This meeting has no formal agenda but a few things may come up. The Freethinkers Student Aid Project, coordinated by Lloyd Kumley through the Lake Chapala Society, may be discussed. A local science student for has been selected for support.
White Christian Nationalism may also be discussed. It is a growing threat to our democracy. White Christian Nationalism is the belief that America is—and must remain—a Christian nation founded for its white Christian inhabitants and that our laws and policies must reflect this. White Christian Nationalists overlap with Christian fundamentalism, white supremacy, and dominionism. Americans United for the Separation of Church and State has taken this threat very seriously.
If you are interested in participating, would just like more information, or placed on the mailing list, contact 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..
The Lakeside Freethinkers define a “freethinker” as a person who identifies himself or herself as an atheist, agnostic, secular humanist, or skeptic. They reject belief in the supernatural and rely on science and reason to guide their lives.
U.S. Voter Assistance
All U.S. citizens: Need help requesting and returning your ballots? Beat the September rush! Come to the Lake Chapala Society on Tuesday, September 17, and Saturday, September 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The experienced, government-certified Vote From Abroad team will be available to assist.
It’s highly recommended to request your ballot early to allow time to resolve any issues.
For questions, 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..
Cooks on the move
The Lakeside Cooking Club will have a new home starting Wednesday, September 18, at Club Positivo, located at Calle San Luis 217 in Riberas del Pilar, about half a block east of St. Andrew’s Anglican Episcopal Church. Club members can enjoy the ambiance and facilities of the new venue.
Don’t miss their Mexican group dinner next Wednesday! For more information or to attend, 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..
Chapala Birders
On Tuesday, September 24, the Chapala Birders group will meet at 8 a.m. at the “Sculpture” on the southeast corner of the only traffic light in La Floresta, heading to Mezcala Mountain (a 60-minute drive) for a Hawk Watch. After parking, the group will walk the one-mile (1.5 km) trail to the observation point. Bring snacks and lunch for the day, returning to Ajijic by 3 p.m. Other pick-up points can be arranged between Ajijic and Mezcala.
To reserve, email John at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least two days in advance. Indicate if you can bring a vehicle or need to be a passenger.
High-clearance, all-wheel-drive vehicles with off-road tires are recommended for the ascent.
Bird walks are open to all, from beginners to experienced birders. Just bring binoculars—knowledgeable birders will be on hand.
Another Hawk Watch will take place on September 26 at the same time.
Tequila tour
The Centro Educativo Jaltepec hospitality university will host a tour of Tequila Reserva de Los Gonzalez in Los Altos de Jalisco on Thursday, September 19.
This exclusive visit to a private family-owned tequila distillery and hacienda includes transportation in a luxury van, tequila tasting, gourmet lunch, and refreshments.
Departure is at 9:30 a.m. from Centro Laguna mall, with a return at 5:30 p.m. The cost of 2,750 pesos will benefit the young women of Jaltepec.
Contact Linda Buckthorp at 333-407-8193 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more details.
Toy Run
The Los Gueros motorcycle club is holding a Christmas Toy Run fundraiser, sponsored by American Legion Post 7 Chapala and Johnny’s Lounge, on Saturday, September 28, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Johnny’s, located at Gonzalez Gallo 86 in San Antonio Tlayacapan.
The event will feature ‘70s and ‘80s music by a DJ (come dressed accordingly!), performances by Lakeside Laughs Improv group, a silent auction (donations accepted), a tequila door prize, and a 50/50 raffle.
Entrance is 350 pesos and includes a taco bar. Tickets are available at Johnny’s, the Legion, and through Nancy Allan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 332-646-7568.
Housing needed
The Feria Maestros del Arte is seeking housing for visiting artisans during the show, November 7-9. Hosting an artisan offers a unique opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and learn about Mexico’s rich folk art traditions directly from the artists.
For more information, contact Brenda Byrom at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or WhatsApp 332-348-9514.
If you love the outdoors
Volumes 1 and 3 of “Outdoors in Western Mexico,” self-published by author and Reporter columnist John Pint, have sold out. John and his wife, Susy, are looking for a sponsor to help reprint these helpful guides.
If you’re interested in supporting the revival of these books, contact John 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..