The Lake Chapala Shrine Club (LCSC) went all in on its annual Ribfest fundraising effort this year, hosting back-to-back events on Tuesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 5.
Nearly 600 diners attended, enjoying the ever-popular Adelita grilled ribs, served with coleslaw, baked beans, and dinner rolls. The enthusiastic crowds on both days not only indulged in a delicious lunch but also enjoyed fantastic musical entertainment from the Blue Cadillac cover band. The Villa Encantada event center, located on Lake Chapala’s scenic waterfront, provided the perfect setting for the balmy afternoon gatherings.
Many guests walked away with fantastic door prizes, including generous meal vouchers for local restaurants, a gourmet dinner for ten with wine pairings, and an 18-hole round of golf for two at Vista del Lago’s Lake Chapala Club. The 50-50 raffle was won by Lorena, a local Mexican guest, who took home 11,000 pesos and then donated 5,000 pesos back to the Shriner’s cause.
The two young poster children for the LCSC’s 2025 campaign, along with their families, were special guests of honor. Cesar Zaid, born in 2019 with club feet, is now thriving after undergoing surgery and tendon-lengthening procedures. Blanca Paloma, who required full assessment and surgery for congenital hip dysplasia in 2022, has since undergone eight more surgical interventions and numerous therapy sessions.
These two children are part of more than 2,500 patients from the Lake Chapala area who have received diagnoses, medical treatment, and orthopedic equipment for physical disabilities, thanks to the support of the local Shrine Club. The organization also covers travel expenses for children and families who are accepted for free advanced care at the Shriners Pediatric Hospital in Mexico City.