El Ojo del Lago - December 2019 by El Ojo del Lago

Saw you in the Ojo

 DIRE C TOR Y  PUBLISHER Richard Tingen

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alejandro Grattan-Domínguez Tel: (01376) 765 3676, 765 2877 Fax: (01376) 765 3528 Associate Publisher David Tingen Graphic Design Roberto C. Rojas Reyes Diana Parra Morales

Index...

FEATURE ARTICLES

COVER STORY

Alexsi Currier writes about a Christmas of so many years ago, one filled with many hardships, but one he’d like to live again.

Special Events Editor Carol D. Bradley

16 CANINES Susan Spaulding Monroe writes about the Dog Ranch and gives credit to those who so richly deserve it. In a community filled with dog lovers, the Ranch is one of the best things about our beloved little corner of Mexico.

Associate Editor Victoria Schmidt Art Critic / Contributing Editor Rob Mohr

20 POETRY Joaquin A. Hawkins writes about one of the most precious things one can possess: true friendship.

Theater Critic Michael Warren Book Review Panel Margaret Van Every Margaret Porter Clare Gearhart Roving Correspondent Dr. Lorin Swinehart Sales Manager Bruce Fraser Carmene Berner Office Secretary Rocio Madrigal ADVERTISING OFFICE Av. Hidalgo # 223, Chapala Mon. thru Fri. 9 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 1 pm Tel. 01 (376) 765 2877, 765 3676 Fax 01 (376) 765 3528

Pag. 38 LAKESIDE LIVING ty hard to come by.

46 CHRISTMAS CHEER Margie Harrell offers some tips on what to give to that special friend who is very hard to please: give him/her a check. Margie says it works pretty well when she has been on the receiving end. 52 THE PERFECT MEDICINE Katina Pontikes reminds us that there are few situations in life that this medicine cannot at least make more bearable. It’s called laughter.

Send all correspondence, subscriptions or advertising to: El Ojo del Lago http://www.chapala.com elojodellago@gmail.com ojodellago@prodigy.net.mx Ave. Hidalgo 223 (or Apartado 279), 45900 Chapala, Jalisco Tels.: (376) 765 3676, Fax 765 3528 PRINTING: El Debate El Ojo del Lago aparece los primeros cinco días de cada mes. (Distributed over the first five days of each month) Certificado de Licitud de Título 3693 Certificado de Licitud de Contenido 3117. Reserva al Título de Derechos de Autor 04-2011-103110024300-102 Control 14301. Permisos otorgados por la Secretaría de Gobernación (EXP. 1/432 “88”/5651 de 2 de junio de 1993) y SEP (Reserva 171.94 control 14301) del 15 de enero de 1994. Distribución: Hidalgo 223 Chapala, Jalisco, México. All contents are fully protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without the written consent of El Ojo del Lago. Opinions expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher or the Editor, nor are we responsible for the claims made by our advertisers. We welcome letters, which should include name, address and telephone number.

30 GERIATRICS Christy Wiseman finds some of the comedy in growing older which occasionally becomes pret-

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

COVER STORY

VOLUME 36 NUMBER 4

8 Cover by Maria Jose Martinez

COLUMNS THIS MONTH 6 EDITOR’S PAGE 14 BRIDGE BY LAKE 22 PROFILING TEPEHUA 26 FRONT ROW CENTER 28 WELCOME TO MEXICO 38 LAKESIDE LIVING 50 LIFE ASKEW

Saw you in the Ojo

COLUMNIST

Editor’s Page By Alejandro Grattan-Dominguez

his magazine’s recent 25th Annual Awards Luncheon at the Tango Restaurant drew nearly one hundred celebrants. At one point early in the afternoon, it was mentioned that I had been at the very first awards party, one that had so few attendees that it could have been held at a taco stand. A few days later, as if by Providence, I found an old photograph of that occasion and yes indeed, there had been only nine of us in attendance: our publisher Richard Tingen, myself and six other people. Excepting for Richard and myself, the others have long since gone on to their reward. Out of sight...but certainly not out of mind—which prompts me to mention a little something about each of them. Like many writers, they had unusual backgrounds and fascinating personal stories. Starting from left to right (in the photo) they are Richard Tingen, Virginia Miller, Morgan Bedford, myself, Don Halliday and Jim Tuck. (See below for those writers not in photo) Richard Tingen: Founder of the El Ojo del Lago, as well as of Chapala Realty, Richard is now semi-retired and living much of the time down along the Pacific Coast, where he has set up an art gallery, much as he did with the Art House here in Chapala. Virginia Miller: Was raised in Mexico, where her father had established the first American bank in Guadalajara. When the Revolution broke out in 1917, he went back to the States, leaving much of his money with his gardener. Ten years later when he finally returned, his money was waiting for him. His Mexican gardener had buried it under a dog house at the very rear of the banker’s former estate. Morgan Bedford: Had been an attorney in Beverly Hills and was one

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of the original developers of the Los Angeles area of Malibu, which today is one of the most exclusive areas in the world. Alejandro Grattan D: Of whom the less said the easier. Don Halliday: A Spitfire pilot during the Battle of Britain. When, after the 9/11 disaster in NYC, I went to Don for a few words of condolence, he replied: “Oh, you Yanks are such crybabies. We had a 9/11 for nights on end in London during the Second World War!” Jim Tuck: Stepson of the legendary Sinclair Lewis, one of the few American novelists to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Jim’s column in the Ojo, called Insight Straight, was later syndicated in the United States, appearing each month in more than two dozen newspapers. *Not shown in photo: Bill Miller, Shep Lenchek and Jim Bailey—Bill Miller had fought for the Loyalists during the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930’s. He had also been a close associate of Diego Rivera, Mexico’s worldfamous muralist. Shep had been a U.S. Marine during WWII and had seen action in the South Pacific. Sadly, he and his wife died in an auto accident while returning to Mexico after a brief trip to the United States. Jim Bailey was a widely-recognized expert on Pre-Colombian Art and had written a novel set in Mexico. So what’s left to say other than they were there at the beginning of our 25-year-run and I remember them all with a great deal of fondness. Alejandro GrattanDominguez

Saw you in the Ojo

An Old-Fashioned Christmas By Alvin Alexsi Currier

hung up the phone. Something didn’t feel right. Our son had just called to invite us to come to celebrate Christmas with him and his family in the city. Of course we would come. They were our children and grandchildren. There was no doubt about it, and yet, something bothered me. I stood staring out of the window at the night falling across the fields and forests that surrounded this ancestral homestead of my immigrant grandparents. It was now our retirement home. My son’s enthusiasm kept echoing in my ear. He kept telling me that we would have an old-fashioned Christmas. There would be candles on the

tree, carols to sing, and a roaring fire. He promised a real old-fashioned Christmas. That’s what he called it, “a real old-fashioned Christmas”. Something made me feel old and out of place. I stood for another minute staring out the window. Then I marked the invitation on the calendar, slipped on my coat, and headed out into the nightfall for a walk. I headed down the lane through a dusting of snow. The moon wasn’t up yet and the stars were brilliant. I walked along talking out loud to myself, and arguing with my son. “You can’t have an old-fashioned Christmas,” I protested, “You can’t have an old-fashioned Christmas for the sim-

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ple reason that the things that created an old-fashioned Christmas aren’t around anymore. It was made up out of things that you can’t buy in a store. Things like darkness. Where are you going to find darkness for sale? Where are you going to find that darkness that came in the fall, as the sun sank lower, the air turned colder, and the nights grew longer? Darkness that turned days into little patches of light that grew shorter and further apart; darkness that settled down unbroken by even the smallest of lights for miles and miles. Darkness that was endless. Months of darkness.” “In that darkness our eyes adjusted to the luminous blue light of the snowy nights. Hours were spent without any light at all, except for the magic light of distant stars, or the northern lights, or some strange phosphorescent glow. Sometimes it was pitch black – endlessly. We moved around in little puddles of light cast by candles, or lanterns or we hovered around the bubble of light from the kerosene lamp on the table.” “In those days the lights of Christmas, were more than just candles on a tree. They were summer’s brightness, suddenly, dramatically, shining in winter. They were lights in months and miles of darkness.” Abruptly I stopped yelling. I listened to my voice fade away into the thick sea of stillness. I was stunned by the silence. The dialog with my son returned, now internally and unspoken. “Where are you going to find silence like this, in this day and age, and in the city?” My body underlined the question with an involuntary cringe. I stood still, feeling the silence. Voiceless, I continued. “Have you ever heard the sound of a great silence? It is filled with the noise of stillness. When I visited the old country I felt the silence my Grandfather had spoken of; the silence he had felt as a boy working in the fields high in the mountains. When I visited I felt the stillness that nestled in those forested hills that rolled away below to distant summits, half lost in mist. I remembered thinking then that I understood why Grandpa said that, in such silence all of us mountain folk learned to whisper.” With the memory of my soft spoken Grandfather, the haunting memories of loneliness heaved up. Back then as the knocks on our door grew fewer and more infrequent, the weight of growing darkness and deepening snow, thickened into loneliness. The sluggish weight of the long winter isolation settled in. We went about our tasks, our chores, our rituals, and our routines, isolated, alone, and lonely. We spoke little and were nur-

tured only by mother’s gentle humming as she sat spinning, or by those rare occasions when father would fetch down his fiddle. A passing sleigh was the highlight of a day. Somebody coming to visit was the highlight of a week, and a chance for us to go somewhere was the highlight of a month. How can you conjure up the magic of an old-fashioned Christmas without the darkness, the silence, and the isolation? It was these powerful potions that worked the magic that we all remember. I still tear up picturing the wild joy of us children when Christmas came. It was Christmas! Christmas! There was the joy of tumbling into the sleigh, of gliding off through the forest, of seeing the candles in the windows of the neighbors, of sighting other sleighs, of meeting people walking, of seeing people! People! I have no word to describe the wonder of so many people, and so much light. My grandfather, even when he was ninety-six, remained so impressed by the brilliance of the chandelier in the Church of his childhood, that every Christmas he would tell us that the chandelier had 120 candles. It was so much light in the dark of the winter night. For years I wondered how he remembered this exact number throughout his long life. Then all of a sudden a few years ago it dawned on me. I chuckled as I saw my grandfather so long ago, bored by the long ebb and flow of the liturgy, but awed by the great candelabra, and as a little boy he was counting, 118, 119, Holy God, 120 candles. Added to the light, and the people, was the music. The silence was broken. Sound swelled up and flooded the silence as more than a hundred voices sang the liturgy. The priest and the deacon lead in resonant tones and we all answered with full voices. Without a book or an instrument we chanted and sang. Music thundered forth. Even now as an old man and as a Grandfather myself, I remember those Christmas services of yesteryear as clearly as if it was only yesterday. I certainly wouldn’t wish the hardships of those old times onto either my children or my grandchildren. We will have a wonderful time together in the city, and yet there will be a little ache in my heart because it cannot be a Christmas as I once knew it. The darkness, silence, and loneliness that made the Christmas of my childhood such a memorable feast no longer exist among us. I am both glad and I am sad. Back in the farmhouse I banked the fire, made the sign of the cross before the icon, and went to bed.

Saw you in the Ojo

Grandma’s Last Christmas

Something took apart my beanie, ripping every seam, stealing my favorite panel for its evil scheme. Dad’s boxers and Mom’s flowered blouse likewise disappeared. Our baby sister’s blankie the next thing commandeered. Mother’s apron, then a snip from her wedding dress, taken from an inner seam, so who would ever guess? And who would ever notice Father’s tie now missed an inch? Was there no sacred item that they were loath to pinch? Auntie’s favorite hanky. Uncle’s tobacco pouch. Grandma’s antimacassar that graced her threadbare couch. Grandpa thought the moths had been at his old red flannels, and several of our curtains were missing parts of panels. All of us superstitious about what we’d next lose,

a semi-official inquiry offered no clear clues. Sister’s last year’s prom dress was the next sacrifice. Was it a new type of moth? Was it rats or mice operating with precision, taking a tidy square? What creature did its robberies with such exquisite care? A year passed and another year. We began our defections as our lives led us here and there in various directions. Home again for Christmas, then off again to lives involving universities and jobs and kids and wives. Until that special Christmas, gathered at Grandma’s bed, with Grandpa at the foot of it and Mother at the head. We kids gathered around each side, except, that is, for one. That was the year that Sis had said she could not join the fun. Our husbands, wives and girlfriends did not quite fill the space. Not one of all our children quite made up for that face missing in the middle. That favorite of all. That special pesky sister, sliding down the hall on a purloined skate board, or filching Halloween candy from the sack you’d saved. Center of every scene that involved tricks or mischief, yet only bent on fun. No mean bone in her body. Not a single one. We’d sung Gram’s favorite carol, and, about to sing one more, we heard a footstep in the hall. A creaking of the door. A cloth-swathed creature leaped at us, then swirled it overhead. It settled over Grandma, resting lightly on her bed. It was a quilt of many fabrics, many colors, many shapes made of communion dresses, knickers and wedding capes, prom dresses and baby blankets, doilies, curtain panels, and right there in the middle were Grandpa’s old red flannels. I found my purloined beanie and a boy scout badge I’d missed. I even found a scarf I stole from the first girl I’d kissed. We all gathered around it, and stories fell like snow upon this quilt that told them all, and on Grandma below. We ate our Christmas dinner gathered around that quilt. Everyone so careful that not a crumb was spilt. Grandma with her bed tray, fingered now and then a scrap of cloth that told another story of back when. We should have known, of course, that our sister was the schemer. What other one among us was such an inventive dreamer? She knew the time would come when, scattered far apart, something would be needed to rejoin our family’s heart. We had no idea then that what seemed a dereliction was a noble enterprise, founded on her conviction that our family history must somehow be recorded. She kept her project secret from us, lest it be aborted. All our buried memories needed to come to light, so she bound them all together, in stitches neat and tight.

By Judy Dykstra Brown

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

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“My Country ‘Tis Of Thee, Sweet Land Of Hypocrisy” By Robert Bruce Drynan

here has been a great furor in the press about President Trump’s Zero Tolerance Policy at US Southwestern ports of entry. The world is in chaos, mostly produced by US policy in places like Central America and the Middle East. When I determined to comment on this subject I set out to research the numbers of affected children attempting to cross our borders, especially those separated from their parents when they came seeking refuge in the United States. I have seen photographs of small children crying as they were torn from the arms of their mothers. In my recent search I even saw a picture of two small children sequestered in a cage that appeared to be suitable for a dog pound. I found press articles dating up to May and June 2018 expressing outrage that about 1,500 children were unaccounted for. In fact many were unaccompanied teenagers escaping from the criminal gangs in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. But their numbers were seldom mentioned as distinct from the small dependent children accompanying their parents There have been court orders requiring the children be restored to their parents and complaints that Immigration and Customs Enforcers (ICE) have been unable to locate many of the lost waifs. Then suddenly, about June the matter disappeared from the media. Does that mean that the well-known short attention span of the American people (or media) had reached its limit or that ICE had finally complied with the court orders, at least to the extent possible? Likely the foster homes sheltering the refugee children had no desire to return their charges since they were being paid 75 dollars per day to care for them. I feel certain that the word “compassion” does not figure in the policy manual of ICE, nor does it exist in the vocabulary of our current president. In fact I suspect that ICE hiring policies probably screen out candidates that demonstrate such weaknesses as charity and compassion. My personal experience with immigrant families when I lived in California was that they are not “criminals, rapists, or murderers” They are grateful to their

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host country for the security and opportunity it offers them. They come seeking work, mostly tasks that our native citizens disdain. But their children? I know of a Mexican Bracero who was invited to the US to work our fields during the Second World War, Antonio Fernandez, received amnesty to remain and put his three sons through university. He was honored with a medal by the California State Legislature for his good citizenship. My neighbors, Pakistani Muslims, husband, wife, daughter and son, had no interest in inserting Sharia law into our jurisprudence. After the 9/11 incidents their home was trashed with eggs and tomatoes and the windows of their car smashed. I offered them refuge in my own home if the vandals returned. In fact, the value of immigrants has long been touted by demographers in the US as one of the reasons for our economic stability, where as for example, Japan, that refuses immigrants, has fallen into economic doldrums as the birthrate has fallen far below replacement and the population has been aging drastically. Germany, another country with a declining native birthrate has welcomed immigrants, mostly Turkish Muslims, but now refugees from the Middle East and North Africa. Our “honorable president” has attempted to bar Muslims from immigrating to the United States, naming countries that had no part among the terrorists who committed the depredations of 9/11. Most of the flood of refugees in Europe are the civilian victims of indiscriminate attacks and bombing raids by US military ground and air forces in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Libya and several other African Muslim countries. On the contrary, all but four of the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attacks were Saudis, who still have free access to the United States. Indeed, “Sweet Land of HypocRobert Bruce risy!” Drynan

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COLUMNIST

BRIDGE BY THE LAKE By Ken Masson

s has been stated many times before, defence is the most difficult part of bridge. Defenders must be constantly on their toes by paying attention to the bidding as well as the first few tricks of play to aid in painting a picture of declarer’s holding The illustrated hand, played at the Lake Chapala Duplicate Bridge Club in Riberas, is a very good example of this strategy. After a straightforward but uninformative bidding sequence, West led the top of a sequence spade jack. Using standard signalling, East followed with the 2 showing a lack of interest in the spade suit and at the same time placing the ace, king and queen in South’s hand. Declarer now cashed the ace and king of diamonds before leading a low club towards the dummy creating an opportunity for West to shine and shine he did by rising

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with the ace and switching to the heart king! This may appear to be a lucky move but West had been doing some counting during the tricks played so far and saw that declarer had 7 points in diamonds and, by inference, 9 points in spades. This meant that there was no room for the heart ace in declarer’s hand. It may seem lucky that East held just the right cards to beat the contract but West could see that this was the only hope as declarer would have 9 tricks consisting of 3 spades, 5 diamonds and a club if West played a “safe” return after winning the club ace. A just reward for a defender who paid attention to the bidding and early play to triumph on this deal! Questions or comments: email: masson.ken@ gmail.com Ken Masson

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Two Full Time Volunteers Share Dog Ranch Duties Not a Walk in the Park By Susan Spalding Munroe

yd Sullins and Carolyn Cothran comanage the *Ranch, a no-kill rescue facility that transports many of their adoptable street dogs to US shelters where they quickly find homes. There’s a shortage of dogs in many states mostly due to strict spay and neuter laws. Also, many US dog lovers seek mixes from other countries to avoid inbreeding problems. This works in the Ranch’s favor. Syd and Carolyn estimate they will have sent 200 dogs north this year, a 20 percent increase over 2018’s 160 state-side adoptions. Five years ago, when the Ranch’s

first manager chose not to continue, Syd, then a volunteer, single handedly took over the job, bringing new inspiration and innovation. Three years later, Carolyn, sharing her vision, came aboard. Together they changed the Ranch’s focus to a short-term paradigm aiming to quickly place adopt-

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able dogs into forever homes. Carolyn and Syd alternate three four-hour days per week at the shelter. But they estimate that each spends at least 40 volunteer hours handling multiple responsibilities. Whomever gets energized to maintain the data base, record expenses or book animals for air travel gets the responsibility. But most duties bear no resemblance to standard desk jobs. The twosome organize vaccinations, handle intake, pair up dogs to cohabit particular pens (no fighting, guys) and research emerging techniques used by other shelters to maximize the well-being of dogs and caregivers. Plus they organize volunteers: dog walkers, fund raisers, marketers and PR people as well as paid grounds keepers and kennel cleaners. Operations and medical aspects capture Carolyn’s heart. She focuses on running a smoothly efficient habitat. She reads Sheltering, a trade magazine and talks to US refuge vets to explore best practices. As a result, a new vaccination protocol designed for shelters dogs by the University of Colorado has improved the health of their charges. Syd loves intake. “Every time we can make a space, take in a new dog, I’m happy. I know the dog will be safe and we’re going to find it a home... most of our adoptable dogs don’t stay for more than six months. We have a wait list. I’d love to take them all in tomorrow.” Each entering dog costs about 3000 MX to process. Expenses have increased because of updated health practices. In response, Syd and Carolyn fill in, spending their own money. Airport trips are expensive because of high gasoline costs and tips for helpers. They also cover their own air tickets to accompany their charges if receiving shelters cannot handle those expenses. Once adoptees are delivered, Syd and Carolyn shop for essential items too rare or too expensive to buy Lakeside.

Syd grew up and worked in the Kansas City metro area before moving to Ajijic. She and husband Matt live in La Floresta with four hospice dogs and one rescue brought from the US. Her hospice perros are too old or ill to be eligible for adoption. “I tell Matt they’re on their last legs and don’t have long to live. But with love and attention they often last two or three years.” Carolyn, a Dallas native, lives in Rancho del Oro with husband, Michael and dog, Julio. “Anytime anyone adopts a dog, it frees up space for more dogs. When we fly seven dogs north, we have room for seven more.” Love of animals is a human and humanizing trait, but few folks can handle this heart- and back-breaking volunteer job without burnout. And it isn’t the dogs that stress the managers, it’s responding to the needs of various individuals. “Leading people has a different set of challenges than taking care of dogs,” said Syd. “Sometimes people desperate to place a dog don’t understand the limitations of the organization.” “Every time I receive a call from a new volunteer who’s five years younger than me, I follow them around like a little puppy,” Syd said. “I keep hoping there’ll be someone to step in, bring a management change, before there’s a personal crisis.” The organization has matured. A salaried operations manager, two other paid staff, a strong supply of volunteers and a reinvigorated donor base illustrate changes that have brought order and professionalism to the Ranch. “We’re so proud of how it operates now. I think we’ve established a good reputation in the community,” Syd said. *Lakeside Spay Susan Spalding Munroe and Neuter Center

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If Our Pets Could Talk By Jackie Kellum

hat is a furry Prozac??? If you have guessed your family pet, you are correct. People who do not have pets wonder why we love them so much, and why the pet loves us. It is a mutual benefit for all concerned. Lots and lots of studies have been done about the relationship between a pet and a pet owner. Very simply, the pet who has a person in their life benefits from having a safe place to live, good food, comfort as well as companionship. Many people think dogs are better companions than a cat. Cats get a ‘bad rap’ sometimes about their relationship with their owner because many people believe that dogs are more attached to their owner than

a cat. But, one particular extensive scientific study showed that 64% of cats also formed attachments to their owners that are similar to those that dogs and even babies form with their caregivers. In other words, cats do love their owner as much as dogs do, even if cats don’t show it as much as a dog. Pet ownership has numerous benefits for the owner. Pets create a chemical “high” as it were in their owner by just spending time, talking to, sharing your inner feelings and petting your cat or dog. Stress hormones like cortisol which is asso-

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ciated with depression and anxiety are reduced when you have a pet. Also there is an elevation of beneficial hormones like oxytocin and serotonin which occurs during this pet-owner relationship. Oxytocin promotes both physical and emotional healing. These hormones also increase the feeling of happiness, relaxation, trust, and empathy while reducing uneasiness and stress. In this case, Oxytocin does not need a doctor’s prescription. Most of us have seen or read about those studies that say owning a pet lowers our blood pressure, and some go so far to say they may lower our cholesterol. I am not sure about that latter part. Our pets do make us get up in the morning and get going for the day. They also help us with a daily routine and daily tasks. These habits bringing structure and purpose into our lives which makes us be more ‘productive’ and happier within ourselves. Cats have their own way of motivating us to get moving – try ignoring a cat who wants breakfast. Watching our pets and their silly behavior at times, makes us laugh at them and lighten our mood. In their own way, pets give us a self-esteem boost, and instill a greater sense of

belonging – we are one family. All of them make us feel needed, after all someone has to fill up their food and water bowls. There have been several studies about the strong bonds between people and their animals, and one study revealed that 97 percent of pet owners talk to their pets. Another study was about, Why do owners talk to their pets? and whether this was bizarre behavior or not. In an on-line publication “Ink this Morning” regarding these pet–owner conversations, and I quote: “The bottom line is this: Congrats! You’re not crazy! Talking to your pets is a sign of sensitivity, EQ, and all around human intelligence.” The article also said: “Sensitive, perceptive people talk to their pets, not deranged ones.” FYI: EQ. is an abbreviation for emotional quotient, a measure of a person’s adequacy in such areas as self-awareness, empathy, and dealing sensitively with other people. So when you are with your cat or dog continue your conversations – they enjoy it, and it is good for us. Jackie Kellum

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Friends And Flowers

A withered bloom, a fallen petal, a bye-gone delight of luminous color, once brightly shone under Southern skies, radiant ‘neath the warming comfort of the sun’s rays. Now its glory is dimmed by time, as seasons come, fade away, thus beckoning the chill of winter’s night, ‘til Spring ushers in a dawning new day. Yet, I recall the infant beauty of said flower, in its youth, how it blossomed in full maturity to dazzle the eye and nose of all, with its splendor and fragrant prime. Memories linger long of such wonder, yearning to see life’s cycle renew, but frigid winds and blankets of snow lurk about, as clock and calendar keep pace with Father Time. I did my best, oh for sure, to raise and nurture my bright little ones, free from choking weeds and grasses, sparing them from the ‘bugs’ of life. Then my pendulum of thought swings to recollections of how friends, past and present, how so like they are to the fragile bloom, prone to wilt asunder time’s varied knife. Ah, too often we become careless, negligent, taking all for granted, our prosperity looms all about, but then the newness and zeal for long-labored joys drift away thorns and thistles spring up, choke, abound. We take for granted all we need is hard work to obtain, not maintain, a most dreadful mistake ever silence of hand and a closed mouth Does not nurture anything sound. A withered bloom, a mum friend, victims alike in time passing similar indeed both are, each requiring a master ‘gardener’s’ hand constant, a heart and mind devoted to love’s task. What a shame to replace nature’s beauty with bouquets of papered sticks and too come to realize similarly, friendships of yore became oddly shaped, mysterious, papered masks.

—Joaquin A. Hawkins— 20

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COLUMNIST

PROFILING TEPEHUA By Moonyeen King

President of the Board for Tepehua

moonie1935@yahoo.com

e ain’t heavy, he’s my brother’! “Am I my Brother´s Keeper?” The infamous question from Cain when questioned by God, after the murder of his brother, Abel. One would think it would be hard to cover up since there were only a handful of people on planet Earth, who could have ‘dun it’? the list of suspects small. Cain didn’t get away with it, he was punished to a life of regret and shame. Since then the phrase has been used copiously in movies, songs, poetry, even Past President Obama used it in a political speech. Most recently it was in a

gang related mob boss movie - he screamed at his brothers in crime “Are we our brothers´ keepers?” and the response was “Hell!! Yes we are!!!” All gangs swear an oath to watch their brothers’ backs. Shouldn’t we? All people are connected to and dependent on others, sooner or later. Everything in everyday life is a shared experience. We are a busy, interacting people, giving birth, experiencing survival and dying. No matter how much of an isolationist, independent person you are, you will need some-one at sometime.

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

In Tepehua Community Center one of its creeds is to be our brother’s keeper, kindness doesn’t take much time at all, the act of kindness has a way of returning. Even in our domestic lives, treating your partner with kindness does create a return. Life is all about sharing. A woman came into the Tepehua Treasures store last year shopping for Christmas. Obviously poor and in need, she counted out the coins she needed and it wasn’t enough...she was given the items and more. A year later her son kept returning with bags of medicine for the Tepehua Clinic. Where are they from? he was asked. You were kind to my Mum, she wants to repay you. Another example was a man who was treated for a back injury. He was given Laser treatment for the pain and finally he could stand up straight and go back to work. It took a year of free treatment. He now volunteers diligently for the Center’s pharmacy, collecting medicines from other pharmacies to repay. The Tepehua Community is realizing that part of their strength is the support they are finding within their own ranks. From the house next door and down the street. By

sharing their life experience and supporting each other, the isolation poverty brings is broken. The people have taken ownership of their Community Center because of that very creed. The founders are working themselves out of a job...this is the way it should be. ‘Latin America’s Missing Middle’, written by a group studying the economics of Latin America, states that growth has been slow in three countries: Brazil, Columbia and Mexico which rates below the other two. In all three the gains are unequally distributed therefore the domestic economy fails to ignite. The work force is growing in Mexico due to the participation of women, and the falling birthrate due to less control of women’s rights by the Church. This involvement of women in the work force will make a stronger middle class. Less children and they will be less oppressed. ‘WE THE PEOPLE......’, the first three words of the American Constitution, the most powerful words, suggesting the body of the people working together as a whole wherein lies its strength. So, Hell Yes!!!! We, the people, are our brothers’ keepers!!!

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His Big White Beard By Paul Allen

ne thing we have no shortage of in the lakeside area are expats with fluffy white beards. I have often tried to analyze why the predominance of this fashion. Could it be to appear authoritative, to appear more masculine in looks, or simply to be confrontational or intimidating? Who knows? Not me. I don’t wear a beard or a mustache. Of course, this time of year we see signs of a beard displaying itself on Santa, which might symbolize a need for protection from the cold. Jolly old St. Nick, as he is referred to, is actually the shortened name of St. Nicholas, a third century Christian bishop of ancient Greece. He was known for taking aid to the poor and sick. This is where we get the gift idea, though not limited

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to the poor and sick. The western world has converted it into mostly festive gift-giving. Even Jewish families during Hanukkah in the same Christmas season exercise gift-giving to their children every day for the eight days. But, no white-bearded chimney-cloggers involved. I’ve heard many times, “Oh, Christmas is for kids.” Oops! How did the bearded wonder sneak in here? Could it be we’re missing the point? Is it merely the ‘season’ of giving? Has Christmas, or the Mass or celebration of Christ’s advent, been snookered? Somehow the need for the beard on the fat guy has been re-defining. Even many who are somewhat immature in the faith still visualize God as an old man with a white beard in the sky. He suffers the recognition as a type of supernatural Santa Claus. Do we recognize the real reason for His appearance in the flesh, and His design in doing so? Paul Allen

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FRONT ROW CENTER By Michael Warren Bare Stage The Lion in Winter by James Goldman Directed by Rosann Balbontin

his play is familiar to many who have seen the 1968 award-winning movie, starring Peter O’Toole as King Henry II of England and Katherine Hepburn as his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine. Set during Christmas 1183 at Henry’s castle in Chinon, northern France, it is a sort of family reunion with their three sons Richard, Geoffrey and John. Also present is Alais, who was originally betrothed to Richard at age eight, but has since become Henry’s mistress. And, by the way, Henry has had Eleanor locked up for the past ten years, because she had been plotting to dethrone him. Not your average family Christmas! It’s a challenge for director and cast to reveal the various themes of love and rivalries and betrayal. Each son wants to be named as Henry’s successor, while Eleanor wants to leverage her power base in Aquitaine to have Richard anointed as king. Initially I found the twelfth century politics strange in a modern language idiom, but once I got my bearings I really enjoyed the play. John Ward plays “Henry” with tremendous vigor, as befits a powerful monarch, while Rosanne Wilshere is wonderful as the feisty, scheming, sometimes malicious and highly intelligent “Eleanor.” The scenes between these two were the best part of the play. The other four characters are pawns in the ongoing game be-

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tween Henry and Eleanor. Johanna Labadie plays “Alais” with some skill as a sweet wife/mistress, who also has a mean streak – at the end of the play she asks Henry to imprison his three sons in the dungeon, and make her his queen. The three boys don’t like each other or their parents too much. Peter James is loud and aggressive as “Richard” who does eventually become King of England in 1189. Greg Custer plays “Geoffrey” as a quiet plotter behind the scenes, though his plots seem to fizzle out. And Andrew McFarlane is like the village idiot as the feckless and rather stupid “John” of future Magna Carta fame. This was an entertaining interpretation of Goldman’s very well-written play. It was fun as well as being a history lesson. Congratulations to Rosann Balbontin and her cast for the pace and humor they brought to this evocation of human desire for power and at the same time love (or lack of it). Next up at Bare Stage is Paradise Lost at the end of December. Is this Milton, or something more recent? We will find out – they also serve who only stand and wait! Michael Warren

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COLUMNIST

By Victoria Schmidt

A Visit to the Beach

s I exited the airplane, I was enveloped by moisture. The wet humid air hung heavy in my lungs, and my breathing became labored. Drawing in a breath was like trying to strain air out of water. And yet, this is supposed to be the least humid time of year in Puerto Vallarta. This was my first exposure to the tourist Mecca; I wanted to take everything in. A bus took us from the small 18-row plane to the terminal. Upon entering the terminal the frigid air-conditioning hit me like opening a freezer on a hot summer’s day. I barely remember traveling through the terminal and getting my bag, there was plenty of help. Outside I found my charter bus, and I was off to my resort. My first vacation since 1987, the destination was not my choice, but a friend from the USA and her daughter won an all-expense paid trip, and I hadn’t seen them in 13 years. Of course, I would meet them anywhere. The trip through the city had the flavor of a mixture of Guadalajara and southern California. It really didn’t say “Mexico” to me. It was all modern buildings and heavy traffic. When we reached our destination I was inundated with hotel staff offering baggage help, offering champagne, and then the ritual of checking in. My friend couldn’t wait for me to finish checking in, she sent me a text asking where I was, and I texted back that I was in the lobby waiting to check in. A few minutes later I was lost in her giant hug. Tears spilled from my eyes, and my heart ached for all the years we’d been apart. Her eyes and smile were the same. But much had changed due to her ongoing chemo. This was her first visit to Mexico. The lobby oozed luxury, the staff all in crisp uniforms; eventually we made our way to the elevators and finally my room. The room was

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tastefully appointed, and provided a view of the pools, the beach, and the ocean. An escape from a stressful life—a short respite. “So this is Mexico…” my friend said as she looked around. “Not really.” I answered. We had ample time to visit, and she wanted to know all about Mexico. “This is a resort, and while it is in Mexico, it is aimed at wealthy Americans, which leaves us both out of our comfort zones.” I spent a lot of time observing the Mexican staff as they worked ‘round the clock. I could hear them washing and cleaning quietly in the middle of the night, where they raked the beach, and washed the area around the pools. Even though I was given “coupons” when I checked in for discounted services at the Spa, when I went to use them, I found that they wanted a mere $95 USD for a simple mani-pedi. And of course, the coupons couldn’t be applied to them. Suffice it to say I avoided the constant barrage of Spa advertising everywhere at the resort. (Even an entire channel on the television dedicated to it.) For me, the vista was unequaled. I listened to the waves at night once the band stopped playing. One night it stormed, and from the darkness of my room, I watched lighting dance on the water performing incredible choreography. All said, the time with my friend and her daughter was one of the best gifts I’ve ever given myself. I won’t soon forget the fun of the time in the pool, the ocean waves which knocked me to the ground and spun me around. It was time to leave this fanciful place, and return to my home…in the real Mexico. Victoria Schmidt

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Some Commandments of Getting Older Courtesy of Christy Wiseman

#1 - Talk to yourself, because there are times you need expert advice. #2 - Consider “In Style” to be the clothes that still fit. #3 - You don’t need anger management. You need people to stop being idiots. #4 - Your people skills are just fine. It’s your tolerance for idiots that needs work. #5 - The biggest lie you tell yourself is, “I don’t need to write that down. I’ll remember it.” #6 - You have days when your life is just a tent away from a circus. #7 - These days, “on time” is when you get there. #8 - Even duct tape can’t fix stupid - but it sure does muffle the sound.

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#9 - Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could put ourselves in the dryer for ten minutes, then come out wrinkle-free and three sizes smaller? #10 - Lately, You’ve noticed people your age are so much older than you. #11 - “Getting lucky” means walking into a room and remembering why you’re there. #12 - When you were a child, you thought nap time was punishment. Now it feels like a mini vacation. #13 - Some days you have no idea what you’re doing out of bed. #14 - You thought growing old would take longer. #15 - Aging sure has slowed you down, but it hasn’t shut you up. #16 - You still haven’t learned to act your age, and hope you never will.

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Courage By Peter Lawrence

uis is an 11-year-old kid in Ajijic, Mexico. The first time I encountered him, he was street vending with a pleasant smile. I stopped him and asked him in Spanish how much the blueberries were. He answered me in English. It was more expensive than usual, and it didn’t look that good, either. So, I offered him the usual (lower) price I pay, but he declined with a nonchalant smile. He then continued walking with his good cheer. He formed an impression on me. I do not know why, but it is always the lowly blue-collar workers that have formed indelible impressions on me by the manner in which they carry themselves, despite the relatively poor remuneration they receive: A post-woman in Singapore, drenched

in sweat from the heat and humidity, greeting me with a smile as she delivered a piece of registered mail; a bus driver in San Jose, California, looking me in the eye and saying “Good morning” as I boarded the bus at the crack of dawn; the staff at a restaurant in Cupertino, California, cleaning the plates with a quiet smile and serenity. These are the people that constantly remind me on how I should carry myself, despite the circumstances. I don’t think I have succeeded yet in that goal, though. One definition of good cheer is ‘courage.’ It takes courage to do what needs to be done day after day with a smile, despite whether it is appreciated or rewarded appropriately. To all the ‘Luis’s’ out there: Courage!

Reflections On A Christmas Eve Some nights are like this, a glass of burgundy, candles permeating the air with lavender, a subtle nostalgia for having passed this way. I look out into the darkness, and it makes itself at home. The window on this world I am reflecting on is made of lace, from which I do not hide behind, for I view this space, with gratitude and grace. Every living cell within me carries the physical recollection of Christmas Eve, for here is a moment in time I have lived, loved, and left behind a number of times. This space of transitory occupancy, complete with worn-out habits, is like the comfort of the threadbare winter coat I don’t want to let go of. Light enters here and here butterflies are born. A child finds his way home. Words flow freely, easily, Although as wit would have it with a price to pay, this Eve is but a stop along the way, for yet another window waits upon another day.

— John Thomas Dodds — 32

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The Artistic Clay Of Tonala By Annonymous

ll over México it is possible to find artistic clay pieces, either utilitarian or decorative. Tonalá is probably the most artistic center of the whole country, where beautiful pieces have been made for centuries. The polished pottery produced in Tonalá today has its roots in pre-Hispanic cultures, like the Chupíacuro of Michoacán, 200 BC to 200 AD or the pieces found in the Tumbas de Tiro (shaft tombs) of the State sof Jalisco, Colima and Nayarit, 200 to 400 AD. Another fabulous sample is the pottery of the Tarascan culture, also of Michoacán, from 1,300 to 1 500 AD. (The political boundaries of the states do not necessarily coincide with the boundaries of the different ancient cultures.) Tonalá, a town only a few kilometers from Guadalajara, produces both decorative and practical pottery, which has become famous for its quality. The oldest and most traditional pottery and ceramic pieces from Tonalá are known as barro bruñido (polished clay) and barro de olor (aromatic clay). The first refers to the highly polished surface of the ceramic pieces, and the second suggests the aroma that this pottery gives to the liquids it may contain. They say that never a glass of water tasted better and fresher than the one which filled with water from a clay container made by the loving hands

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of an artist. The technical characteristics of polished ceramics and the tools needed to make them are practically the same today as they were centuries ago. The Museo de América, of Madrid, has some of the oldest Tonalá pieces in the world, dating back to the seventeenth century. That same museum houses the extraordinary collection of the Countess of Oñate, with almost a thousand pieces. Most were made in Tonalá during the Colonial period. Their style is a perfect example of the merging of the two cultures, the Spanish and the Mexican. The collection has large dishes, jars, vases, bowls and other objects. It is possible to detect an Oriental influence, but their decoration of fruits, vegetables, flowers and animals, has a definitive personality. The medicinal and aromatic peculiarities attributed to the raw materials used in the manufacture of the Tonalá’s ceramic and clay pieces made them very popular in the European courts of the time. A clear indication of this are the collections housed in several European museums, as well as the chronicles of the time. One of these chronicles tells how fragments of the pottery were eaten by the ladies of the court as sweets, not only to cure some illness but to perfume their breath! After the Colonial period, and when winds of change swept throughout the Republic, changes were also introduced in the Tonalá ceramics. This can be seen in the pictorial modifications. To the traditional decorative plants, flower and animal motifs, landscapes were added, in a typical taste of the times. Also, the royal crests gave way to nationalistic trends, as can be seen in the change from a popular design of the Austrian eagle which disappeared and gave its place to the Mexican eagle, with cactus and serpent. In future issues we’ll talk about the different kinds of modern pottery of Tonalá and about the influence of its artisans who have enriched a very beautiful ancient tradition.

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The Flying Flexy Brothers By Fernando Garcia Davila

“

e careful over the summer, I want to see every one of you back here next September,” warned Sister Catherine, our sixth grade teacher. We had tragically lost our classmate Phillip in a caving accident. “Let’s say our parting prayer.” Like programmed robots we stood and recited the Act of Contrition, I didn’t like praying so much in school but I was assured salvation if I died on the way home. “Good-bye Katzenjammer Kids,” said Sister, as we raced by her desk. It was the nick-name she gave my brother and me, taken from the Sunday funnies. “Goodbye, Sister, see you next year.” “What do you want to do when we get home?” asked Armando on our walk. “Burn our uniforms.” We liked making each other laugh. “Do you think you got any D’s this time?” “I don’t think so,” “Yeah, me either, ma should be happy.” When we got home we changed into jeans and walked into the kitchen. Ma served us pinto beans in broth spiced with onion and oregano with her flour tortillas on the side. Amazing how good Ma could make a simple meal taste. She shooed us out, “Andale, para afuera.”

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We were primed for an adventure, “Let’s go see what Chuckey’s doing, we’ll take the Flexy.” We inherited the four-wheeled sled from our older sister’s boy-friend. Chuckey smiled when he saw us on his porch. “Come on Chuckey, let’s ride down the hill across the street from our house,” I said. His high strung dog, Inky, trotted after us. Inky like his snotty-nosed owner was scruffy except for his obsession with keeping his genitalia clean. We got to the top of the ominous dusty dirt road. “Let’s try half way down first.” Chuckey said. Six high-top tennis shoes and four paws made their way down. “Let me go first.” I laid on the Flexy, put my hands on the steering grips, released the brake and bumped my way to the bottom. I hit the sandy wash and came to a smooth stop. “That was cool,” I smiled. My brother and Chuckey took one turn each. “Hey, let’s try a double-decker,” said Armando. He went first with Chuckey on top of him. Then I tried it with Armando on top of me. This was a lot more fun. “Let’s go to the top.” I said. We trudged up the hill and sat on the ground to catch our breath, a slight breeze carried dust up towards us. I got a brilliant idea. “Let’s do a tripledecker!” “Okay,” said my brother, jumping to his feet. Chuckey wasn’t too sure. “Gee, I don’t know, its’ awfully high, and the road is really rocky, what if we crash?” “Aw, come on, I’ll keep the brakes on.” I laid on the Flexy, my brother laid on me. Chuckey was still not sure. “Look, just hop on and see how it feels, if you don’t want to, you can get off and we’ll go down by ourselves.” He relented and got on. I released the brake. I shouldn’t have. Chuckey was right. The hill looked a lot steeper and longer as I lay on the Flexy. My brother rode with his arms resting on the sides of the Flexy where my arms would have been had I not been

steering. We were off to a fast start. Chuckey panicked, he shot his arms around our necks and pulled hard. “Chuckey, let go, I can’t breathe.” I yelled. He refused. The two bodies on top of me pushed the air out of my lungs. The bumpy ride made breathing nearly impossible. My brother was whooping in my right ear. Inky running alongside was barking in my left. Chuckey on top, screamed, “Slow down, slow down!” “I’m trying!” I yelled back. I got a mouth full of dust. The brakes were useless. We were traveling faster than I could have imagined. The vegetation on the side of the road, a blur. I tried with all my strength to keep a straight line less we topple to our deaths. I drug my tennis shoes off the end of the Flexy in a futile effort to brake. We hit a rut. The Flexy bounced, I was nearly crushed when they landed back on top of me. The Catholic Act of Contrition raced through my mind. Was this going to be the end? The wash was almost here. We were going to make it. I braced for impact. We hit the sand. The wheels stopped dead. We didn’t. We slid off the sled. The weight of the guys forced my head and arm under me to scrape along the abrasive surface. They tumbled off, did a roll, jumped up and howled. A cloud of dust enveloped us. Chuckey wiped snotty mud from his nose and mouth. Inky still barking ran in happy circles then lay down and began licking his dusty balls. I rolled over and opened my eyes. I saw a nasty scrape from wrist to elbow, my forehead stung. “Let’s do it again,” hollered Chuckey. “Heck, yeah,” answered my brother. “I think I should go home.” I said weakly. After looking at me, they agreed. We started for home, as they talked excitedly about the ride. I felt woozy. “Que te paso?” Mom asked. “We rode the Flexy down the dirt road across the street and I fell.” “Andale, al bano.” Ma washed the grit from my wounds with soap and water then applied one of her ointments and wrapped me with bandages. She told me to stop squirming as she cleaned and scolded me for being such a dummy in the first place. At dinnertime Dad asked what happened. I explained the events of the fateful ride. Hardly looking up from his meal, he raised his hand, wagged his finger and said. “No more Flexies.” Dad’s word was law. The Flexy was retired. Sister Catherine wouldn’t have to worry about the Katzenjammer Kids coming back after summer vacation.

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Carol D. Bradley

Email: cdbradleymex@gmail.com Phone: 33-2506-7525

It’s DECEMBER! My favorite time of year, and Lakeside events promise to be epic! FREEDOM CHORALE “All-Christmas Christmas Concert”

Cindy Paul’s Freedom Chorale is at it again, this time presenting a one-hour Christmas concert in three different locales: 1) Fri., Dec. 20, 5-6pm at Lakeside Presbyterian Church in Riberas; 2) Sat., Dec. 21, 5-6pm at the Ajijic Cultural Center on the plaza; and 3) Tues., Dec. 24, 2pm at the Sunrise Restaurant in San Antonio. The first two are free with donations gratefully accepted, and the last, on Christmas Eve, is a special dinner show starting at 2pm, with dinner service at 3pm (shrimp, arrachera, chicken or vegetarian options). Tickets for the matinee are $300, which includes both the live concert and your dinner. Tickets are only available at the door, and seating is first-come, first-seated, so don’t be late! Cindy’s description of the show: “Very Christmassy!” For details call 376-762-0865. Open Circle for December: December 1 Past, Present, and Future Presented by Rachel McMillen Understanding the history of our interactions with the people who were the original inhabitants of our countries, can only take us so far on the path of reconciliation. Knowing what is happening in the present can give us tools to help, but to gain knowledge that can help us weather the economic and climate storms of the future, we need to learn from the traditional beliefs of our indigenous neighbors. Rachel McMillen is an adult educator with an Honors Arts degree (English language and literature) and the author of the Dan Connor Mystery series, described by one reviewer as “mysteries with a conscience.” She and her husband spent thirty years sailing the west coast, meeting and working with the indigenous people who live there. December 8 That Aging Thing Presented by Kat Miller With age we can see our life as from a great altitude taking in a panoramic landscape, with a deepening sense of how everything is connected, including all the losses. From here we can harvest the wisdom gleaned from our lives. We can also discover inner peace, love, compassion, and gratitude at the heart of our lives. We are all going to die, all of us. This terrifies most of us. When we make peace with death we have a deeper appreciation of the ordinary small moments, surprisingly experiencing causeless joy, while also finding the magnificence of life ever more obvious. Join Kat for some ageist repudiation and reflections on how to live this stretch of life unimpeded by fear. Kat Miller, MA, currently has an active therapy practice in Ajijic, as well as out of the country. This is her 4th presentation at Open Kat Miller Circle, where she serves as weekly moderator. December 15 Música Para Crecer The San Juan Children’s Orchestra and Chorus Annual Holiday Concert Five years ago, a few community leaders in San Juan Cosalá began a music program intended to give disadvantaged at-risk children a sure and safe path to young adulthood. The students studied hard, stayed off the streets, and devoted themselves to what they most loved—music. They have traveled to music festivals and camps, encountered children of other cultures, lived with them, and made music with them. The program has transformed not only individual lives but also the village itself. The San Juan Children’s Orchestra and Chorus (Música Para Crecer) now enriches the lives of 80 children from 5 to 18 years of age. It includes 20-year-old graduates of the program who assist as teachers. Their Open Circle concert features traditional Mexican, Pop, classical, and Latin American music, with Daniel

Medeles conducting. As a non-profit civic organization, Música Para Crecer is supported solely by governmental grants and private donations. Government support for the arts has been drastically reduced under the current administration, and the orchestra is looking for generous patrons and the backing of civic organizations and businesses to help guarantee their future. Open Circle has watched them from the very beginning and has adopted them into our hearts as though they were our own. Let us continue to relish their music and do our best to assure their future. December 22 You Need to See . . . to Believe Mexico Presented by Carlos Martinez, Bryan Clark, and John Pint More than 1000 years of Meso-American cultures define México in so many ways, but the sudden influence of Spain transformed everything. New cultures emerged through a mishmash of religion and traditions. Life as it was known before changed for the inhabitants of the New Spain. 40 million people visit Mexico every year, but little do they fathom its secrets. This Sunday three experts will introduce you to what is out there only a stone’s throw away, untouched and barely on the map—natural, man-made, cultural, and culinary experiences unknown to most locals. They will reveal some of the fantastic secrets of México. John Pint, writer, professor. Passionate speleologist and nature lover. A life of exploring. Bryan Clark, always a helping hand in more than a dozen countries. Carlos Martínez, writer, professor. Passionate speleologist. Curious about everything. December 29 Let Your Light Shine! Presented by David Pisarra In a world where it is harder and harder to be heard, what can you do to make a difference? Sharing your story, wisdom, and gifts in ways that remain relevant today and tomorrow are more important than ever. This presentation will motivate and inspire you to open up and tell your tale. January 5 Caring for the Soul in Times of Chaos Presented by David Bryen Humanity is experiencing The Dark Night of the Soul! How do we address the shredding of civility and eruption of hate and polarization, without being overtaken by our own tribalism or withdrawing in fear? How do we preserve the interior dimensions of soul life when chaos preoccupies our attention? How do we thread our way between responsibility to the world and connection to the soul? But what is soul? How does it work? What does it want? How do we unlock its intelligence rather than fall prey to primitive reactions? David Bryen, during his lifetime career as a psychotherapist, became a fierce defender of the soul. In this presentation he will suggest that listening to and loving the soul is the true work of our lives. He will give ways to care for the soul and find its wisdom hidden inside. He coordinates Open Circle, is a motorcycle safety instructor, woodworker, author, and poet. The Met Live HD 2019-20 Season Join the Chapala Opera Guild ... Local dues $1,300p. Join us at MovieSpace! Place your Season Ticket Order there today. Individual performance tickets are available at the MovieSpace taquilla / Box Office. Select the

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season shows that best fit your calendar and order them for only $300 pesos per Seat. See special pricing for Guild members. Tickets are available daily at the box office. Mon - Fri 3pm - 10 pm / Sat - Sun 1 pm - 11 pm Location: Carretera Chapala - Jocotepec 206 A1, Col. Centro; Chapala, San Antonio Tlayacapan, C.P. 45922 Teléfonos: (376) 766 2580 Email: hola@moviespace.com.mx MovieSpace is in the Centro Laguna Mall across from Walmart. Ample parking lot nearby. English and Espanol Sub-Titles: Pick your language sala! Premium Foods and Beverages: Enjoy the renovated spaces with upgraded coffee bar, offering coffees, teas, wine and beer. The Days For Girls Team gets together regularly at la Bodega Restaurant to assemble sustainable menstrual kits. Each kit, from raw materials, to sewn components takes about 14 volunteer hours. The kits are then distributed to girls and women living in marginal lakeside communities, along with a ten hour education component. See www.daysforgirlslakechapala. org for more information. Days for Girls volunteers will be giving a presentation to University students visiting Lake Chapala to study the effects of Global Programs in Mexico at La Bodega restaurant, 16 de Septiembre 124, from 2:00 to 4:00 on January 11th. Come and see what this group is all about. Days for Girls is a worldwide movement that aims to break the cycle of poverty and violence against women in one of the most unexpected ways ever — by promoting access to menstrual health management and reproductive health education. Our educational component that accompaValinda Cummins, one of the nies the distribution of our kits covers hygiene, health and reproduction, family and communi- army of volunteers dedicated to ty violence, unwanted pregnancies and general Days for Girls. empowerment. When girls and women have health, education, and opportunity, communities and our world are stronger. Days for Girls helps to ensure that every girl has what she needs to succeed. Every girl. Everywhere. Period. Bare Stage Theatre presents: Paradise Lost By Erin Shields Directed by Lynn Phelan Dates: Dec. 27th, 28th & 29th “What is good, what is evil, and what lies in between?” Paradise Lost, by playwright Erin Shields and directed by Lynn Phelan, is inspired by John Milton’s epic tale of the battle between good and evil. This 21st century adaptation is an exploration of gender, patriarchy and notions of original sin. This script is brilliant, cheeky, irreverent and fiercely engaging. The cast of characters includes God, his Son, the archangels, Adam and Eve, Satan and a host of devils. It is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of Adam and Eve’s decision to eat that apple. Tickets $150 Reservations: barestagetheatre2018@ gmail.com Showtime 4 p.m. Box office & bar open at 3 p.m. Seats are Cast: Ron Mikulicic, Graham held till 3:50 p.m. Miller, Alison Palmer, Barbara Located at #261 on the mountain side of Pruitt, Diana Rowlands, Darlene the carretera in Riberas del Pilar across from the Sherwood, James Viers, Claudine Catholic Church. Please, no parking inside Baptist Church lot. Weinfeld & Tony Wilshere Please Like, Follow & Share our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/barestagetheatre2018/ Los Cantantes del Lago Holiday concerts on Tuesday 3 December at 7:00PM and

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Wednesday 4 December at 4:00PM. A Rose in Winter is guest directed by Ken Turner and features the Janus Quartet on strings. The concert is filled with beautiful pieces by a who’s who of choral composers including, Eric Whitacre, Craig Hella Johnson, Philip William Stopford and John Rutter. Tickets are available at Diane Pearl Colecciones, Mia’s Boutique, from any Los Cantantes member or by emailing loscantantesdellago@ gmail.com for reservations. The BRAVO! Theatre: Every Christmas Story Ever Told is next up at The BRAVO! Theatre. This show is just plain fun - and will start your holiday season off with a resounding HO! HO! HO!. All the stories and characters we grew up with are in the show - George Bailey, Bob Cratchit (and Bob Marley?), Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the green nosed Reingoat, and a host of other characters. The show covers fruitcake and Christmas customs from around the world. Plus there will be Christmas cookies and milk among other holiday libations at the bar! Guest director Gary S. Martinez also acts alongside Suki O’Brien and Rob Stupple in this hilariously delightfully beloved holiday classic. Mon Dec 9 - 7:30PM, Tues Dec 10 - 7:30PM, Wed Dec 11 - 4:00PM, Thurs Dec 12 4:00PM, Fri Dec 13 7:30PM, Sat Dec 14 7:30PM, Sun Dec 15 4:00PM Tickets are $300 MXN available at Diane Pearl Colecciones, Mia’s Boutique or by emailing mymytickets@gmail.com. LIP SYNC 12 and DANCE show kicks off the 2020 new year. The annual event runs Thursday, January 9th, Friday the 10th and Sunday the 12th. Tickets are available at Mia’s Boutique, Diane Pearl’s and the Auditorio. Too busy? Order tickets at ajijictickets@gmail.com The show promises to be another hit under the direction of Maestro Michael McLaughlin. The show, always a fun time for the audience, includes most of the local dancers as well as a very talented group of young Mexican kids, AND the professional dancers from the Hernandez Dance Academy in Guadalajara. Some of the artists promised to appear are Mick Jagger, Mary Poppins, Bob Hope and Donald J. Trump. Performance from LypSync 11 and Dance Show. 16th Cruz Roja classic golf Tournament was held on November 7, 2019 Talented winning team won in a count back!! From left to right, Robert Hines, John Stevenson, Jack Warren and Mark Eager are congratulated by Miguel Angel Dominguez, Delegado Estatal Jalisco, Sub Delagado Nacional Cruz Roja Mexicana. Ninety-two golfers took to the beautiful course of Country Club of Chapala, had a ton of fun, enjoyed delicious comida and picked up bargains in the silent auction. A huge thank you to the members and staff of the CCC, to our golfers, and all those who worked so hard to put together this successful event. The generosity of all these participants allows Cruz Roja Mexicana, Chapala Delegation to continue their many services to the Lakeside community. From myself and my family and the Lakeside Living team, Feliz Navidad, Merry Christmas and all the very best in the New Year to all our readers.

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Re-Gifting By Margie Harrell

e-gifting... an interesting word. Unheard of a few years ago but then the whole English language seems to have taken on a life of its own, what with all the new computer lingo out there. That’s not to say that I’m not familiar with the concept but we used to call it re-circulating white elephants. Along with less is more, I have embraced a new motto - if I can’t eat it or read it I don’t need it. Mind you, that doesn’t always work out for me as I’m still trying to unload a wheel of chili flavored cheese and three bags of beef jerky. Re-gifting isn’t only limited to the holiday season. It you have a friend/ relative who is downsizing, my advice is to steer clear of them until the move is completed. I ended up with an ugly green la-z-boy chair that took me months to get rid of. I always feel a slight twinge of guilt as I pass along some items as my memory isn’t what it used to be and there is always the slight chance it is returning home, if you get my drift. But honesty is always the best policy so when my son asked if I would mind if he exchanged the ivory chess set I gave him for a power tool, I said “go for it” as I had already turned in a gym membership he had given me for three manicures and a pedicure. Jewelry is always a great gift to give as it rarely gets recycled, although, that cocktail ring my girlfriend gave me for my birthday sure looks familiar. One

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of the pluses of the advancing years is that the mind doesn’t worry about what happened last week and enjoys the moment. Surely she won’t recognize the bath salts I gave her. Have you noticed that we tend to buy things that we would like to receive ourselves? My sister didn’t really need that sombrero grande I bought for her in Mexico but it sure would look good on my patio. I think we should have a pass-it-around theme on Christmas mornings. If you see something you like, keep passing gifts around the room until everyone has the perfect gift for them. My husband had the right idea he would admire the pretty package wrappings and then set the boxes aside unopened knowing that whatever was inside was more than he needed. We would all laugh at him but as he was difficult to buy for, he was probably right. But, take heart, all is not lost as I have discovered over the years that the one gift that never gets passed on is—a check. It saves time in guessing what size and styles the grand kids need and they can do their own shopping. Now if I can just find someone to re-gift that ten gallon hat my amigos sent me from Texas, all will be right with the universe once more. Happy Shopping! Margie Harrell

Saw you in the Ojo 47

Green Waves At Lake Chapala By Dennis A. Crump

rowing up in Ajijic as an 8-year-old and a teenager was an adventure all of its own. Something unique and different in our adventure occurred on a regular basis. And, as kids we could find the most unusual ways to entertain ourselves. This one day in particular would be no exception It was the later part of October 1959, Manzanillo and the Pacific coast of Mexico was experiencing a devastating Category 4 Hurricane developing just off the coast. Waking up to a sunny but very windy day in Ajijic, the lake was a sea of green lirio, not an unusual sight as the massive lirio islands traveled back and forth around Lake Chapala, wherever the winds blew the floating gardens of green and lavender islands. I would note that as a transplant from the coast of Louisiana, as a 7-year-old we had already experienced the fury of several hurricanes, so today’s event would be taken in stride – after all, we were inland a hundred miles from the coast and certainly on higher ground than we had been during previous hurricanes This day on Lake Chapala would be different, very different, as was our new found adventure onto the lake. By mid-afternoon, the winds blowing from the south east pushed the lirio to the north shore, completely covering the west end of the

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lake. As the wind continued to blow and increase in strength, a strange phenomenon began to evolve. The lirio began piling up against the pier and shore in waves. We just had to go to the pier for a closer look see as the waves of lirio were higher than the pier. WOW – this was something big. We found a new experience to challenge ourselves, we began to jump fully clothe from the pier onto the top of the lirio, to find that the waves would support us quite well. After a few jumps, we realized the lirio was packed so tight, that we could jump from green wave to wave further and further out into the lake without getting wet, well almost if we jumped on top of the wave careful not to slip into the valley of the green wave. We were aware that if we were not careful, we could get stuck in the valley, maybe get entangled in the long strings of roots beneath the lirio, not to see the light of day again. We all survived our new adventure, occasionally having to give the younger smaller ones in our crazy group of youngsters a helping hand when the distance from the top of one wave to the next was too far for their little legs to propel them to the next wave. It was pretty late in the afternoon as the sun began to turn to clouds and the now intense tropical storm began to proceed inland. For us kids, all was well at the end of the day in Ajijic. Here we are 60 years later, reminiscing of our unique experiences as a kid growing up in Ajijic on Lake Chapala. In the days to follow, we learned this storm became the worst storm in Mexico’s history, a record that has subsequently been surpassed by only two other hurricanes since then.

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COLUMNIST

Life Askew By Julia Galosy

Can’t Teach an Old Dog . . .

et’s start with an understanding of what we mean by Intelligence before we go on. Intelligence encompasses many related mental competencies, such as the capacities to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend ideas and language, and learn.1 As current Third Agers we were taught that creativity and intelligence are capabilities for younger people and these decline with age. However, research over the last decades has proven that the study of intelligence is more complicated and actually some aspects increase with age. Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence1 One avenue of current research is focusing on two types of intelligence, one that increases with age--crystallized—and one that seems to peak at younger ages— fluid.2 Crystallized intelligence relies on the accumulation of knowledge and experience that you can bring to bear to a new problemsolving situation. I use a variety of metaphors in my classes on Leading Organization Change because my adult learners have such a breadth of experience that they will instantly grasp and apply the key lessons from their lives to this new skill. The ability to use vocabulary and numbers improves with age. And the depth and breadth of adults’ experiences adds significantly to this type of intelligence. Contrast the level of difficulty experienced by a young person and an older person in describing a complex emotional perspective. The older person will be deeper, more precise, and clearer than the younger person. His vocabulary will be robust and his description more vivid and discerning. An added benefit of crystallized intelligence is that it provides the problem-solver with a vast

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array of tools to bring to bear on the problem, not even necessarily within the knowledge realm of the problem itself. The sheer breadth of knowledge and experience accumulated in a life time can be activated from any direction to address the problem at hand. Fluid intelligence is the ability to solve problems in unfamiliar domains using general reasoning methods. It does not rely on longterm memory nor on experience. We use this type of intelligence in a more abstract way to look for inter-relationships, patterns, evaluative aspects, and the like. Fluid intelligence declines with age. The good news is that while crystallized intelligence cannot be trained, fluid intelligence can be. The key is to challenge the way adults characteristically use their brains to force the mind into a different way of experiencing the world. If an adult is a logical problem solver, he/she should take up art or a physical activity. Older adults need to tackle completely new subjects that they have never studied. They need to learn an instrument, attend concerts, go to museums. The most important aspect is to get out of the normal comfort zone. The underlying theory is that these new activities stimulate different parts of the brain and add these to the problem solving pantheon of all Third Agers. 1 Carroll, J.B. (1993). Human cognitive abilities: A survey of factor-analytic studies. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press. 2 Cattell, R. B. (1963). Theory of fluid and crystallized intelligence: A critical experiment. Journal of Educational Psychology, 54(1), 1-22. Julia Galosy

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The Humor Solution By Katina Pontikes

oy, I could really use more doses of laughter medicine right now. I don’t think it’s my imagination that the state of the world seems to be right on the verge of catastrophe. Tension builds as I see the iPhone news updates. All the bigwigs in Washington are engaged in document hide/reveal battles on what was discovered while the FBI looked at Russia’s sway our election, threatening our Democracy. The fighting harkens back to the times of the Roman gladiators. There is the element of public spectators, only on our televisions instead of at the coliseum. The fighters, all at the

top of their games, wave papers importantly and pronounce verdicts as if each pronouncement will be a final say in where things go. Then the other side makes a counter announcement, waving their own sheaf of deciding papers. This goes back and forth, while male dominated courts are likely to decide what secrets the public will get to see. A menacing leader stands back and watches all the fighting, as if for his entertainment. “Off with their heads!” is replaced by “He’s fired!” anytime things look like they may be threatening his royal image. Droves of evacuees flee failed

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dictatorships and violence, starving, poor persons with nowhere to go, walking thousands of miles in search of better lives. We won’t let them come to the U.S. because we are pronounced “full,” right when the news is saying our birthrate is dropping and there aren’t enough millennials working to keep the social security system and Medicare functioning properly. The Brits can’t decide whether they can remain united with the rest of Europe. Peace with the Irish is now fragile. They fight amongst themselves as much as we do. Europeans are furious, for both economic and travel reasons. Life as they have known it is in jeopardy. When affairs are this filled with gravity, great humor can break the tension. Bob Hope knew this when he used to go to the hottest combat zones with comedians and starlets to lighten the moods of soldiers. His show went on for years and helped not only those in combat, but their families who watched these heartwarming, lighthearted displays on television, while they were separated from sons and daughters during holidays. In Vietnam, where soldiers were despondent, a raunchy, funny radio host became famous for making the soldiers laugh. He opened his program with a screaming “Good Morning, Vietnam!” when every morning was potential death. Robin Williams was in a movie about this controversial disc jockey and the joy he brought to the grimmest of circumstances. The cheering, laughing soldiers adored him and the irreverent rock songs he played for them. Leaders were threatened as he poked fun at the obvious. Ongoing battles for racial and female equality continue to rage on, as they have forever. Comedians lightly veil their intent by creating satirical movies such as Get Out which deals with the

challenges facing African- Americans in the U.S. This movie was a surprise smash hit, its subtle message resonating with a public exhausted from black, unarmed men being killed for sometimes doing nothing but walking to buy candy or selling cigarettes to feed their families, the value of their lives reduced to zero. Amy Schumer, the comedian, has a special on television in which she skewers sexual norms and attitudes toward women with raunchy jokes that could never have been televised twenty years ago. It’s as if she is screaming, “We are equal to men, can be as nasty as them, and by the way, we Love sex!” She makes us laugh at the fact that women are still frightening to men. Women are often absent in leadership meetings, partly because some of the men fear their power and logical questions. Also, they aren’t quite as thrilled with waging wars. Our vice president will not meet with a woman unless another man is present. I guess he is afraid of what he might do, tempted by all the free-floating hormones. How can such a thing be justified in 2019? It reduces the number of powerful meetings he will have with women. Keep them on the perimeter of the decision-making process. I see the photos of the all-men meetings around the conference tables. The photos speak volumes. What I really need in this environment is more Colbert, Maher, Noah, each giving a grim newscast and simultaneously poking fun at the stupidity of what is going on around us, much like the jokers in kings’ courts. Bring on more humor, please. For the sake of my sanity, I need to laugh. Katina Pontikes

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Sorry, Charlie! By Kathy Koches

was standing in line to get an ice cream cone the other day, when the person ahead of me ordered “nieve de tuna.” Tuna ice cream?! Now I’ve been living in Mexico for almost eight years, and I had never heard of this—yuck! It sounded awful. The girl behind the counter never batted an eye, but smiled and served the customer, handing him what looked like some sherbet. Of course I had to ask--what the heck was it and what did it taste like? Turns out “tuna” is a type of fruit or more correctly, it is a cactus flower. It most closely resembles a prickly pear in taste and it makes a delicious sherbet. I just had to try one. Not bad, I decided! When we were in Mexico City several years ago, we had the pleasure of dining at Mason del Cid. This famous restaurant serves Spanish food and the theme is El Cid, the famous Castilian nobleman and military leader in medieval Spain. While we were awaiting our feast, we were told that we would be entertained by some tuna. “Singing fish?” I thought, “Now that is really weird.” Little did I know that these tuna were students from the nearby University. In 1212, the first Studium Generale was founded in Palencia—an institution that would give rise to what we now know as universities. These “general studies” and their successors were attended by young people, including sopistas, the forerunners of the

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present-day tunas. The sopistas were poor students, who made the most of their musical talent by strolling through the towns, visiting streets, squares and convents and entertaining people in return for a bowl of soup and a few coins to help them pay for their studies. At night they played beneath balconies, serenading the women they had their eyes on. They were called sopistas not only because of the real soup their efforts were rewarded with, but also because it was often said of them that they lived de la sopa boba—a colloquial expression that is more or less equivalent to “sponging.” The tuna costume is probably one of the most characteristic and authentic parts of the whole tradition. The striking black costume has hardly changed at all over the centuries, and is very similar to the clothes worn by the original students at Spain’s first universities. Another characteristic garment is the long cape, which is clasped around the neck and flows open in front. Besides being traditional, this cape also serves to keep out the cold whenever the tuna is out serenading. The cape also provides a suitable surface for sewing the coats of arms of all the towns and countries that the tuna has visited on his travels, and is adorned with multicolored ribbons with affectionate dedications from won-over women—or even his mother. Like the tuna song goes, “cada cinta que adorna su capa guarda un trocito de corazón” (every ribbon that adorns his cape holds a piece of somebody’s heart). Do you remember the old Star Kist Tuna commercials, where poor old Charlie the Tuna was always being thrown back, as he was not good enough to be a Star Kist tuna? Somehow he always comes to mind when I hear the word “tuna.” Sorry, Charlie, not this time. But maybe if you practice your singing a little more you can join a tuna group one Kathy Koches of these days.

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London/Mexico—Wow! By Barbara Litwin

he British Museum opened a new gallery, Mexico Before the Spaniards. It is a permanent display of the Mexican treasures the British Museum has had for many years, plus some new pieces donated by Mexico and by private donors. The museography was done by Architect Teodoro González de León and it is breathtaking! He had the walls painted bloodred and he designed a dramatic pre-Hispanic shrine for the superb pieces which somehow escaped the Spanish conquerors’ iconoclasm. The Mexican sponsors, the National Council for Culture and the Arts, the National Institute of Anthropology and History, and several very important private donors, are delighted with this new gallery. Upon entering the gallery, to the right are Mixtec and Aztec creations in turquoise mosaic, the masks of Quetzalcoatl, the Plumed Serpent god, and the double-headed snake, which was worn on the chest or in a headdress, supposedly to take on the strength of the deity. Ahead is a larger than life coiled rattlesnake in stone. It is possible to admire the talent of the sculptor, who not only was an excellent artist, but also knew the viper very well: the snake’s forked tongue and the rattles in the tail are precise enough to illustrate a biology book. The gallery shows the cultures of Mexico from around 2000 BC until 1521 AD. The show makes clear the differences between the west and the east coasts and the central highlands. The magnificent display, with many masterpieces and the dramatic museography, both instructs and excites the imagination. Every piece shows the power of religion. The gods of nature reigned, helped in this world by the kings and priests who built the temples and pyramids for them and also the ball courts for ritual ball games, when the losing team

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had their heads cut off. As scholars know, bloodletting was a constant ritual in pre-Hispanic Mexico. A Maya relief from Yaxchilán shows King Bird Jaguar standing over a captive noble, who has shed blood as part of the consecration ritual. On other reliefs his wives pull ropes with thorns bound into them through their tongues. And Bird Jaguar, wearing a skull and serpent headdress, is about to pierce his penis with a perforator. There is a fine example of this perforator, made in jade, which were used to produce blood. In Western Mexico, the natives seemed gentle. They made clay figurines of fat, smiling, hairless dogs to accompany the dead on the eternal walk into the underworld. The craftsmanship of these sculptures is of extraordinary beauty and finesse. The same sensitive talent is evident in a Mixtec (1200-1521) text painted on deerskin recording the history of ancient towns. A king is shown gambling for a town on the result of a ball game. One must also notice the “Smiling Totonaca” faces. Portraits of young people, all smiling with some showing the tip of the tongue as in a mischievous gesture. One of the other magnificent pieces is the rock crystal skull, standing on a column. The detail of the sculpture reveals, again, the fine skills of the artist. A striking piece is the frightening turquoise mosaic mask of Tezcatlipoca (Smoking Mirror, one of the four Aztec creator gods). The stone pieces are fixed to a human skull: broad black and blue bands of lignite and turquoise, with white shells for teeth, and polished iron pyrites for the eyes, achieve a piece of unusual beauty. Mexicans visiting London have expressed the pride they feel, as we all do, at seeing such a magnificent display of Mexico’s ancient history in one of the most visited museums in all of the world.

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On The Road Again By Dr. Lorin Swinehart

“

t’s better to wear out than to rust out.” Grandpa Swinehart One warm spring evening in 2018, my wife LaVon observed, “I can’t see the stars here,” referring to light pollution obliterating the night sky of our home in Wilmington, North Carolina. At that point, we began to ponder, to plot, to plan. First, we traded our Toyota Sienna van in on a more robust Toyota Four Runner. Then, last January, we purchased a 25-foot Apex Nano travel trailer. We were almost ready to hit the road. Over the course of the past year, we discarded nearly everything we owned. Our Amish made furniture

went to consignment and soon sold. Other items were sold off over the internet. What could not be sold was donated to Goodwill and to some veterans groups. What could not be sold or donated was thrown away. We had towing weight limitations, no room for the extraneous. Thoreau preached, “It is desirable that a man be clad so simply that he can lay his hands on himself in the dark, and that he live in all respects so compactly and preparedly, that, if an enemy take the town, he can, like the old philosopher, walk out the gate emptyhanded without anxiety.” I find that possessions become like a back pack filled with rocks, weighing

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down the soul and rendering a life of adventure nearly impossible. A demented family featured in a Rubbermade TV ad some years ago comes to mind. “We have too much stuff,” they wailed, until they purchased storage units to cache it all in, causing them to caterwaul, “We need more stuff.” And yet, minimizing and downsizing is easier said than done. As frustration mounts, one is sorely tempted to simply throw everything overboard and run off screeching into the night. What to do about this or that? In the best of lives, one would have no “this or that” to figure out what to do with. And yet, envelopes filled with old photographs and newspaper clippings, bits and pieces of memorabilia, aging diplomas, odds and ends demand our attention, appeal to our consciences that we not consign them to the landfill. Thoreau spoke of three interesting pieces of limestone that he had picked up on one of his rambles, only to find that they required daily dusting, while his mind remained undusted. He flung the offending stones away in disgust. Twice in the course of my 77 years, I have done that, without the screeching part, of course. On one occasion, other than a plastic bag of clothing, I had only two fishing rods, an old pair of binoculars and a coffee pot. For several years,

my possessions consisted only of that which fit comfortably inside a single small room with a single small closet in park ranger quarters. And, there was no clutter. I have an almost congenital intolerance for clutter. The Asian concept of Feng Sui resonates with me, for clutter gouges a gaping wound in the soul. Our new lifestyle required relocation, from coastal North Carolina to the American West, across the Wide Missouri. We are now officially South Dakotans. I find the Black Hills, sacred country to the Lakota Sioux, much to my liking, a place of unmatched natural beauty with deep spiritual connections. Meeting herds of wild buffalo is a highly emotional experience. Echos of boyhood daydreams of riding the range with such movie cowboy heroes as Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Hopalong Cassidy, the Lone Ranger go scampering across the field of my imagination. St. Francis advised that the man who has nothing has everything. I suspect that the person who belongs nowhere belongs everywhere, but I have yet to arrive satisfactorily at that state of mind. Our travels will take us to the Far West, into the South and deep into the North Woods on both sides of the border with our neighbor Canada; “Friendly, Foreign, Familiar and Near,” as the old travel promos used to say. A sedentary lifestyle is fatal to anyone of any age but particularly so for those of my advanced years. My Grandpa Swinehart, who lived solo on his 68-acre farm and took daily treks with his dog until the ripe old age of 92, advised that one is far better off to wear out than to rust out. It is too easy to rust out. Wearing out, at any age, takes energy and dedication, not to mention a bit of planning. I am hoping to wear out but not for years to come. Lorin Swinehart

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On a Local Tour in Guatemala By Michael McLaughlin

1974 My mother asked, “Why you leaving again? You just got back from the jungle. When I didn’t answer she added, “And they got volcanoes to those jungles down there.” I mumbled I was going to search for new gods. Then I was on a local bus in Guatemala. I had just left a village with an unpronounceable Maya name with four Zs, three Is and two Os. I was headed to Antigua and had been nine hours on the road from Tapachula, Mexico. Now we traveled in the fool’s gold light and the long sharp angles through the green jungle of twilight. The moment in time between gods of light and dark, when malevolent spirits came to life.

I was scrunched in a seat with two women and a baby. The heat enveloped us all in a sticky menacing embrace. A take-no-prisoners heat. Add body odor, earthy vegetables, and burning engine oil and we all clung to life in the bus tempest. When the bus reached a certain speed and wind drove out the heat devils, people sprang to life like they were temperature controlled. Then the world was sweet and alive. Wind gods ruled. The bus was filled with miniature Maya women and men who wore gray cotton, straight dresses and worked cutting and clearing the jungle. They kept their work machetes by their sides in scabbards with leather fringe. All

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the men were lean and sinuous; there was not a harder body on planet Earth. Their faces and arms were a rich reddish, chocolate tan. Their hair short and stuck out in shiny patches saturated with coconut oil. With my head down I could feel their stares. When I looked up I wasn’t about to make friends with pleasant smiles. I had my game face on, that is, I had my blue-eyed white, game face on. I fantasized I was the vanilla god Quetzalcoatl to these chocolate Maya. The bus raced down the road, the fastest it traveled all day. With my head down and eyes closed, wind blasting my long hair, that took wings and it made you feel weightless. Nothing could stop me now — the vanilla god and chocolate Maya speeding through time and space. But quickly the bus slowed and once again into the agonizing heat and humidity. This time the driver turned off the engine and with a lever, cranked open the bus door. That sound quieted the bus. I could feel it again. I looked out the window and we were surrounded by camouflaged soldiers with M16s. The bus door squealed open and armed soldiers got on. They walked down the bus aisle looking around with exaggerated close inspections. The Maya looked straight ahead and

did not move. That’s when I knew my practiced steely look of the ancient mariner would not rescue me. My white face and blue eyes would betray me. And not even being a vanilla god would save me. Next I was out standing alongside the bus surrounded by soldiers in jungle fatigues. The soldiers fished in the large cargo compartment under the bus until they found my backpack. I noticed I was wearing my black boots I got in basic training. Not a good fashion choice. I looked up and all the windows were brown faces smooched against glass staring down at the armed soldiers and the fate of the god Quetzalcoatl. The Maya and I knew different gods were prayed to when you are a soldier. The soldiers ransacked my backpack like children on a sugar high on Christmas morning opening presents. They pulled out whatever I had, looked it over and threw it to the ground. But they found nothing of interest. Keeping my head down and humbly on one knee, I hurriedly stuffed the dirty clothes back into my backpack. I tossed it into the storage compartment under the bus. When I got on the bus I turned to walk down the aisle and looked up and froze. Everybody was staring at me with wide eyes and open mouths. They stared at their god and waited for the holy words. I paused, smiled and said loudly, tapping my breast to indicate self, “Che Guevara.” They all smiled and some covered their mouths. The Maya are an easy audience. Then the bus engine snarled to life and faster and faster we hurtled into the deep twilight of the jungle. I was lost to the world. The way I wanted it to be for Michael awhile. McLaughlin

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Bailes Con Chihuahuas By Bill Sheehan

s we step out into the early morning darkness, she’s afraid that I’m going to get lost or do something stupid so the dog makes me hold on to one end of the leash so she can lead me home if I go terribly astray. The streets are quiet save for the roosters calling out their morning prayers, and the only other sign of life is the flash mob of street dogs appearing, disappearing in the spotlight of the street lamps as they rush frantically, noses to the ground, back and forth across the cobblestones. The narrow view down this Mexican street as night meets day and

the pink rip in the sky slants toward orange, makes me question once again, “Did I forget to unplug the toaster?” I’ve seen this before. Was it the footage of the wildfires raging across California, or that spectacular pipeline explosion in Texas? It makes me wonder if Dante Alighieri once lived here. Was this the ethereal light that he struggled to describe in the final canto of the Paradiso? Did Homer walk his dog here, too, in the early morning hours but neglect to mention Ajijic as the forgotten town in the Odyssey as the source of the repeated epithets extolling the “rhododactylos Eos,” the “rose fingered dawn”?

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Some mornings arrive as an explosive spectacle, a fiery chariot drawn by powerful horses blazing into the sky accompanied by the endless scheming and chattering of Homer’s gods, this morning she appears as a waif, pale and thin, arriving silently, hesitantly, a lonely refugee from the night. Still, not a bad way to start the day. We follow the malecon home but our morning tango is brought to an abrupt halt as we stroll onto the bridge and nearly fall into the arroyo. The entire structure is deteriorating. The surface looks more like a cheese grater than a bridge, with several holes large enough to swallow a small dog. We approach the largest hole and stare into the void half expecting to find a Wile E. Coyote clinging precariously to the edge of the abyss, or perhaps, I thought, this is the opposite end of Dante’s extraordinary poem, the place that inspired the opening cantos of The Divine Comedy, and I kneel down placing my ear close to the hole, listening for the eldritch voice of Virgil murmuring an invitation to descend into the nine circles below. I think about trying to block off the hole or at least put up a warning sign, but all I can find is a large paper cup. I think about scrawling a message on it and placing it over the hole, “Lasciateognesperanza, voich’intrate,” “Abandon hope, all ye who enter here,” but I figure the message along with the cup would be lost. Safe at home, as the dog nudges aside the cat and heads for her water bowl, I sit with my coffee, and relate our morning adventure to my wife and I’m delighted to hear that the Garden Guild, of which she is a member, is (not surprisingly) way ahead of me on the need for bridge repair. Apparently it was guys like me, at least partially, that the Garden Guild had in mind when they decided weeks ago that the two bridges on the malecon were in dire need of re-

pair. Too many aging and daydreaming husbands wandering aimlessly down the malecon was just one of the reasons this concerned and dedicated group of women decided to raise the money and forge the necessary partnerships to eliminate any abrupt intrusion on our contemplations, or fatal pause to our many distractions, by eliminating as many hazards from our lives as possible, as helpfully suggested in the latest issue of AARP. But of course there is always a larger, more communal purpose to the projects that the Garden Guild takes on. The malecon is, in many ways, the heart and soul of Ajijic. It’s a place for families to gather and celebrate on Sundays, for kids to skateboard, to play soccer and basketball, it’s a place for watercolorists to use the swaying palm trees to frame the riders on horseback, the dog walkers, the lovers on a bench, the row of fishermen lined up along the shore jousting with the pelicans for the best catch of the day. And despite the crowds it’s also a place of solitude, a place to get away from the bustle and dust of the village streets, a place to daydream, to sort memory from imagination, remembrance from desire. The bridge, like the hole in it, is of course a metaphor for many things. It’s a meeting place, an outstretched hand, a possibility. Caring for and building bridges whether across arroyos, across cultures, or to the future of the community is something the Garden Guild has excelled at for many years, and this latest project will be no exception. So the dog and I look forward with great anticipation to the completion of the project in the next few weeks when we can stroll the malecon once again, crossing the bridges without being provoked to contemplate the void, but instead turn all our attention to yet another spectacular rosefingered dawn. Our dance card is full and we practice the notorious eight-step sequence each morning from salida to resolución. But the leash is still a problem when we try “leading the cross” so I practice hard in the hope that one day perhaps the dog will let me leave home without it. Sheehan Bio: Born and raised in Boston, educated in Washington D.C. and after several intermittent stops moved to the Pacific Northwest. After a lifetime of traveling the world and sure that we would retire to Chaing Mai or Goa, my wife and I bought a home in Ajijic in 2011 and have never looked back.

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LA MALINCHE —Harlot or Heroine? By Shep Lenchek

a Malinche, Slave, Interpreter, secretary, mistress, mother of the first Mexican, her very name still stirs up controversy. Many Mexicans continue to revile the woman called Doña Marloa by the Spaniards and La Malinche by the Aztecs, labeling her a traitor and a harlot for her role as the alter-ego of Cortes as he conquered Mexico. They ignore that she saved thousands of Indian lives by enabling Cortes to negotiate rather than slaughter. Her ability to communicate also enabled the Spaniards to introduce Christianity and attempt to abolish human sacrifice and cannibalism. Herself a convert, baptized Marina was an eloquent advocate for her new faith. As for the charges against her, they are in my opinion baseless. So let us reexamine this remarkable woman and examine the laws. All historians agree that she was the daughter of a noble Aztec family. Upon the death of her father, a chief, her mother remarried and gave birth to a son. Deciding that he rather than Marina should rule, she turned her young daughter over to some passing traders and thereafter proclaimed her dead. Eventually, the girl wound up as a slave of the Cacique (the military chief ) of Tabasco. By the time Cortes arrived, she had learned the Mayan

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dialects used in the Yucatan while still understanding Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs and most non-Mayan Indians. La Malinche did not choose to join Cortes. She was offered to him as a slave by the Cacique of Tabasco, along with many other young women. She had no voice in the matter. Up till then, Cortes had relied on a Spanish priest, Jeronimo de Aguilar, as his interpreter. Shipwrecked off Cozumel, Aguilar spoke the Mayan language as well as Spanish. But when the expedition left the Mayanspeaking area, Cortes discovered that he could not communicate with the Indians. That night, he was advised that one of the women given to him in Tabasco spoke “Mexican.” Doña Marina now enters Mexican history. It was she who served as the interpreter for all the first meetings between Cortes and the representatives of Moctezuma. At that time Marina spoke no Spanish. She translated what the Aztecs said into the Mayan and Aguilar translated to Spanish. The process was then reversed, Spanish to Mayan and Mayan to Nahuatl. Bernal Díaz, author of The Conquest of the New Spain authenticated her pedigree. An eyewitness to the events, he did not describe her physically, but related that after the Conquest he attended a reunion of Doña Marina,

her mother and the half-brother who had usurped her rightful place. Diaz marveled at her kindness in forgiving them for the injustice she had suffered. The author referred to her only as Marina or Doña Marina. So whence the name La Malinche? Diaz said that because Marina was always with Cortes, he was called Malinche which the author translated to mean Marina’s Captain. Prescott in the Conquest of Mexico, (perhaps the bestknown book on the subject) confirms that Cortes was always addressed as Malinche which he translated as captain and defined La Malinche as “the captain’s woman .” Both definitions confirm that the Indians saw Cortes and his spokeswoman as a single unit. They recognized that what they heard were the words of Malinche, not La Malinche. So much for the charge that she was a traitor, helping to instigate the destruction of the Aztec Empire. As for the charge of harlotry, it is equally flawed. She was totally loyal to Cortes, a one-man woman who loved her master. Cortes reciprocated her feelings. Time after time he was offered other women but always refused them. Bernal Diaz frequently commented on the nobility of her character and her concern for her fellow Mexicans. It is very possible that without her, Cortes would have failed. He himself, in a letter preserved in the Spanish archives, wrote that “ . . . after God we owe this conquest of New Spain to Doña Marina.” Doña Marina progress from interpreter to secretary to mistress, as well as her quick mastery of Spanish, is remarkable—and all this amidst the turmoil of constant warfare, a time when a woman less courageous and committed might well have fled. As Cortes moved toward the Aztec capital, a pattern evolved. First conflict, then meetings in which Doña Marina played a key role in avoiding more bloodshed. Hence the picture of Marina that emerges is that of an intelligent, religious, loyal woman. In more recent times the term Malinchista has been used by some to describe those who dislike Mexicans. But Doña Marina deserves better. A fearless, loyal and determined woman, she was a heroine who helped save Mexico from its brutal bloodthirsty rulers — and in doing so she played a major role in fashioning what is today one of the most dynamic societies in all of Latin AmeriShep Lenchek ca.

Saw you in the Ojo 65

RON NAPIER (1921-2019) —A Long and Joyful Life From interviews with Margaret Van Every during the spring of 2019

ast February some 20 celebrants gathered to pay tribute to a beloved friend with champagne, fine wines, hors d’oeuvres, and two cakes—one a rich, creamy tiramisu, the other a vegan concoction special ordered for the honoree. Happy Birthday and Las Mañanitas were given equal time, and that is how Ron Napier ushered in his 98th year. The party ended August 23, 2019, joyful until the last, even through the pain. Ron said he was watching the process of his own dying like a curious spectator. Though disease slowed his frail body, the brain never slacked off. A week before the end, he played his recorders better than ever, recited from heart all sixty lines of Robert Browning’s “Porphyria’s Lover,” and then many more lines from some antique ballad in Erse (Scottish Gaelic). The eve of his final exit, he sent his last emails. From all appearances, he came across as a quiet English gentleman. Only the long, unruly hair belied a gentle rebel. To know Ron was to love him, but few really ever knew this modest man who seldom spoke of himself. He was a curiosity—a brilliant mind with no formal education beyond high school; where music was concerned, a self-taught encyclopedic mind. Richard Napier and Doris Hills were Londoners who met as teenagers at the beginning of WWI. They were in the RAF and WRAF, had an affair, and Ron was born in February 1921. Under pressure from grandparents, a wedding took place several months later. Ron says his childhood was uneventful except that his grandfather, a publisher in Buenos Aires, retired to London with a gramophone in his stateroom trunk, a new technology that introduced young Ron to the miracle of recorded music. When Ron was 12 his father enrolled him in George Watson’s College, Edinburgh, the Dad’s own alma mater. There Ron spent the next five years. He was sent off to school with a portable gramophone and a wireless. Through these devices he developed his life-long passion for music. When-

ever the curriculum required that he buy textbooks, he would send home for the money but spend it on gramophone records. He completed school in 1938 as WWII was looming. When his conscription call-up came he chose the RAF and was trained in radar, then a technological innovation. In 1942 he was posted on the south eastern coast of what is now Bangladesh in a mobile ground controlled interception unit. Waiting several years for action that never occurred was the only boredom of his life, he observed, relieved only twice by malaria and taking sick leave in Darjeeling. After the second bout of malaria he joined a unit on Ramree Island off the Burma coast. By this time the war in Europe had ended (May 1945), but the Japanese surrendered in September of that year. He was sent to Calcutta for a few months on a desk job, then sailed home on January 1st, 1946. On return Ron found that his parents were preparing to move to the Canary Islands and were living temporarily in a hotel. They arranged for Ron to stay with friends, a German Jewish businessman and his German wife, an operatic soprano who had been studying with the famous tenor Dino Borgioli. Gerda Nielsen was her professional name. Despite a 14-year age gap, Gerda and Ron “became very fond of each other” and after a while, Gerda left her husband to live elsewhere. Ron and Gerda married in 1947. Ron’s mother refused to recognize the marriage and mercilessly harassed the newlyweds, motivating

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

them to leave England. Another contributing factor was that rationing in England frustrated Ron’s attempts to start a mail order business in collectors gramophone records. Gerda had relatives in Buenos Aires and Ron was keen to go there because his father had been born there. So one morning he headed for the Argentine consul to enquire about immigration, but that day was a holiday and the consulate was closed. On his way there Ron had passed Canada House and remembered that Gerda had spent some time in Canada with her first husband and had acquired British citizenship. He phoned her and suggested they go to Canada instead of Argentina and she was agreeable. In July 1948 they sailed for Canada, and Toronto became his home for the next 35 years. Gerda taught singing, and after a few odd jobs Ron was able to open a music store. After five years he sold the store and went to work for BMI Canada, a performing rights organization and music publisher. From ’59-’69 he was head of publishing and thereafter was manager of Concert Music Administration. He started with BMI on his 35th birthday in 1956 and retired in 1984. “Since I so loved music, it was a kind of play for me and it landed me right inside Gerda’s world. It involved meeting composers and musicians of all kinds. I had a double subscription to the symphony and attended music conferences in Canada, the U.S.A., and abroad. I met musicians as diverse as Leopold Stokowski and Igor Stravinsky and got to know Yehudi Menuhin and Diana quite well.” In 1976 Gerda became ill with what they belatedly discovered was cancer. Ron engaged a caregiver to stay with her while he went to work. As Christmas approached, the caregiver wanted to be with family elsewhere so she arranged for her friend Winnifred McIntosh to take her place. Win and Gerda got along quite well, to the extent that before Gerda died she said to Ron, “You should marry Win when I’m gone. Gerda died after 30 years of marriage and Win and Ron did get married. Ron retired from BMI in 1984 and a few years later the couple moved to Vancouver where Ron started his own music publishing business, the Avondale Press. Win and Ron were friendly with Michael and Marianne Warren, and visited a few weeks with them in Ajijic. They were seduced by the charm of Mexico and decided to move there themselves. Ron sold the Avondale Press in 2005 and they immigrated shortly afterward. Ron brought with him an unusual collection of mostly Baroque composers of chamber mu-

sic, which has been the delight of local musicians ever since. The collection features the well-known classics of that era but also lesser known composers—Janitsch, Quantz, Pepusch, Fasch, and others. They bought a house near Ajijic with mountain and lake views, which they enjoyed a few years, then moved closer to Ajijic for convenience. Their means of transportation, which served most of their needs over the cobblestone streets, was an electric golf cart. Win died in 2017 after 40 years of marriage. Ron Ponders His Longevity “As to diet, I think it’s been proven that meat is not the best source of protein. I haven’t eaten meat for about 50 years. Now that I’ve been vegan for over a year I eschew all animal products, and I feel so much better, both physically and morally, if I can say that. It is reassuring to know that as a vegan I am not personally responsible for the appalling way that animals are bred to be slaughtered in horrible conditions. . . . Then there is the fact that the vast tracts of land used to produce food for animals could be much better employed in growing food for people. As to water, of which I drink little, it has been pointed out that if one eats plenty of fruits and vegetables—which are my main diet, one gets sufficient fluid. I drink tea, too, and relish some wine each day! “I happen to have lived a long time, which is probably due largely to good genes. I found out recently that my father lived to 85 and my mother 88. Perhaps the most important contributing factor to my longevity is that I was fortunate enough to have led an interesting, satisfying life . . . and can say that my life as I approach 100 continues to be so. I live among interesting people and engage in activities that challenge my intellect. I play my recorders with a Baroque ensemble that rehearses weekly and I find joy in a weekly Scrabble match paired with someone of my own level. I belong to the Freethinkers who get together each month for a lively discussion. For years I have invited music-loving friends to share great music performances on television most Sundays. Engaging with friends in activities that I love goes far in keeping me happy and mentally fit. Continuing to do the things I like to do, I never get bored. Philosophy of life? I’d say, ‘enjoy myself.’” The Ron Napier Digital Music Library, currently in the works, will make his rare collection of mostly Baroque composers accessible to the entire community. Stay tuned for details.

Saw you in the Ojo 67

On Religion And Rationality By Fred Mittag

ome really fine people are religious, my maternal grandparents among them. But I think they are wrong to believe their faith is a source of moral guidance, because one easily finds moral behavior throughout other traditions than Christianity. Even ancient pagan literature is rich with moral values and discussions of what constitutes good character. It seems these good people of various religious faiths are that way for reasons entirely outside their faith, for faith can also be exceedingly dangerous. And it can be powerful. There have been Christians fed to the lions for refusing to renounce their faith. Jews have been thrown into pits of burning logs in Medieval Europe for refusing to convert to Christianity. And, of course, Muslim tradition has produced some bizarre practices, as well. Surely one of the most extreme examples of how far wrong faith can go was the Spanish Inquisition. I have visited the Museum of Torture in Mexico City several times. It’s unbelievable the instruments of torture they used, too hideous to describe. There are descriptive notes throughout the museum and there is one corner with a small table and a few chairs. A plaque explains that priests sat there and drank tea and conversed, ignoring the screams of agony around them. That’s how strongly they believed they were doing the work of the Lord

César Chávez

by ferreting out heretics. Nearby is a beautiful park where people stroll and sit and visit. Young couples use the park for courting. But there was a day when that park was where heretics were burned at the stake, very near the Museum of Torture. There is ample evidence in history to tell us that faith can go terribly evil just as easily as not. A far more reliable source of moral behavior is the use of critical thinking skills and a reliance on scholarship and principles of humanism. If moral behavior is instilled by Sunday sermons, then the person can be moral only so long as he or she is exposed to the Sunday exhortations and reminders to be good. But if one arrives at moral values through thinking, they are internalized and such a person needs no Sunday reminders to do good. That’s the difference. Religion provides external motivation, while an independently thinking person relies on internal motivation. A religious person represents the church, while a secular humanist represents only himself or herself. Ideology is the first cousin to religion. Indeed, there’s hardly any difference at all. They are more like identi-

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

cal twins. My own definition, learned from Jim Hightower in an interview with Bill Moyers, is that ideology is faith in spite of the facts, while religion is faith based on no facts at all. But they overlap a lot. For example, religion can also be practiced in the face of contrary facts. The Catholic Church did this for centuries, even after Galileo had set the facts straight. Much religion today is based on faith in spite of the facts of biology and geology. A major difference between liberal and conservative is that liberals can think, analyze, learn, and seek progressive solutions. Conservative means just what it says, an unwillingness or inability to change, to think, analyze, and find solutions. A major and very important example of this is our economy. People who think and are educated know exactly what to do. The economy needs stimulus, it needs a jobs bill. But the conservatives don’t think and analyze, nor can they think in terms of finding solutions. They want to stay just where they are and do nothing – they say, let the free market take care of the economy. Well, that’s not working. Their ideology gets in the way of any progress, and here we are, with a still stagnant economy. It’s a great shame, when things could be so much better with the right policies. Free market ideas are quite destructive, by the way, but that’s what conservatives believe in. The 2008 crisis is an example. The Savings and Loan Crisis (S&Ls) of the 80s was a direct result of Ronald Reagan’s deregulation policies (get government off our backs). And “Government is not the solution; government is the problem.” The unregulated Chicago slaughterhouses were the problem. Government regulation was the solution. Unregulated banking is what caused the Great Depression; government regulation was the solution. That regulation came in the form of the Glass-Steagall Act in 1933, in reaction to the Great Depression. Former U.S. Senator Phil Gramm (Republican, Texas), representing banking interests, cleverly slipped in a repeal of Glass-Steagall. And to his lasting discredit, Bill Clinton signed it. That led directly to the 2008 economic crisis and huge unemployment. Phil Gramm now has a lucrative position with one of the biggest banks in the world as his reward for the repeal of Glass-Steagall—another example of the “revolving door.” The conservative capacity to believe their ideology in spite of the facts more often than not leads to total misinformation. Their ideological faith overwhelms science and all

evidence, as they try to reshape the world to their own vision. This brings me to the notorious Texas State Board of Education. They set standards for Texas school books, and try to control the content so as not to educate children, but to brainwash them in the conservative mold. Among the controversies is their attempt to include biblical creationism, by presenting evolution as only an alternate theory; and of course, to cast doubt on the geological knowledge of the earth as being several billion years old. They want to plant the real possibility of a young earth of only 6,000 years. You know – more like what the “infallible” Bible says. And social studies are another area of ideological interest to conservatives. They wanted to downplay progressives, such as Martin Luther King and César Chávez, and promote people like Joe McCarthy and Phyllis Schafly. In November, the Texas State Board of Education (TSBE) will select social studies textbooks. Scholars have reviewed the books now under consideration and have found serious distortions of history and contemporary issues, ranging from religion and democracy to the free enterprise system and affirmative action. Another independent review by university scholars found the same distortions and factual inaccuracies. The sorry quality of textbooks under consideration by the TSBE goes back four years when the Board was even more conservative than now. They set standards that publishers are hoping to satisfy for the huge Texas market. Now publishers are suffering criticism for the low quality of scholarship and accuracy encased between those book covers. I’m convinced that blind faith in both religion and ideology is dangerous and can lead to all kinds of bizarre beliefs, even handling live poisonous snakes, from which practitioners occasionally die. It leads to a failure to properly educate children to think, filling them instead with propaganda. Indeed, the Texas State Republican Party is officially opposed to the teaching of critical thinking skills, for fear that thinking people are dangerous to their ideology – as indeed they are. The best way to lead our lives is to be guided by science, inspired by art, and motivated by compassion— and to keep religion and ideology out of our government and out of our schools. Fred Mittag

Saw you in the Ojo 69

The Beating By Tom Nussbaum

“

he man is hitting the boy,” Elena told the bus driver with urgency. “We need help him. That man is—” “What man?” the driver interrupted, looking into the rear-view mirror. “In blue shirt. With flowers on”…Elena paused a nanosecond…”on tee.” She ran her hand down her chest indicating a tie. “Yes. I see him. But there is no boy.” “Yes. No boy. Boy at house, I think. He say he hit boy many times. Other man laugh.” “I don’t understand, ma’am.” “Sorry. I don’t speak English good.” Elena was headed to an evening English class in rush hour traffic. “It is no easy.” “Oh, I understand you, ma’am. But I don’t understand what it has to do with us or what you want me to do about it?” The driver sounded perturbed. “Tell police.” “I can’t do that. I’m behind schedule and traffic is really bad. Besides, there is no boy. Did you see the man hit a boy?” “No.” Frustration rose in Elena’s voice. “Boy at home. I say this to

you one time. Is not good to hit the childrens.” “No. It isn’t, ma’am. But it isn’t right to involve the police when you don’t know what’s happen—” “Tell man you call police.” “Ma’am, I can’t do that. As far as I can see, that man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Elena reached into her purse. “OK. I call the 911. That man hit boy hard. Many times. He say that. Other man laugh. Say good to teach lesson.” “OK, ma’am,” the driver said, “we’re coming to a transfer point. I’ll go back and ask him. But my passengers aren’t gonna be happy. They wanna go home.” “Boy is more important.” The bus pulled up to the stop and the back door opened, releasing a flood of passengers. But the driver did not open the front door. Instead, he motioned to the cluster of people waiting to board that it would be a moment. Once the passengers at the back of the bus had exited, the driver closed the door and shut down the bus. He dashed toward the man in the blue shirt and floral tie. Passengers looked up from their cell phones. Others turned their at-

tention from the world outside their windows to the commotion inside. Grumbles of “What’s going on?” bubbled through the bus. The accused man looked up with surprise as the driver neared. “Sir, this woman,” and the driver motioned to Elena as she caught up to him, “says she heard you say you had hit a boy many times.” The man looked puzzled. “What? I didn’t say that. What? No. It must be some kind of mistake.” “You say you hit boy yesterday. That man” and Elena pointed to the man sharing the seat, “laugh. Hitting childrens not funny.” “Of course, it isn’t But why do you think I hit someone?” “You say you beat boy yesterday. I hear you. I no understand ‘beat,’ but” and Elena waved her phone around, “translator app say ‘golpear.’ You hit boy many times.” A loud impatient knock from the front door echoed through the bus. Angry voices accompanied it. Both were ignored. The man’s seatmate started to laugh, “Oh my god, Kyle. She thinks you beat Zachery. You said you beat him yesterday.” “I did?” Kyle’s eyes leaped from thoughtful squint to sudden realization. “Yes, of course I did say that.” He started to laugh. “Oh, this is such a misunderstanding. I was telling Mitch here that my elevenyear-old son has discovered chess and I beat him yesterday.” “Seňora,” Mitch said in perfect Spanish, “’beat’ tiene dos significados. Golpear es ‘beat’ como” and he made a hitting motion. “Y derrotar es como en una juego o guerra.” ”Derrotar? Is like the winning in game?” Elena’s face reddened. “Oh dios. Lo siento. I am sorry. I only hear child in trouble. I do not like. I think hitting have to stop.”

CORRECTION, PLEASE! On page 32 of our November issue, we published an article entitled The Coon Hunt at Maple Grove and attributed it to “Linda Hart.” The writer was Linda Steele. We greatly regret the error.

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

Kyle smiled. “But that took courage,” he said. “It was the right thing to do. You did what you thought needed to be done. To be safe. No apology is necessary. You just misunderstood.” Mitch shook his head. “How ironic!” he said with a smile. “Its Cinco de Mayo when we celebrate a ragtag Mexican army giving the French a beating.” “OK, then, the bus driver said with relief. Problem solved.” He glanced at his watch, then looked around. “Sorry, folks.” He dashed to his seat and opened the front

door. “Minor problem, but it’s all good now,” he called out the door as the queue of commuters boarded. “Now, let’s hit the road.” Tom Nussbaum has lived in Ajijic since 2015. He is from Seattle where he worked as a special education instructor. He has written several novels and a memoir. Tom Nussbaum

Saw you in the Ojo 71

The Ojo Crossword

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

ACROSS

DOWN

1 __ con carne 6 Tempo 9 Part of speech 13 Relating to zones 14 Constellation 15 Juliet´s boyfriend 16 Void 17 Lodge 18 Book by Homer 19 Studied a book 20 Untracked 22 Chance 23 Concord e.g. 24 Acid 25 Brand of sandwich cookie 27 Lukewarm 29 Change from prose to metrical 33 Also known as (abbr.) 34 Possessive pronoun 35 Aching 36 Cowboy John 39 Legume 40 End 41 Small ground plot 42 Coral reef 43 Sprite 44 Souce (2 wds.) 46 Played 49 Painter of melting clocks 50 Whiz 51 Nothing 53 Flange 56 Seize 58 Elemental 59 Taken __ (shocked) 61 Not (prefix) 62 Female parent 63 Dizzy 64 Remind 65 Creep 66 Avails 67 Omega 68 Count

1 Despots 2 Frank 3 Inherent 4 Worship 5 Queasy 6 Hunter concealment 7 Penned 8 Capital of Liberia 9 Volume (abbr.) 10 Give off 11 Raise 12 Corpse 15 Addendum 20 U.S. Department of Agriculture 21 Mined metals 24 Enjoy 26 Change into bone 28 Gasped for air 30 Charged particle 31 Last day of the wk. 32 Aye 34 __! (call attention) 36 Words per minute 37 Wing 38 Talk 39 Opp. Anxious & rush 40 Ice sheet 42 Tiny body part 43 __ -a-sketch (child´s toy) 45 Strange 47 Metal paint 48 Dreary 50 Pimpled 52 Holey 53 Prego´s competition 54 Wading bird 55 Caused 57 Part of speech 58 __ fide 60 Discs 62 Clock time

Joyful Musings By Joy Birnbach Dunstan MA, LPC, MAC

ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN Church Worship Service and Sunday School at 11:00 am 4600 Avenida Tepeyac, Guad. Tel. (01 333) 121-6741.

(From the Ojo Archives)

Good Sex is Good for You!

n his book Sexual Healing, Dr. Paul Pearsall, Director of Behavioral Medicine at Detroit’s Beaumont Hospital, writes that the joys and pleasures of intimate loving may provide us with something called an “intimacy inoculation” that actually protects us from disease. When we experience mutually caring sexual intimacy, it can trigger a measurable change in neuro-chemicals and hormones that pour through the body and help promote health and healing. Here’s just a few of the many benefits researchers have identified for an active sex life: Sex relieves stress. Regular sex results in lower blood pressure and overall stress reduction. (Don’t worry if you don’t have a sexual partner: other research shows that even hugs are helpful in lowering blood pressure.) Sex boosts immunity. Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA), which protects you from getting colds and other infections. Sex burns calories. Thirty minutes of sex burns 85 calories or more. It may not sound like much, but it adds up: a half-hour of sex two to three times a week could easily help you drop two to four pounds a year. Sex improves heart health. While some older folks may worry that the efforts expended during sex could cause a stroke, that’s not so. In one study, researchers found that having sex twice or more a week reduced the risk of fatal heart attack by half for the men, compared with those who had sex less than once a month. Sex boosts self-esteem. Gina Ogden, PhD, sex therapist and marriage and family counselor in Cambridge, Mass., says that “great sex begins with self-esteem and it raises it. If the sex is loving, connected, and what you want, it raises it.” Sex improves intimacy. Research shows that having sex and orgasms increases levels of the hormone oxytocin, the so-called love hormone, which

CHURCH DIRECTORY

helps us bond and build trust. Higher oxytocin has also been linked with a feeling of generosity. So if you’re feeling suddenly more generous toward your partner than usual, credit the love hormone. Sex reduces pain. As the hormone oxytocin surges, endorphins (our body’s natural pain-killer) increase, and pain declines. If your headache or arthritis pain seem to improve after sex, you can thank those higher oxytocin and endorphin levels. Sex reduces prostate cancer risk. One study found that frequent ejaculations, especially in 20-something men, may reduce the risk of prostate cancer by a third. Another study, reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that 21 or more ejaculations a month were linked to lower prostate cancer risk in older men as well, compared with less frequent ejaculations of four to seven monthly. Sex strengthens pelvic floor muscles. For women, doing a few pelvic floor muscle exercises known as Kegels during sex offers a couple of benefits. You will enjoy more pleasure, and you’ll also strengthen the area and help to minimize the risk of incontinence later in life. (To do a basic Kegel exercise, tighten the muscles of your pelvic floor, as if you’re trying to stop the flow of urine. Count to three, then release.) Sex helps you sleep better. The oxytocin released during orgasm also promotes sleep, according to research. And getting enough sleep has been linked with a host of other good things, such as maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure. So next time your partner is in the mood, don’t say “not now, I’ve got a headache.” Instead, next time you’ve got a headache, cozy up to your partner. Joy Birnbach Dunstan

ABUNDANT LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD Carr. 140 next to Mail Boxes etc, Tel: 766-5615. CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CELEBRATION SERVICE 1st Sunday of each month, Nicolas Bravo #17 Ajijic. Tel: (376) 766-0920 or tim@revdoctim.com CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS Services in English and Spanish, 10 am, Riberas del Pilar Tel. (376) 7657067, President: Pedro Aguilera. Recidence (376) 762-0299. CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Services Sun. 10 am, Alvaro Obregon 119, Chapala. Tel. (376) 765-4210. CHRIST CHURCH LAKESIDE Eucharist for each Sunday 11:00 am. La Huerta Eventos Center in West Ajijic. Rev. Danny Borkowski at (376) 766-2495 or Jim Powers (387) 761-0017. HOME CHURCH INT’L Locations by calling (332) 242-8648, or email yeshuapfa@gmail.com JEWISH CONGREGATION Santa Margarita 113, Riberas del Pilar, Tel: 766-2668. lcjcac@gmail.com for information and service times. Web site: www. lakechapalajewishcongregation.com. LAKE CHAPALA BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday Bible study at 9:45 a.m.; Sunday worship at 11 a.m. at Santa Margarita 147, Riberas del Pilar. Eddie Garnett, deacon. Tel. (331) 608-0856 LAKE CHAPALA UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP

The Unitarians meet Sundays at 10:30 am. Hidalgo #261 Riberas del Pilar. Lew Crippen, 766-1119. LAKESIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Worship-Sunday 10 am; Bible Study-Friday at 9:45 am; San Jorge 250; Riberas del Pilar Church Office at 376-106-0853. Website at www.lpcchapala.org LITTLE CHAPEL BY THE LAKE Sun. services 11:15 am, Chula Vista,. Jal, Tel. (376) 106-1199, 766-4409 SAN ANDRES CATHOLIC CHURCH Services 9 am on Sunday, Ajijic, Tel: 766-0922. SAINT ANDREW´S ANGLICAN CHURCH Calle San. Lucas 19, Riberas del Pilar, Worship begins at 10 a.m., “Coffee Hour,” a time of fellowship and welcome. Tel: 765-3926. www.standrewsriberas.com. ST. MARK’S ANGLICAN GUADALAJARA St. Mark’s is at Chichimecas 836 in Colonia Monraz.

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NON PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

(NOTE: If there is any change, please advise us so that corrections may be made. Call Rosy: 765-3676) AJIJIC SOCIETY OF THE ARTS (ASA): AjijicSocietyOfTheArts.com Provides local artists an opportunity to meet, demonstrate techniques and organize art shows; and provides assistance to young Mexican artists to learn and show their work. Deena Hafker 376-766-2249 or oliodee@ hotmail.com AA LAKESIDE: Alcoholic Anonymous group. Meets Monday & Thursday from 4:30-5:30 PM at the Lake Chapala Society. Ian Frasier 376-766-4990 iandavid81@gmail. AL-ANON: No website or face book. Monday 10AM at Club12- Men’s meeting. Monday 10:30AM at Little Chapel-Open meeting. Saturday 10 AM at Club 12-Open meeting. Information: Call 376-766-4409, Cell 333-480-7675 AL-ANON (IN SPANISH): Mondays 6-7:30 & Wednesdays 5:30-7:30. Meets at the Lake Chapala Society. Ericka Murillo 376-766-1788 erickamurillo2000@yahoo.com.mx AJIJIC QUILT GUILD - Meets second Tuesday monthly at 10 am. Guests & New Members Welcome. ajijicguild@gmail.com AJIJIC WRITERS’ GROUP- Meets 1st and 3rd Fridays at 10 am. Nueva Posada. Coffee. Meeting followed by lunch at the Nueva Posada. AMERICAN LEGION OF CHAPALA POST- #7: General Membership meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10:30 am. Tel: 765-2259. AMERICAN LEGION, FRANK M. VALENTINE POST 9: Meets at The Iron Horse Inn (across from the old Maskaras clinic) on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 pm. Call Perry King at 763-5126 or Al King at 737-1493 for more info. ANCIANITAS DE SANTA CLARA DE ASIS: Web site: https://rudiselj.wixsite.com/ancianitaslagochapal . Lisa Le :387 761 0002 - lisale888@gmail.com AXIXIC MASONIC LODGE #31- Meets 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at Hotel Perrico at 3:00 pm. The address is Libramiento Chapala-Ajijic #2500. Contact Sheldon Stone at (376)765-3306 or stoneshel@gmail.com. BARE STAGE THEATRE: Hidalgo #261 in Riberas del Pilar, barestagetheatre2018@gmail.com. BRAVO! THEATRE: www.facebook.com/Bravotheatre (unofficial) Semi-professionsal theatre with live theatre and ongoing adult arts education in dance and theatre. Jayme Littlejohn 331045-9627 mymytickets@gmail.com BRITISH SOCIETY: Assist the British Community facilitates the transmission of information with The British Embassy in Mexico. Meetings are the 1st Saturday of the month at Manix restaurant for lunch and speaker. Sue Morris 376-766-0847 /331-156-0346 ibbocat@gmail.com CARD & DOMINO CLUB- Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. Call for times. We will teach; make friends! Tel. 766-4253, Cell: (045) 33-1402-4223. CANADIAN CLUB OF LAKE CHAPALA: www.canadianclubmx.com Club Objectives are: 1. To promote fellowship among Canadians and friends within the Lake Chapala area. 2. To encourage a cultural exchange and foster friendly relations with all residents. 3. To be a centre for providing current Mexican and Canadian Information. 4. The Club shall be non-profit, non-political and non-sectarian CASAS CARIÑOSAS, A.C.: www.abbeyfield-ajijic.org As part of the world wide non-profit organization of Abbeyfield, help an increasing number of older people enjoy a high quality of independent living provided through a range of services, including housing, support or care, with local community involvement. 376-766-2045 info@abbeyfield-ajijic.org CASA DEL LAGO (CASA DE ANCIANOS) CHAPALA: Provides support for local area elderly citizens through a residential home in Chapala. Ana Luisa Maldonado 376-765-2497 adultosdellago@gmail.com CENTRO DE DESAROLLO JOCOTEPEC, A.C.: www.cedejo.org Improve the quality of life for Lake Chapala families with limited resources through promoting the health and well being of the family. Calle Ocampo # 45-A. 376-766-1679 CHAPALA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB: www.chapalarotary.org Participate in activities that will support lakeside residents. Provide assistance to international projects and meet with other like -minded Rotarians to build friendships. Meetings: Thursdays 10AM Monte Carlo Hotel CREM: AJIJIC MUSIC SCHOOL: www.cremajijic.com For 24 years this school has provided music education to children at lakeside. Students are taught to play an instrument and participate in the orchestra or the choir. There are 43 students and 8 faculty, all university graduates. Scholarships are offered to students from low-income families. 333-496-8976 cremajijic@gmail. com CRUZ ROJA MEXICANA DELEGATION CHAPALA: www.cruzrojachapala.com Offers clinical, ambulance and other emergency medical services to all Lakeside residents and visitors. Yolanda [Yoly] Martinez Llamas Consejo President 766-2260 consejochapala@gmail.com CULINARY ARTS SOCIETY OF AJIJIC: www.ajijiccasa.org Provides CASA members, Associates and guests a monthly forum to share foods, learn new preparation techniques, stimulate culinary ideas, meet new people and enjoy the world of food: in a competitive atmosphere that encourages creativity and rewards excellence. CASAlakeside@yhoo.com DAR: (At Lakeside) - THOMAS PAINE CHAPTER meets every 3 Wednesday at 12:30 noon at the Janelle´s Restaurant in Ajijic. September thru June. Tel: 766-2981. DAYS FOR GIRLS: www.daysforgirlslakechapala.org A group of women working together giving days back to girls through access to lasting feminine hygiene solutions. This results in a more dignified and educated world, for the girls of the Lake Chapala area. We create hand made menstrual kits and distribute them along with education to empower, enlighten and strengthen the young women receiving them. All this because of access to these products and taking responsibility of ones menstrual situation, sexuality, pregnancy planning and hygiene. Darlene Macleod 387-761-0175 darmacleod@gmail.com DEMOCRATS ABROAD MEXICO/ LAKE CHAPALA CHAPTER: www.democratsabroad.org, www.facebook.com/DemocratsAbroadMexico Official arm of the Democratic Party of the United States, working as a state party for US citizens living abroad. The mission is to represent and serve American citizens living outside the United States who support the principles of the Democratic Party. Larry Pihl, Executive Chair 376-766-3274 larry.pihl@gmail.com, da_mexico@

El Ojo del Lago / December 2019

democratsabroad.org EUCHRE CLUB: We play tournament style so that everyone gets a new partner after every 8 round hand, and that way you meet lots of new people. The club is free and open to anyone and everyone who enjoys playing Euchre. It is a free club and we play every Tuesday at El Sombrero at 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm. ESCUELA PARA NINOS ESPECIALES (SCHOOL FOR SPECIAL CHILDREN): www.schoolforspecialchildren.org The mission is to improve the educational opportunities for children with a wide variety of disabilities and in doing so, increase the probability that they might enjoy a brighter future. Mission is accomplished through provision of a clean, safe physical environment and improved nutrition during the school day. Working closely with the Mexican school board and teachers, we help support the educational programs for the children, young, adults and families. 387-763-0843 FERIA MAESTROS DEL ARTE: www.feriamaestros.com & www.mexicoartshow.com To preserve and promote Mexican indigenous and folk art. We help preserve these art forms and the culture that produces them by providing the artists a venue to sell their work to galleries, collectors, and museums. In collaboration with Mexican government agencies, we promote regional and international awareness to the plight of these endangered arts. Marianne Carlson, mariannecarlson@gmail.com or Rachel McMillen rjmcmillen@shaw.ca. FRENCH CLUB (LES AMITIES FRANCOPHONES). A social gathering for people who speak French fluently (and their spouses & guests). The group meets once a month (either a pot luck or at a restaurant) on the 3rd Saturday for a late lunch, good conversation, some drinks and more than a few laughs. For more information contact Jill Flyer, fotoflyer2003@yahoo.com. FOUNDATION FOR LAKE CHAPALA CHARITIES: www.lakechapalacharities.org The prime purpose is to attract money for the charities around Lake Chapala, Mexico and to allow those who donate to claim U.S. tax deductions for their gifts to those charities. The Foundation will also accept “endowments” and “memorial support” for any of the charities and will provide free Mexican legal assistance in setting up those endowments and memorials. 376-766-2606 or cell 331-260-7123 Admin@LakeChapalaCharities.org GARDEN CLUB- Meets the 3rd. Wednesday 12:00 noon at La Nueva Posada. GERMAN CLUB: Provides social opportunities for German-speaking residents. The group meets 2nd Thursday for lunch at 1PM. One does not have to be German but must speak German. Ing. Javier Aguilera 387-761-0777 javier.aguilera@mudanai.com HASH HOUSE HARRIERS: International running group with local chapter walks on Saturday morning, 8:30 AM, La Nueva Posada Hotel with goals of getting exercise, having fun, and enjoying breakfast. Denny Strole 376-766-0485 dstrole@gmail.com HOPE HOUSE: www.hopehousemx.org The Hope House is a safe shelter for boys ages 8 to 18. Our vision is to develop character, provide love and impart tools to be a successful part of society. Rodney Drutos 376-762-0032 oficina@casahogarmexico.org HAVE HAMMERS WILL TRAVEL A.C.: www.havehammer.com The mission is to provide learning and social experiences within a safe, supportive environment so that our students acquire: basic woodworking CAD skills for exploration of career pathways (Level 1: ages 10-14) intermediate woodworking CAD skills for entry-level employment (Level 2: ages 15+) advanced woodworking CAD skills for professional employment, incl. coops (Level 3: ages 21+) skills to maintain a well equipped woodworking shop Tuition $400 pesos/month limited scholarships available Information: hhwtchapala@gmail.com. Office 376-766-4830. President Michel Ouimet or H Wayne Renz, bingolago@aol.com JALTEPEC CENTRO EDUCATIVO (FORMERLY CENTRO DE FORMACION JALTEPEC): www. jaltepec.edu.mx. A Tecnico Universitario en Hoteleria, providing education in hotel & hospitality management and an entrepreneurial program. 387-763-1781 info@jaltepec.edu.mx. LAKE ASSISTANCE: www.facebook.com/ LAG Importing equipment for firefighters and police and to distribute around the lakeside fire departments. John Kelly 331-758-0676 jkelly203@ gmail.com LAKE CHAPALA BIRDERS: www.chapalabirders.org Encourages bird watching; organizes bird walks, bird trips and the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. John & Rosemary Keeling 376766-1801 chapalabirders@yahoo.com LAKE CHAPALA GARDEN CLUB: www.lakechapalagardenclub.org Promotes an interest, appreciation and better understanding of botanical subjects including but not limited to all plant materials, their care and use in the home and garden. Meetings explore the many garden species and practices unique to this area of Mexico. Open to all interested in gardens and their care. Supports lakeside organizations with beautification and educational projects. LAKE CHAPALA SHRINE CLUB: www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org & www.shrinersinternational.org www.facebook.com /pages/Lake-Chapala-Shrine-Club/757185090966972 Physical examination of lakeside children to determine if they qualify for treatment locally or by Family trips to the Mexico City Shrine Hospital the cost of which is financed by frequent Fundraisers such as Dine With the Shrine, Rib fest and tax deductible donations. David Eccles, President 331-017-1724 davideccles@hotmail.com Perry M. King 376-763-5126 pking1931@gmail.com LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY A.C.: www.lakechapalasociety.com The mission is to promote the active participation of Lakesides’ inhabitants to improve their quality of life. By making this commitment we signal to the community that our focus is based not just on ex-patriots, but everyone living at lakeside. For the Mexican community, provides English as a second language, remedial tutoring, student financial aid, Wilkes Education Center and Biblioteca at Galeana #18 and free medical checks. Carole Wolff president@lakechapalasociety.com Steve Balfour 376766-1140 executivedirector@lakechaplasociety.com LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY CHILDREN’S ART PROGRAM: www.lakechapalasociety.com “A visual arts program free for all lakeside community children aged 3 to 18 that provides them an opportunity to explore their creativity. A Neill James legacy program that began in 1954.” Danielle Page childrensart@lakechapalasociety.com LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY STUDENT AID FUND: https://lakechapalasociety.com/public/stu-

dent-aid-program.php Provides financial support to qualified Lakeside area students to enroll in public university programs. directoreducacion@lakechapalasociety.com. Alfredo Perez 376766-1140 apoyoeco@lakechapalasociety.com LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY WILKES EDUCATION CENTER (BIBLIOTECA PUBLICA): www. lakechapalasociety.com Provides classes of Spanish and English languages and other topics for both Anglo and Mexican community. Alfredo Perez 376-766-1140 directoreducacion@lakechapalasociety.com LAKESIDE FRIENDS OF THE ANIMALS, A.C.: www.lakesidefriendsoftheanimals.org Provide funding for spay/neuters, puppy vaccinese and emergency care and operations for pets of Mexican nationals of limited means. We also spay/neuter feral cats through our 4 Vets WE fund humane education programs in the local schools. Operate the pet store/shelter in Riberas del Pilar. Sue Hillis, President 376-765-5544 hilliss@yahoo.com LAKESIDE GARDEN GUILD: www.gardenguild.weebly.com Limited membership gardening group promoting the interest in the development of local gardens with an accent on the exotic species available in central Mexico. Presents annual Floral Design Show, supports local projects for community improvement and beautification such as Wipe Out Graffiti project in Ajijic. LAKESIDE GENEALOGY FORUM: A group of family historians meeting once a month to share ideas, methodologies and topics of interest for genealogy enthusiasts. Meetings are at 1 PM the last Monday of the month at the LDS Church and Family Center in Riberas del Pilar. Marci Bowman marci452@yahoo.com LAKESIDE LITTLE THEATRE A.C.: www.lakesidelittletheatre.com To provide theatrical en tertainment to the residents and visitors of the Lakeside community: to nurture and develop existing and new talent in every aspect of the performing arts and technical support areas: and to maintain and preserve the theatre facility and properties. Tickets: tickets@lakeside littletheatre.com 376-766-0954 lakesidelittletheatre@gmail.com Collette Clavadetscher, collette618@icloud.com LAKESIDE PATHFINDERS: This group is for people who are spiritual but not religious. See www.facebook.com/groups/427377094450390/about/. For more information please contact lakeside.pathfinders2019@gmail.com LAKESIDE SPAY AND NEUTER RANCH & ADOPTIONS, A.C.: www.lakesidespayandneutercenter.com Provides shelter and helps curtail the over-population of animals. Syd Sullins 376766-1411 or 331-270-4447 adoptaranchdog@outlook.com LAKESIDE WILDLIFE RESCUE & REHABILITATION: Promotes the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals, trees and plants around Lake Chapala. 376-765-4916 LA OLA/CASA HOGAR, A.C.: www.laolacasahogar.org La Ola Casa Hogar is a children’s shelter. We are an interfaith children’s ministry. Our scope is more than that of an orphanage in that we care for abandoned and abused children as well as orphans. 376-688-1005 laola@laolacasahogar.org Becky Plinke 332-312-7756 bgnickel@yahoo.com LCS EDUCATION CENTER- Provides classes in language and other topics for both Anglo and Mexican community. Calle 16 de Septiembre # 16-A Ajijic. 766-1140. LCS STUDENT AID FUND- Provides financial support to area students to enroll in university, vocational and high school program. Calle 16 de Septiembre # 16-A Ajijic. 766-1140. LOS CANTANTES DEL LAGO: www.loscantantesdellago.com A community choir striving that is for artistic excellence in choral singing. We encourage members to improve their vocal skills and to work continually toward greater skill through rhythmic and note training in order to become more literate musicians. Our principal objectives are the support of young musicians, the performance of works of Mexican composers, and sharing our music with the Mexican community. LOS NIÑOS DE CHAPALA & AJIJIC A.C. (NCA): www.lakesideninos.org Provides financial support for the educational, nutritional and social development of local area children. Office 376-765-7032, info@lakesideninos.org LOVE IN ACTION- Shelter for abused and abandoned children. For volunteers and donations. Anabel Frutos 765-7409, cell: 331-351 7826. LUCKY DOG: www.luckydoglakechapala.com www.facebook.com/LuckyDogLakeChapala/ To provide shelter to rescue dogs, socialize them and restore them to health, and adopt them out to good homes. To work with other animal organizations to promote spay and neuter. 331-300-7144 luckydogchapala@yahoo.com MARIPOSA PROJECT: BUTTERFLIES EN MEXICO: www.gomariposa.org Objectives: Provide options for how youth can make sustainable changes and provide opportunities for change. Mac Whyte 387-761-0360 macbwhyte@gmail.com MEXICAN ASSOCIATION TO EMPOWER WOMEN FOR FAMILY INTEGRATION, AMSIF: amsif.org.mx To work with the poor, mainly women, to transform the family values in the community. Educate women so they can have a critical mind and thus liberate themselves and become agents of change through a liberated and integral education. A method of education used where they can “see, judge, and act”. MEXICAN NATIONAL CHILI COOKOFF: www.mexicannationalchilicookoff.com The Mexican National Chili Cookoff is the largest fundraising organization Lakeside. For more than 41 years the event has raised funds to support local charities in their work. The 3 day event, always held in February, features hundreds of vendors of the finest Mexican handcrafts, on-going hourly entertainment, and a variety of food and beverages. The event is held at Tobolandia Water Park in Ajijic. The organization currently funds 9 IJAS approved charities and in the latest year made donations of 60,000 pesos to each participating charity. Jacques Bouchard 376-766-4350 jacqueandcarol@hotmail.com MUJERES APOYANDO A MUJERES: Mezcala jewelry collective with the focus to create a cottage industry jewelry making project that will give the women of Mezcala and la Cuesta a means of economic independence. The jewelry is being sold at Cugini’s and Diane Pearl in Ajijic. Doris Wakeman. MUSICA PARA CRECER A.C. / OFIRC (ORQUESTA FILARMÓNICA INFANTIL DE LA RIBERA DE CHAPALA) Training disadvantaged kids between the ages of 8 and 18 years who want to learn a musical instrument with the possibility of becoming a member of the “Orquesta Filarmónica Infantil de la Ribera de Chapala”. San Juan Cosala, Porfirio Diaz Oriente 144. Coco Wonchee, 33-3117-2927 soco.wonchee@gmail.com NIÑOS INCAPACITADOS DEL LAGO, A.C.: www.programaninos.com A non-profit, all-volunteer organization that helps low-income Mexican families pay medical expenses for their children with disabling or life-threatening illnesses. Email: ninosincapacitados@programani-

nos.com Dave Pike, President 376-765- 3137 dave.ppni@gmail.com Carol Antcliffe carol.ppni@ gmail.com “NO GRAFFITI AJIJIC” GROUP: Group of residents, who remove and cover graffiti. Paint donations appreciated. Contact with details. Email Dan Houck with graffiti reports. Dan Houck 376-766-3225 houck1022@gmail.com NORTHERN LIGHTS MUSIC FESTIVAL: Provides young talented Canadian artists exposure and experience on the international concert stage and provides the community with a wide range of classical music venues including concerts and demonstrations to young Mexican students and musicians through an annual music festival. NSDAR CHAPALA THOMAS PAINE CHAPTER: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~mextpdar/ thomaspainedar/ Goal is to make education available to deserving students and to help the community. Contribute to scholarships for the Technical School and students in Ninos de Chapala. Contribute to Hammer Hammer Will Travel and to Needle Pushers and the Lake Chapala Society Wilkes Education Center. Lorene Fields 376-766-1658 ltfields@hotmail.com OPEN CIRCLE: www.opencircleajijic.org Provide a supportive environment for social interactions. Presentations span a wide range of intellectual, cultural, physical and spiritual topics. David Bryen 376-766-4755 opencircleideas@gmail.com, Margaret Van Every 376-766-2092 OPERACION AMOR: www.facebook.com/chapala.operacionamor Our mission is to provide free spay/neuter services for cats and dogs of persons of limited means in the greater Chapala area. 331-872-4440 cgcothran1@yahoo.com Amalia Garcia, Co-leader 376-763-5597 amgarciao10@gmail.com Cameron Peters Co-leader 376-766-4341 zo-onna@hotmail.com OPERATION FEED: www.operationfeed.weebly.com Our mission is to increase self-sufficiency by providing weekly despensas and supporting other educational and income opportunities for people of limited resources in San Juan Cosala. OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: www.OA.org Monday 12PM and Thursday 10:15AM. Lakeside Little Chapel, Carretera Ajijic-Chapala (next to Chula Vista Country Club). Information: 376-7664409, email Sugarfreeme@hotmail.com ROTARY CLUB OF AJIJIC: www.rotaryajijic.org Within the community and Rotary International, The Rotary Club of Ajijic serves as a model providing humanitarian serviced to others while maintaining high ethical standards. Rotarians develop community service projects that address many of today’s most critical issues, such as children at risk, poverty and hunger, the environment illiteracy, and violence. They also support programs for youth, and for educational opportunities. Meetings: Tuesday 1PM Hotel Real de Chapala ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION: https://www.rclchapala.com/ To provide assistance to veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces, including veterans of Commonwealth Forces and, in some instances, U.S. veterans and Mexican veterans living in the Lakeside area. Being a Legion member is not required for assistance to veterans who meet the criteria. This is done through our Poppy Fund Campaign. To support the local community by providing money and assistance to specific projects as designated by our members. John Kelly 331-758-0676 jkelly203@gmail.com SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, MEXICAN SOCIETY: Lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution, not necessarily a soldier. Kenneth Loridans 376-766-2981 SoTouch@prodigy.net.mx ST. ANDREW’S OUTREACH PROGRAM: www.standrewsriberas.com St. Andrew’s Anglican Church provides financial grants to local non-profits and scholarships to public school students from funds donated by parishioners or generated at its Todo Bueno Resale Consignment Shop on the carreterra in Riberas, open M-Sat 10:00-3:00 pm. Outreach also hosts an annual “Spring Market Jamboree” the second Sunday in March in the church garden that includes live music, a car wash and unique products for sale by Outreach grant recipients. For more info: staoutreach. lakeside@gmail.com TABLE TENNIS CHAPALA: https://tinyurl.com/TableTennisChapala A club in the Chapala area devoted to the game of Table Tennis. We meet every Monday / Wednesday / Friday at between the hours of 1:30 to 3:30. New members are welcome to join and play. A small monthly fee is required to pay for the facilities and tables. Location Chula Vista Country Club, Calle Paseo del Golf 5, Fracc. Chula Vista, 45900 Chapala, Jal. email: planzee@ymail.com TAILS OF MEXICO: www.spayneuterlakechapala.weebly.com Tails of Mexico’s mission is to provide free spay/neuter clinics in the municipality of Jocopetec, Jalisco Mexico to poor Mexican families, street dogs, and others of limited means in order to reduce animal suffering and help the communities in which we work. Another program is to relocate dogs to specific rescue organizations and shelters North of the Mexican border. Dee Mistrik 01-387-761-0041 deemistrik@gmail.com Linda Rudisell-Hines, Communication Lead 01-387-761-0688 rudiselj@yahoo. com TEPEHUA CENTRO COMUNITARIO, A.C.: www.facebook.com/tepehuacommunitycenter. org A center helping a village through education, counseling and social functions. President: Moonyeen King 376-763-5126 moonie1935@yahoo.com TOASTMASTERS: Weekly meeting of bilingual Lake Chapala Toastmasters. Open to all interested in learning public speaking. Tim Schubert 376-766-0920 revdoctimothy@gmail.com U.S.A. THINKING TEAM: www.usathinkingteam.com Office is in Ajijic for 12 years. Supported by Grandparents for a Better World. Support programs for charitable organizations in Ajijic and includes concerts with That’s Entertainment, speakers and radio shows. Contact: mexicosydneygay@yahoo.com UVA [UNIVERSITY & VOCATIONAL ASSISTANCE] SCHOLARSHIP FUND, A.C.: www.uvalakeside.org Founded in 1976, provide university/technical scholarship assistance to qualified Lakeside students. Monitor and verify the recipients’ qualifications for scholarship assistance (maintain a GPA of 8.5 or better each semester). Assure that 100% of donations for students are distributed to students. Operate as an independent charity and cease to exist if and when support of the charity no longer exists. Sue Torres 376-766-2932 mst0414@hotmail.com VILLA INFANTIL ORPHANAGE: www.villainfantil.com.mx Facebook: Villa Infantil Guadalupe y San Jose Provides care and financial support for 30 children under the care of the Catholic Sisters of the Congregation of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Joseph. info.villainfantil@gmail.com VEGGIE GROWERS CLUB: Meetings are held at Huerta Organic Café, Hidalgo #212 in Riberas del Pilar on the second Monday at 10 AM. Discussions on problems with growing vegetables at lakeside, local pests and how to treat them, composting and all matters related to growing vegetables. John McWilliams 376-766-0620

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Service

* ADVERTISING / DIRECTORY - EL OJO DEL LAGO Tel. 765-3676

* ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Tel: 766-5961

Pag: 70

* ANIMAL CLINICS/PET SHOP - CLINICA VETERINARIA SAN ANTONIO Pag: 46 Tel: 766-0808 - LAKESIDE FRIENDS OF THE ANIMALS AC Pag: 27 Tel: 765-5544 - MASKOTA’S LAKE Pag: 48 Tel: 766-0287 - PET PLACE Pag: 16 Cell: 333-1964-150 - PET FOOD AND GROOMING Pag: 67 Tel: 766-3062

* ART GALLERIES/HANDCRAFTS - ALFREDO’S GALERIA Tel: 766-2980 - ART21STUDIO Tel: 33-3170-6135, 33-3677-3482 - DIANE PEARL COLECCIONES Tel: 766-5683 - PENTHOUSE GALLERY - ONE OF A KIND Tel: 766-5680 - SOL MEXICANO

Pag: 60 Pag: 51 Pag: 10 Pag: 27 Pag: 65 Pag: 46

* AUTOMOTIVE - FRATS Tel: 331-139-8539 Pag: 24 - MULTISERVICIO AUTOMOTRIZ ESCALERA Tel: 765-4424 Pag: 64

* BAKERY - COLIBRI GARDEN Tel: 765-4412, Cell: 33-156-9382

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* BANK INVESTMENT - INTERCAM Tel: 766-5978 - MULTIVA Tel: 766-2499