Open Circle
Bill Toone presents “Roar of the Monarch Butterflies” on Sunday, May 17, 10:30 a.m. at Open Circle at the Lake Chapala Society.
The discovery of the overwintering sites of the monarch butterfly is probably the greatest natural history discovery of the century. From Fred Urqhardt’s childhood fascination with butterflies came a remarkable journey of discovery that spanned decades and the participation of thousands of citizen scientists. Fifty years later, this amazing biological phenomenon is on the brink of extinction and there is a silent killer in the communities around the reserves. Learn more about the race to save the butterflies and the people who share their forest home.
Toone is an internationally recognized conservation biologist, author and public speaker whose work has taken him to more than 30 countries. Best known for his pioneering role in the recovery of the California condor, Bill has now turned his attention to the overwintering sites of the monarch butterfly.
Democrats Abroad
If you need U.S. ballot assistance or help to request your 2026 ballots, visit Democrats Abroad at the Lake Chapala Society on Mondays, May 18 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., or go to VoteFromAbroad.org.
Chapala Birders
Tuesday, May 19, meet team leader Gerd DeBeer at 8 a.m. at the “Sculpture” at the only traffic light in La Floresta, departing immediately for La Manzanilla de la Paz on the south side of the lake, en route to Mazamitla. Expect to see a variety of hawks, woodpeckers, sparrows, warblers and wrens. The group will park and walk the lower half of the creek path, then return to our vehicles for a refreshment break. Then walk up to the presa (dam) and bird there until 1 p.m. for lunch (approximately 2.5 km in total). Bring your own mid-morning refreshments and a bag lunch. Return to Ajijic about 3 p.m.
You must reserve by Sunday, May 17, as there will be a maximum of 12 people. Email Gerd at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., indicating if you can bring a vehicle and can take others, or if you would like to be a passenger.
Lakeside Freethinkers
The Lakeside Freethinkers will hold their monthly meeting at Yves’ Restaurant in West Ajijic on Thursday, May 21, at 4 p.m. The discussion will be on the importance of public education and how to protect it from sectarian challenges. Friction over public education and religious intrusion is not only an issue in Mexico, Canada and the U.S., but is being experienced worldwide.
A brief update by the group president will be given on the progress of the science student sponsored by the Lakeside Freethinkers organization.
Listening to the discussion via Zoom will also be possible.
The group defines a “freethinker” as a person who identifies himself or herself as an atheist, agnostic, secular humanist or skeptic. Freethinkers reject the belief in the supernatural and rely on science and reason to guide their lives.
To attend this meeting or find out more about the Lakeside Freethinkers, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Tequila tasting
The Lake Chapala Society will host a tequila tasting event with Orendain Tequila on Wednesday, May 27, 3 p.m. Admission is 400 pesos and attendance is capped at 40 guests. Tickets are available at the LCS office Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or at lakechapalasociety.com.
Memorial Day
American Legion Post 7 Chapala will commemorate Memorial Day on Monday, May 25, 10 a.m. at the Cemetery located at Calle Venustiano Carranza 26 in Chapala. Following that will be a dinner at the Post with live music. Doors open 1 p.m.; dinner is served at 3 p.m.
Anavets
Join Anavets Mexico Unit 19 on Tuesdays at Mama’s Musical Bar in San Antonio for Euchre and Mexican Train from 3 to 5 p.m. and competitive darts from 5 to 8 p.m. All skill levels are welcome to participate, and the bar and kitchen will be open.