Toy Drive
Drop off new or used toys for the local fire department staff’s children through April 29 at the Lake Chapala Society (LCS), so they can celebrate Dia del Niño in style.
Chair exercises
Low-impact chair exercises are held on Mondays and Fridays, 10 to 11 a.m., at the Lake Chapala Baptist Church, Santa Margarita 147 in Riberas del Pilar. No cost.
Cactusmania
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Cactusmania takes over Ajijic Friday through Sunday, April 17–19, turning the town into cactus territory. At Viverocatus (La Monjonera Norte 102), collectors and fans from across Mexico can find rare plants, attend talks and workshops, buy directly from growers and connect with fellow cactus enthusiasts.
Keeping them hydrated
American Legion Post 7 is collecting items for the volunteer firefighters in Chapala. Needed are water, electrolytes, energy bars, hard fruit or cash to buy these items.
Open Circle
• LCS celebrates Earth Day, Sunday, April 19, 10:30 a.m. at Open Circle. Hear from a speaker panel/discussion about Lake Chapala, its many challenges and opportunities to join with community-based initiatives to restore its health and sustainability.
This presentation will take place on the shore of Lake Chapala (opposite the LCS back gate). Audience members can participate in a sweep the lake/trash pickup activity following the talk.
Democrats Abroad
• Democrats Abroad holds a cocktails and conversation event on Monday, April 20, 4 p.m. at La Bodega Restaurant, 16 de Septiembre 124 in Ajijic.
• If you need U.S. ballot assistance or help to request your 2026 ballots, visit Democrats Abroad at the Lake Chapala Society, Mondays, April 20 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or go to VoteFromAbroad.org.
Chapala Birders
Wednesday, April 22, meet team leader Cheshta Buckley at 8 a.m. at El Bajio on the west side of Ajijic and walk down the lane to the lake. Expect to see a good variety of birds in the tall trees and fields. At about 10 a.m., the birders will review the bird list, then those who wish to can head to the French Bakery for coffee. Confirm your attendance no later than Monday, April 20, by email to Cheshta 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..
How to get there: From Ajijic, go about two miles (three km) west from the light at Colon, turn downhill for El Bajio (across from the west end of the large unfinished retirement community being redeveloped by Latitude/Margaritaville) and park immediately on the lateral road parallel to the Carretera.
The bird walks are open to all interested in birds; both beginners and experienced birders. There are always knowledgeable birders on hand to identify the species. A limited number of extra binoculars are available upon request in advance of the trip.
During these outings, social conversations are limited so as not to scare the birds being observed. Birders can gather for coffee or a meal to socialize later.
The Lake Chapala Birders are a small group of volunteers who work together to share these outings with you. If you would like to help lead some outings, they can help train you. Website: chapalabirders.org.
Free CPR class at LLT
On Saturday, April 25, from 1-6 p.m., Bert Gamble, an EMT and long-time first responder trainer, will conduct a free First Aid/CPR training session on LLT’s Angel Terrace. All LLT volunteers are encouraged to attend, especially house managers and anyone who works backstage.
“This will not be a definitive certifying course,” Bert explains. “You will not receive a CPR card at the end, and there is no test. My goal is to enable people to feel comfortable when providing assistance. When I moved to Lakeside, it became readily apparent that there are many hazards associated with living here that we do not find in the States. We all need to learn to help one another until more advanced medical care arrives. Depending on where you live, that help could take 15-30 minutes to arrive.”
The course outline comprises:
• How to recognize an emergency and decide if you are going to help
• How to protect yourself should you decide to help
• Hierarchy of importance in any rescue environment
• Do no harm!
• Good Samaritan laws (and how they do not apply in Mexico)
Topics will include: heat-related illness; heart problems: CPR discussion and practice; AED (defibrillator) importance and use; stroke; choking; low blood sugar/diabetic incident; basic wound care; burns and medications.