El Ojo del Lago - January 2013

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Saw you in the Ojo

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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 Sandra Hernandez Special Events Editor Kay Davis Associate Editor Jim Tipton Contributing Editor Paul Jackson Contributing Editor Mark Sconce Drama Critic Michael Warren Art Critic Rob Mohr Roving Correspondent Dr. Lorin Swinehart Sales Managers Omar Medina Bruce Fraser Office Secretary Rocio Madrigal ADVERTISING OFFICE Av. Hidalgo # 223, Chapala Mon. thru Fri. 9am - 5pm Sat. 9am - 1pm Tel. 01 (376) 765 2877, 765 3676 Fax 01 (376) 765 3528 Send all correspondence, subscriptions or advertising to: El Ojo del Lago http://www.chapala.com ojodellago@prodigy.net.mx Ave. Hidalgo 223 (or Apartado 279), 45900 Chapala, Jalisco Tels.: (376) 765 3676, Fax 765 3528 PRINTING: El Debate

Index...

FEATURE ARTICLES

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COVER STORY

Dr. Lorin Swineheart thinks Harry Truman is one of the most underrated US presidents of all time, and cites many solid reasons which back up his assertion.

8 Cover by Chris Curtis

12 BOOK REVIEW Rob Mohr reviews Zofia Barisas’s first collection of short stories, and confirms what has long been apparent to members of the Ajijic Writers Group: Zofia is an incredibly gifted writer.

15 WRITERS’ CONFERENCE The Annual Lake Chapala Writers Conference sounds an early bell about its eighth conference March 7/8, 2013.

28 AUDITORY SENSATIONS Carol Curtis waxes poetic about the sounds here at Lakeside that so many of us take for granted, but which newcomers instantly notice.

30 MEXICAN COLOR Tony Passarello writes about the art of making guitars in Paracho, which he says has more guitar shops than there are chocolatiers in Switzerland. Lakeside has more than its share, as well.

34 OF BOOKS AND DOGS

John Ward reviews Who Rescued Who, by Barbara Harkness and Valerie Siegel, and says that if a reader wants to have his faith in humanity restored, this is the book to do it!

36 LAKESIDE DATING “Anonymous” imagines the thoughts that must go through the minds of our seniors as they embark on romantic lakeside liaisons. Not so surprisingly, the male and female musings have little in common.

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.

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COVER STORY

PUBLISHER

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

COLUMNS THIS MONTH 6

Editor’s Page

10 Uncommon Sense 11

Bridge by Lake

13 Joyful Musings 16 Welcome to Mexico 18 Grape Expectations

LAKESIDE LIVING

 DIRE C TOR Y 

20 Anyone Train Dog

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22 Child of Month 26 Hearts at Work 29 Thunder on Right 32 Ghosts Among Us 40 Lakeside Living 42 Magnificent Mexico 66 The Poets’ Niche 71 View From South Shore 72 Front Row Center 77 LSC Newsletter

MAGNIFICENT MEXICO

VOLUME 29 NUMBER 5

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Editor’s Page

By Alejandro Grattan-Dominguez Anatomy of a Masterpiece

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he Treasure of the Sierra Madre is my favorite movie; probably seen it more than thirty times. It is, of course, considered one of the finest films ever made. But thirty times?! Obviously, there must be something about it that strums almost every string on my inner guitar.

For those unfamiliar with the picture, the story is a simple one: three down-at-the-heels gringos go prospecting in 1925 for gold in the arid, bandit-infested mountains around Durango, Mexico. It is a grim tale about the corrosive effect of gold, and ends with the disintegration and ultimate death of its main character; not exactly musical comedy, huh? So why my fixation with the picture?

First, the story takes place in Mexico, which for many of my generation of writers possesses the mystique that Paris must have had for earlier writers like Ernest Hemingway, John Dos Passos and Scott Fitzgerald. Mexico has always seemed a place where all things are possible, and very little is ever forgotten; where everything and everybody seems much more vivid, a Technicolor country in a world filled with monochrome places and people. For me, Mexico has always been, (this, the ultimate compliment), a John Huston picture, starring Humphrey Bogart—which is exactly what the Treasure was.

I have long been fascinated by that old saying that “life is what happens to us while we’re out making other plans.” In the movie, the two surviving prospectors, though they lose the gold, succeed in discovering something far more precious: the best and most decent part of their character.

This theme is in the prologue of B. Traven’s (Ojo editorial in October issue) novel upon which the film is based.

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

“The treasure you think not worth taking the trouble and pains to find, this one alone is the real treasure you are longing for all your life. The glittering treasure you are hunting for day and night lies buried on the other side of that hill yonder.”

Or, put another way: funny how life so often imitates art, for as we grow older, the fire of raw ambition slowly abates—and if we’re lucky, is replaced by courageous acceptance. Happiness, both the film and personal experience seem to suggest, comes not in attaining all those things you earlier so desperately felt you had to have, but rather in re-evaluating that which you always possessed, but never before appreciated.

Moreover, I found in the movie’s main characters no less than three “advisors” who have passed on a few invaluable lessons; and though one of the protagonists succumbs to greed and self-destructive paranoia, all three provided me with insights into my own character, the two survivors embodying principles which I have never forgotten, and occasionally even try to live by.

Those “counselors” have stayed with me for a lifetime. I have also occasionally thought about the ultimate destiny of the two characters left standing at the end of the movie—and surely one mark of a great story is that as it ends, in our imagination it has just begun.

Alejandro Grattan

Niños Incapacitados can now provide tax receipts to Canadian donors

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iños Incapacitados has signed a unique tripartite agreement that enables them to provide tax receipts for Canadian donations through an exciting collaboration with Save the Children Canada and Save the Children Mexico. Currently, the Canada Revenue Agency does not permit tax deductions for donations made to charitable organizations outside Canada. But the CRA does allow certain approved domestic not-for-profit organizations – and Save the Children is one of them – to disperse funds to foreign charities like Niños Incapacitados. Everyone who donates to Niños Incapacitados will receive a tax receipt for 100% of their contribution.

“We are very excited about this unique collaboration,” said David McNiven, President of Niños Incapacitados. “Save the Children works in many ways in many countries to improve the lives of children and now, thanks to this agreement and the generosity of our Canadian donors, we will be able to help more sick children here in Ajijic and the surrounding area. We need to strengthen our financial foundation so that we don’t have

to do what we dread most: turn away a seriously ill child because of lack of funds.”

We believe this will have benefits beyond tax receipts. Our mission is children’s health and also a key goal of Save the Children.

They’re huge and we’re tiny, but nowhere in Mexico do they do what we do, and nowhere in our sphere do we do what they do. It’s a relationship with huge potential.

In operating terms as well, the national Save the Children organizations will be working together. Save the Children Mexico has offices in 21 major cities in Mexico that provide regular over-sight, monitoring and mentoring – functions that will be extended to Niños Incapacitados. We remain independent but any time Save the Children Canada wants to know how Canadian donors’ money is being spent, their people in Mexico will be able to show them. We need to strengthen our financial foundation and make sure we can honor our commitment to the children already in our program. Please contact Dick Yanko, Treasurer, Niños Incapacitados, at 376 766 2304; dickyanko@ gmail.com for more information or to make a donation.

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HARRY H ARRY TRUMAN TRUMAN

TThe he Man Man Who Who Saved Saved Western Western Civilization Civiliizatiion

By Dr. Lorin Swinehart

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y July 1, 1990, the Berlin Wall had tumbled down, its component parts being sold off as souvenirs. Germany was united for the first time since 1945, and the containment policy of President Harry S Truman was vindicated.

Sir Winston Churchill told President Truman that he, more than any other person, had saved western civilization, and Senator Barry Goldwater once called him the foremost president of the last hundred years.

He was a cultured man with a deep sense of history and a love of Shakespeare. He yearned to be a concert pianist. His rise was astronomic, from small farmer and failed haberdasher to Missouri county judge, then United States Senator, Vice-President, and finally, completely unprepared, Presi-

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dent of the United States.

Harry Truman stepped onto the stage at a crucial point in world history. World War II still raged on two fronts, and an expansionist USSR simmered under the iron heel of Joseph

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Stalin. In China, the Nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were retreating before Mao Tse-tung’s Communist armies, and long smoldering liberation movements were beginning to broil to the surface around the world.

He would make more world altering decisions than any other president.

He had met with President Franklin Roosevelt only twice before ascending to the office himself, and he was kept in the dark with regard to such vital strategic items as the Manhattan Project to produce the world’s first atomic bomb. On the morning after President Roosevelt’s death, he told reporters he felt as though the sun, the moon and the stars had fallen upon him. And yet, he was a man secure in himself, never faltering in the face of a challenge.

He is remembered most for his painful decision to use the world’s first atomic bombs to force a Japanese unconditional surrender. The Joint Chiefs of Staff had estimated that a conventional invasion of the home islands would cost the US 1,000,000 casualties.

As Truman reflected years later, if he had permitted such terrible loss of life and it was discovered that all the while he had possessed a weapon to prevent it, he would have gone down as one of the worst traitors in history. Within days of the destruction of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Japanese surrendered.

World War II was over.

Truman’s domestic policy was an extension of FDR’s New Deal but with more emphasis upon protecting civil rights for minorities. On July 26, 1948, he issued executive orders for the fair employment of African-Americans and desegregation of the armed forces. His dedication to equal rights had begun with his opposition to the KKK in Missouri years earlier. He had once insulted Klan members by telling them their organization had been founded by a Jew, because no one

else could sell them white sheets at such inflated prices.

Tensions between the US and its Soviet ally had been fermenting throughout the course of the war.

With the fighting over, they broiled to the surface. In violation of firm agreements, Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin refused to withdraw from Poland and other occupied nations of Eastern Europe. Matters went from bad to worse, culminating in the Soviet invasion and occupation of Czechoslovakia. The Czech president conveniently committed “suicide,” leaping from an upstairs window.

The crux came when Stalin attempted to starve the allies out of West Berlin by blocking transportation into the city, 110 miles inside the Soviet occupation zone. Truman responded with the Berlin Airlift, preventing a Soviet takeover of the city.

From June 24, 1948 to May 12, 1949, American and British planes flew 200,000 flights, ferrying 4700 tons of food and fuel a day, until Stalin lifted the blockade.

The Truman Doctrine prevented further Soviet expansion without resorting to full-scale nuclear war.

The program included the Marshall Plan, under which the US provided $13,000,000,000 in financial aid over four years to rebuild Europe, modernize industry, remove trade barriers, and bring prosperity to the war ravaged continent. At the same time, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was formed, providing for mutual defense in response to an enemy attack on any member nation. NATO now has 28 members. Its members came to the defense of the US in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Truman ran for reelection in 1948, his party split into three factions, seemingly guaranteeing a victory to his opponent New York Governor Thomas Dewey. Former Vice President Henry Wallace ran on the Progressive Party ticket, advocating ac-

commodation with the Soviets, while the racist Governor Strom Thurmond of South Carolina led the States Rights or Dixiecrat Party, storming out of the Democratic convention after it adopted an anti-lynching clause insisted upon by the young mayor of Minneapolis Hubert Humphrey. Thurmond and his followers, it seems, regarded lynching as a constitutional right.

“Give ‘em Hell” Harry Truman crisscrossed the country, waging a whistle stop campaign from the back of the presidential train, lambasting the, “Do nothing 80th Congress.” The strategy worked. Harry Truman carried my home state of Ohio by a mere 7,100 votes and was elected to a second term as President.

The Cold War became a hot war when Soviet dominated North Korea invaded its southern neighbor in 1949, causing Truman make his most difficult decision, to come to the defense of South Korea. The US suffered 33, 000 casualties in the course of that conflict, many occurring after thousands of Chinese “volunteers” streamed across the Yalu River to assist the hard-pressed North Koreans.

The war was unpopular. Truman was unpopular. The opposition hammered him, continually referring to the “mess in Washington” and parroting phrases like, “To err is Truman.”

In the middle of it all, Truman removed from command the popular but egotistical General Douglas MacArthur, whom he found guilty of gross insubordination. I was in the second grade in our small Midwestern town of Ashland, Ohio, and we were dismissed from school to listen to MacArthur’s farewell speech to Congress. No one dismissed us to listen to the President’s justifications for firing him. In the end, the Korean War was a success, preserving the sovereignty of the Republic of Korea in the south.

A wave of paranoia swept the

country in the aftermath of World War II similar to the Big Red Scare after World War I. There were those in the Republican Party who, whipped to a frenzy by the bloviations of Joseph McCarthy, the alcoholic junior senator from Wisconsin, demanded unconstitutional restrictions on civil liberties. Truman vetoed the McCarren Internal Security Bill, which, among other things, provided for the interment of “subversives” during times of emergency, arguing that the proposal was an infringement upon free speech.

During a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, McCarthy brandished what he claimed was a list of 205 Communists secreted within the state department. Afterward, he was never able to produce the list.

We were, nevertheless, assured that a Communist lurked behind every suburban bush and under every bed, much as some elements would now have us believe that Muslims are concealed down there among the dust bunnies, that the President of the United States is a closet Muslim, or that the government is concealing the truth about extraterrestrials. The conviction of the inconsequential spy Alger Hiss added fuel to the fire.

Vilified, ridiculed, scorned by the radical right of his day, Harry Truman successfully navigated a straight but precarious line, fending off the forces of darkness within our society, all the while containing the overseas expansion of totalitarianism. He is now widely regarded as one of our wisest, most effective leaders.

His term over, reporters asked what he had done first when he returned home to Independence, Missouri. “Took the suitcases up to the attic,” answered the uncommon common man.

Lorin Swinehart

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UUNCOMMON NCOM MM MON CCOMMON OM MM MON SSENSE ENSE

By Bill Frayer billfrayer@gmail.com Over-Diagnosis: Treating the Healthy?

Bill Frayer

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any of us have had the uncomfortable experience of going to the doctor for routine laboratory tests and discovering that we have “abnormal” results. In other words, when we went in we felt fine and seemed well, but we discovered that we were indeed not so fine and had some alarming numbers which suggested we were, in fact, sick. Sometimes, of course, medical screening does reveal underlying conditions and saves lives.

Routine colonoscopies, for example, undeniably find precancerous polyps and save many people from developing colon cancer.

Over the past several years, however, many doctors and medical journalists have begun to question the wisdom of routine screening for many

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conditions. In many cases, the “numbers” which indicate that a person falls in an abnormal range, have been lowered, so that levels which would previously have been considered normal are now considered abnormal and require treatment. This, of course, creates millions of new patients and, obviously, new customers for the drug companies.

So what’s the problem with overdiagnosis? Isn’t it always better to be safe than sorry? Not really. The most obvious example may be using the PSA tests to screen for prostate cancer.

Since this screening became routine, men with elevated PSA results were urged to get prostate biopsies. Since many men tested positive for cancer

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

cells, they often underwent surgery to remove the prostrate, which killed a few of them and left many impotent or incontinent. The reality is, most prostate cancers are not lethal and most patients die from some other cause.

In other words the costly, dangerous treatments are largely unnecessary.

So, over-diagnosing patients is not harmless. It can be expensive and dangerous.

Of course, the idea of not screening is counter-intuitive. We have all accepted the idea that finding disease early is critical. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. The screening for melanoma, breast cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, and ovarian cancer have not led to decreased deaths from these diseases. We are diagnosing more cases, of course, but many of these cancers would not have killed the patients anyway. We are creating tremendous anxiety, increasing the cost of healthcare, and subjecting patients to needless interventions, often for no reason.

More examples: Before 1998, normal cholesterol was considered 240.

When the number was lowered to 200, it created 42 million more patients for the drug companies. When “normal” blood pressure was lowered from 160/100 to 140/90, 13.5 million new patients were created. In terms of

mammography screening for breast cancer for women under 50, 1000 women need to be screened over a ten-year period to save one life! Yet, many women have then been exposed to the radiation of mammography unnecessarily. In the case of the new blood pressure and cholesterol limits, those with lower range “abnormal” numbers have exceedingly few bad outcomes with no treatment whatsoever.

Much of the information I have included here came from the book, Overdiagnosed by Welch, Schwartzl, and Woloshin, published in 2011 by Beacon Press. I have read similar articles in the New York Times and other newspapers as well. I urge readers of the Ojo to investigate this topic for yourselves.

So what does this suggest? Certainly medical screening has its place. People with dangerous diseases can be identified and treated successfully. But does our paradigm have to change? Are more numbers and aggressive treatment of disease always beneficial?

Should we be skeptical about what lower-range abnormal numbers tell us? Is this one reason why medical costs in the United States are so high, yet the outcomes are far below those countries which spend far less? You decide.

BRIDGE B RIDGE B BY Y THE THE LAKE LAKE

By Ken Masson

One of the great attractions of bridge is that no matter how much you play the game you are highly unlikely to ever see the same deal twice and there is always a new challenge to overcome.

This intriguing hand was played in a match-point game at the Lake Chapala Duplicate Bridge Club in Riberas.

North dealt and holding a nice 19 high card points opened the proceedings with 1 club. Although East had a six card heart suit, his paltry point count plus the unfavorable vulnerability persuaded him to pass.

South had an interesting problem at this point. With a good six card diamond suit and a modest 5 card spade collection, his first inclination was to bid 1 diamond. But then, he thought, what would he do if North were to bid 1 no trump or 2 clubs? A rebid of 2 spades by South in either of those scenarios would be a gross overbid. So he bypassed diamonds to show his spade suit immediately.

Curiously, like her partner, West also had a six card heart suit but she too was restrained from bidding by insufficient points and adverse vulnerability. North now reached into her bag of tricks and emerged with a bid of 4 hearts, a “splinter” bid showing the values for game (with at least four spades) but, more precisely, a singleton or void in hearts.

South was momentarily stunned by this development as he also had extreme shortness in the heart suit.

When he pulled himself together, he realized that his hand had grown significantly in stature so without further ado he jumped all the way to the small spade slam.

West had a choice of leads and

eventually picked her singleton club.

When the dummy came into view, South saw that 6 spades was a very good contract but, this being a duplicate game, he strove to land an overtrick. But first things first – declarer won the club lead in dummy and cashed the spade ace. He eyed the fall of the spade jack with interest but next cashed the heart ace to pitch his losing club.

“No hearts partner?” asked North somewhat incredulously to which South answered in the affirmative.

Declarer next played a small diamond from the dummy to his ace followed by a low spade to dummy’s 9, which held the trick. Now it was simple to draw the last trump and claim 13 tricks.

The play of the spade 9 was not random or a lucky guess but an example of the Principle of Restricted Choice which states: If declarer is missing two touching cards and an opponent follows suit with one of them, the partner of that opponent is more likely to hold the other card.” The logic behind this may be difficult to understand, but it works like this: If East held the queen and jack, he had a choice of plays and might have played the queen; with a singleton jack he had no choice – therefore, the latter is more likely. Similar reasoning would apply if East played the queen on the first round.

So this fascinating hand produced a top board for one pair who combined aggressive bidding with thoughtful play to achieve their goal.

Questions or comments: email: masson.ken@ gmail.com Ken Masson

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The Th he W Woman oman W Who ho Th Thought hought S She he Loved Men

By Zofia Barisas Reviewed by Rob Mohr

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he heroine reflects, “While my mind dwelled on bittersweet memories of people and events long gone … the present continuously presented diversions to show the relativity of the importance of my life … I was constantly reminded of the vastness of the context into which each life is embedded.”

Zofia Barisas’ mastery of language, and awareness of the labyrinthine complexity of identity within relationships, uncover the complex reality of one woman’s life in an exceptional work of fiction. Her dynamic narrative of selfexamination and love explores formative events through transcendent stories that probe a woman’s life with sensitive finesse.

Not since Anais Nin’s book The Four Chambered Heart, has a woman writing in Mexico touched the human core with Zofia’s strength of language and emotional courage. Like Anais, Zofia’s words are persistent alchemy. The base metal of life is laid bare and becomes intimate treasure. Within each story a sense of lucent daylight - its transparency and promise - works to convey a reflective openness rare in literature.

In her story, The Stairs Going Down, feeling trapped by the husband and young sons, the woman asks, “What made the moment pass? An unexpected pleasure … a small son climbing into my lap as if he owned it …the smell of his clean hair, the softness of it against my chin, his trust that he was safe, the snow on the ledge of the bay window, the feeling of shelter and warmth, the smell of lamb roasting … It was all both prison and haven.”

About the world often dominated by

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men she writes, “I had lost sight of power to live … what a horrible thing it was to see one’s own powerlessness while others move freely in a world much wider than mine.” Zofia deftly involves both tormentor and tormented in the struggle for resolution. Raw emotion spills out - the essential element - as it must in all gifted writing.

The book at heart is a sensuous tale about a woman’s coming of age. Like translucent blue tracks in the snow, Zofia’s stories mark a woman’s long journey of emotional and spiritual transitions leading to an understanding of what it means to be wholly woman, not owned, one wet to the skin by the cold mist of reflection and experience. The setting in each story awakens all the senses while inviting the reader’s presence. “(The father’s) body was lying on the table where they had eaten all their meals … (the mother) stood at the counter. There was flour spread on a board, two eggs sat in a cup, a mound of chopped onions nearby.

She looked at her hands white with flour, at the cherry wood of the counter, the pleasing grain of it. She opened and closed her fingers and watched the movement with delight …” These judicious words convey volumes about their relationship.

Character development has equal strength. Of the father she writes, “I watched my father emerge from the woods where he had been to cut trees. He stood, planted solid on a pile of logs that were tied to a flat sleigh pulled by two horses going at a trot. There was the smell of horses’ sweat … of pine … The sun came and went between shreds of cloud.”

Zofia Barisas has given us a marvelous book - a treat for the senses - Argentine Merlot and rich Mexican chocolate served with a meal of fresh corn tamales filled with the essentials of life.

Joyful Musings

By Joy Birnbach Dunstan, MA, LPC, MAC Progress Not Perfection

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etting high goals for yourself and wanting to be successful are admirable qualities. Being a high achiever is laudable, but if you’re never satisfied with anything less than perfection, you set yourself up for continual frustration, unhappiness, and disappointment.

The seeds of perfectionism can be planted in many ways. Parents can instill it by over-emphasizing achievement or making their love conditional on meeting certain expectations. Society encourages perfectionism by glorifying hard work, high grades, and competitiveness as paths to success. Even our genetic makeup can predispose us towards perfectionism. Read the following traits and decide if you sound more like a high achiever or a perfectionist.

All-Or-Nothing Thinking: Perfectionists and high achievers both tend to set high goals and work hard toward them. However, a high achiever can be satisfied with doing a great job even if their very high goals aren’t completely met. Perfectionists will accept nothing less than, well, perfection.

Critical Eye: Perfectionists are far more critical of themselves and others than are high achievers. While high achievers take pride in their accomplishments and tend to be supportive of others, perfectionists spot even tiny mistakes and imperfections in their work and in themselves, as well as in others and their work.

They hone in on these imperfections even when the rest of the project or task turned out well.

Unrealistic Standards: Unfortunately, a perfectionist’s goals aren’t always even reasonable. While high achievers may set their goals high, perfectionists often set their initial goals out of reach, setting themselves up to be less likely to achieve them.

Focus on Results: High achievers can enjoy the process of chasing a goal as much or more than the actual reaching of the goal itself. Conversely, perfectionists see the goal and nothing else. They’re so concerned about meeting the goal and avoiding the dreaded failure that they

don’t enjoy the process of growing and striving.

Depressed by Unmet Goals: Perfectionists are much less happy and easygoing than high achievers. While high achievers are able to bounce back fairly easily from disappointment, perfectionists tend to beat themselves up and wallow in negative feelings when their high expectations go unmet.

Fear of Failure: Perfectionists are much more afraid to fail than are high achievers. Because they place so much stock in results and become so disappointed by anything less than perfection, failure is especially scary. And, since anything less than perfection is seen as ‘failure,’ this can lead to…

Procrastination: It seems paradoxical that perfectionists would be prone to procrastination, but perfectionism and procrastination tend to go hand in hand. This is because, fearing failure as they do, perfectionists will sometimes worry so much about doing something imperfectly that they become immobilized and fail to do anything at all!

Defensiveness: Because a lessthan-perfect performance is so painful and scary to perfectionists, they tend to take constructive criticism defensively, while high achievers can see criticism as valuable information to help their future performance.

Low Self Esteem: High achievers tend to have high esteem while perfectionists, because they tend to be self-critical and unhappy, often suffer from low self-esteem. They can also be lonely or isolated, as their critical nature and rigidity can push others away as well. This can lead to lower self-esteem.

Albert Einstein once said, “Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” Let your mistakes be valuable lessons.

Aim for progress, not perfection, and learn to say ‘Well done!’ You’ll be far more successful in the long run.

Editor’s Note: Joy is a practicing psychotherapist in Riberas. She can be contacted at joy@dunstan.org or 765-4988 or through her website: http://joydunstan.weebly.com.

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Centro Amor En Acción Brazos Extendidos, A.C.

Pedro Moreno No. 76 Col. Las Redes – Chapala, Jalisco MX CP 45900 Tel. 376-765-7409 director@loveinactioncenter.org

To all our donors, volunteers, sponsors, godparents and the wider community that surrounds Love in Action Center, we want to thank you for all the support we have received from all of you during the whole of 2012.

Your time, financial contributions, moral support to our children and staff, have been crucial to the smooth running of the Center.

For this reason, we can only say THANK YOU for being part of Love in Action, by engaging, by caring, by do-

ing, by giving ...

From all of the Love in Action children and staff, we wish you a great year, full of health, peace and prosperity.

Below is a list of some of the people and companies that have been supporting us, however there are so many who give and the list is long so maybe we’re forgetting someone and for that, we apologize.

Thanks to Ojo del Lago for the generosity of giving us this space.

Animal Shelter The Rotary Club of Ajijic Hayati Foundation Mariposa Project Walmart Gas Milenium Clinica Maskaras Movie Space Accion Voluntaria Pasteleria Marissa Big Dady’s Sausages Polleria Tony’s Verduleria de Pablo Antolin en Ajijic Puritan Poultry Tortillas de harina Melissa de Ajijic

Polleria, Cenizas del Sol Verduleria de Alfonso Lopez Verduleria de Monica Gutierrez Super Max (Chapala) Super La Despensa (Chapala) Carniceria del Mercado Los Lopez Carniceria Los Chatos (Chapala) Tortilleria Tejeda (Chapala) Tortilleria Nelly (Chapala) Tortilleria Guerrero (Chapala) Carniceria de la Torre (Chapala) Sra. Lourdes Avila Rosas Dra. Coty Salas Dra. Sandra Anaya Dra. Patricia Alcala

THE OJO INTERNET MAILBOX (Wherein we publish some comments about our previous issues.)

VIEW FROM THE SOUTH SHORE Barbara Hopkins I lived in San Cristobal Zapotitlan on the south shore for 18 months. I, too, love the view from and the ambiance of the south shore. However, watching the development going on in San Juan Cosala and El Chante from that perspective is pretty much fearinspiring.

In San Juan Cosala, the obvious differences between the mountain side of SJC and the parts south of the carretera just scream to me that there’s another revolution or uprising waiting to happen there because the class divisions are so obvious.

And as for the developments in El Chante? Some of them are so appalling that they made me shudder.

Things that you drive by every day

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on the north shore and ignore or don’t see really need to be seen from the south shore by every person who lives on the north side of the lake.

A SAFER WORLD Bill Ross I especially like #6 because it has the added benefit of greatly increasing the country’s GDP. Due to a quirk in economic theory, a car crash adds to the GDP calculation as shown by the following examples: Tow Truck x 2 $500/Ambulances (if private) $2,500/Hospital Treatment $250,000 Physiotherapy $5,000/New cars x 2 families $60,000 Grand Total $328,000 So have more car crashes and pull your country’s economy out of the dumpster.

Learning From the Best

By Herbert W. Piekow

A

recent house guest made me laugh when he told the story of writing the eulogy for his mother. Clark´s father had asked his son to talk to each of his four siblings, and then write an appropriate account of life events through the eyes of the five children.

The morning of the services Clark´s father wanted to hear the eulogy.

Clark read through the piece before his father grew apoplectic and said in a loud voice, “But, that´s not the way any of those events occurred.

Besides, there is hardly anything in there about me.”

We each have a POV, or point of view for telling a story and the two presenters at the Ninth Annual Lake Chapala Writers Conference will help the attendees understand how important story telling is from the storyteller´s Point of View because life does happen from each individual´s POV and sometimes when someone else tells our story we barely recognize the events.

From Karen Karbo´s first book, Trespassers Welcome Here, which New York Times named as a Notable Book of the Year, to her soon to be released, Julia Childs Rules, Karen has mastered the art of retelling the lives of famous people, while working in plenty of humor, sage advice and great stories, each of her seven “biographies,” leaves the reader wanting more. Karbo´s writing has won her a huge fan base, many awards and as she once said, “She brings home the bacon and cooks it as well.” Her short stories have appeared in Elle, Vogue, Esquire, Outside, O and other print media.

The Washington Post review of The Stuff of Life said, “Karbo excels at bringing life to the page.” Here at the Lake Chapala Writers Conference Karbo will teach this art and much more. Her students and fans agree that Karbo is a great writer and teach-

er. She will be joining us directly from a speaking engagement at Stanford University.

Publishers Weekly says of Karbo´s How to Hepburn, “Karbo presents . . . with great humor, but there´s a point she´s making. . . “Karen Karbo has written numerous articles, has had published six nonfiction books about famous women, but with the advice these women might have given if they had been asked. One review of The Gospel According to Coco Chanel said; “This book delivers more wisdom . . . and wit . . . per page than Dr. Phil will dispense in a lifetime.”

Karen Karbo is not the only good presenter for the 2013 Lake Chapala Writers Conference. When local writer Bonnie Phillips learned that Bruce Holland Rogers was invited she said she wanted to be the first to sign up.

He was her mentor and inspiration when she lived in Oregon. She has taken several of his classes.

Roger’s short stories have won the Pushcart Prize, two Nebula Awards, the Bram Stoker Award, two World Fantasy Awards, the Micro Award. In addition to being an award winning writer he is a respected international instructor of writing techniques.

Since being invited to the Lake Chapala Writers Conference Rogers can add Japan to his international list of countries where he has taught. Conference registration is easy: Go to Diane Pearl’s, corner of Ocampo and Colon.

Conference Dates: Thursday, March 7, and Friday, March 8, 2013 Location, Hotel Nueva Posada, Ajijic Early registration ends January 31, 2013, cost: $1,200 pesos ($90 US or Cdn) From February 1st to March 1st $1,400 pesos ($100 US or Cdn) Registration includes two full days of classes, two lunches, coffee and cookies for all breaks.

Saw you in the Ojo 15

By Victoria Schmidt

A Land Beyond Time

T

he world did not end on December 21, 2012. We have proved once and for all that the Maya were not predicting the end of the world, but more, the end of a cycle. As stated by Evo Morales - President of Bolivia at the UN General Assembly 67th Session “It is the end of the Macha & the beginning of the Pacha. It is the end of selfishness & the beginning of brotherhood. It is the end of individualism & the beginning of collectivism...”

As a friend of mine would say “From his mouth to God’s ear.”

Many Nations have been through tremendous upheaval in the past year. Between wars, uprisings, and economies I feel the world is weary.

I am weary.

As a New Year begins, I wish to be filled with hope and renewal.

See the faces of the young Mexican children and I wonder what their future holds. I worry about their economy, their education, and their future. Many of the expatriates living at Lakeside already know that school is only mandatory through the sixth grade. After grade six, impoverished parents must pay for education, uniforms and school supplies. Many of the families have many children, and therefore, opt to cease their children’s education.

How far can they go with a sixth grade education? A man I hold in high esteem engaged me in conversation recently. This man has a small family, and he has emphasized education for his children. He works two full-time jobs and any job he can pick up in his modest “free time.” His son will go to Universidad. His eyes twinkle and there is a large pride-filled grin upon his face. Knowing that he can only write his name, and cannot read only adds perspective to the grandness of his pride.

My husband and I help to pay for the education of one girl who

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

now attends preparatoria. Without, what to us, is a modest investment, she would not be in school. And we have committed to aid in her expenses when she attends Universidad. Then we will have two Mexican women studying in Universidad.

I would like to challenge my fellow expats who come from countries blessed with public education to become involved in helping those worthy children through school, to give them a better opportunity to improve their lives, not only for themselves, but for their families. This is a hand-up, not a handout.

While many worthy organizations help the children with medical needs, and this is very important, let us not forget the importance of education for those children who are well, but whose families cannot afford their meager tuition and the fees for uniforms and supplies.

There are organizations at Lakeside that will help you chose a child to sponsor. Some will pay the tuition for the children of their maids and gardeners – and do so by going to the school to pay the tuition directly. Others have gone to school and paid tuitions for children the schools have identified as needing help, and have done so anonymously. In whatever way we can help, we should, in the spirit of this Maya time of Pacha, in the beginning of brotherhood, help educate these children.

The man I spoke of earlier? I know that where he works, they put a special mark on his time card so he knows which card is his. His memory is nearly perfect. His enthusiasm is boundless. Had his parents had the money to pay for his education, he would probably be the Presidente of Chapala. Who knows, maybe someday his son will be that, or more.

Victoria Schmidt

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GRAPE EXPECTATIONS

By Robert Kleffel and Noemí Paz Chardonnay

C

hardonnay is originally from France’s Burgundy region, where the best white Burgundies are powerful and rich, with complex fruit flavors and notes of earth and minerals. Chardonnays from America, Australia and Chile tend to be ripe and full-bodied, even buttery, with higher alcohol levels and vanilla notes from oak aging.

Recently, however, more and more wine regions have been experimenting with fruity, fresh Chardonnays produced with very little or even no oak aging.

Chardonnay Characteristics: There are many descriptions for the aromas and flavors of Chardonnay.

Common aromas range from butter and toast through to tropical notes of banana, pineapple and guava. It is also often described as having mineral properties, such as crushed seashells or metal. Its flavor profiles are equally diverse and include grilled nuts, creamy apples, peach, marzipan, mango and even wet stones. Chardonnays have an impressive range of flavors including butter, oak overtones and fresh, fruit flavors of apple, pear, tropical, citrus and melon, leaving a lasting taste on the palate.

In general, avoid tomato based dishes - the sharp acidity of the tomato doesn’t go well with the buttery flavors in a Chardonnay. Chardonnay is a light white wine, so things like steaks and game will overwhelm the flavor.

The light, fruity flavors of Caribbean cooking go well with Chardonnay.

LA CETTO RESERVA PRIVADA CHARDONNAY -MEXICO Pale gold bright aromas of citrus and tropical fruits, such as pineapple and melon, with hints of vanilla and butter on the palate, velvety. Seven months in French oak. Pairing –You can combine it with cheeses like Provolone, Gruyere, Mild Cheddar. For main dishes try smoked salmon, chicken with cream sauce, pork with cream sauce, shrimp with cream sauce, white fish with elaborate sauces. Desserts: mango, pineapple, honeydew. L ACetto is Mexico’s largest winery and produces 50% of Mexico’s wines.

SANTA ALICIA RESERVA CHARDONNAY - CHILE Brilliant yellow with golden tones

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

with intense banana, papaya, pineapple and mango aromas combined with elements such as toasted oak, vanilla and butterscotch. Concentrated, great volume, with mineral and tropical notes, this wine goes well with Hawaiian pizza or any dish or salad with fruit.

TERRAMATER RESERVA CHARDONNAY - CHILE Santa Alicia’s flagship white, Reserva Chardonnay, comes from premium grape selection, hand-picked and fermented in French oak barrels before spending six months in barrel and a further six months in bottle. The result is a stunningly complex and immaculately poised wine for the price. On the nose, intense and complex, with a touch of tropical notes like papaya or mango, and hints of cloves, butterscotch and dry herbs. The wine is dense and minerally, with soft, ripe tropical fruit notes, delicate spice and a creamy aftertaste. Great accompaniment to many foods also, going particularly well with sea food, creamy sauces, pastas, white meats or cheese.

CASA MADERO CHARDONNAY MEXICO Casa Madero holds the claim of the oldest winery in both North and South America as they have produced wine since 1597. Most of their wine is sold to the “high end” trade in Europe. This Chardonnay is pale yellow with green hues, clean and bright, characteristic of its youth. The nose is intensely aromatic highlighting tropical fruit notes like pineapple, peach, guava, some mineral notes. This wine is fresh and very expressive confirming its fruitiness with a delicate finish, pleasant and persistent.

Noemi Paz Robert Kleffel: bkleffel@hotmail.com

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Anyone A nyone C Can an Train Train Their Dog

By Art Hess artthedogguy@yahoo.com

Before You Start

T

here are many opinions and methods in the field of Dog Training but there are several points that are irrefutable. These must be indelibly etched in your memory bank before you strike out on your training venture.

You can not be a dog teacher without being a Dog Leader. Dog Leaders set and enforce the rules, regulations, and limitations, at all times 24/7. Don’t ever forget that, “if you are not training your dog, your dog is training you.” Dog Leaders are not Drill Sergeants nor are they kissy face “mummy loves you” types. In the words of the “Whisperer”, they are calmly assertive leaders. Dog Leaders function with Trust and Respect. You cannot mandate Trust and Respect. It must be earned.

Learn to “SPEAK DOG”. Dogs don’t come speaking English, and they don’t read minds. Communicate less with your voice and more with your body (like dogs do), and your dog will understand you better. Never give a command you cannot enforce. Never give a command until you have the dog’s attention. You’ll just get blue in the face, yelling “Come” at the dog when you are looking at his butt. His ears are pointing the other way.

Be positive. Dogs learn much faster and are more reliable if they learn to feel good when they do what you ask. You’ll have a much more well-behaved dog if you learn to use positive reinforcement rather than forcing your dog into a be-

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havior.

There is nothing free in this world.

There must always be a reason for the student to perform a task. This is called motivation. With positive motivation the student is willing to perform the task.

With negative motivation the student has a reluctance to perform the task.

All people involved in the training process must be consistent with commands, hand signals, and expectation of performance. We must be persistent in our expectations of completion of the task. If we allow the student to stop before completing the task we are simply teaching the student that there is another acceptable method of performance.

Train every day multiple times in short sessions. Avoid long training sessions by scattering training exercises throughout the day. That way you’ll always have time to train your dog, and your dog will learn to listen wherever and whenever you ask.

Don’t keep nagging your dog about what you don’t want him to do. Teach him to do what you want him to do. If your dog consistently does something you don’t like, figure out what you DO want him to do, and teach him to do it, rather than correcting him for doing what’s wrong.

Art Hess

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CHILD

of the month

Rich Petersen Dana Michelle Zambón Barajas

T

his very elegant six-year old is Dana Michelle Zambón Barajas. Niños Incapacitados featured Dana two years ago as our Child of the Month. At that time she had just undergone surgery for placement of a cochlear implant (see below). We wanted our members to see—and hear—the progress Dana has made over the past two years. She can now hear enough sounds to be able to pronounce words and form short sentences.

Some history: At approximately one year of age, Dana’s family noted that she could not hear. A pediatrician in Guadalajara said this might

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have been due to a very high fever she had a few months earlier. A hearing specialist found the child to be completely deaf.

Prior to this and because of her young age, Dana started with weekly therapy sessions to see if some progress could be made to get her to form

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

words and pick up sounds, but after six months and very little progress, Dana began attending an institute in order to learn to lip read.

The other reason for attending this school was its program to help children be eligible for a cochlear implant--a surgically implanted electronic device that provides a sense of sound to a person who is profoundly deaf. The implant is placed under the skin behind the ear and consists of both external and internal components to transmit processed sound signals to the cochlea and directly to the brain. Dana’s implant was placed in September 2010. Since she had never before heard sound, there were progressive stages she had to go through so as not to over-stimulate her. Thus, the sound level of her implant has been being increased gradually; every two weeks a little more sound is being transmitted.

At first the sound was frightening to Dana, but she has rapidly adapted to her new world. Her family has been going to special classes to learn how to help her adjust to hearing.

They work with her at home after school, now with certain toy musical instruments and other toys that make sounds. As we heard at our monthly meeting in December she

now has a voice and is beginning to communicate. She had been shy around others, but now she smiles almost constantly, an infectious smile that defies not smiling back.

Niños Incapacitados paid for several hearing tests prior to the surgery, and we continue to help with the cost of transportation to and from the Institute in Guadalajara. Her uncle, Diego, has taken on the task of driving Dana into school and back five days a week--no easy task. Her school session runs from 9:00 to 2:00 so Diego reads/studies, etc. while he waits for her. Bus transport would be too time-consuming and uncomfortable for such a little girl. Her mother and stepfather both work and therefore the grandparents and uncle have stepped up to the plate to help.

We at Niños Incapacitados are very happy to be helping such a close-knit family who has dedicated such a large amount of time and resources to the education and future of this child. To meet other of “our” children and to learn more about what Niños Incapacitados does, please join us the second Thursday of each month for our members’ meeting. 10:00 a.m. at the Hotel Real de Chapala in La Floresta.

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AUSTERITY SNAKE OIL Courtesy of Beverly y Bandlerr

“

F

iscal contracccely el ly tion...is precisely xthe doctrine e exer in n pounded by Herbert Hoover 1932.” - Paul Krugman thin ink in k —Joseph E. Stiglitz “II th think i id d Europe is headed to a suicide...

There has never been any successful austerity program in any large country.” “Decreasing growth is causing the deficit, not the other way around. I think that austerity approach is going to lead to high levels of unemployment that will be politically unacceptable and make deficits get worse.”[14] Joseph Stiglitz is an American economist, professor, author, recipient of the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences (2001) and John Bates Clark Medal (1979).

—Christina D. Romer “The evidence is stronger than it has ever been that fiscal policy matters— that fiscal stimulus helps the economy add jobs, and that reducing the budget deficit lowers growth at least in the near term. And yet, this evidence does not seem to be getting through to the legislative process...That is unacceptable. We are never going to solve our problems if we can’t agree at least on the facts. Evidence-based policymaking is essential if we are ever going to triumph over this recession and deal with our long-run budget problems.”[12] Christina D. Romer is pro-

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

fesfessor co oof eeconomics, h and d fforauthor, mer chair of the Council of Economic Advisers in the Obama administration.

—Paul Krugman “The truth is that recovery would be almost ridiculously easy to achieve: all we need is to reverse the austerity policies of the past couple of years and temporarily boost spending.

Never mind all the talk of how we have a long-run problem that can’t have a short-run solution—this may sound sophisticated, but it isn’t.

With a boost in spending, we could be back to more or less full employment faster than anyone imagines.

But don’t we have to worry about long-run budget deficits? [John Maynard] Keynes wrote that ‘the boom, not the slump, is the time for austerity.’ Now...is the time for the government to spend more until the private sector is ready to carry the economy forward again. At that point, the US would be in a far better position to deal with deficits, entitlements, and the costs of financing them. Meanwhile, the strong measures that would all go a long way toward lifting us out of this depression should include, among other policies, increased federal aid to state and local governments, which would restore the jobs of many public employees. All that is blocking recovery is a lack of intellectual clarity and political will.”[8] Paul Krugman is an economist, professor, columnist, recipient of the John Bates Clark Medal (1991) and the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences (2008).

—Robert Kuttner “Despite [the President’s] recent victory, if he is too eager to make a deal, he --and we -- will get rolled. Last time, Boehner’s Republicans saved Obama from himself. This time, it will be up to his fellow Democrats.”

Walk Lightly On Mother Earth

By Janice Kimball

M

y former husband and I rented a Fiat and toured Europe.

At a pensione in Austria, the owner became excited when he learned we were from Chicago. His brother, he said, had been there and stood on a pedestrian walkway over the multi-lane highway that came into the city. He reported the cars below were lined bumper to bumper, and that each contained only one person.

“Could that be true?” he asked us.

Between the main highway and the cobblestone service drive where we live, is a median with a line of palm trees and some grass. The head of the family next door spends his days in the dry season watering to keep it green. He does this in order to occupy his time as there is not enough work in our village to keep all able bodied men employed. The water runs eight hours a day, often from sprinklers in the scorching sun, but my neighbors take great pride in the greenness of our median. I sponsor a monthly camp fire and cook out for this family to thank them for our green median, and I recently bought new hose connections; but I wonder as I watch that water being squandered… when that water is evaporated, is it gone forever? Is it recycled and given back to us as rain?

We need to begin asking ourselves questions. What about all those empty pockets from mining and drilling that we are creating under the earth’s crust? Do they ever fill up, and with what? Will they cause more problems? These may seem like silly questions, but they are not.

What the earth gives us is not inexhaustible. We need to think of ourselves as caretakers of the earth if humanity is to survive As for myself, I am becoming more aware of my footprint. I realize that it is not right to take that much more than my share. I have given serious thought to what I can do to lessen my footprint. I am even beginning to control my bad habit of pushing on the gas pedal when I am driving, followed by the necessity of applying the brakes, a wasteful maneuver. Change begins with awareness. Each person makes a footprint on the earth, how deep is yours? We need to learn how to walk just a little bit lighter on our mother Earth.

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Hearts at Work A Column by James Tipton

“Amazing Grace”

“

I

once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.” Most English-speaking people recognize those words, and many love them. For those of us who were raised with hymns, “Amazing Grace”—some call it America’s most beloved song—comes back like a faithful friend to visit now and then.

A couple of decades ago, my mother called me to tell me that a cousin had died. He had been in a coma for two weeks, death was imminent, but in those final moments, he sat up in bed, apparently conscious, and in his once strong baritone voice, sang out the first verse of “Amazing Grace.” He then laid his head back on his pillow and with the smile of grace settling over him, he passed into the next world.

That melody, so deep in our systems, was, some say, actually a slave melody, sung on southern plantations.

Others attribute the melody to one of several composers. But there is no doubt that the words were written by John Newton (1725-1807), a notorious slave trader, so foul-mouthed that his captain, certainly used to the lewd tongues of sailors, nevertheless declared that John Newton’s language “exceeded the limits of verbal debauchery.”

In March of 1748, however, John Newton found himself in a particularly violent storm, and, while lashed to the pumps to keep from being washed overboard, cried out from his heart, “If this will not do, then Lord have mercy on us!” For several weeks before the storm Newton had, uncharacteristically, been reading Thomas a Kempis’ influential book, Imitation of Christ. In the weeks that followed the storm that almost took his life, Newton began to ponder whether there was anything in him that was even redeemable, and he began to recognize that not only had he neglected his own faith but that he had attempted to mock others who had faith, deriding and denouncing God as a myth.

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

The Vicarage where John Newton wrote Amazing Grace.

Although his conversion was not complete for several years, he did attempt to improve conditions on slave ships and by age thirty, he had left the sea for good. He began to study Greek and Latin and theology. At age thirtynine, he became ordained by the Anglican Church and was offered the Curacy of Olney, Buckinghamshire.

Newman took much of his material for sermons from his earlier life. He became very popular because of his ability to unite the common with the spiritual. Large crowds would gather to hear the “Old Converted Sea Captain.”

Unable to find hymns that were simple and heartfelt, he began writing them himself. His neighbor and friend William Cowper, a popular English poet, helped him, and together in 1779 they produced their famous Olney Hymns, a collection of poems which included a total of 349 hymns. All but 67 were written by Newton. The lyrics to Amazing Grace were among them, written in late 1772. But it was not until 1835 that they were set to the melody that is now inseparable from the lyrics.

Newton also continued his anti-slavery efforts and as a popular preacher he joined forces with William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament who led the effort to end the slave trade in the British Empire. His health failing at age 82, a church spokesman suggested Newton consider retirement. Newton replied, “What, shall the old African blasphemer stop while he can still speak?” Newton died in 1807, the same year that British Parliament abolished slavery throughout the empire.

Jim Tipton

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SOUNDS S OUNDS OF OF A LIFE LIF FE STYLE

By Carol A. Curtis

W

e have only lived in two locations in Mexico – two very different locations.

Our first home was in El Parque, a lovely, gated community across the carretera from Super Lake. The other is our present home in the village of San Juan Cosala. If you heard recordings of a day in each location, you would not know that they were in the same general area in Mexico. Let me show you two life style sound prints.

Early morning sounds: El Parque—The English greetings are murmured by people getting their exercise walking laps around the condo area. It’s easy to get up speed inside the condo, since the road is paved and pedestrians have the right of way. The

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chorus of weed whackers, lawn mowers, and leaf blowers fills the air as the gardeners move about. The squeak of the guard’s bicycle can be heard as he does his morning rounds.

San Juan Cosala—The roosters near us begin their wake up call at about 7:30 a.m. This is followed by the Z Gas truck at 8:00 a.m. Voices on the street can be heard as people slowly navigate the cobblestones walking their children to school, going to the little stores along our street, or getting breakfast at the wood pit stand in the middle of the block.

Daytime sounds: El Parque—On certain days, you’ll hear the shouts from the water volleyball game in the common pool. The

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

continual sounds of the gardeners are with you until 5 p.m. You might hear a truck as it quietly comes through the streets to fill a propane tank or deliver water. If school’s in session, you’ll hear children’s voices at play during recess or the public address system ending recess or announcing a school-wide assembly. Between the approved hours, you might hear contractors working on a nearby house.

San Juan Cosala—The gas trucks make a loop throughout the day offering their goods, ice cream carts begin their calls at about 1 p.m. Depending on the day, other vendors will announce themselves with specific tunes. Need cleaning materials? Wait for the Fabulosa truck to come by. When school’s in session, you’ll hear the handheld bell ring at the start of the day and at the end of recess. You’ll hear family voices when school is out as the parents and children meander home or to the little market stands for lunch.

Evening sounds: El Parque—If there is a function at the clubhouse, you’ll hear the music from anywhere in the condo. Usually it’s a blend of oldies from the former days of the expats. A little more car traffic might be heard from inside the condo as people leave to go to dinner. The noise from the mall next door begins

to make itself known. The movie theater’s sound system sometimes brings a thunder-like boom to the area. The restaurant, Wings, has caused quite a battle due to its loud, techno-rock music that sometimes plays well past midnight.

San Juan Cosala—Evening starts at about 8 p.m. on our street. That’s when we hear Carla chopping the meat and onions at her taco stand. By 8:30 p.m. there’s a crowd gathered for her great food. Children are playing, and their laughter fills the air. Often recordings of Mexican music bring a lively spirit to the neighborhood. At about 10:00 p.m., the sounds begin to die down. The last noise we hear is around midnight when Carla’s husband shuts down the taco stand for the night.

Both of these locations are near the carretera and bring some traffic noise; El Parque has the added noises from being next to the Libramiento. The topes in San Juan mean we don’t hear the sudden slamming of brakes or the screeching of tires as a truck tries to stop in time. The ambulance sirens are much fewer in San Juan, since we aren’t on the road to emergency stations. At both homes we could count on the sounds of dogs barking … even though the dogs in El Parque aren’t permitted to bark, the sound of those outside carries into both homes. Then there are the announcements from the plazas and churches. In San Antonio we heard the early morning rosary; in San Juan, we hear the announcements for special events.

What’s really different between a condo in El Parque and a home in the village of San Juan Cosala is the abundance of children’s playful, laughing voices and the limited amount of English heard. For us, this was the perfect life style choice. Whatever your life style choice is– a gated, expat community or a home in a traditional village – it will fill your day with the sounds of the life you’ve chosen.

Carol A. Curtis

By Paul Jackson paulconradjackson@gmail.com

Y

ou can bet official Washington wasn’t walloped between the eyes to learn the Canadian federal government had approved the huge $15 billion takeover of its nation’s sixth largest oil producer by the Communist Chinese offshore oil corporation. Or that the same day the Nexen energy company takeover was given the okay, so was the $7 billion takeover of the Canadian Progress Energy Resources by the Malaysian state oil corporation.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper likely phoned President Barack Obama to tell him of the two approvals before he even announced it to the Canadian people.

The bottom line is Canada has vast energy resources, and no matter what outsiders or the pseudoenvironmentalists say, Canada is

Paul Jackson

not going to let those resources remain dormant. They are going to be developed for the benefit of the Canadian people. As an aside, Canadian oil gushing into the USA retails for at least $1 less as gasoline at the pump for Americans than it does where it was produced despite the transportation costs.

It’s a heck of a bargain for Americans. And for American oil distribution companies. But why the price differential?

Basically, because right now Canada has only one customer for its oil exports - the USA - and has to take any price it is offered, even though it is the biggest source of imported oil for the US. Yet in about five years’ time when Canada starts shipping huge volumes

of oil to Communist China, Japan, South Korea and India it will have more bargaining power. Canada will sell new oil resources to the highest bidder.

Actually, gasoline at the pumps is far, far too inexpensive for Canadians and Americans. Canadians could easily afford to pay an extra $1 a gallon in gasoline taxes, and Americans an extra $2 a gallon, say in a special tax to pay down the horrendous $16 trillion accumulated debt. Trouble is, until the USA balances its federal budget and the Washington promises never again to go into a deficit position or spend the extra money on frivolous new programs, American consumers just won’t believe that the extra money will go to debt reduction.

Sure, Americans - and Canadians - would still grumble at higher taxes on gasoline - but if it simply means walking to the corner store rather than driving, there are surely health benefits. Add to that, environmentalists should all hail rigorous higher taxes on gasoline.

Plus here is an example of why high gasoline prices do not harm the economy: In Norway, gasoline costs $8 a gallon, yet because of

North Sea oil, Norway is actually an oil exporting nation. But instead of spending its oil wealth, Norway has invested it for the long-term. The country’s oil fund now owns the equivalent of 1% of all the shares on all the stock markets in the world. No matter what happens recession or depression - Norway can never have a financial crisis.

Surely there is a lesson for the USA in this scenario.

Truth to tell, Alaska has handled its vast energy resources well.

The money has been put into a special petroleum fund operated at arm’s length from the government politicians. You can’t trust politicians, they will grab whatever money they can, and spend it on their own favorite programs.

But they can’t do that in Alaska, so because of its oil wealth, there are no state sales taxes, no state income taxes, and every man and woman who is a permanent resident gets a check every year for several thousand dollars.

This said, there aren’t many Americans who would choose to live in Alaska rather than Hawaii, Florida, Arizona or California. Dumb as I am, even I can understand that. paulconradjackson@gmail.com

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Ajijic’s Guitar Art

By Antonio Ramblés AKA Tony Passarello www.antoniorambles.com antonio.rambles@yahoo.com

Artist: V. Manuel G. Santillan

Perhaps nowhere else in the Spanishspeaking world has the guitar become such an inseparable part of the culture as in Mexico.

Here the instrument appears in the varying shapes, sizes, and sounds which can be most often seen in the instrumentation of Jalisco’s celebrated mariachi bands. At Ajijic’s Galeria del Lago on the very edge of Lake ChaArtist: Teodor Lopez pala the instrument appears in yet a new incarnation: Guitar Art. It all began when local artist Kim Tolleson made a pilgrimage to the town of Paracho in Michoacan.

The town has long been famous as the center of guitar-making in Mexico, but in the past generation it has produced world class maestro craftsmen and instruments sought by aficionados ev-

erywhere.

There are more guitar shops in Paracho than chocolatiers in Switzerland and each August the town hosts a festival that features and honors both musicians and luthiers.

Kim had the idea that these instruments would make an interesting painter’s palette, but soon came to the conclusion that the 30 guitars that he brought back from Paracho was amArtist: Kathy Seaboyer bition enough for more than a single painter.

He enlisted the aid of local artists and aspirants, and soon much of the space he’d first envisioned as no more than a studio became a guitar art gallery.

Kim’s decision to open entries to virtually all comers made the gallery unique not only for its use Artist: Judy Dykstra Brown

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of guitars as painters’ palettes, but for its diversity of styles.

The artists range from local professionals including Efren Gonzalez to some very talented amateurs. The inclusiveness is refreshing and the artist community Artists: Hugo & Carlos Villalobos has clearly embraced the concept.

The images range from scenes of colonial Mexico to rock music tributes. Most Artists: Daniel Palma & are painted, but one of the more striking Sergio Xoñu pieces is installed as a sculpture standing on human legs.

Part of the Galeria remains a working studio.

On the day I was there Emily Allen had set up her easel there to catch the light flooding in from off the lake, and I stood for a while with my face pressed against the window watching her work.

Even though the regular gallery hours are Saturday/ Sunday, 1-6PM, visitors can browse on many weekdays when the artists are in residence, and the work is readily viewed through big picture windows at any time of the day.

Galeria del Lago is located right on the lakefront between the Old Posada and Yves Restaurant, within eyesight of the Ajijic Pier. No surprise, then, that Artist: Jesus Lopez Vega the subject of many currently featured paintings is the white donkey that seems perennially tethered just a few yards away on the beach.

Photos don’t do the work justice, so drop by and see the real deal. It’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your lips!

You can also see photos of work no longer on display when I visited on the gallery’s Facebook page

Artists: Hugo & Carlos Villalobos

Saw you in the Ojo 31

THE GHOSTS AMONG US

By Fred Mittag

Catherine the Great (1729-1796)

C

atherine was both a lusty and a brilliant woman. She excelled in all her studies, but her childhood was unhappy. Her father was a stern Lutheran and her mother was cold and indifferent.

Marriages were matters of state, and because of the reach of bloodlines, rulers often came from other lands.

Needing an heir, Empress Elizabeth of Russia adopted a German prince named Peter. He had been orphaned and was her nephew. Peter had a terrible childhood, because he had been turned over to a cruel man who had no idea how to rear and teach children.

Peter was beaten daily in public and went without meals. His upbringing retarded both his physical and mental development.

When Peter arrived in Russia, Elizabeth needed to arrange a marriage to create a line of succession, so she sent for Catherine, a German princess and Peter’s second cousin. Peter was happy that Catherine had arrived, but he behaved childishly, as though they were playmates. Catherine found him boring. Peter contracted smallpox, but he survived – with a badly scarred face.

Catherine betrayed her shock, and Peter never got over it, thinking he was too ugly for her.

Elizabeth spent months planning the most extravagant wedding for Peter and Catherine that Europe had ever seen. The British ambassador reported that he had never seen anything like it. Catherine had no idea what a nude boy might look like. She had a slumber party for her young ladies-in-waiting and asked them, but they, too, were innocent about how the two sexes differ.

When the slumber party failed to inform her, Catherine asked her mother about boys, but her mother severely scolded her for her “indecent curiosity.”

After the wedding festivities, older ladies put Catherine in her marriage bed with a beautiful gown. She begged them not to leave, but they told her they must go and she must await Peter. Two hours passed and then one of the ladies came to Catherine and

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

told her Peter had ordered something to eat. When he finally came to bed, he laughed nervously and went to sleep. Catherine by this time was 16 and Peter was 17. Catherine wrote in her Memoirs “ And matters remained in this state without the slightest change during the following nine years.”

In those years, Catherine gained admiration in the Russian court. She was quick and eager at learning Russian, converted to Eastern Orthodoxy, and gained herself loyal allies and friends.

When Empress Elizabeth died, Catherine’s husband became Peter III. He was foolishly incompetent and was overthrown within six months by palace guards and forced to abdicate.

Catherine was declared the Empress of Russia and Peter was sent to another place where he was assassinated at age 34.

Catherine’s reign was the Golden Age of the Russian Empire. Through conquest and diplomacy she made Russia a major European power. She was a patron of the arts and she herself wrote comedies, fiction, and memoirs, and she maintained a correspondence with French writers, including Voltaire.

She brought the European Enlightenment to Russia and expanded universities to increase the number of Russian scientists.

Catherine took many lovers throughout her long reign, often after they had been tested by ladies of her court in a selection process to ensure quality. (Rank has its privileges.) She always showed generosity toward them, even after she ended the affair, and granted them pensions, land, and serfs. She repaired her bridal innocence with a vengeance and was quite open about it, generating jokes that still survive in legend.

Catherine the Great died of a stroke at 67.

Fred Mittag

Saw you in the Ojo 33

WHO RESCUED WHO?

By Barbara Harkness and Valerie Siegel ISBN # 978-0-9884495-0-3 Reviewed By John Ward www.whorescuedwho.mx

T

his is a book of tales about street dogs rescued by people in the Lake Chapala area… or perhaps, a book of tales told by animals who rescued humans in the Lake Chapala area.

Each story begins with a brief introduction which describes how the pet and owner found each other and then continues with a description of that pet’s life before and after his/her new relationship, from the pet’s point of view, written in the first person, as it would be delivered by the animal.

The stories are funny, warm, loving and sometimes quite poignant. This book is ideal for short, quick reads. The stories inspire and restore one’s faith in the better aspects of the human character. In a world where there are more than enough instances of cruelty and base human activity to shake a person’s faith in humanity, it is essential to point out and nurture the existence of that spark of decency that exists in all of us. Who Rescued Who? nurtures that characteristic with its true stories and personification of the dogs’ experiences.

Street dogs abound in Mexico. Some are cared for casually, but some suffer abuse and cruelty. In some of the back stories told by the rescued dogs the reader will get some idea of what sort of life the pet had before meeting with his permanent owner. Anyone living in the Lake Chapala area will see street dogs gather at the door of butcher shops that give them their scrap meat and bones at a specific time of day. Unfortunately, one can also witness people throwing stones

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

or sticks at a street dog who is in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Although Who Rescued Who? is a collection of stories written by different pet owners (and pets) the writing and editing has created a reasonable degree of consistency and ease of reading. The stories vary in length and are all in a clearly readable font. Most are accompanied by black and white photographs and some show the pet owner or “rescuee.” My copy is softbound with a picture of a sweet dog-eye on the front and has 147 pages of personal stories. If you like animals, if you care about pets, if you would like to restore your faith in humanity, this book is an essential read.

(Ed. Note: The book can be purchased locally at Diane Pearl’s Colleciones, Prasad and La Cabra Libros, and by going to info@ whorescuedwho. mx ) John Ward

Living And Dying On The Street

By Vern and Lori Geiger

W

e see them every day, puppies, young dogs, old dogs, injured dogs, sick dogs, trying to just survive, begging scraps of food or maybe a pat on the head. Alone with no owner, no one to comfort them when they are frightened, no one to take them to the veterinarian when they are sick or injured, no warm, dry, safe place to sleep, let alone give birth.

Imagine being a female dog all alone living in the street, frightened, malnourished, and being a host for fleas, ticks and parasites, etc. then becoming pregnant through no fault of her own. Now not only does she need to fend for herself but also for her pups.

Whether the dog is male or female life on the street is brutal. Like a game of Russian roulette, will some kind person adopt them? Will they be hit by a car and die quickly or will they linger on the side of the road for days? Will they succumb to starvation and or dis-

ease? Will they be poisoned? Will they be kicked and abused?

You may say but what can I do?

While there is no magic solution, everyone can help stop the needless suffering. Most of us have a maid and gardener, encourage them to spay / neuter their dogs. If necessary; pay to have it done. What will it cost, an evening out, a dinner at a nice restaurant?

A small price to pay to prevent a life filled with pain, loneliness and suffering. Educate them on an animal’s basic care and needs; vaccinations, nutritious food, fresh water at all times and shelter. And yes love; animals are not toys; they, like children, are a lifetime commitment.

If everyone helped spay / neuter just one or two dogs, we all would see less heartbreak on the street. Just once Vern would like to go to Guadalajara, without seeing the highway littered with the pitiful bodies of dead dogs.

Saw you in the Ojo 35

DATING—LAKESIDE D ATIN NG—LAKESIDE S STYLE TYLE . . .

By Anonymous

“

B

rad, I’m glad I don’t have to thrash around in the dating scene anymore.

How about you?”

“Definitely! In my short forays, I found it to be frustrating. I decided that I couldn’t be responsible for my sanity if I continued.” “ You can’t be serious.”

“You were my final gasp, Jen.” “I had the same feelings when I looked over the dating scene here. We are in a retirement community, the rules are very different.”

“Women here are so into everything, yoga, meditation, volunteering, not to mention lunches.”

“What did you run into?”

“Trying to figure out what women look for while at the same time preserving some mystique. My conclusions are they want dinner, dancing and holding hands.”

“And full disclosure, like how many times were you married? Divorced or widowed? What did you do before you retired?”

Why is she asking me all this? Do I have to tell her about my jail time? What is she looking for anyway? I was an engineer~~it’s boring. I could do a border promotion and tell her I was a diamond merchant or a Hollywood producer. Or better yet, a banker.

“And woman want to know about wealth…money.”

Heaven knows I’d really like to see his bank statements and find out about other assets, in addition to checking out his abs. Maybe I should ask if he owns or rents? I wonder does he cook? (That would be great!) Is he sexually active?

(Really great!) Has he ever cheated on his wife? Yes, yes, I want to know these things. Full disclosure…

“But wait, there’s more. Dogs…the women that I met here all have dogs; not only one, sometimes even five.

Where does a man fit in? The couch gets crowded, not to mention other places. It’s hard walking to the kitchen for a glass of water without tripping over a fluff ball.”

Brad remembered the blind date he had with the first of four-dog women. As he approached the threatening

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wrought iron gate, the howling and barking of mongrels pierced his ears and filled him with trepidation. Was this a drug cartel house? Was she a narco?

Who else would need this much warning?

He rang the bell, then hearing the entrance buzzer, didn’t move. His hand stopped in mid air. No way was he going to open that door. Did she think he had taken leave of all survival instincts?

Then the huge doors opened, and there she stood, surrounded by four hounds as big as ponies—smiling, “They won’t bite,” she said…still smiling…

“It seems some women might want a man in their life but they don’t want to make any concessions. They seem entrenched in their life and activities and there are only certain slots where a date might fit in.

“I remember one woman I invited to a formal fundraiser event. She said her regrets but asked for a different night: she couldn’t miss her Buddhist Meditation Group. It used to be a girl had to stay home to wash her hair!”

“But Brad, women here spend a lot of time building a life for themselves.

Then along comes a man, but is he the one? Is a woman going to give up what she has put in place to make room for a man who may not be worth the effort?”

“What a man is looking for is much less complicated. Believe me, it’s not all about sunsets and cuddling. It is simply having the comfort of a woman.”

“What, exactly, is that?”

“It’s having a woman around who is kind and affectionate and who listens to our stories of past glories. It’s about having a woman to do things with, someone to hang out with.

“Does having the comfort of a woman include sex?”

“Guys don’t want to just kiss and hug.”

“I would think a lot of the men here have biologically passed that season.”

“Ah, but we do like our porn. I guess we are all still bad boys.”

“That could explain why so many men here have vision problems. By the way, how are your eyes?”

Saw you in the Ojo 37

By Roberto o Moulun Moulun

N

o one knew with certainty how the name Malakias got into the family, but it had persisted through various generations, together with a belief in miracles, votive candles and holy water. Tradition is a matter of endurance, and after six generations of repetition, it becomes an article of faith; thus to give a different name to the first born boy in the Tenorio family, would have been an unthinkable sin.

Malakias Tenorio was the sixth generation child to carry this name, originally taken from Malachi, the fifth century Hebrew prophet who rabidly preached against priesthood, marriage or divorce - leaving his contemporaries with few social choices.

Not that the origin of the name really mattered. The people in the village of Galindo had no knowledge of the old prophet.

In keeping with yet another family tradition, Malakias grew up to become a muleteer. He inherited the three family mules: Angela, Dominga and Bizantina and so was soon better known as El Mulero than Malakias Tenorio.

Of the three mules, Dominga was the strongest. It had the sweet disposition of a Carmelite friar. Once loaded, it started on her own at a soft trot, following the monotonous route between Galindo and the twin village Topacio. Bizantina was as a good mule should be: Stupid, sure- footed, pointed-eared, and given to episodes of stubborn negativism. Angela, by contrast, had the haughty temperament of Carmen, the Gypsy in the opera by Bizet. Malakias always thought of the mule in the feminine, which was incorrect -- mules being hybrid -- but Angela’s personality reminded Malakias of an aunt on his maternal side, and so, he always spoke of her in the feminine.

Indifferent to her master’s reflections, Angela kept her own counsel.

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She carried her loads with the air of someone born to better things. On her route, no bush went unexplored, nor any barking dog without a kick. She chased the milk cows that strayed on her trail, and mastered the trick of inflating her belly while Malakias hitched up the cinch, and by suddenly deflating, scatter her load at will. Yet, in spite of all its calamities, Angela possessed a lovely, poetic streak. She frequently stood by the brooks they crossed, not to drink, but to listen to the murmur of the water and to gaze at her own equine reflection. Her pointed ears were attuned to the soft sounds of wind through foliage and often she stood gazing at the horizon, following the irregular flow of clouds with somnolent eyes, dreaming perhaps of unending skies.

Malakias would then softly hold his mule by the neck and scratch her ears.

At age seventeen, El Mulero was strong, bare-footed and squarejawed. He could have torn open the jaws of a wolf with his bare hands and could run up a hill without his breathing changing or his chest complaining, and yet, like Angela, he also listened to the forest whispers or followed the capricious twists of the clouds, at times whistling to them, as if he were their herder.

Nights are long in Galindo. The insignificant village is like any other delivered from the womb of a poor land. ln the evening, the villager’s complaints are spat by the light of oil lamps. Their conversations are often reminiscent descriptions of how in a distant past, they mined gold from rivers which suddenly went dry, turning into rivulets that carried only sand.

The conversations shift then to the illness of neighbors and their ailments are reviewed in detail. Once the subject is exhausted, the lamps are extinguished one by one, and night takes

over.

Malakias, because his occupation demanded much traveling, was the news-bearer of Galindo and Wednesday evenings, when he returned from his weekly trips, were popular nights at the local bar EI Altet. Drinks were charged at half price and bits of smoked ham and hard cheese freely served by Don Vicente’s pretty wife, Mercedes. A Spaniard from Crevillente, a town in Alicante, Don Vicente Manchon owned the bar and presided from behind a solid wooden counter.

He seemed always occupied cleaning a spot from wine glasses, but kept an alert eye on both the accounts and the discussions. He wrote the accounts with white chalk on a black board placed behind the counter, but since he was not a demanding collector, drinks flowed like the rivers of old.

However, if a discussion became heated, he at once intervened, uttering some few words in Levantine. No one understood a word of the archaic dialect from Alicante, but foreign languages have a mystical, always calming power. This mystic charm always worked for Don Vicente, who had the physical appearance of a retired prize fighter.

On such Wednesday nights, Malakias sat at the head of a long table

while the neighbors drank his news and thin glasses of red wine, discussing each of his stories from every possible perspective. A mottled crew, the men of the village had been thrown together during the short- lived gold bonanza, and left behind as the useless mining tools when the gold disappeared, swallowed again by the land.

And so it happened, that on the night of an Ash Wednesday, Malakias brought incredible news. The rivers, he said, were once more flowing with gold! The news perplexed all present who whittled what he said with innumerable questions and demanded detailed descriptions. When Malakias brought out a small leather bag brimming with gold dust, the questions ceased. One by one, the men silently left the bar with excuses, muttered no doubt to persuade their neighbors of their disbelief, to secretly participate in the bonanza.

When they were alone, Don Vicente calmly approached Malakias at his table. “Is it true what you announced?” he asked.

“Most of it is true,” answered EI Mulero.

“Where did you lie?”

“Not all the rivers carried gold,” Malakias answered. “There was only a small creek that formed a pool of wa-

ter. My mule drank it dry. I found the gold dust in the bottom.”

“That mule of yours is now a bag full of gold,” Don Vicente said.

“How so?” Malakias asked. “ Well, if the mule drank the water of the pool, then, the gold must be somewhere inside her!” Don Vicente shrugged his shoulders. “It is obvious.

Be careful, gold is the father of betrayal, it twists the hearts of men worse than a hurricane.”

He returned to his counter to resume the cleaning of glasses, leaving Malakias silent and reflective, his face obscured by anguish.

“ I must go now, feed my animals.”

Malakias said. “How much do I owe the house?”

“Nothing. Tonight you drank on me.”

Malakias walked in the dark toward the stable. Angela heard his steps and recognized the smell of her master. She inflated her belly preparing herself for a new load.

Perhaps she didn’t feel the stroke of that knife that ripped her open.

Roberto Moulun

Saw you in the Ojo 39

Kay Davis Phone: 376 – 108 – 0278 (or 765 – 3676 to leave messages) Email: kdavis987@gmail.com

PAST EVENTS Lakeside School for the Deaf and Children with Special Needs featured the eighth annual Fashion Show in aid of more than 100 children at the School.

It was a roaring success. The show was at the Moon Estate, now the beautiful home of Claudette Champagne. 150 women attended. Show co-ordinators were Cece Girling and Barbara Sherritt. The models were: Helena Feldstein, Averil Miller, Sallie Watson, Merelyn Shore, Erma Dougherty, Claire Ewart, Jennifer Johnson, Barbara Sherritt, Marilyn Paton, Karen Richardson, Maritza Freyslinger.

Delicious crepes, salad and dessert were catered by Leslie Martin. The luxuri-

Hostesses Cece Girling & Claudette Champagne

ous Moon estate was exquisite. With tables set around the pool, here the models showed off the clothes being auctioned.

The School has not only deaf children but those with Down Syndrome, paraplegia, quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, autism, visual impairment and other debilitating ailments. If you would like to know more about The School for the Deaf and Children with Special Needs and perhaps help with the money-raising events, please get in touch with Cece Girling at 766 – 3964.

For the November meeting of the Lake Chapala Garden Club, Lois CugiSchool for the Deaf Christmas Par- ni sponsored a fashion show. It has ty went very well – thank you all! been posted on the Lake Chapala Garden Club website in a slide show format at lakechapalagardenclub.org. The fashion show is a yearly event for the November lunch meeting. The international Club has members from many different countries. Both members and meetings explore the great variety of garden species and practices unique to this area of Mexico. Check their website for fascinating photos and ideas for your own garden.

“Taste of Tin Pan Alley” played to a full house with tickets sold out. There were outstanding dance numbers by Val Jones, Alexis Hoff and Courtland Jones. Judy Hendricks and Greg Clark were charming, singing “Two Sleepy People”. Mac Morrison has never sounded better, and Don DeCarl sang with Pattye Simpson in an appealing duet “Too Marvelous for Words.” Ajijic’s Dinner Theatre is doing many more of these fabulous shows so if you didn’t get to see it this time, buy tickets early for the next one.

COMING EVENTS: January 12 – 26 Centro Cultural de Ajijic features art displays by some of our local Mexican talent, and they start off with a reception on January 12 from 4 – 8 p.m. with music, cocktails and botanas.

On January 23, Jaltepec Centro Educativo is holding an Open House for all those who would like to learn more about what they do. The Open House begins at 11 a.m. with a brief history of the Institute, followed by an explanation of the curriculum and requirements Tin Pan Alley for students to gain placement in the Two Year Intensive Program offered by the Institute. This will be followed by a tour of the facilities, fol-

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

lowed by lunch prepared by the students, giving visitors a good opportunity to see the quality of education the students receive prior to graduating with a Degree in Hoteleria. To attend, please call Linda Buckthorp at 766 – 1631 or email buckthorplm@gmail.com. Reservations are A MUST so the students can prepare for the luncheon.

January 25, 26 & 27 The Naked Stage is showing The Exonerated by Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen. It dramatizes true tales of six innocent death row survivors in words you won’t forget. Since its first formal staging in 2002 in Los Angeles and then New York City, The Exonerated has been seen by over 500,000. The show gives a rare glimpse into the death penalty debate often lost in discussions of crime and punishment, ethics and public safety, religion and politics. The reading will be directed by Lynn Phelan.

The phone number for reservations is 765 – 3262 and the new email address for reservations is nakedstagereservations@gmail.com.

February 1 at Sol Mexicano on Colon, the Lake Chapala Painting Guild will display miniatures (8 x 10s). The reception will run 3 – 6 p.m., wine included. The display will be up for 21 days. These painters are quite good, and one, Bev Kephart, was kind enough to send me photos of her work for you to peruse.

In February the next Storytellers program offers the theme “Love and Lust”. No date has been specified… around Valentine’s day? They meet at LCS in the Sala. Three or four stories or The Exonerated poems will be selected; readers are auditioned. Length: 10 – 15 minutes. Storytellers programs in May, August and November. Send submissions to reeves@prodigy. net.mx as an attachment. Please be sure to include your name, email address and word count.

Mr. Goat

Cat Napping

Mulitple Events: Lake Chapala Society - February 2, 2:30 p.m., Fiesta Latina will be in the LCS garden.

It is a fabulous event with Latin food, music and dance: proceeds to the community education program at LCS. Tickets at $450 pesos are available at LCS from 10 - 2, and at Diane Pearl Colecciones and Lois Cugini’s Opus Boutique during store hours. Tickets are limited and go fast.

Highlights include Javier Raygoza’s Orquestra Tipica de Chapala playing pieces from Mexico’s rich musical heritage plus Andean melodies. Dance instruction will be by Alberto Castales, showcasing Latin dances: the mambo, cha cha, and the cumbia. Select silent

Saw you in the Ojo 41

P

aintings and statues from pre-Columbian times show show that that the female of the species had to take a back seat eat when it came to personal adornment. Kings and d nobles bedecked themselves in gold, silver and jade in the form of pectorals, armlets, lip plugs and ear spools and wore feather mosaic cloaks and magnificently plumed med head-dresses. The Aztec Emperor, Montezuma even wore wore golden sandals and was so heavily laden with ornaments tthat he hat h e could only totter a few steps without the support of two of of his his attendants. Even warriors went into battle loaded with jewels, ewels, wielding wielding lavishly lavishly decorated decorated weapons weapo and wearing elaborate orate costumes, usually representing costum nting animal totem such ssome ome fierce f such as as the the eagle or the jaguar.

How H o times have changed! anged!

Today, Today, even in those out of of the the way w a y places where regional gional dress d re has not been replaced placed with the tasteless modern w oder n uniform of blue jeans,, teeu teeshirts and Adidas, s the women wear t stunning outfits but s their men are usut a ally limited to simple white co cotton trousers and loose tops.

Pe Perhaps that is why most men leap at the chance le c e to t o wear wear co n special special colorful costumes. O On occasions, feast days oc a y s and a n d ofof ficial ceremonies village fic illage elders elders and and ritual dancers shine hine forth for th in in a sartorial splendorr that s that rivals, rivals, and an sometimes surpasses, passes, that that of their ancestors. of

Traditional al

Not even on his wedding ding day day ung M ix gives this handsome young Mixa re a of of tec from the coastal area d re s s Oaxaca a chance to dress is up. While his bride is iresplendent in traditional finery, both are barefoot and he is wearing the same homespun cotton which,, if the leg is is stain on one trouser leg rs to to any evidence, he wears imwork in the fields. His ssime, ple trouser and blouse, of crudely constructed of of rectangular pieces of m cloth straight from h the loom and with ta minimum of cutting and stitch-ing, is typicall n of those worn by the poor-n er classes in rural areas..

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Nahua

Though Thou little different in actual construction from fro the traditional whites worn tion by our ou bridegroom; the outfit of this by gent gentleman striding confidently, hands i n pockets and seemingly deep in in th thought, along the streets of Cuetzalan, Pueblo has several distinctive features.

It is differentiated by a slightly longer top with full sleeves gathered at the wrist and trousers that are rolled up and tied just b below the knee. The cooler climate of the ce central highlands often dictates the addition of a sleeveless black overgarment that resembles a of lon vest. A broad brimmed straw hat and thong long sa sandals complete the ensemble.

Huichol

Not all the everyday outfits are so una adorned. In some areas the basic whites are perked up with colorful accessories; brightly colored scarves or sashes and embroidered shoulder bags. Few, however, go to such lengths as the Huichol of Northern Jalisco in sprucing up their outfits. Even their every day dress is lavishly embroidered with religious m otifs iin n brilliant br motifs primary colors and each m an carries an equally elaborate man han woven bolsa. Ceremonial hand dre is much the same, only more dress so, a so, and religious leaders wear fancy hats and an beaded jewhats elry as as well as elry the fetish fet bags the contai containing the sacred peyote sacred used in their used ritu rituals.

Tacuate

Another small group of A men who still wear their traditional dress, the Tacuate Indians of the Mixtec area are even more distinctive in their short s their pants and llong ong sleeved tops.

The trousers t The have multiple bands of embroid e and are dery sso o full that tthey h resemble skirts.

The long, intricately draped a n pouffed and o v overblouses that make tthem hem look like tthey hey are weariing ng rompers r are

Saw you in the Ojo 43

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Saw you in the Ojo 45

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

also lavishly embroidered on yoke and and sleeves sleeves in in a ar simsimrainbow of brilliant colors. Both wear he left, left, ple foot gear and the gentleman on the uence, obviously a dignitary of some consequence, staff proudly exhibits his ribbon decked staff of office.

Maya

These young men from Huistan n e in Chiapas have also relieved the boring austerity of pure white with embroidered shirts, but the distinctive feature of their a ti c costume is the sash, if so dramatic led an appurtenance can be called hat so mundane a name. What six appears to be a five or six ant yard length of brilliant ed, red material is twisted, es looped several times ke about the hips like ugh an enormous doughy nut and tied so that the ends flare gracefully almost to the ground on either side. Anotherr e length of dark gray can be slung over the p shoulder like a serape and serve as a wrap e in inclement weather. Alas for tradition! One of our subjects is wearing running shoes!

Village Elders

Many small pueblos still elect elders thatt have nothing to do with PRI or PAN orr any other political party. Such men con-duct village business, passs al judgement in purely local disputes and preside overr d markets and festivals dressed in the colorful costumes off n their office. These solemn a gentlemen from Chenalha are magnificent in red, blackk and white outfits consisting of long,, fringed, tricolor cloaks, white shirtss d and tight pants with multi colored ribbons and bells at the knee. Triplee eh ead g ear, e labtiered, turban-like head gear, elabsashes, orately woven sashes, ear and and colorful neck wear e d , red re d intricately laced, ser ve as as thonged sandals serve ong stylish accessories. L Long bon staffs of office with ribbon m tassels would mark them as men of consequence anywhere in the world.

overblouse, o verb all in the ubiquitous white. As As an an e lder of his tribe, however, he is not always always elder llimited imite to such colorless attire. Feast days and official occasions give him days tthe he opportunity to step forth in the rregal eg splendor that is described in tthe he next section.

Lords of the Cloudss

The elected officials of the Tzotzil Tzotzil Maya in Chíapas, Los Seùores de de las las N d civil civil Nubes, preside over the religious and life of o a proud people. Their official uniform nifor m life is ffairly air plain; a square necked, black, poncho oncho is like garment g eeved like worn over a white, long-sleeved shir and short trousers. It is the addition ion of of shirt llong, ong brilliant red and white scarves wound wound sev nd the the several times around their necks and hig crowned hats bedizened with dozens ozens high of ffluttering ribbons and tasselled chin co ords of cords iin n rainbow r spechues that make their outfits spectacular. The T silver bracelets sported or ted tacular. b y sseveral ev ortt a n t by of these important perso tio o n all personages may be optional but rather rat hes as as but battered huaraches footge are obviously mandatondato-footgear ry. Gold headed staffs, a ry. allll so gau mplete e gaudily beribboned, complete an ensemble e excite an that might excite eve a peacock’s envy. even

Tzotzil Maya

This solemn gentleman wears the standard costume of his region while presiding over a private religious rite. His outfit consists of short rt pants, an undershirt der y with simple embroidery ong at the neck and a long

Saw you in the Ojo 47

auction.

Roberto’s fabulous food will include mouth-watering cuisine from Chile, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Argentina, Columbia, Mexico and the Caribbean. A complimentary Margarita is included in the price and a cash bar will be available. A 50/50 Draw and dancing are included in the festivities. What Neil James began years ago, let us continue. Visit www.lakechapalasociety.com for other news.

Lakeside Little Theatre news: Cumbia dance demo in full regalia Tickets are $200 pesos per seat, $250 for the musical. For the full listing of shows, box office and ticket information and to get email updates, go to www.lakesidelittletheatre.com. Box office hours are 10 – 1 and one hour prior to each performance. Sunday box office access is just prior to a show. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m.

For January the LLT presents Too Soon for Daisies by W. Dinner and W. Morum. Director: Sally Jo Bartlett. Performances January 12 – 20. Three eccentric English ladies escape a nursing home, setting up in an abandoned(?) property. When the owner unexpectedly arrives and promptly dies, they decide to hide the body and stay on. Simple?

February is the annual musical, this year The Drowsy Chaperone by Martin, McKellar, Lambert & Morrisson. Directed by Dave McIntosh and assisted by Ann Swiston. Choreographer: Barbara Clippinger. Musical Director: Judy Hendrick. This is a joyous spoof of a 1920s song and dance frolic as imagined by an obsessive 21st century musical aficionado.

The LLT welcomes people to train as volunteers behind the scenes.

Niños Incapacitados del Lago Schedule: Niños assists young people with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, diabetes, cancer LLT Poster and birth defects. In addition to wheelchairs, orthopedic braces and other medical equipment, the organization pays for medications, xrays and diagnostic tests not covered by family insurance. Upcoming events: January 15 – Trivia Quiz Event at Real de Chapala January 25 – Robbie Burns Night March 14 – Major fundraiser “All Aboard the Orient Express” * January 15, Niños Incapacitados hosts The Trivia Quizzes at the Real de Chapala’s Salon Eucaliptos: afternoon quiz at 2 p.m. (tickets $250 pesos) and evening quiz at 6:30 p.m. ($300 pesos). All must be paid in advance. No food, so bring your own munchies. A cash bar will open 30 minutes before each quiz. Contact Dawn McGinnis at dawn.mcginnis@sympatico.ca or Kari Higgins at kari.ppni@gmail.com. Tickets at Riviera Alta on January 4, 7 and 9 from 11 – 1. Set up teams of eight and pick a name, or if someone is on their own or with a friend, Niños will seat them with a partial team. A wide variety of questions will be projected onto easily visible screens. Tables sell out fast; book now!

Scotiabank Northern Lights Music Festival February 15 - March 2 Salon Series: Meet the extraordinary musicians of the Festival as they step off the stage into the intimate ambiance of some of Ajijic’s finest homes. Accompanied by wine and cheese, these concerts are sure to be the hottest tickets in town when the Festival arrives this February! Series of 3: $850 pesos.

Concert 1 is Tango for Two, Feb. 16, 3:30 pm, Villa Wilshere. Artistic director of the festival, Christopher Wilshere, and Alvin Tung team up with tango and Spanish dances for violin and guitar. $300 pesos.

Concert 2 is Songs of Life & Love, Feb. 21, 7:30 pm, Villa Champagne. Baroque specialist Erin-Cooper Gay and romantic baritone Jesse Clark share beautiful songs from Bach to Irish folk tunes. $300 pesos.

Concert 3 is Zephyr, Feb. 24, 3:30 pm, Villa Esperanza. Canadian clarinetist Graham Lord with Aaron Copland’s masterpiece, Appalachian Springs. $300 pesos.

Festival Series: Intimate Settings, Feb. 18, 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm, Villa Champagne. Quartet in residence at the Juilliard School of Music in New York, the Attacca Quartet is back for chamber music in an intimate setting. $300 pesos.

Keyed Fantasies, Feb. 19, 7:30 pm, Plaza de la Ribera (previously Sol y Luna).

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Heard in prestigious venues worldwide, pianist Jasmin Arakawa performs Leopold Godowsky’s “Java Suite” joined by renowned French Canadian violinist Veronique Mathieu in Schubert’s Fantasy. $300 pesos.

Gala Orchestra, Feb. 22, 7:30 pm, Instituto Tecnologico, Libramiento. The “Festival Orchestra” is joined by renowned Canadian violinist Jeremy Bell in a performance of Christos Hatzis’ Greek inspired concerto “Arabesque”. $350 pesos.

Jazz at Sunset, Feb. 25, 7:30 pm, Sound Stage, Libramiento. This stunning new location highlights Richard Underhill and his jazz quartet. Always entertaining, Richard’s virtuosity on the Saxophone has won him numerous Juno awards. The Festival is always excited to have him back. $300 pesos.

Going Baroque, Feb. 26, 7:30 pm, Instituto Tecnologico. Hear baroque specialist and acclaimed violinist Jeremy Bell joined by the “Festival Orchestra.” Explore Italian baroque composers Vivaldi, Handel, Scarlatti & Tartinni. $300p.

Closing Night, Mar. 1, 7:30 pm, Instituto Tecnologico. Winding down, we celebrate with musical treasures. Graham Lord performs Mozart Clarinet Concerto and the “Festival Orchestra” follows up with Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. $350 pesos.

Off Festival Events: Hot Jazz at La Nueva Posada, Feb. 20, 6 pm & Feb. 28, 6 pm. Tickets $500 pesos including concert, dinner and gratuities.

Christos Hatzis, A Portrait, Feb. 27, 4 pm, Location TBA. How does a composer compose and where does inspiration come from? The Festival players perform some of this renowned Canadian composer’s most precious gems. Q&A with the composer before each piece and a “meet the musicians” cocktail hour after the performance, catered by Number

Erin-Cooper Gay

Jeremy Bell

Festival Orchestra

4 restaurant. $500 pesos.

Become a Patron Friend of the Festival: $2,200 pesos receives: - 6 concert tickets - 2 private concerts Feb. 15 & 28 at 3:30 pm - 1 Gala reception Feb. 22 after the Gala Orchestra Visionary : $3,200 pesos receives all of the above plus Violin Tasting, Feb. 23, 3:30 pm. What makes a Stradivarius so special? Why are some violins better than others? Join us as a top Canadian Luthier explains. All the violins of the Festival will be discussed and performed as we savor, like fine wine, the subtle yet important differences in each instrument.

Rising Stars, a private in-home concert, Mar. 2, 4 p.m.

Concert and buffet dinner with the musicians in the garden. Drinks included.

- Access to orchestra rehearsals - Conductor’s Circle: $5,000 pesos receives all of the above plus a special concert dedication to you or a loved one and ticket to Hatzis, A Portrait. * Contact: Judy at judytravels80@gmail.com or 766 – 5379.

Tickets sold beginning February 1 at the Lake Chapala Society Ticket Booth from 10 – 12, M – F and at Charter Club Tours 10 – 3, Plaza Montaña on the Carretera at Colon in Ajijic. Visit www.scotiabanknorthernlightsmusicfestival.com.

VIVA! La Musica Fall Schedule: For bus trips to “Live from the Met” Opera, call Marshall Krantz at 766 – 2834 or Rosemary Keeling at 766 – 1801 to get on the list. Tickets at LCS Thursday and Friday, 10 – 12, $300 pesos for members, $400 for non-members. Remember, Viva buys the right number of tickets 7 – 10 days before each event.

Jan. 12 Berlioz – Les Troyens Jan. 19 Donizetti – Maria Stuarta Feb. 16 Verdi – Rigoletto Mar. 2 Wagner – Parsifal Apr. 27 Handel – Julius Caesar Buses depart 90 minutes prior to performance time (10:30 a.m.) and leave from the carretera in front of Farmacia Guadalajara.

Due to the length of the performance, some departure times are subject to change. For information on performers, go to the New York Metropolitan Opera website for the Les Troyens season 2012 – 2013.

Saw you in the Ojo 49

Northern Lights Festival –Glows and Soars to New Heights

By Leonardo Gasparini

G

asparini is a distinguished name from my hometown, Venice, one of Europe’s historical capitals for great music. This might explain why I have devoted my entire life to beautiful music, having worked in many of the great music capitals of the world and on several continents. It is my pleasure and a great honor to be the conductor for the Scotiabank Northern Lights Music Festival for a second time this year. The ScotiabankNorthern Lights Music Festival is the finest display of both classical and contemporary virtuoso musical performances at the Lakeside area.

I believe this year’s schedule will be a difficult one to follow. Sponsored once again by Scotiabank, our performances will be as luminous as before, with virtuoso performances, including jazz greats such as Richard Underhill (voted Canada’s best saxophonist in 2012); familiar string quartets with new works to perform, Jeremy Bell’s return with his classical violin; a very fancy and elegant Piano Concert with many stars, including special performances by Christos Hatzis and Veronique Mathieu, a returning favorite; Susan Hoeppner and the Attacca Quartet, the outstanding quartet from the Juilliard school. But equally important, to follow up on something so special, I promise something even

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more exciting to come.

I personally need all of you from Lakeside who love magnificent music to help me. The more of you I can attract, the better. Here’s why:I have recently had the honour of becoming the Artistic Director of the grand Palacio de Cultura in Guadalajara, the recently completed and exquisite music center in Guadalajara. The Palacio de Cultura may be one of the most beautiful music centers ever conceived, resembling a confluence of (in English,you say) waves, (in Spanish) ondas de sonido, like polytonal musical waves through its brilliantly conceived acoustics. I have put a photo here.

The Northern Lights Festival and its devoted followers will be one of my principal connections to the Palacio because you can help me confirm the importance and value of the center by supporting and popularizing its musical events and other cultural events. It might even be possible to have some of the Northern Lights events performed at the beautiful Palacio next year, a facility featuring many arts that you all must see and experience. Also, as another important connection, I have been so impressed with Northern Lights Festival director, Christopher Wilshere, that I have appointed him Head of the School of Music at the Palacio de Cultura. He will be one of my greatest assets there, to help teach and motivate new talent.

So, please come along this year to enjoy the range and the splendor of a magnificent festival of musical sensations, styles and experiences, starting Friday, February 15; and come also for the sociality of hundreds of other avid music lovers like yourself, all a part of this annual experience. I will be available and I hope to connect with each and every one of you personally, if possible.

For more information on the dates, times and locations for our events please check our website at www.scotiabanknorthernlightsmusicfestival. com

Saw you in the Ojo 51

PREDICTIONS

By Harriet Hart

T

he petite oriental lady grasped my hand and blurted: “You’re a tough little bugger!” I was 30 and visiting my first palm reader. She predicted that I would marry twice, live to be 96, inherit money and live in 14 countries after the age of 55.

I’m on my second marriage, left Canada to live in Mexico at 55 and haven’t inherited a bundle of money…yet.

I grew fond of having my fortune told. I raised my hand for palm readers, drank my tea cup dry and turned it over for a scrutiny of the leaves and happily spent money having my Tarot cards read.

Once I longed to know what my future would hold. Would I marry Mr. Right, have children, pursue a successful career, travel, enjoy good health, and live to a ripe old age?

At 65, I no longer seek out soothsayers; instead, I prefer to see my future through a glass darkly: collapsing discs, a dowager’s hump, drooping eyelids, sagging breasts, forgetfulness, and finally The End. We have our fortunes told when we are facing a fork in the road. After I graduated from college in 1983, I was having trouble finding work. My summer job was ending; I had been interviewed by dozens of agencies, had a file folder full of rejection letters, and was planning a three-week jaunt to Europe with my lover. Dare I skip town without a permanent position to come home to?

Surely the raven haired gypsy from

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Devon could cast light on my dilemma.

She tossed some crystals across a black velvet table cloth and advised: “You will be offered the job you just applied for, but there will be obstacles in your way.”

Two days later I received a call from the woman who had interviewed me.

“I want to offer you the job,” Val said.

“What’s stopping you?”

“All your references have left town.

Can you think of someone else?”

“Professor Bates.”

“Clive is an old friend of mine. I’ll give him a call.”

When she phoned back she hesitated. “There’s just one more thing. We don’t want you to start for a month.”

The universe was unfolding as it should. I got the job, the trip and my man.

Once, a fortune teller sought me out. I was living in a small town on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, where my first husband opened a country law practice.

Bored, I enrolled in Chinese cooking classes at the local high school where, to my surprise, the instructor suggested she read my palm. “Gordon is not the love of your life,” she announced.

“You already know the person you are meant to be with,” she continued.

“You will get together in your mid-thirties.”

Six months later, I reconnected with an old flame, left my marriage, and decided that Destiny had me in her grasp (as did Mr. Right).

In 2000 I paid a visit to Daryl in the back of Blackstone Books.

“Will I stay in Canada after I retire?”

“No…I see mountains and a lake.”

If I look up from my desk there it stands – Mount Garcia, on the shores of Lake Chapala. Is there any better way to make decisions than by consulting a fortune teller? Sceptics claim we only hear what we want to hear and act on the advice we like. So what?

So here’s to the palm readers, the seers using Tarot cards and crystal balls, the truly gifted and the phonies. Anyone know a good oracle here at lakeside?

I’ve got 31 more years to fill and thirteen more countries to inhabit if Madame Butterfly was on the mark.

Saw you in the Ojo 53

TTIPPING IP PPING —From — From a M Mexican’s exiccan’ss P Point oin nt ooff V View ieew

By Anonymous

I

read a piece in the October Ojo about tipping and I think that it needs to be talked about more, because even Mexicans like myself don’t know much about how to tip or when to do it. I have talked with some people in Mexico about this. One day I was discussing the theme with a great friend of mine who is a really sweet person from Zacatecas.

His words were these: Any person who performs a service for you deserves a tip. For me this revelation was like when a Zen monk finally is able to understand the puzzle of a koan-- wow -- and my friend is not a wealthy person, he repairs bicycles for a living so every peso counts.

I asked him to give me an example, and he said, “When I go to buy shoes, if the person that is helping me is helpful and friendly I’ll give him a tip.” I had never thought of tipping for this service, but now it seems that after showing me twenty pairs of shoes, anybody deserves a tip. When you look at it that way, there are more people that deserve a tip than you may have ever thought.

In the States in restaurants, the norm is twenty percent, but here most people tip from ten to fifteen percent if the service was good and in a timely manner. In Mexico

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

a wealthy friend of mine tips ten percent and no more. For me it depends. If the bill is small, I often tip more, for example in a taco place if the bill is 50 pesos I might leave 7 to 10 pesos, about twenty percent.

Most people don’t tip at all in taco places. In a regular restaurant if my bill is 400 pesos I will leave 40 to 50 pesos (about ten percent) depending on the service and quality of the food.

In a supermarket if the bagger is a kid I give him two or three pesos; if it’s an older person five to seven pesos. These people don’t get paid by the market, they only get tips. In a hardware store I will tip the one who loads my truck or delivers to my house. Tip your hairdresser and any other person that you want to remember you the next time, so you will get that extra attention that you might need.

In some cases you may need to be discreet about tokens of your thanks, for example with public employees. In this type of situation, only non-monetary gifts are appropriate, and they should be given after the business has been concluded. In the gas station, if they clean my windshield I’ll give five pesos. If they’re not friendly and just pump the gas, no tip. The kid who cleans your windshield at a stoplight: If you said no to them and they still cleaned it, don’t give a tip.

The main thing to remember is that most Mexicans will not get offended if you offer them a tip. Most service jobs are so poorly paid (and some are not paid at all) that workers are delighted to receive a tip.

If ever somebody should decline a tip, don’t insist and just thank him for his help.

One last thing, if you’re afraid that by tipping well you’ll look like a bourgeois rich person showing off, don’t worry about it – they’ll already be thinking that after you paid 47 pesos for a latte and 30 pesos for a muffin!

NEWS

for Canadians in Mexico

Revenue Canada (CRA) increases taxation on expats Bad news. CRA has recently began enforcing a policy requiring banks and other financial institutions in Canada to withhold 25% on RRIF payments to non-residents unless proper Tax Declaration forms are submitted.

Some other types of income will be taxed at 25% regardless of submitting this Declaration.

Not all financial institutions are aware of the new taxation policy and some expats may get a nasty surprise if and when back taxes are taken directly from client accounts later in the year as institutions get up to speed.

This move by CRA is seen as a tightening of the rules surrounding non-residency. Until now, CRA has been quite tolerant of non-residency compliance and this move may be a sign that things be changing.

TioCorp is running a series of seminars to help educate Canadian expats on what these new policies mean and how to control their impact on income streams.

For more information, you can log onto the Canadians in Mexico page of TioCorpInsurance.com or attend one of their free educational seminars.

Canadian Expats get tax refunds Canadian non-residents may be eligible for refunds on their 15% withholding taxes, provided their income from Canada is sufficiently low.

Many expats already take advantage of the refund provision of the Income Tax Act. If you would like to investigate this opportunity, visit the new TioCorp Business Center on the AjijicChapala carretera at Mirasol. TioCorp can file a non-resident Canadian tax return for you each year and, if it will generate a refund for you, why not take it while you can.

TioCorp Insurance opens new expat business center December 17th marked the opening of the new TioCorp Business Center on the AjijicChapala carretera at Mirasol, across the road from the Chapel, a well-known landmark.

The new building is a modern, air conditioned complex and plans are to offer a range of expat services including tax returns for Americans and Canadians; Mexican residency visa; as well as their full range of insurance products.

The complex also offers rental of modern furnished offices, a board room and a dedicated seminar room.

TioCorp Insurance is the leading lakeside provider of expat insurance services and the complete provider of insurance for the Chapala government.

The risk of a bond crisis is real There isn’t any question... the risk of a bond crisis is real and significant. Europe is said to have about 2 years to fix its debt problems; western countries have perhaps 3-5 years.

In spite of action being taken by some countries to bring their debt under control, cracks in the armour are already starting to appear. If other countries don’t buy USA-issued bonds, how will the

USA finance its mounting debt?

Quite frankly, the world is in a mess and stock market values don’t account for the seriousness of the situation. The risk is real.

For snowbirds and expats living in Mexico, the risk of a severe bond crisis leads to a number of questions about what to do and where to turn. To help you make decisions and take the necessary steps to protect yourself should the worst case scenario come to pass, TioCorp will offer presentations throughout 2013.

Guaranteed Income for Life programs cancelled With the stock markets providing no returns for the past 12 years, and the global economy in dire straits since 2008, many Canadians have made the move into the new breed of “Guaranteed Income for Life” programs offered by several insurance companies. And, as the world continues to slip, many more Canadians are now looking for a way to protect their retirement income.

Unfortunately, the number of companies offering these programs has dwindled to only a few and indications are that these too may fall to the wayside.

The reason? The programs were too generous and is costing the companies because of the global economic slump which is seen as continuing or even getting worse.

If you are one of those looking to protect your retirement income savings, check out the seminar schedule.

Saw you in the Ojo 55

MY M MEXICAN EXIC CAN RE-ENTRY RE-E ENTR RY

By Chuck Pattinian

A

fter driving 14 years from upstate New York to Ajijic each year, my wife, Carol, and I, decided to fly this year. Our first mistake was not to filter the disinformation about flying. “Get to the airport at least three hours before the flight.” We did and spent two and half hours in the departure lounge. No one was flying from Buffalo, NY that day.

“Make sure your baggage weighs below 50 pounds or you’ll pay a penalty.” Our baggage was 2.5 pounds over. They waved us through without a glance; we must have been within the senior citizen’s baggage allowance.

Our luggage was bulging at the seams with their zippers showing their teeth.

When we used to drive our car was packed so tight you couldn’t find room for a paperclip. In those days we told the world we were materialistic. Now that we are flying, the world sees us as two cheap tourists trying to squeeze the last sock into our luggage to beat the over limit weight charge.

“They won’t let you take your water into the departure area.” The four ounces of purified water I was sucking on was confiscated before I could go through security. Did they really think I was drinking some chemical bomb liquid? Twenty feet from the end of the security line, a store was selling identical water as the one snatched from my hands but five times more expensive.

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

“Sandwiches and snacks are available for sale on all flights.” We didn’t see a sandwich or a peanut on any of the planes. However, I did see a 12 inch Subway sandwich being devoured by a fire hydrant-sized passenger spread across seats 14 A and B. He had a Chicago Bear’s blanket draped over his sandwich to conceal his meal. Anyone could see by the crumbs at his feet that he was cheating. None of our flights provided blankets, pillows or movies. If the airlines are trying to save money by eliminating these services, why is there the same number of attendants? Of course, Homeland Security and union contract agreements.

The next morning we re-entered Mexico. We were greeted with the normalcy and consistency of the village we call home. We saw a burro sharing a parking lot with a new Mercedes. It took us two tries to get most things done. Strangers still smiled, waved and said, “Buenos Dias.” The mountains were emerald green but the lake was struggling. The crimson skies at night are the best kaleidoscope in the world.

The old local roof dog on Revolution seemed fatter and slower. The roosters in town were still up at 5 am crooning out their territory. The firecrackers (cohetes) continue to go off during the day to tell the world, sound takes precedent over illumination in our area.

The mail delivery has improved, it now averages four weeks to get here from the states, but it’s in one piece and unopened. The din from the Libramiento remains but I’m able to quiet it by removing my hearing aids. The blessing is I can’t hear the traffic; the curse is my wife has to repeat herself several times.

Yesterday we found a medical electronic repair shop in Guadalajara that the local medical establishment said did not exist. When we found the shop after three hours, we high-fived ourselves and realized we’ve integrated into the life down here. I discovered that my Spanish upon re-entry was grade 3; I should be up to usual grade 7 in a week. I’m still in love with Mexico.

POLITICAL CORRECTNESS IN SPORTS

By David Harper, Ojo Sports Editor

I

n 1972 I was refereeing a rugby match at Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, when two opposing factions marched around the field. No doubt they chose to demonstrate at the rugby game as they would not have been allowed to march inside the football stadium. The issue that divided them was whether Stanford should change the nickname of their sports teams from “Indians” to something else. In keeping with the name, their mascot was depicted as a hook- nosed Indian wearing a feathered headdress, all of which was found to be offensive by the politically correct faction who wanted it changed but who were opposed by the traditionalists.

After much deliberation over this issue, the Stanford University President decided to drop the name as well as the mascot and adopted “Cardinal” as their new nickname but decided against having a mascot. They explained that this was after the color of their shirts, cardinal (red) and not the bird, nor the clerical rank. Stanford being a noted academic establishment, with a wellrespected Law School and Business School, didn’t want to face the same situation again, if further down the road a group of activists for the bird, or perhaps the Roman Catholic Church, decided that it was also offensive.

The Stanford Band, a traditionally zany group who refuse to wear uniforms of any kind except silly hats, then jumped into action producing a new mascot of their own: a tree. Not a pine or an oak because, who knows when the activists would take a dislike to that, so an undefined type of tree that looks a bit like a pine in view of it having to fit the student wearing it.

As most of you know, sports teams all over North America went through changes in official nicknames and mascots in order to satisfy those who found offense in the ones that had been traditionally used in less fractious times. Of course the level of the offense can often be muted by liberal applications of green. For example Florida

State teams are still the Seminoles and the school’s financial support for their tribal council makes that tribe proud to have their name so used. The Washington Redskins have been fighting to keep their name since the days of JFK, with lawsuits and appeals still likely going on. Not to overlook our northern brothers, I should also mention the Edmonton Eskimos!

In the UK, racial slurs are treated very severely and in the big leagues soccer players are often in trouble. Last week Liverpool’s famous Uruguayan international player, Luis Suarez, was charged for using a familiar slur several times towards a black opponent.

He was suspended for eight games, not inconsiderable loss of income when players of his caliber often earn $400,000 per week (not a typo)!

But the times we live in, what most people consider a minor issue (Redskins, Indians, etc.) gets caught under the umbrella of serious issues, like racial slurs. There is a difference. Trying to goad your opponent into anger that will hurt his performance is a time honored tactic, whether sporting or not.

Football linemen do it all the time and who can forget the time where one lineman says to his opponent, “Got any naked pictures of your wife?” Or when the other guy angrily answers, “Wanna buy some?”

Let’s not lose our sense of humor in the 21st century.

Saw you in the Ojo 57

SAN PIETRO Then and Now

By Phyllis Ewing

T

he battle of San Pietro was a major Italian engagement from December 8-17, 1943. It involved Allied Forces attacking the heavily fortified positions of the Germans who dug in, hiding in natural caves. These caves provided excellent observation vantage points and fortifications. San Pietro, correct name San Pietro Infine, located half way between Naples and Rome was a medieval town of closely packed stone and mortar houses situated on a mountainside, which became a major battle site in the Italian Campaign of WWII. The Texas T-Patch played a major roll in the liberation of San Pietro.

The T-Patch insignia consists of an olive drab “T” on a blue flint arrowhead. The division was organized from National Guard units of Oklahoma and Texas. The arrowhead represents the State of Oklahoma, once an Indian Territory, and the “T” for Texas. A proud division, it boasts a history dating back to 1835 and the Alamo, to 1899 and the Rough Riders, to WWI. The Germans hated and feared the 36th. They had met before in the Vosges and the Riviera, at Cassino and Salerno, in 1918. They had never been able to crush it; and never would.

The 36th was called up again for active federal service in 1940. After three years, replacements were made from every state. The T-Patch was the first Allied Force to set foot on European soil by landing and fighting at Salerno. Guts, firepower and teamwork decided the battle that day. The push northward was necessary to liberate Rome.

The Germans occupied San Pietro in September 1943. They evacuated women, children and old men to local caves and drafted able-bodied men to help set up their defenses.

The direct attack on the German positions began on December 8th by the II Corps of the Fifth Army. Word came to the Americans that their supply ship had been sunk near

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Naples, delaying their winter combat uniforms. The T-Patchers fought with only field jackets in the frosty air of December. The main attack of the 36th Division, started at noon on December 15th. In an effort to break the German defenses in the town, two platoons from the tank battalion attacked with 16 Sherman tanks and tank destroyers. Only four of the 16 survived. After four successive Allied attacks, the Germans pulled back and launched a counter-attack to cover their withdrawal as they retreated to positions further north.

The battle is also remembered as the first in which the Italian Royal Army fought as co-belligerents of the Allies. Three months before the main invasion, the surrender of Italy to the Allies was announced. This greatly changed the German defensive strategy as the Italians were now their enemies.

San Pietro, population 1,400, had been liberated. There was one American casualty for every freed Italian.

Members of the attacking force nicknamed the highway to Rome “Death Valley” or “Purple Heart Valley.” The battle completely destroyed the medieval town and almost whipped it off the earth. The battle and the plight of the civilian population have inspired numerous accounts, the most famous of which is John Huston’s film The Battle of San Pietro, which was his first effort for the U.S. War Department.

The 30-minute film, largely comprised of on-the-spot combat footage, concentrates on the grueling battle. The filmmakers fully intended The Battle of San Pietro as an antiwar film, but military brass was concerned that the relatives of the dead soldiers would suffer undue agony by such an uncompromising film.

They demanded that the picture be cut and toned down to show the resilience of those who survived.

The film showed the home-front audience the reality of the war and not the optimistic propaganda dis-

pensed by newsreels and fictional Hollywood war movies.

For 15 years we traveled with Dr. Calvin Christman, a WWII professor.

He was the expert, the last of a dying breed, a romantic professor, in love with his art, who taught WWII history for 30 years. One of our visits was to San Pietro. The town’s people turned out in force, cutting paths through the ruins. The aroma of freshly cut vegetation was strong and lovely.

The climb up the mountain terrain was quiet and eerie. It was depressing to see crumbling homes, and a half destroyed church with the out-

line of a cross above the place where the altar once stood.

After our walk-around, we were treated to a lovely reception in their Town Hall. The Mayor presented each of us with a framed picture postcard of the medieval town, before and after. In turn, Dr. Christman sent a Texas flag to them to honor the T-Patchers as a memento of our visit. That Texas flag had flown over the State capital and now hangs in their Town Hall.

Phyllis Ewing

Saw you in the Ojo 59

WEAPONS W EAPONS O OF F MALL M A L L DESTRUCTION D E S T RU UCTION

By Neil McKinnon

I

t started innocently. Early one Wednesday morning Muriel Treppingthwaite, a Vancouver housewife, bundled her three boys, Tim, Horton, Don and her daughter, Cherry into the backseat of her 1993 Saturn Sedan and headed south to pick up cheap granola in a Bellingham shopping mall. Until that Wednesday, Mrs. Treppingthwaite’s life had been remarkable only for its unremarkableness. Little did she know that she was to become a key figure in an international incident.

“Little did I know that I was to become a key figure in an international incident,” Treppingthwaite says. “We usually go on Wednesdays. That way I

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avoid the weekend pile-up at the border. Of course other people have the same idea so there’s also a Wednesday pile-up. I gave the kids a box of oreos and some diet pop to shush them up in case those super microphones were turned on.”

Treppingthwaite says that U.S. border personnel routinely listen in on Canadians’ car conversations. “You can’t let them hear you,” she warns. “One time, I was with my friend Tillie and we were discussing how much cheese we were going to buy. Sure enough, when we got to the mall we found that cheese prices had been jacked up.

They probably put them back down as soon as we left.”

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

She goes on to say that it’s not only mall prices that fluctuate. “I usually blacken the kid’s faces before we go through border security just in case there’s someone on duty who can read facial expressions and tell if the kids are hungry. If we fool them we can get U.S. prices at the fast food outlets.”

On this particular Wednesday, Muriel finished negotiating the crossing and drove straight to Costco. “Thinking back, I probably shouldn’t have parked horizontally across three spaces,” she says. “But, my husband bought that Saturn new in 1993 and it’s the only memento I have of him since he disappeared with that hussy who used to serve coffee at Tim Horton’s. I didn’t want to chance getting a dent.”

She had barely started shopping when the first incident occurred. “I was minding my own business, loading up my cart,” Treppingthwaite says.

“I’d picked up forty or fifty pounds of processed cheese, maybe fifty litres of milk, a palette of hamburger patties and some Low Fat Peanut Butter Dog Cookies for our dachshund, Rolf, when this American lady—I knew she was American because she was wearing a love it or leave it baseball cap and the back of her shorts had the 2012 Republican platform stencilled on the right cheek—she says to me, “How come you moose huggers are always coming down here and buying all our milk?”

Treppingthwaite grimaces at the memory. “I mean how rude can you be? Didn’t she know that she was talking to someone with a real health-care system? I tried to restrain myself but I was right beside the cured meats so I belted her with a Daniele Artisan Salame. That’s when all hell broke loose.”

Muriel doesn’t exaggerate. She was immediately engulfed in a melee that would have done a waterfront bar proud when the fleet was in. Word spread and fighting broke out in every part of the store. The Canadians immediately barricaded themselves in aisle 15 (Diapers and Wipes) and set up a barrage by throwing dozens of True Blue “Natural Essentials” Doggie Bath Sets over the top into aisle 16 (Cheeses, Dips and Candy) where some Americans had taken cover behind a barricade hastily constructed by piling up boxes of Snickers Marathon Chewy Chocolate Peanuts and bottles of Nacho Cheese Sauce.

“Soon there were skirmishes outside,” Muriel explains. “I was afraid for the Saturn so I fought my way to the parking lot. My worst fears were confirmed. I guess the Saturn became a target because it was all alone in the three spaces. An elderly lady—no, I can’t call her a lady—an elderly female delinquent was keying my car. She had

completed one side and had she not been hampered by her walker, I’m sure she would have had time to vandalize the other side too. I sent Horton and Tim and they were able to trip her before she had time to complete her nefarious deed.”

At this point in the interview the emotion becomes too great and Treppingthwaite breaks down. It is some moments before she is able to pick up the story. “As I said, word spread and soon dozens of seniors from the care facility across the street were spilling into the parking lot. Some were armed.” The frustration of having spent years living off the Thursday morning crumbs left behind by Canadian shoppers had boiled over.

Patrolman Gerald “Scotty” McTrayler arrived at Costco just as the Canadians counter-attacked. He explains what happened next. “We tried to intervene,” he says, “but we’re a small force and once the hosers started calling for reinforcements on their cell phones, we had no choice but to close the mall. Some of those hockey pucks got in their cars and burned rubber out of town tossing frozen pizzas at local seniors and shouting, ‘We shall return.’”

Historians agree that things might have settled down at that point but unfortunately, a 25 year-old Vancouverite named Isaac Brock III organised a Shop-the-Bellingham-Costco Event for the following day. As soon as B.C. license plates started crossing the border, the President ordered in the National Guard. The show of force and some frantic behind-the-scenes negotiating at the U.N. resulted in a cease fire. However, things bogged down when the two sides couldn’t agree on the shape of the negotiating table.

The Canadians wanted a rectangular table with rounded corners, the same dimensions as an NHL rink. The U.S. wanted one that was the same shape and size as Mark Spitz’s swimming pool. It was a total impasse.

A few shoppers had been trapped inside Costco. One day they managed to make their way up to the roof where they were rescued by helicopters surreptitiously sent in by Mr. Arnold Benedict, president of the American Milk Producer’s Association. Others eventually returned to Canada by sailing up the coast in a flotilla of old B.C. ferries.

These so-called boat people became instant heroes and were accorded a ticker tape parade down Granville Street during a lull in the customary riot that occurs after each Vancouver Canucks hockey game.

On a sad note, there are still Canadians missing and to-date no remains have been returned. Some analysts believe that the missing shoppers are being detained at Guantánamo and

will be used as bartering tools to bring the American dollar to parity with its Canadian counterpart before the next U.S. election.

Thus far the peace has held with both sides claiming victory. Much like its 200 year-old cousin, the war of 2012 ended with a whimper.

Treppingthwaite is philosophical.

“Maybe by the time Tim, Horton, Don and Cherry are old enough to make cross-border buying trips on their own, the human race will have learned to shop in peace,” she says. “Until then, I never go for granola without taking my AK47.”

GRINGAS & GUACAMOLE

By Gail Nott Early Childhood Development

I

have often wondered how I managed to develop past early childhood without pre-nursery, nursery, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and most importantly, an au pair.

My first caregiver was a very high, dark mahogany, ornately carved bed, with an enormous feather ticked mattress. Each morning, before sun-up, my mother would deposit me in the middle of the great bed on her way to work.

Development of motor skills began with learning not to roll to escape the great crevasse of starched sheets and poking feathers. Body weight did not move mass. On hands and knees, I scaled the snows of white linen to reach the edge. I was slow to develop logical thinking and frequently fell head first to the cold linoleum floor. My freedom, thought hard fought, was not without reward.

Sensory stimulation was heightened by the ever present smells of oil coal lamps, kerosene stoves, sauerkraut, and sounds of Wagner from the old hand cranked Victrola.

Books have been written about toilet training; my grandfather never read them. With two granddaughters under each arm, he walked a distance from the main house toward a rather unimpressive small wooden building. We were deposited inside, two at a time, and told to hurry. Questioningly, we would look at each other, “Hurry and do what?” Visual skills were heightened as we surveyed this tiny room; it was dark, certainly pungent, spiders hanging from the ceiling and why anyone would read the Sears catalogue hanging from the hook on the wall was beyond comprehension.

We clung together as we discovered two gaping abyss. A booming voice rang out “Hurry and do your business.” Trust was the lesson of the day. My cousin

helped me climb to the space between the two black holes, pull down my shorts and held my arms to insure that I wouldn’t disappear like Alice down the rabbit hole.

Naturally, I reciprocated.

The house had one great pot bellied stove in the parlor. There was tire in its belly, but the heat didn’t spread. After being forced to eat homemade molasses cookies, we were placed four or five to a bed, horizontally. All flannel nightgowns were tied in a knot below our feet. Practical, it kept our feet warm and insured that we could not escape and fall down the long, unlit staircase. We were entombed by two or three heavy, patch work quilts.

We resembled ballpark franks in shrinkwrap. This, I believe, encouraged socialization skills.

Decision-making developed at Myers General Store in front of the massive candy case. I had worked hard to earn the two cents from weeding the garden.

Miss Edna, the sales clerk, knew all about childhood development. Even as I covered the glass case with smudges from my nose and fingers, she never hurried me. Clearly, the hard sugar dots on the strip of paper were the best buy for my money.

All the skills I learned as a young child are still with me. I no longer get out of bed head-first nor do I answer to the name “Oye.” When I use a bathroom, I brace my hands against the wall to guarantee I won’t “free fall.” I still hate putting my cherub cheeks on a cold seat. I buy all my nightgowns too large and I peruse the candy racks at all check-out counters and rattle the boxes to determine which has the most Good & Plenty.

Saw you in the Ojo 61

Carmelita Crow

By Harriet Hart English and Español Review by Janice Kimball

C

armelita Crow sweeps us up and takes us along with her and her parents and siblings as they fly from a Mexican village across the American border into Los Angeles, leaving behind a world that felt safe and familiar, a place with cousins, aunts and uncles that she misses. Los Angeles was noisy and smelly. Carmelita pouted and begged to go home.

When Carmelita found a small flock of other crows she asks, “What’s up?” They are bad birds and make fun of her when she loses at their game of collecting shiny objects, a game she could have won.

She chooses instead to do what is right in giving a little girl back her lost bracelet.

Then she meets her mentor, Hitchcock, as she perches on the other half of the H on the huge Hollywood sign. He offers to take her to see the sights of Hollywood.

But Carmelita remembers that not all birds are nice, and she knows better than to go off alone with a stranger.

The following day she returns with her parents and siblings. They fly off with Hitchcock as he takes them on a tour of Los Angeles and they see many wondrous sights.

Carmelita learns that ‘although it is hard to leave a place you love and make a new home in a new land, every place is special. She wisely

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decides that it is up to her to be happy in her new home.

This bilingual book illustrated

by Mexican children is a simply told and delightful tale that is also very real. It is the universal story of a child that has been uprooted from her culture to relocate in the unknown. It is a story that has been repeated in children’s lives countless times, a multi- layered tale of profound truths.

At first it seemed that Carmelita as a fledgling leads a life without choices where her only option is to adapt to the life of her parents.

Through her we learn that this is not true. The book makes us realize that although a child does not have control over their destiny, they do have power through the decisions they make, and through the most important decision of all, how they can choose to perceive their life.

This is a lesson many adults could learn from. This children’s book gives examples about wise decision making. It illustrates how we all have the ability to adapt.

Harriet Hart’s love of birds and children is at the very core of Carmelita Crow. She is giving the proceeds from the sale of this book to support the Efren Gonzales Children’s Art Program, whose illustrations so wonderfully enhance this story. Written in both Spanish and English this is the perfect gift for the child of your gardener or cleaning woman or the child next door, (for whom it may be their very first book, one never to be forgotten) as well as for your grandchildren north of the border. Purchasing this book is a contribution to children in our lakeside community; it is a gift that keeps on giving. $150 pesos. Available at Efren Gonzalez Gallery and Diane Pearl’s.

Saw you in the Ojo 63

PROFILING P ROFILING T TEPEHUA EPEHUA Part One

By Moonyeen King

T

he barrio of Tepehua is just West of Chapala. One of five barrio’s, each as poor as the other. The poorest area in Jalisco. Although all snuggled together on the hillside, they are isolated from each other by tribal instinct and a sense of survival.

Which poverty always brings. Isolated too from Chapala, the Tourist town that Tepehua overlooks, by a disdainful indifference of local authorities.

To quote Susan Netherton. “The terms Tepehua and Tepehuan look and sound very similar, but they refer to different groups of people and different languages. Tepehua is from the Totohuan family, whilst Tepehuan is Uto-Aztecan. Tepehua is spoken in the Eastern part of Central Mexico. Tepe means ‘mountain’, ‘Hua’ means ‘owner of’.

So Tepehua means basically, ‘Mountain People’.”

Tepehua Community Center rose from the ashes of the deserted Love in Action Orphanage. Love in Action moved from Tepehua to Central Chapala, leaving the sturdy old building in the hands of squatters. The rooms that once rang with the sound of children were now desecrated by the homeless and vandals, whose desperation allowed no respect for the property.

Even the police shunned the area, although it was infested by drug gangs, the rape of young girls—the usual mayhem that follows drugs. Police would go

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after the fact, and never patrolled the area for prevention.

Tepehua is a maze of stairs and gully’s, no access by car in some parts, leanto tents, make shift houses, breeze block rooms you cannot call a home, with no running water or electricity. Like little diamonds, a well kept house of two levels will be sandwiched between two shacks.

It is a place of contrasts and graffiti.

Its people are the same, the educated, somehow trapped into poverty, and the illiterate, whose burden is made heavier by very large families.

Tepehua also has magic in the smiles of the street children, and of the women who can love, in spite of the ravages of poverty. They can make a fiesta out of nothing. When a girl comes of age, she will have the special dress needed... somehow they make it through. Improvisation is a friend here, active and healthy... an art forgotten in the societies of plenty.

The streets of Tepehua are strewn with garbage, skinny cows, mules and horses are tied to electric poles, looking for weeds between the debris and partially finished buildings, abandoned by owners who had run out of money.

For those with running water...water delivery by the city is twice a week, many times the water gets cut off once a day for preservation. For those who can afford it, bottled water is used. The City’s well water is unfit to drink, and many of the illnesses are from water born diseases.

Behind the magic lives the threat of violence, children’s play is colored with violence. Dog fights and cock fights start at a very young age. Compassion for the animals they torture has never been learned. Violence in the home is also a way of life, the cycle of which is hard to break. A small group of strangers bought a 99 year lease on the property known as the old Love in Action Building... believing they can bring about change and empower the women. That was in 2010.

It was not to change religion or culture.

It was to change a village by teaching them to help themselves. Not to wait for their world to change, but to change their world around them.

STAY HEALTHY!

By J. Manuel Cordova, M. D. Internal Medicine & Geriatric Specialist Mdjmcordova1204@yahoo.com

The Aging Brain

C

hanging Sleep Patterns: Another change that occurs during the aging process is this: Your need for sleep remains about the same most of your life. If you need about b 6 hours nightly now, chances are you´ll need that amount, give or take a halfhour, 10 years from now.

However, aging can cause you to sleep less soundly. After age 70, it is common to spend more time in bed but less time asleep. That´s because Delta sleep (specific sleep waves), which is the deepest, most restorative sleep, decreases with age. Delta sleep occurs soon after you fall asleep.

If you think you´re sleeping less, remember to count afternoon naps. Many older people who rest during the day find that the combination of naps and nighttime sleep totals just about the same hours of rest they had when they were younger.

As we get older the brain usually declines in size and the speed with which it responds. The age that changes occur varies greatly, based on your own personal medical history. I have said to many patients, “What you put in your body, on your body and how you treat your body, will not only impact your outer appearance, but also your health and brain function.”

Each person is different. From the time you were born (and before) your body is dealing with genetics, environmental exposures, nutrition, stress and other factors that have life-long influence on your body. These issues and many more affect your health long before you ever start thinking about aging.

By the time most people think about aging, their life cycle is already 70-80% over.

Don’t give up and don’t get discouraged. Regardless of your age, it’s never too late to improve your quality of life.

Remember, your health is a combination of many things that vary greatly from one person to another. Your friend or family member may get better results than you, even though you’re both fol-

Your needs llowing i the h same plan. l Y d and d health issues are specific to you.

One of the problems I encounter frequently in my geriatric practice is dealing with patients who took medicines, treatments, potions or supplements and got different results than expected or promised. You will seldom ever see an advertisement related to healthcare offering a 100% guarantee or your money refunded if not totally satisfied!

U.S. Baby Boomers are now over 60 and looking for answers to stay healthy, look younger and live longer. Demands on medicine to produce cures and solutions are resulting in more commercialized products and ads promoting everything you can imagine.

EXERCISE YOUR BRAIN: “Use it or lose it” does apply. There are games and software on the market that claim they can give your brain a work out but I’ve had no specific feedback of how effective they are. Activities that challenge the brain can help it to function better. You might consider the following: Read a book/Find a new hobby/Take a Class/Learn a New Language (Spanish would be good)/Change your Daily Routines from Time to Time/ Keep Active Socially. There are many activities at LCS to consider, as well as the cultural events at the Auditorium and the local theatres.

Join a Local Church - You’ll find wonderful support. Manage your stress - You can train your mind to help you reduce stress. Worry and stress reduces the oxygen flow to the brain. Learn to relax and de-stress your body. Extra sleep, meditation and prayer always help me.

(Ed. Note: Dr. J. Manuel Córdova lives in Lakeside and is the President of the Jalisco Geriatric and Gerontology Association.)

Dr. Cordova

Saw you in the Ojo 65

The Poets’ Niche

By Mark Sconce msconce@gmail.com Gray Burr (1919-2002)

Dear Dad, Several months before you died in 1999, I shared with you my great admiration for the poetry of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin, Russia’s most famous poet. I even read some of his lines while you lay in that nursing home—perhaps a little scared.

When I caress an infant’s face/I tell him in my mind: Farewell!

I yield to you this precious space/My time to fade, and yours to swell.

Trans. by Professor Emeritus James E. Falen In turn, you recounted a story about the poet in your life (back in Central High School, Omaha). His name was Gray Burr. A shy, a somewhat effeminate boy, Gray lived in your neighborhood and, to your surprise, wrote poetry. He too must have been surprised, surprised to be befriended by you, Dad, a star athlete, an all-state football player and not particularly shy. You recognized early on his vulnerability and moved to protect him from would-be bullies. And there were plenty of those in the 30s!

I was a young boy when you first told me the story, and you meant it as a teachable moment. The lesson was clear: to the extent you’re able, protect the weak and stand up for the vulnerable among us. Let your life be determined by sympathy of heart and empathetic outreach. It was also a lesson about prejudice, and I thank you for teaching it, Dad. As you were probably aware, your friend went on to teach English and American literature at Harvard University, Tufts University, and Wheaton College. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1946 in the Pacific Theater. Gray’s poetry books, A Choice of Attitudes (1969) and Shore Leave (2001), received respectful reviews. He also provided numerous poems for The New Yorker, The Partisan Review, Poetry magazine, and he gave many public readings of his work. One reviewer perceived in his poetry “a wry irony as well as melodic affirmation, and a charm of expression that is rare indeed today.” Here’s a Gray Burr poem that proves his point…

With loving memories of you, Dad. Your son, Mark THE SURVIVORS Out of the murders of winter appear these flowers Like refugees from camps or barely alive In the wake of the ice retreat as the beaten powers Of the season of death depart. These few survive.

Clustered now on the hillside in groups of color, The tall, the short, the diversified of petal, They bathe in the sun against a background of duller Trees and bushes and seem to regain their mettle, Their flair for hue and blossom and lost perfume.

Here is the rose, for instance, back from the dead, From lying under the sod in a dungeon gloom, Emerging in skirts and petticoats of red.

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Here is foxglove climbing its limber stalk As though going hand over hand up a green wall And the daisies spread in their wind-staggered walk, A group nodding together in cabal, White-headed from their memories, and here Pansies, still keeping their heads down, faces alert.

And the other flowers so perfectly appear That all seems beauty, loveliness overt.

And only in a butterfly’s trembling wings As it risks taking nectar from these blooms, Is there the least suggestion of charnel things, Of what had happened in those basement rooms.

Mark Sconce

Saw you in the Ojo 67

HUMANE EDUCATION ALLIANCE

I

t has been two years since people representing four education, science, child welfare and animal advocacy organizations, fostered initially by Lakeside Friends of the Animals, came together to promote and implement principles of Humane Education in pre and elementary schools in the region. The group adopted the name Humane Education Alliance (HEA).

HEA is interested in improving the quality of life in the area by fostering the early development of humane values in children through the teaching of respect and compassion for animals. The programs are for 7 to 12 year olds.

The natural bond between children and animals is well known.

However, if it deteriorates into acts of cruelty and disrespect, it can result in an extension of destructive attitudes directed towards humans in adulthood. Animal cruelty in a child is a red light warning that something is not going well with the child, either because it is being abused at home or because cruelty is all that the child sees around him/ her as normal behavior. If we can lessen bullying and violence and increase compassion and empathy

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in children the result will be more caring and responsible adults. Children who learn that animals have feelings and needs similar to ours become more law abiding, kinder and more humane to people, the environment, and animals.

For the past year we have been conducting experimental pilot humane education programs in area public and private schools with wonderful results. Children and their teachers have responded very positively; Children because it is natural and instinctive for them to connect with animals; Teachers because they see the program does reduce aggressiveness and bullying behavior.

HEA has produced humane education DVDs and notebooks for teachers to use this year. The information teachers will be provided includes links to additional information that they can access on the worldwide web.

If you are interested in supporting HEA or becoming an assistant, for further information contact John Marshall at 766-1170 or johnnyfm1m@prodigy.net.mx or Eliana Herria at (045) 331-5448143.

Saw you in the Ojo 69

2nd ANNUAL LCS FIESTA LATINA 2013 – Ole!

By Blue

L

ast year’s Fiesta Latina was such a success, that the Lake Chapala Society decided to make this an annual event. The 2013 Fiesta will be held again in LCS’s gardens on February 2nd from 2:30 until dark. This is the Society’s biggest fundraiser of the year and all proceeds go to support the LCS Community Education Programs.

It will be a day filled with great food, libations and entertainment.

Roberto of Roberto’s Restaurant is offering a scrumptious and imaginative Latin menu from Panama, Ecuador, Chile, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, Columbia, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Entertainment this year will be provided by the charismatic Javier Raygoza and his 40 plus young-to elderly members of the Orquestra Tipica de Chapala who always delight listeners with their authentic and very danceable Latin American music. In addition, party goers will once again be entertained with exciting Latin dances performed by: Graciela Ducet and Alberto Costales from Argentina and Cuba respectively. They reside in Ajijic and work with the Mexican community on projects which enhance the local quality of life.

Jorge de Santiago and Karina Aguayo – Jorge is a physical trainer, who runs the Zona Fitness Gym in Riberas del Pilar and Karina is a trained dancer. They live in Chapala.

Judit Rajhathy and Francisco – She’s from Canada and he’s from Mexico City. They are excellent dancers who give Latin dance lessons in Chapala.

After their performances, the

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The committee this year is headed by Lois Cugini (center) and includes (left to right) Pat Doran, Nancy Creevan, Sharon Smith and Aurora Michel. In addition, nearly 25 volunteers will pitch in to make this year’s Fiesta Latina the success it was in 2012.

dancers will invite attendees on stage to join them in dancing and for dance instruction. The Fiesta Latina 2012 raised over $100,000 pesos for the following LCS Community Education Programs: Biblioteca (library at the Wilkes Education Center)/ESL Classes(English as a second language)/Children’s Art Program (held every Saturday morning in back of the LCS)/Student Aid Program (helping students with their advanced education expenses)/Computer Classes/Summer Remedial Program In addition to the entertainment, attendees will have an opportunity to participate in the ever-popular 50/50 draw and to bid in the silent auction which will feature services, products and memorable experiences including a flat-screen TV, hotel packages, romantic dinners, wine tasting and more.

Last year, tickets sold out early.

This year tickets are $450 and include food, entertainment, dancing in the gazebo and one margarita.

Get yours soon at the LCS, Opus Boutique or Diane Pearl Colecciones. No tickets will be sold at the door. Then, don your brightest Latin colors and have a marvelous day while supporting these great programs within your community.

View From The South Shore

By Kerry Watson kerry.r.watson1@gmail.com

Experience its Sights and Sounds

F

rom my back yard in San Luis Soyatlan I have a panoramic view of all the towns from Jocotepec to Chapala. At night I can see each town’s malecon (board walk) clearly in the twinkling evening light, and fireworks of each town as they celebrate their saint’s day. Sound travels easily too, so we hear all the cannons and fireworks in the distance starting at 5 am. Sometimes it seems as if there is a saint’s day every day on the lake.

From here it’s also easy to see the Ajijic-Chapala periferico (by-pass) curving up the mountain, and the snaky new road that may go to a casino some day. Especially distinctive in the mountainside is a brown mountain cropping in La Canacinta - midway between Ajijic and San Juan Cosala - with a cross on the top, and which supposedly reveals a Mexican eagle if you look at it just right. I’ve seen the eagle.

On this side of the lake the shoreline is not improved like it is in Ajijic, and the villages are spaced farther apart. This makes it a paradise for wildlife, and I occasionally see white pelicans in my yard, some of the 5,000 that make their way to the south shore each winter. The main flock is found in Petatan, about an hour and fifteen minutes from Ajijic on the highway around the lake.

On weekends I often see sailing boats, speed boats, and jet skiers out enjoying the water. There’s a boat club, Club de Vela de San Cristobal Zapotitlan. If you’re looking for it, it is on the main highway just past the giant Jocotepec sign that says that Jocotepec is grateful for your visit.

If I look out at the right time on weekends, I can watch the ferry or “water taxi” that travels from the Ajijic pier to the beautiful new malecon in San Luis Soyatlan, taking about 35 minutes to traverse the lake. It brings tourists over here each Friday through Sunday. The boat can also be chartered for parties.

To see the full majesty of the mountains rising sharply above your little

town and truly appreciate our lake, each resident or visitor should experience the water taxi at least once. You will immediately add the ferry ride to your list of favorite activities to entertain all your visitors when they visit.

And if you are simply curious about this side of the lake, you will be a believer by your return trip. Information on the water taxi’s website at http:// www.tuxcuecalt.com/ or call 333-1324138, English is spoken.

A top-recommended lunch destination for ferry-goers is Los Crotos Bed & Breakfast and Restaurant, just off the San Luis Soyatlan plaza. It’s a pleasant leisurely 15-minute walk through the quaint town, or you can request a land taxi from the boat captain. From the ferry dock, wend your way towards the white church spires rising above the rooftops. As you reach the plaza you will see the church directly in front of you (be sure to tour that too), but go to the far right corner of the plaza on the main road and go a few doors right to the purple awnings. Ring the doorbell (timbre) to begin a gracious and leisurely meal. Use the binoculars there to get a spectacular view of the north shore. Be sure to look for the Mexican eagle in the mountainside.

Kerry Watson

Saw you in the Ojo 71

FRONT ROW CENTER

By Shirley Appelbaum Best Wishes

By Bill Barker Directed By Peggy Lord Chilton Assisted By Kathleen Neal

D

uring the month of December, when thoughts brought us back to family and old memories, Best Wishes was the perfect evening out. Mama has passed away and the children have all gathered together at their childhood home in Liberal, Kansas for her funeral.

Some have traveled long distances and others short. A few still remain in Liberal, including the eldest son “Gil”, who cannot let go of his status as “head of the family”. Five of the siblings stay in the home of their youth, with others in Motels or with other family members.

Thus, I became involved in the dynamics of a “dysfunctional family” including seven of the siblings, reunited after many years. Having been raised in a humble, but loving, home on the wrong side of the tracks, each sibling dealt with his or her own demons.

While sorting through Mama’s beloved possessions, they reminisced about their relationships with their mother and each other through the years assisted, in no small way by Fanny, Mama’s lifelong friend. Emotions ran strong and there was an outstanding scene in the second act between “Elda” and “Gil” that left me saying “wow that really was terrific”! As each of the siblings began to become aware of whom he or she was and what was important to them, I couldn’t help urging them on to discovery. There were many poignant moments as well as delightfully humorous ones.

Elda, the cynical college graduate, was still running away from her

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humble beginnings and had to come to terms with herself. She was magnificently portrayed by Georgette Richmond. Dorie, the baby of the family and a “righteous twit”, who felt denied the love of her mother, showed her rage and jealousy by reminding her siblings how much “mama loved them”. The role was well delivered by Judy Long. Ken Bridges, who played Gil the pragmatic eldest sibling, gave a strong performance. The role of Vera, the people pleaser, was well cast and Kathleen Morris gave quite a believable performance. Crystal, the peacemaker, was sweetly acted by Wendy Hamlin in her first major role at LLT. Zane Pumiglia gave a nice even performance as the reliable son, who really didn’t want any aggravation thrown his way. Fanny, the character role of the play, was performed, as no one else could perform it, by Betty Lloyd Robinson. A delight as always, she brought some “good ole’ down home” religious humor to the play. A cameo performance by Kat Tetrault, as Mrs. Newhart, brought to the stage a delightful addition to LLT. Taking care of his overly excited, young, pregnant wife, Harry Walker as Mr. Newhart, couldn’t get a word in edgewise.

Kudos to Director Peggy Lord Chilton, her Assistant Director, Kathleen Neal and Production Assistants Michael and Joan Warren. A job well done by the Set designer, Alex Pinkerton and Set Decorators Dana Douin and Joanna Babiak. I couldn’t help noticing that though the show took place in 2011, the wardrobe was mostly “retro.”

A bit strange, even for folks from “the other side of the track”. The next production is The Drowsy Chaperone, book

by Bob Martin and Dan McKellar, Music by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison.

Directed by Dave McIntosh, Choreographed by Barbara Clippinger, Musical Director, Judy Hendrick. This 1920’s Musical opens on February 16, 2013. I want to thank Michael Warren for his faith in me to review Best Wishes for this month’s Ojo.

MY M Y MOST MOST EMBARRASSING EMBARRASSIN NG MOMENT MOMENT

By Bernie Suttle

T

he fire trails up the mountainside stood out in the morning sunlight as the coastal fog began to dissipate. This kind of morning lent a coolness to the day that otherwise would be scorching hot.

Being a “big boy,” too old for a crib, I was lying in my “youth bed.”

Looking out the window I could see the big, San Gabriel Mountains and I was wondering what was beyond them when my mother came into the room.

“Good Morning, Son; today is a Holy Day. We’ll be going to Mass this morning. So hurry and get dressed. I left your clothes on the chair. When you’re dressed breakfast will be ready.

I thought to myself, “I’m not in school yet and it’s nice that Mom lays out my clothes but I can do it better myself, anyway.” She had left me a polo shirt and the hated, short pants. I wondered, “How long must I suffer wearing these baby pants before I have long ones? Shoes and sox, but no underwear! Did she forget? What’s up? Mom’s slipping.”

Mom entered my room, dressed for the Big Red Street Car that would take us to church. She had something pink in her hands; what was it?

“Son, you don’t have any underwear. (Was that my fault?) So you can wear a pair of your sister’s. With that she handed them to me - a pair of girls, pink panties. I wouldn’t take them. I wouldn’t even touch them.

I was scared. “Mom, I can’t wear those; I won’t wear them. I’ll stay in bed all day first.”

She stared at me and sternly said, “I can’t leave you here alone; it’ll be OK. Hurry-up and get dressed.”

And there was my big sister wearing a smirk instead of her usual frown.

I’ll bet she had something to do with my missing underwear. She always enjoyed any physical or emotional pain I suffered.

I pouted, I cried, I yelled, I ran and I hid but I finally followed my mom’s directions when she said, “Wear them or stay in your bed all day with me here to see that you do.” That did it. So, in spite of my bitter anger, I put them on. I kept a stormy face and dour mannerism during breakfast until we went next-door for a brief visit with Mrs. Wickstrom, my friend and almost Grandmother.

The Wickstroms were retired, Illinois farmers who wintered in Southern California and served as substitute grandparents for my sister and me. I saw this visit as a scheme to mollify me. Mrs. Wickstrom opened their front door and said, “Well, Hello and good morning. Don’t you all look nice today! But, Bernard, what’s wrong?

You look so unhappy?

I couldn’t tell her.

Mom explained my predicament.

I almost collapsed with embarrassment.

Mrs. Wickstrom smiled at me, a comforting smile, and said, “Bernard, let me show you something. It’s a photo of Will (her husband) taken at about your age.”

She left the room to return with a gold-framed, two-by-three inch, black and white snapshot of a very unhappy looking kid with long, curly hair attired in a dress-like costume. She said, “It was customary for boys to be dressed like this and to have long, curled hair until they went to school”.

I wondered, “Why would these women do this to boys?” Is there a plan by adult females to traumatize or at least embarrass male children by subjecting them to such persecutions?

The picture of Mr. Wickstrom as a boy didn’t help. I felt sorry for him and was still outraged at my predicament.

So, remember, don’t judge an unhappy, little boy, until you have worn his underpants.

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The Ojo Crossword

ACROSS 1 Headquarters of British India 6 Time periods 10 More than anyone else 14 False name 15 Zap 16 Water (Sp.) 17 Ballroom dance 18 College head 19 Skid 20 Compass point 21 Data transmission rate 23 Candies 25 Invited 26 Canoe propeller 27 Rising 30 __Training 34 _con came 35 Sailors “hey” 36 Big truck 38 Musical 39 Period 40 Ancient Greek marketplace 42 Lager 43 Jewish scribe 44 Outer´s opposite 45 Urged 48 Brazen 49 Abdominal muscles (abbr.)

50 Raid 51 Government 54 Apex

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55 Discs 58 City in Yemen 59 Void 61 Provide 63 Socialism´s Marx 64 Little Mermaid´s Sebastian 65 Swiss mathematician 66 TV award 67 Tails 68 Absurd DOWN 1 Day of year 2 Dash 3 Check out register wait 4 Old, ugly woman 5 Barometric pressure indicator 6 Endow 7 Regretted 8 Also known as (abbr.)

9 Senses related 10 Capital of Lesotho 11 Stare at 12 Lawyer dress 13 Knocks (2 wds.)

22 Insert 24 Football conference 25 Indonesian island 27 Ca. University 28 Animal kingdom division 29 Hooked up 30 Several notes 31 Small particle 32 Pressers 33 Bores 35 Wood tool 37 Farside´s Larson 40 Rate plane moves through air 41 Tiny insect 43 Marrow 46 Uselessly 47 Computer makers 48 Jitney 50 Plant starts 51 Hurry 52 Swiss-like cheese 53 Seed 54 Attired 55 Faddish devotion 56 Lite 57 Active 60 Pot 62 Status

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The

LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY

News ‘Tis still the Season’ — We Need Your Help!

This January, while we’re all busy putting away decorations, and enjoying our gifts, let’s think about what we can give back to this beautiful community we live in. The gift of education is one of the most important and long-lasting gifts of all. The LCS Student Aid Program has, over the years, provided financial assistance to more than 300 deserving Mexican students.

In 2012, we helped 35 students attend TEC and University.

In 2013, we’d like to add an additional 10 students to the program. With your help, we can achieve this goal. Simply go to LCS’s home page (LakeChapalaSociety.com) and click on the “Donate” button to pay with PayPal or your credit card. If you prefer to donate in cash, please stop by the office and tell them your money is for the Student Aid Program. Any amount will help. For more information about the Student Aid Program, contact program manager J. Gibson at galmgibson@ hotmail.com. Happy New Year to all.

FIESTA LATINA 2013!

Get your tickets to the Fiesta Latina which will be held at 2:30 PM on February 2nd in the gardens of LCS. Entertainment will be provided by the Orquestra Tipica de Chapala playing pieces from Mexico’s rich musical heritage and music from the Andes. Four couples will demonstrate Latin dances including, mambo, cha cha, cumbia and will be available for dance instruction.

Food will be catered by Roberto’s and includes mouth watering cuisine from Chile, Ecuador, Panama, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and the Caribbean. A complimentary Margarita is included in the price.

Tickets are $450 pesos and are available at LCS from 102pm, Diane Pearl Colecciones and Lois Cugini’s Opus Boutique.(store hours) What Neil James began for our community many years ago, let us continue to support these important community education programs and events.

LCS is closed January 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE STAFF AND YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS. US Consular Visit - Change of Date

The consulate will be here January 9th, the second Wednesday in January. They will return to their regular schedule in February, the first Wednesday of each month.

www.lakechapalasociety.com

January 2013 FROM THE DIRECTORS DESK Well, I guess if you are reading this, the end of the world has come and gone. On with business as usual!

Actually, business as usual at LCS is a bit unusual these days. Over the past few months of been hinting at the work that committees have been accomplishing, including the ad hoc Exploratory Committee.

I have to compliment the Board as it grapples with our long term goals and their determination to keep LCS relevant.

We are very aware of the vacillating conditions that push and pull newcomers to and away from our Lakeside community.

The exploratory committee was set to task for that very purpose. Their findings have resulted in two initiatives.

Address our current physical needs is priority one. Begin a new strategic planning exercise that builds upon the one completed in 2009 is priority two.

We are all very cognizant of the deteriorating conditions of the buildings that LCS owns (including the Wilkes Education Center). I have hinted at the need to begin a capital campaign to address these concerns, and, acting responsibly, the Board has responded by funding a feasibility study that will determine if a capital campaign could be successful.

I’m pleased to announce that LCS has hired David Truly, Phd., to conduct the feasibility study, which is scheduled to be completed by mid February 2013. He has already begun with the formation of an executive committee to assist, and a focus group consisting of the board, past presidents and others have already had one session.

Dr. Truly is uniquely qualified to do the study, having over 15 years of research experience Lakeside. He has conducted numerous surveys, focus groups and interviews here, and is an expert concerning migration patterns to and from Lakeside. We are very anxious to work with him and look forward to the results!

Regardless of the results of the feasibility study, the exploratory committee has recommended we begin anew with our long range planning process, and put more meat on the bones of the current long range and strategic goals ratified by the AGM every year. We expect this to be a six month long process beginning early next year.

These are exciting times for LCS. Every member is important to us and we hope that you will continue being a member. Come and talk to me about any of your thoughts and concerns so that we can make LCS relevant to each and every one of you for years to come.

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LCS Learning Seminars January (via TED Internet podcast) All Seminars in the Sala on Tuesday at Noon LCS Members Only January 8 Chaired by Bill Frayer, Dare to Disagree, Margaret Heffernan suggests that most people instinctively avoid conflict, but as she demonstrates, good disagreement is central to progress. She illustrates (sometimes counter intuitively) how the best partners aren’t echo chambers - and how great research teams, relationships and businesses allow people to deeply disagree.

January 15 Chaired by Fred Harland, The Danger of a Single Story, Chimamanda Adichie suggests that by showing a people as only one thing we fail to recognize who they are. And force them to become our limited image of them. Adichie is a Nigerian writer and storyteller.

January 22 Chaired by Ron Mullenaux, On Being Wrong, “Wrongologist” Kathryn Schulz says that most of us will do anything to avoid being wrong. But what if we’re wrong about that?

Kathryn Schulz makes a compelling case for not just admitting but embracing our fallibility.

January 29 Chaired by Bill Frayer, The Power of Vulnerability, Brené Brown studies human connection - our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity.

LCS Health Services We want to remind everyone of the assortment of valuable health services offered at LCS. These are all free and for everyone to use, not just members. We are proud of our tradition of providing health services to the community since the inception of LCS. • Free Eye Exams • Free Hearing Tests • Free Skin Cancer Screening • Free Blood Pressure Checks • Free Blood Sugar Screening We encourage you to patronize the volunteers and professionals that bring these services to LCS.

Casi Nuevo Thrift & Consignment Shop In the eight months since the Casi Nuevo Thrift & Consignment Store began accepting consignment items, the store has thrived.

You can donate furniture, appliances, and children’s items we can showcase and sell quickly. Arrange for pickup from your house or delivery from the store by contacting Jacqueline at 766-1303 or email smithjacqueline55@ gmail.com.

Our efforts support three charities: School for the Deaf & Children with Special Needs, LCS Community Education Program and Have Hammer...Will Travel. Look for us at the corner store with the red door across from 7-Eleven in Riberas del Pilar. Feliz Año Nuevo to all our friends and patrons from the volunteer staff at Casi Nuevo Thrift & Consignment Store

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SPANISH CLASSES Intro classes are held each month in the LCS Gazebo. Starting the first Tuesday of the month, lasting for three weeks, from noon to 1:30 PM. Learning materials are provided and tuition is $150 pesos. LCS members only.

The next set of 7 week Warren Hardy classes begin January 7.

Levels 1 through 4 are available. Classes cost $600 pesos each and run for 7 weeks. Workbook and other materials cost separately. Sign up in the LCS services office. LCS members only.

VIDEO LIBRARY NEW ADDITIONS FOR JANUARY This is a partial list of the new additions all of which are previewed on the LCS web page. The covers of the updated 2013 catalogs will guide you in selecting films to view.

A romantic drama with a lot of familiar faces, MOONRISE KINGDOM Ref# D6009, is set on an island off the coast of New England in the 1960s. A boy and girl fall in love and run away together. Various factions of the town mobilize to search for them and the town is turned upside down -- which might not be such a bad thing. JARED GILMAN KARA HAYWARD DETACHMENT Ref# 6008 Detachment is a chronicle of three weeks in the lives of several high school teachers, administrators and students seen through the eyes substitute teacher Henry Barthes...subbing being the perfect profession for one seeking to hide out in the open. A secret world of emotion is awakened in him by three women. Each one of the women, like Henry, struggles to find beauty in a seemingly vicious and loveless world.

WICKER PARK Ref# 5999 JOSH HARNETT DIANE KRUGER Matthew, a young advertising executive in Chicago, puts his life and a business trip to China on hold when he thinks he sees Lisa, the love of his life, who without a word, walked out of a restaurant and his life, two years earlier. With a little help from his friend Luke, Matthew, runs into another young woman calling herself Lisa who, unknown to Matthew, is an actress who may hold the key to Lisa’s disappearance, and discovery.

Foreign films: MONSOON WEDDING India, comedy 7.2 on scale of 10 MOSCOW BELGIUM Belgium, comedy 7.2 on scale of 10 WHERE DO WE GO NOW Lebanon, Comedy 7.1 on scale 10 VIAGGIO IN ITALIA Lebanon, Comedy 7.1 on scale 10

If you have old, brittle VHS tapes you’d like to have transferred to long lasting, space saving DVDs, we can do that.

Cheap too, only 50 pesos per tape.

Volunteers STILL Needed for the Following Positions!

• Buildings and Grounds Coordinator • Public Relations Manager • Data entry If you are interested please come to the office and ask for Mary Alice Sargent or Terry Vidal.

JANUARY ACTIVITIES *OPEN TO PUBLIC / ** US CITIZENS CRUZ ROJA * Cruz Roja Sales Table 10-1 Cruz Roja Monthly Meeting 1st W 2-4 HEALTH INSURANCE * Blue Angel Insurance TH 10:30-1 IMSS & Immigration Services M+T 10-1 Mexico Protect Insurance T+TH 11-2 San Javier Health Benefits TH 10-12 HEALTH & LEGAL SERVICES * Becerra Immigration F 10:30-12:30 Blood Pressure M+ F 10-12 Diabetes Screenings 2nd+3rd F 10-12 Hearing Services M & 2nd+ 4th SAT 11-3 Sign-up Information Desk M-SAT 10-2 Loridans, Marquez & Assoc T 10-12 Optometrist TH 9-4 Sign-up Skin Cancer Screening 2nd W 10-12 Sign-up US Consulate 1st W 10:30-12:30 Sign up 10AM ** LESSONS Children’s Art SAT 10-12 * Conversaciones en Espanol M 10-12 Grammar Required Exercise M+W+F 9-10 Intermediate Hatha Yoga T+TH+SAT 2- 3:45 Line Dancing T+TH 10-11:15 LIBRARIES Audio TH 10-12 Book & Video M-SAT 10-2 US Library of Congress Talking Books TH 10-12 ** Wilkes M-F 9:30-1:30, SAT 9:30-1 SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Beginners Digital Camera W12-1 Beginners iPad W 1-2:30 E-mail Registration Required Bridge 4 Fun M=W 1-4:30 Digital Camera Club W 10:30-11:50 Discussion Group W12-1: 30 Everyday Mindfulness M 10:30-12 Film Aficianados 1st & 3rd TH 12-2 Film Aficianados 2nd+4th +Last TH 2-4 Genealogy Last M 2-4 iStuff Discussion Group F 9:30-10:30 Learning Seminars T 12-1:30 Mac OS 1st M 12-1:30 Mac User 3rd W 3-4:30 Mah-Jonng F 10-2 Music Jam W 2-4 Needle Pushers T 10-11:45 Scrabble M+F 12-2 Singing For The Brain M 2-3* TED Philosophy Discussion W 10:45-11:45 This Week in Canada F 2:30-4:30* Tournament Scrabble T 12-2 Windows Computer Group F 10:30-11:45 SERVICE & SUPPORT GROUPS * AL-Anon Step Study M 4:30-5:30 Fibromyalgia/CFS Support Group 2nd TH 2-3 Gamblers Anonymous W 11-1 Green Group 1st T 3-4:30 Lakeside AA M+TH 4:30-6 MS Support Group 3rd W 3-4 Niños de Chapala & Ajijic F 10-1 Open Circle SUN 10-12:15 SMART Recovery W 3-4 TICKET SALES M-F 10-12 *

LCS 2013 Budget For the past several years the LCS Board of Directors have passed balanced budgets. The good news is that over the past few years we have not exceeded our budget and have in fact been able to grow our reserve fund.

For 2013 the board has passed a balanced budget of $2,843,800 pesos, which is a 5% increase over the 2012 budget. The biggest factors effecting the increase includes the approval for a part time administrative assistant and an increase in student aid funding. These expenses are being offset buy projecting a modest increase in membership revenue and a robust fund raising effort.

On the front page an appeal to assist LCS fund raising for Student Aid has been made. We are banking on your support to make this happen. LCS has a firm commitment to education and we know, through our membership survey, that our membership also believes in this important ideal. Please, now is the time to show your support.

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MUSIC JAM STARTING UP JANUARY 9

Film Aficionados Thursdays in January Members only - No Dogs 3 - NOON - POSTMEN IN THE MOUNTAINS - Chinese - 1999.

Finally available with English subtitles, this film tells the tale of a rural postman who is handing over his route to his son. A lushly photographed story about inter-generational bonding.

10 - 2 PM - BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD - USA - 2012. A fantastical emotionally powerful story starring a six-year-old child.

This is one of the most imaginative films you'll ever see. Look for this one to be mentioned prominently at Academy Award time.

Again this year the Music Jam will be meeting outside the Video Library every Wednesday afternoon at 2 PM. If you play an acoustic instrument and would enjoy playing with others, check it out. This jam will play "the oldies" and songs everyone knows. Singers are also welcome. For more information call Carol at 766-3316 or Bob at 766-5510.

TED Philosophy Beginning Wednesday, 2 January 2013 to 24 April 2013. Discussion of philosophy lectures LCS Gazebo, Wednesdays 10:45-11:45 AM. LCS Members Only.

17 - Noon - SISTER- France/Switzerland- 2012. A drama set in a Swiss ski resort that centers on a young boy who supports his sister by stealing from wealthy guests.

24 - 2 PM - POLISSE - France - 2011. Cannes Film Festival winner, POLISSE follows the daily lives of a tight-knit team of the Child Protection Unit of the Paris police department. This police procedural based on actual cases is gripping and powerful.

31 - 2 PM - THIS MUST BE THE PLACE - Italy- 2012.

This Italian film, entirely in English, stars Sean Penn as you've never seen him. He's a former rock star living off his royalties in Dublin. Following the death of his father, he begins a journey across America.

LOOKING FOR A WORKER???

Storytellers Return in February “Love & Lust,” a tribute to Valentine’s Day. More Info next month.

HOWEVER, for visitors or newcomers to the area, as well as to remind fans: Storytellers features original fiction by the best Lakeside writers. Talented readers bring a special lilt to a mix of funny, serious, moving, romantic and even outrageous themes. It’s a great way to spend a pleasant late afternoon.

Wine and soft drinks are available.

Storytellers events are fund raisers for the Jim Collums Education Fund. Last year, thousands of pesos from generous donors were distributed by LCS to help local Mexican kids with their school expenses.

“It Pays to Keep a Kid in School”

(ANY KIND OF JOB, FOR THE WHOLE LAKESIDE AREA, SHORT OR LONG TERM)

Bridge 4 Fun CONTACT ELBELGICANO@YAHOO.COM AND HE WILL BE MORE THAN HAPPY TO SEND YOU A LIST WITH PEOPLE THAT YOU CAN CONTACT. HE HAS A DATABASE WITH ALMOST TO 1200 JOB SEEKERS. IT IS A FREE SERVICE BUT YOU SELECT THE PERSON.

Join the social enthusiasts playing casual bridge, known as "kitchen bridge", this is playing for fun! NO bridge lessons given. LCS Neill James Veranda Mondays and Wednesdays 1-4:30 PM. LCS Members Only.

THE LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY, A.C. 16 de Septiembre #16-A, Ajijic, Jalisco LCS Main Office: (376) 766-1140 Office, information and other services open Monday – Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM. Grounds are open until 5 PM LCS BOARD OF DIRECTORS President - Howard Feldstein (2014); Vice-President - Fred Harland (2013); Treasurer - Paula Haarvei (2013); Secretary - John Rider (2014); Director - Karen Blue (2014); Director - Lois Cugini (2013); Director - Aurora Michel Galindo (2013); Director - Cate Howell (2013); Director - Ann D. Houck (2014); Director - Wallace Mills (2013); Director - Ben White (2013); Executive Director - Terry Vidal ◊ THE LCS NEWSLETTER IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY. ◊ Deadline for submissions is the 17th of the month preceding publication. ◊ News items can be e-mailed to Reba Mayo rebaelizabethhill@yahoo.com; cc to Terry Vidal tqv56431@yahoo.com ◊ Note: The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all submissions. ◊ Articles and/or calendar of events will be included according to time, space availability and editorial decision.

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EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Service * ADVERTISING / DIRECTORY - AJIJICDIRECT.COM Tel. 33-8421-6800 - EL OJO DEL LAGO Tel. 765-3676

Pag: 67

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* ANIMAL CLINICS/PET SHOP - ANIMAL SHELTER, A.C. Tel: 765-5514 - CLINICA VETERINARIA SAN ANTONIO Tel: 766-0808 - DEE’S PET HOTEL Tel: 762-1646 - MASKOTA’S LAKE Tel: 766-0287 - PET FOOD AND GROOMING Tel: 766-3062

Pag: 49 Pag: 08 Pag: 78

Pag: 62 Pag: 71

* BEER & LIQUOR STORES - BETO’S WINE & LIQUOR Cell (045) 333-507-3024 - LICORES PAZ Tel: 766-0292 - MODELORAMA Tel: 766-2678, 765-2055

Pag: 07 Pag: 18 Pag: 70

- HUNTER DOUGLAS Tel: 766-0026 - QUICK BLINDS Tel: 765-5067

* ELEVATORS Pag: 14 Pag: 56

- CUSTOM MADE HOME ELEVATORS Tel: 333-555-0444

Pag: 71

* FINANCIAL SERVICES

- SANDI - Bookstore Tel: 01 (33) 3121-0863 - THE IGUANA SPEAKS MY NAME

Pag: 64 Pag: 69

- AJIJIC TAXMAN Tel: 766-3232 - CANADIANS IN MEXICO

Pag: 75

Tio Corp Business Center

Pag: 36 Pag: 20

Pag: 07

* BOUTIQUE / CLOTHING STORES - CUGINIS OPUS BOUTIQUE Tel/Fax: 766-1790 - FIAGA BOUTIQUE Tel: 766-1816 - LA BELLA VIDA Tel: 766-5131 - MI MEXICO Tel: 766-0133

Tel: 766-4828

* FITNESS Pag: 17

Pag: 05 Pag: 33

Pag: 73

- FUMIGA Tel: 766-6057, Cell: (045) 333-391-3215

Pag: 19

- PROFESSIONAL WINDOW WASHING Tel: 765-4507 Pag: 52 - SPRING CLEAN Tel: 765-2953 Pag: 64

Pag: 11 Pag: 80 Pag: 24 Pag: 37 Pag: 21 Pag: 60

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

Pag: 41 Pag: 32 Pag: 03 Pag: 14 Pag: 78

- BLUE ANGEL Tel: 766-0547 - EDGAR CEDEÑO - MEXICO PROTECT Cell: (045) 33-3106-6982 - PARKER INSURANCE SERVICES Cell: (33) 3809-7116 - PROTEXPLAN U.S. Toll Free 1-800-608-5743 Mexico Toll Free 01-800-681-6730 - RACHEL’S INSURANCE Tel/Fax: 765-4316 - SEGUNET Tel: 766-5974 - SKYMED Tel: 766-0096 - TIOCORP Tel: 766-3978

Pag: 20 Pag: 16 Pag: 67

Pag: 62 Pag: 30 Pag: 37 Pag: 71 Pag: 25

Pag: 27

- MAGO’S OFFICE Tel: 765-3640 - LAW OFFICE RINCON SALAS & CO Tel: 766-4714, 766-4813

Pag: 06 Pag: 61

* LIGHTING Pag: 37 Pag: 56

Pag: 24

* MALL / MARKET

* GRILLS Pag: 17

* HARDWARE STORES

- CENTRO LAGUNA Tel: (376) 766-5514 - MONDAY MARKET

Pag: 02 Pag: 38

* MEAT/POULTRY/CHEESE

* HEALTH

- AJIJIC MEAT CENTER Tel: 766-45-54 - TONY’S Tel: 766-1614, 766-4069

Pag: 61 Pag: 23

* MEDICAL SERVICES

Pag: 59 Pag: 14 Pag: 58

Pag: 72

* DENTISTS - AJIJIC DENTAL Tel: 766-3682 - C.D. MARÍA LUISA LUIS VILLA

- L & R WATER GARDENS Tel: 766-4386

- FERRETERIA Y TLAPALERIA GALVEZ Tel: 766-0880, Fax: 766-2440 Pag: 86 - REAL ORTEGA & SONS-Hardware for Carpenters Tel: 765-7556, 765-2404 Pag: 59

* CONSTRUCTION

Pag: 54

Pag: 58

* INSURANCE

- LIGHTING & DESIGN CENTER Tel: 766-3506 - QUICK BLINDS Tel: 765-5067

* GARDENING

- NAPOLEON Tel: 766-6153

Pag: 15

- ARELLANO CORPORATION GROUP Tel: 766-4696, Cell: 333-954-1264 - ARQ. ROBERTO MILLÁN Tel: 766-3771 - CABO DO MUNDO- INTERIOR DESIGN Tel: 766-0026 - DITO HUBER Cell: 044 331 519 3094 - WARWICK CONSTRUCTION Tel: 765-2224 Cell. (045) 331-135-0763

Pag: 34

* LEGAL SERVICES

- ARDEN Tel: 765-3540 Pag: 87 - TEMPUR, MATTRESS AND PILLOWS Tel: (52) 333-629-5919, (52) 33 3611-3049 Pag: 57

* COMMUNICATIONS

Pag: 36

Pag: 18

Pag: 70

Pag: 86

* CLEANING SERVICE

- ISHOPNMAIL

- ADOBE WALLS INN Tel: 766-1296 - DOLPHIN COVE INN Tel: 01-800-713-3250 - ESTRELLITA’S INN Tel: 766-0917 - HOTEL LA CASONA Tel: 01-800-700-8877 - HOTEL PERICO Cell: 333-142-0012 - LA NUEVA POSADA Tel: 766-1444, Fax: 766-2049 - QUINTA DON JOSE Tel: 01-800-700-2223 - VILLAS DEL SOL Tel: 766-1152

- PRECIOUS METALS WARRANTS THE GREEDY GURU

* FURNITURE

Pag: 10

Pag: 80

* HOTELS / SUITES

Pag: 20

* FUMIGATION

Pag: 19

* CHIROPRACTIC - DR. VICTOR J. YOUCHA Tel: 766-1973

766-1760 765-4444 766-5555

INVESTMENTS/NEWSLETTERS

- SKYFITNESS Tel: 766-1379

* CASINO - FOLIATTI CASINO

Pag: 55

066 765-2308, 765-2553 766-3615

Pag: 03

Pag: 65

* BEAUTY

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* BOOKSTORE / BOOKS

BARBER SHOP

- AFRODITA Tel: 766-6187 - BLUE MOON Tel: 766-0937 - FACIAL AESTHETICS Tel. 765-3502 - FRESH BEAUTY SALON Tel: 766-4596 - GLORIOSA Tel: 766-3372 - JAMES DON SALON Tel: 766-4073 - NEW LOOK STUDIO Tel: 766-6000 - MAR D’CAM Tel: 766-0087

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- BARBERSHOP COYOTE Cell. 331 405 9503

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* BAKERY - TETÉ Tel: 766-1321

Pag: 09

Tel/Fax: 766-2428 Pag: 07 - C.D. SANDRA ANAYA MORA Tel: 765-3502, 765-5444 Pag: 11 - DENTAL EXPRESS Cell: (045) 331-121-6518 Pag: 46, 51 - DENTAL HEALTH ONE Tel: 1060-826 Pag: 27 - DR. ALBERTO DON OLIVERA Tels: 765-4838, 765-4805 Pag: 12 - DR. CARLOS CERDA VALDÉZ Tel: 766-0336 Pag: 78 - DR. FRANCISCO CONTRERAS Tel: 765-5757 Pag: 16 - DRA. ANGELICA ALDANA LEMA DDS Tel: 765-5364 Pag: 38 - DRS. MEDELES & BODART Tel: 766 5050 Pag: 18 - HÉCTOR HARO DDS Tel: 765-3193 Pag: 22 - INTEGRITY Tel: 766-4435 Pag: 29 - SPECIALIST DENTAL CARE Tel: 106-0858 Pag: 50, 70

Pag: 72

* BANK INVESTMENT - ACTINVER Tel: 766-3110, 765-2149 - BANCO MONEX Tel: 765-8100 01 800 0036 663 - INTERCAM Tel: 766-5978 - MULTIVA Tel: 766-2499

Pag: 35

* BLINDS AND CURTAINS

* AUTOMOTIVE - LINEA PROFESIONAL Tel. 766-2555, Fax. 766-0066

- CASA DE LAS FLORES Tel: 766-5493 - CASA DEL SOL Tel: 766-0050 - CASA PARAISO Tel: (387) 761-0418 - CASA TRES LEONES Cell: (045) 331-350-6764 - LAS CÚPULAS Tel: 766-1157

Pag: 61

* ART GALLERIES/HANDCRAFTS - ART HOUSE Tel: 765-5097 - DIANE PEARL COLECCIONES Tel: 766-5683 - EL PALOMAR Tel: 01 (33) 3635-5247 - FRIDAY ARTISANS MARKET - SOL MEXICANO Tel: 766-0734 - ZARAGOZA Tel: 766-0573

DIRECTORY

* BED & BREAKFAST

* ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Tel: 766-5961

www.tel.chapala.com

EMERGENCY HOTLINE AMBULANCE - CRUZ ROJA FIRE DEPARTMENT POLICE Ajijic Chapala La Floresta

- LAKE CHAPALA CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Tel: 766-0920 Pag: 57 - MAR D’CAM Tel: 766-0087 Pag: 60 - NATURAL SOLUTIONS Tel: 765-5666 Pag: 67

* HEARING AIDS - LAKESIDE HEARING SERVICES Cell. (045) 33-1511-4088

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- BERNARDO LANCASTER JONES MD Tel: (33) 3100-3317 - CHAPALA MED Tel: 765-7777 - CLINICA Y FARMACIA MASKARAS Tel: 765-4805, 765-5827 - DERMATOLOGIST Tel: 766-1198, 765-2400 - DERMIKA-Dermatologic Center Tel: 766-2500 - DOCTOR PINTO OPTICAS Tel: 765-7793

Pag: 69 Pag: 69 Pag: 73 Pag: 46 Pag: 26 Pag: 50

- DRA. MARTHA R. BALLESTEROS FRANCO Cell: (045) 333-408-0951 Pag: 17 - HOSPITAL ANGELES DEL CARMEN Tel: (01) 3813-0042 Pag: 14 - INTERNAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST & GERIATRICS Dr. J. Manuel Cordova Tel: 766-2777 Pag: 71 - ISILAB Tel: 766-1164 Pag: 26 - INTEGRITY Tel: 766-4435 Pag: 29 - NEW OPTICAL Cell: (045) 333-157-4984 Pag: 54 - ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON Tel: 33-3640-0686 Pag: 56 - PLASTIC SURGERY-Dr. Benjamin Villaran Tel: 766-5513, Cell 044-333-105-0402 Pag: 43 - PLAZA MONTAÑA HEALTH & BEAUTY Tel: 766-5513 Pag: 43 - VARICOSE VEINS TREATMENT Tel: 765-4805 Pag: 54

* MOVERS - BALDERAS Tel: 01 (33) 3810-4859 - LAKE CHAPALA MOVING Tel: 766-5008 - STROM-WHITE MOVERS Tel: 766-4049

Pag: 06 Pag: 08 Pag: 17

* MUSIC/THEATRE - SCOTIABANK NORTHERN LIGHS MUSIC FESTIVAL Tel: 766-5379 Pag: 53 - FIESTA LATINA Pag: 70 - THE NAKED STAGE READER’S THEATRE Tel: 765-3262 Pag: 21

* NURSERY - SAN ANTONIO VIVERO - VIVERO AZUCENA Tel: 766-4289

Pag: 15 Pag: 69

* PERSONAL ASSISTANCE - JUSTUS HAUSER Tel: 763-5333, Fax: 763-5335 Emergencies: 01 (33) 3441-8223 Pag: 19 - NEWCOMERS ILSE HOFFMANN Cell: 33-3157-2541, Ilse40@megared.net.mx www.mexicoadventure.com/chapala/guadalajara.htm Tel: 01 (33) 3647-3912

* PAINT - PINTURAS FMC Tel: 766-3596 - QUIROZ-Impermeabilizantes Tel: 766-2311 - QUIROZ-Pinturas Tel: 766-5959

Pag: 52 Pag: 68 Pag: 62

* PHARMACIES - FARMACIA CRISTINA Tel: 766-1501 - FARMACIA EXPRESS II Tel: 766-0656 - FARMACIA MASKARAS Tel/Fax: 765-5827 - FARMACIA MORELOS Tel: 765-4002 - FARMACIA UNICA Tel: 766-0523

Pag: 78 Pag: 61 Pag: 77 Pag: 80 Pag: 34

* POOL MAINTENANCE - EQUIPMENT AND POOL MAINTENANCE Tel: 766-1617 Pag: 59

* REAL ESTATE - AJIJIC HOME INSPECTIONS Tel: 766-2836 - AJIJIC REAL ESTATE Tel: 766-2077 - ALL IN ONE REAL ESTATE SERVICE Tel: 766-1161 - ALIX WILSON Cell: (045) 331-265-5078 - ALMA NIEMBRO Cell: 331 212 9553 - ARELLANO CORPORATION GROUP Tel: 766-4696, Cell: 333-954-1264 - BEV. & JEAN COFELL Home 766-5332,Office 765-3676 - CHAPALAJARA Tel: 333 953 8620,Office: 106 1206

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- CHULA VISTA NORTE Tel: 766-2177 Cell: (045) 33-3841-8867 Pag: 35 - COLDWELL BANKER CHAPALA REALTY Tel: 766-1152, 766-3369 Fax: 766-2124, Tels: 765-2877 Fax: 765-3528 Pag: 88 - COLLINS REAL ESTATE Tel: 766-4197 Pag: 27 - DEREK TREVETHAN Cell: 333 100 2660 Pag: 21 - GEORGETTE RICHMOND Tel: 766-2077 Pag: 11 - MIGUEL ROMAN Tel: 765-6557 Pag: 49 - MPR REAL ESTATE Tel: (315) 351-5167 Pag: 77 - NOÉ LOPEZ Cell: (045) 331-047-9607 Pag: 33 - PETER ST. JOHN Tel: 765-3676 Pag: 58 - PRIMAVERA DEL MAR Tel: (33) 3642-4370 Pag: 39 - RAUL GONZALEZ Cell: 33-1437-0925 Pag: 03 - SANDI ALLIN BRISCOE Tel: 765-2484 Pag: 49

* RENTALS/PROPERTY MANAGEMENT - CENTURY 21 Tel: 766-2612 /13/14 Pag: 51 - COLDWELLBANKER CHAPALA REALTY Tel: 766-1152, movile: (045) 33-1175-9632 Pag: 72 - HACIENDA PMR Tel: 766-3320 Pag: 59 - FOR RENT Tel: 765-2671, 766-4813 Pag: 85 - FOR RENT Tel: 766-3199 Pag: 68 - JORGE TORRES Tel: 766-3737 Pag: 24 - LA MANZANILLA HOMES Tel: 52 (315) 351-5369 Pag: 12 - MANZANILLO VACATION RENTALS Tel: (314) 100-6773 or (314) 125-2817 Pag: 68 - RENTAL LOCATERS Tel: 766-5202 Pag: 65 - RENTAL CENTER Tel: 765-3838 Pag: 79 - SANTANA RENTALS Cell: 315-104-3283, Pag: 77 - VILLAS DEL SOL Tel: 766-1152 Pag: 78

* REPAIRS - TV REPAIR SERVICIO BELTRÁN Tel: 765-3949 - WATCH & CLOCKS Tel: 765 5190, Cell: (045) 33-1331-9226

Tel: 766-0428 - MEL’S Tel: 766-4253 - MOM´S DELI & RESTAURANT Tel: 765-5719 - NUMBER FOUR Tel: 766-1360 - PANINO Tel: 766-3822 - PIZZERIA TOSCANA Tel: 765-6996 - POSADA AXIXIC Tel: 766-5378 - TABARKA Tel: 766-1588 - THE GRILL - THE SECRET GARDEN Tel: 766-5213 - TONY’S Tel: 766-1614, 766-4069 - YVES Tel: 766-3565

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* SOLAR ENERGY Pag: 17, 21 Pag: 32

- ESUN Tel: 766-2319

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Pag: 23

* SPA / MASSAGE

Pag: 38

* RETIREMENT/REST/NURSING HOMES - LA CASA NOSTRA Tel: 765-3824 - LA VALENTINA Tel: 766-5179 - SHANGRI-LA Tel: 766-1359 - THE BLUE HOUSE Tel: 766-3558

- LAKESIDE SPAY & NEUTER CENTER, A.C. Tel: 766-3813 - LOS NIÑOS DE CHAPALA Y AJIJIC Tel: 765-7032 Pag: 75

- BALNEARIO SAN JUAN COSALÁ Tel: 01-387-761-0222 - CASA PARAISO Tel: (387) 761-0418 - HOLISTIC MASSAGE Cell: (045)33-1601-5546 - LA BELLA VIDA Tel: 766-5131 - RESPIRO SPA Cell: (045) 33-3157-7790 - TERMAL COSALA Tel: 01 (387) 7610-494/ 7611-100 - TOTAL BODY CARE Tel: 766-3379

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Pag: 03

* STAINED GLASS Pag: 19 Pag: 41 Pag: 25

* SATELLITES/ T.V.

Pag: 78

* THERAPISTS - PROFESSIONAL REHABILITATION Tel: 766-5563

- AJIJIC ELECTRONICS S.A. DE C.V. Tel/Fax: 766-1117, 766-3371 Pag: 18 - SERVICIO BELTRÁN Tel: 765-3949, 766-4586 Pag: 80 - SHAW SATELLITE SERVICES AT LAKESIDE Tel: 331-402-4223 Pag: 28

* SCHOOL - ENGLISH KEY Tel: 3616-7932, 3630-4504 - INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE Tel: 766-0903 - INSTITUTO TERRANOVA Tel: 766 2401, 766 3999

- AIMAR Tel: 766-0801

Pag: 17

* TOURS - CHARTER CLUB TOURS Tel: 766-1777 - TOUR GUIDE-Carlos Andrade L. Cell. 333-4000-838

Pag: 09 Pag: 12

* TREE SERVICE Pag: 66

- CHAPALA TREE SERVICE Tel: 762-0602

Pag: 77

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* SELF STORAGE - SELF STORAGE-BODEGAS CHAPALA Tel: 766-0661, Tel/Fax: 766-1045 Pag: 28

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* SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS - LAKE CHAPALA SOCIETY Tel: 766-1140

Pag: 77-80

* RESTAURANTS/CAFES - AJIJIC TANGO Tel: 766-2458 - ARRAÑAGA Tel: 766-1651 - ASPORTO ITALIANO Cell: 331-142-4154 - BAYA BISTRO Tel: 766-2845 - BRUNO’S RESTAURANT Tel: 766-1674 - CAFÉ ADELITA Tel: 766-0097 - COFFEE & BAGELS Tel: 766-0664 - DELI 8 Tel: 766-1569 - EL AZUL DE FRIDA Tel: 766-3437 - EL PIANO ROJO Tel: 766-2876 - GO LE CLUB Cell: (045) 33-3502-6555 - HACIENDA DE DON PEDRO Tel: 766-4906 - LA BODEGA DE AJIJIC Tel. 766-1002 - LA NUEVA POSADA Tel: 766-1444, 766-2049 - “ LA TAVERNA”DEI QUATTRO MORI Tel: 766-2848 - LA UNA Tel: 766-2072 - LE CAFE PARISIANNE - LOS 5 POTRILLOS Tel: 762-1779 - LOS MOLLETES Tel: 766-4296 - LOS TELARES

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The Ojo Crossword

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Saw you in the Ojo 83

CARS

FOR SALE: Lexus RX400 Hybrid, 2006, V6, Silver, US plated. One owner. 45,000 miles. Excellent condition. Fully loaded with navigation system, backup camera and Bluetooth cell phone connection. Almost new tires. Price: $22,500 US. Must see! Call: (376) 766-3873.

FOR SALE: 1998 Ford Explorer, This is a Mexican plated explorer, was brought in from the states and nationalized. I would consider taking a trade in including a U.S. plated vehicle. Price: $3,500 u.s. dollars or peso eq. Please e mail me for details.

FOR SALE: Beetle, Year 1996, new tires, complete front suspension, air shocks. steering rack, lights, battery, flywheel, clutch, 8 brake wheel cylinders. brake master cylinder, 4 speaker stereo, all new weather strips, fresh paint, new interior and headliner. Much more. The car is perfect. I am moving. Will trade for older van or truck with a carburetor. Price: $35,000. Contact by e mail robertjschoen@juno.com FOR SALE: Super Cargo Trailer, Specially built, 6x10ft. Cargo Trailer with .030ins. Aluminum Screwless Exterior, 3ins.Steel Tube Main Frame, 16ins.O.C. Sidewall Frames, 2x3ins.Tube Cross Members, 3500# Torsion Axle with ST 205 Radial Tires, and Electric Brakes and Spare Wheel. 3/4ins. Floorboards and 3/8ins. Side Walls. Electronic Brake Controller and Alpha Wheel Lock included. Built 2011, at a cost of $4,200 U.S. Has only run 2,500 miles. Price: $2,600U.S. or Pesos equivalent. Telephone 331 751 7520 FOR SALE: Motorcycle, Kawasaki Vulcan 500, year 2006. Excellent condition. 6 speed trans. Low seat. Liquid cooled. Chrome wire spoke wheels.

New battery and rear tire. Jalisco plate.

Price: $45,000 pesos. 766-2352 FOR SALE: Nissan X-Trail, 2012 in pristine condition with only 2,800 miles. White w/ beige. Front and rear bumper protector bars.

Leather w/heated front seats. Tinted windows. Mexican plates. Extra lights on roof. four cylinder engine. Cost $366,000 mxp, will sell for $305,000 mxp. Call: 331-264-7881.

FOR SALE: Ford Ranger XL 5-spd 6 cyl. Year 1999, Jalisco plates. California step side box. Price: $57,900 pesos, Call: (376) 766-3580.

COMPUTERS

FOR SALE: Computer will not boot, Case all usual components including floppy drive, cd, Evan a Colorado tape backup unit.

Hard drive has legit Windows XP. Your working MBoard plus the monitor I’m selling and you’re in business. Price: $900 pesos. Call: (376) 765-4667 FOR SALE: MAG Innovsion XJ700, Old but works good, large screen, measures 10” high, 13” wide, 16” on he diagonal. Its big and bulky but it you have the space and will not move it around its a decent monitor.

Price: $500 pesos. Call: (376) 765-4667.

FOR SALE: Airport Express, never used.

Lost packing box and wasn’t able to return it.

Original, Cost: $90.00 US, Price: $500 pesos. Call: 766-5896

PETS & SUPPLIES

WANTED: Parrot, Want to buy African Grey or second choice a Mex yellow head.

FOR SALE: Puppies for Christmas!. Toy Poms ready to go just in time for Christmas. Light

84

orange and orange sable. Pure bred, correct per AKC standard. Sire and dam on site. Approximately 6 pounds full grown. Very sweet and well socialized.

BEST OFFER FOR: Looking for adoption, for urgent reasons I had to change my job schedules and I can´t care my two dogs, I have a female beagle, 4 years old and a female Labrador chocolate, 3 years old. I´m looking for a good home and good people that can give time and cares for the dogs. I can take them to Chapala if you´re confirm interested.

FOR SALE: Large Dog Ultra Kennel.

Slightly used. Excellent Condition. Price: $100 USD. Call: 766-4267.

FOR SALE: Horses, Young and mature riding horse for sale. American trained for western riding or english style. Quarter horses, Tennessee Walkers, Paso Fino and crossed breeds. Price: $2,000 pesos and up.

FOR SALE: Horse. white tobiano.

Smooth gaits. No vices - loves people.

Bathes, accepts fly spray, barefoot and comes with boots. Comes with saddle, bridle, etc. Selling because we want to travel Price: $3,000 U.S. Call: 331-724-3736.

FOR SALE: Luxury kitty condo / playpen. them! Has food and water containers, hammock, room for a litter pan. http://kittywalk.com/deck_patio.asp. retails at $139.94 USD, for sale for $950 pesos.

FOR SALE: Aquarium, 300-litre aquarium and stand; all supplies included (Resun air pump AC9362; DC battery air pump SA1500; Aqua Clear power filter-Model 110; test kits for ammonia, nitrite and pH; T5-11 high-performance 28watt light; Bio Pro H100 300 watt heater; auto feeder when absent).

Dimensions of tank are 45cm deep, 80 cm high and 103 cm wide. Price: $9,000.00 pesos. Call: (045) 331-382-4771.

GENERAL MERCHANDISE

FOR SALE: One-year old Samsung 40” Series 5 LCD TV. Purchased at Walmart.

Dec. 2011.

Excellent condition. Selling because of upcoming move. Remote included. Price: $5500 pesos Call: (045) 331-382-4771 FOR SALE: Blue and White “rustico” tiles, 3 square meters left over from renovation. Price: $750 pesos. Call: 766-5544.

FOR SALE: Small, easy to use car vacuum. Three different heads and easy to empty dust bag. Price: $400 pesos. Phone: 766-3537 FOR SALE: electric golf cart with battery charger. Price: $18,000 pesos. phone: 7663537 FOR SALE: Round dining table 51 inch Mexican hand carved top with glass. 6 Chairs recently reupholstered. Table and chairs are varnished. Price $7,000 pesos. Call John & Beth in Jocotepec home (387) 763-1116 or cell 331 434-9639 FOR SALE: 24 volumes 1960 Encyclopedia Britannica new condition. Price: $300 US. Call: 766- 0402 FOR SALE: Pelonis radiator-type heater (oil-filled). Bought January 2011 from Walmart, paid 490 pesos. Price: $250 pesos.

FOR SALE: 27 ft. Travel Trailer with a slide-out. Sleeps 6 people. Located on a secure landscaped lot in San Antonio with mountain view. A great value for snow birds.

Lot rent only 2200 peso when trailer is occupied and 1000 peso when not (includes gardener). Has internet, phone, Shaw TV. Private fenced area great for pets. Available

El Ojo del Lago / January 2013

immediately. Price: $8,500 USD. Call: (376) 766-1556.

FOR SALE: King Bed. Solid wood, hand painted headboard with 2 bed frames and almost new, firm mattresses.

Will deliver if in Ajijic or vicinity. Price: $2,000 pesos. Please call: (376) 766-0867 (leave message if no answer).

FOR SALE: Camera - Nikon D7000 which is this year’s new model, almost brand new, & still under warranty. Paid $1850 U.S. at B & H Photo in New York. Includes video cam in camera. 16.1 megapixels. Comes with total kit: cushioned camera & accessory bag, zoom Nikon lens (18-105), sun shade, battery, battery charger, media card, battery grip, UV filter & more. Will sell body & kit without lens, but will not sell lens without the body. Price: $1350 U.S. WANTED: Wanted to Buy - 2001 VW Auto Top Luggage Rack. IF you have one for sale contact me at wminmex@gmail,com.

FOR SALE: Artificial Christmas Tree - 6ft. $1600 pesos new at Wal-Mart. It’s in very good condition and set up on patio so come take a look. Price: $600 pesos. Call: (376) 765-4667.

WANTED: We would like to buy a nice.

Four post headboard, frame and dresser.

Please send photo and price.

FOR SALE: 2011 Italika GS 150 motor scooter. Red. 1288 Kms (805 miles) on it.

Like new. All service done by Italika in Chapala. Has minor “scratches” on driver side.

No accidents, no dents. Only selling to buy a larger one. All paperwork, books etc. Refrendo (license plate fees) paid up to date.

Price: $17,000.00 pesos or USD equiv. Call: (376) 766-2771 Best to email: doslocos9@ gmail.com FOR SALE: Barbeque charcoal, on stand, chimney style excellent condition Price: $250 pesos. Call Bob 766-5947.

FOR SALE: Barbeque propane, table model, propane cylinder excellent condition Price: $500 pesos. Call Bob at 766-5947.

FOR SALE: Yamaha stereo system with receiver, dual cassette deck & 5 disc changer. Quality equipment with excellent sound. $ 1,500p. Call: (387) 761-0177.

WANTED: Mexico National Chili Cook Off needs a 2 drawer file cabinet. Letter size but would take legal. Reasonable price please, a donation would be even better.

FOR SALE: 3 IKEA brand new matching hanging light fixtures still in the box. Kroby pendant lamp, nickel plated hardware and ceiling chandelier. (article number 900.84.08) Will add class to your kitchen, Price: $1,500 pesos. Will sell separately. Call: 766-4105.

FOR SALE: Star Choice DSR209 Standard definition receiver with remote, power cord, and TV connection cable. Less than 2 years old. Price: $850 pesos. 766-4105.

FOR SALE: Night Vision, made in Russia, used in W.W.2 but like new. also have reg. Binoculars for sale. Price: $1,800 pesos.

FOR SALE: Brand New Shaw Triple XkU LNB - quad outputs; Price: $1,300 pesos. Call: (376) 766-4217.

WANTED: Ipod, At least 4gb.

WANTED: Wanted: Used mattress. Prefer queen size but king would also be good.

In very good condition.

FOR SALE: cargo carrier with hitch.

Used once. Price: $1,000 pesos.

FOR SALE: We have a wrought iron patio set. Includes 5 chairs with the cushions as well as the umbrella. The table has a tempered glass which is only 4 months old and

this alone cost $1,000 pesos. Price: $5,000 pesos.

FOR SALE: Just in time for Christmas Slightly used LIME brand treadmill. Free weights and fan built in. Great Condition Price: $300 USD. Call: 766-4267.

FOR SALE: Dish Network USA Duo 322 receiver. Will control 2 tv’s at once. Standard definition only. Receiver with 2 remotes.

Price: $400 pesos. Call: (387) 761-0324 or email: tcaltman711@gmail.com.

FOR SALE: Genuine Austrian Loden Coat, like new. Men’s size 54 Reg. Price: $700 pesos.

FOR SALE: Genuine Men’s Burberry Trench Coat, lined with Burberry signature plaid. Size 54 Reg. Like new. Price: $1,000 pesos. Call: (376) 765-2603.

FOR SALE: Shaw Direct 505 HD Receiver with remote; currently not activated.

Price: $1,300 pesos.

FOR SALE: New Shaw Direct 600 HD Receiver with Remote, Cables & Manuals.

Price: $2,000 pesos. Call: 376-766-4217.

FOR SALE: Golf Clubs. Gentleman’s Callaway Big Bertha X-12 Irons, 9 thru 3 plus Pitching Wedge, Cleveland 56 and Cleveland 58 Wedges, Carbite DH and Carbite DF Polar Balanced Putters, Taylor Made R7. 425--11.5deg. Driver complete with Accessory Kit, Taylor Made R7 ti- 5 Wood, Taylor Made Rescue Dual 4--22deg. Telescopic Ball Recovery Tool, Golf Scope Range Finder, all in a Hippo Golf Bag. Price: $8,000 pesos. Phone: (376) 766-4665 or Cell: 331751-7520.

FOR SALE: Gorgeous, heavy solid wood China Hutch and storage unit ~ 3 small drawers with 4 doors underneath with tons of room for storage ~ the top portion of the hutch has glass doors for showing off your favorite valuable collectibles and keeping them dust free. Price: $200 USD. FOR SALE: Spanish language learning software on 8 CDROM and audio compact discs; 300 hours of beginner, intermediate, and advanced tutoring; 20 key lessons cover vocabulary, grammar, and phonics; Includes Spanish-English and English-Spanish dictionary. Contact me at Price: $300 pesos.

Contact ernst_graf@yahoo.com or call at 766-3210.

FOR SALE: Beautiful solid wood long credenza with metal work on bottom and Calla Lilies ~ comes with matching mirror that is HUGE, with the same Calla Lily theme ~ and also includes two matching end tables with the same metal/Calla Lily theme ~ email me for potos. Price: $150 USD. FOR SALE: Double Hammock Heavy rope White Good condition. Asking $1,000. pesos Call: Maryanne or Terry (376) 7665907.

FOR SALE: Maytag 21 cubic foot Refrigerator White Very good condition. Asking 6,000. pesos Maryanne or Terry (376) 7665907.

FOR SALE: Bright Brass 42” Ceiling fan with Lights. Flush mount works well with boveda ceilings. Price: $895 pesos. Call: Mike (376) 766-2275.

FOR SALE: Shaw Direct Satellite. Complete system with digital DSR209 receiver and remote, 48 inch dish with dual connection LNB, and about 30 feet of RG6 shielded cable. Price:$800.00 pesos. Phone 7666093.

FOR SALE: Bow flex exercise equipment, It can be appropriate for a more pro-

gressive exercise program for both men and women. There is also a video as well as manual and fitness guide with 70 exercises. with replacement cables and foam as well.

Price: $5,000.00 pesos, Call: (376) 766-1786 FOR SALE: Eureka Optima model 426.

Lightweight upright carpet and bare floor vacuum. Bag less, 12amp motor and less than 10 lbs. Used in excellent condition.

Price: $500 pesos.

FOR SALE: Spacious 5th wheel trailer - 36ft with 4 slide outs - queen bed etc.

- phone, internet, Shaw TV, located in San Antonio on secure lot with 3 other trailers.

Price: $23,000 pesos. Call: (376) 765-6859.

FOR SALE: Fitness Equipment. Top of the line treadmill - LIME brand-lightly usedincludes free hand held weights and built in fan. Price: $500 USD. FOR SALE: Brand new complete set DM golf clubs complete with bag. Price: $1,800 pesos. Call Jim (387) 761-0162.

FOR SALE: Long Display case with many dividers to hold pastries, cookies and breads. Clear plastic front with red trimming.

Ideal for a small bakery retail or wholesale business. Price: $4,500 pesos.

FOR SALE: Glass refrigerated display case with 2 glass shelves. Curved glass front. Excellent condition. Ideally suited for a small pastry store. Price: $5,750 pesos. Call: (376) 765-3147 FOR SALE: Three Commercial Grade Metal Shelving Units. Adjustable Shelves.

Two units with 7 shelves and 1 unit with 6 shelves. Ideal for a business requiring strong shelving units, or for a large storage space in you home. Price: $1,200 pesos each. Call: (376) 765-3147.

FOR SALE: Commercial grade blower, 1 HP. Good for construction projects to dry a room, or dry plaster or paint. Price: $3,500 pesos. Call: (376) 765-3147.

FOR SALE: 21 speed mountain bike.

Ridden about 5 times. Price: $3,200 pesos.

WANTED: Freelance writer in desperate need of ergonomic computer chair at moderate price. Call: 331-364-2195.

FOR SALE: Precor Elliptical Trainer. This is a heavy duty trainer that retailed for over $2400.00 US (plus tax and shipping). It was brought down from the States. Price: $990 USD. Call: 766-6004.

FOR SALE: New Vertical vinyl blinds 84x104, color is cottage white purchased from Lowes Hardware.

Never used-Still in box. Price: $950 Pesos. Call Maria in Jocotepec 387763-0908.

FOR SALE: LG Portable Air Conditioner – 9000btu includes exhaust hose and components. Price: $2,800.00 Pesos. Call John & Beth in Jocotepec 387-763-1116 or cell 331-434-9639.

FOR SALE: Indonesian Unique High Back Rattan Chairs and glass top table, newly upholstered seat cushions with new glass in table. Price: $2,200.00 Pesos. Call: John & Beth in Jocotepec 387-763-1116 or cell 331-434-9639.

FOR SALE: Nordic Track Pro crosscountry ski aerobic exercise machine. retails at $599 USD, for sale for just $4,000 pesos.

Great aerobic workout! Burns more calories than any other exercise machine! Works both arms and legs. Easy to set up, can fold to slide under bed. Call: 333-177-8359.

FOR SALE: Full Size Leather Sofa.

Chocolate Brown. Almost New. Purchased for $24,000 pesos. Asking $10,500 pesos OBO. Contact hhmexico@yahoo.com for more details WANTED: Hide a bed sofa or futon in good condition, Call: (376) 765-2484.

FOR SALE: Kodak Carousel Slide Projector with remote and extra slide tray charger. In good working order. Price: $250 pesos. Call Michael 766-3443.

FOR SALE: kayak red in color 12ft, wilderness pun go 120. Price: $400.00 us or best offer Tlachichilco area.

WANTED: Looking for used, fully functional full size food processor with instruc-

tions & attachments at a modest price.

WANTED: Looking for comfortable, gently used wicker/rattan sofa or loveseat and chair. Modestly priced; cushion condition not important if price is right. Call: 331-3642195.

FOR SALE: US Range cast iron and stainless steel 4 burner stove with griddle; Price: $1,200 US. Please call (331 330 1050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@ gmail.com).

FOR SALE: oval wooden dining room table; Price: $250 US, or best offer. Please call (331 330 1050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@gmail.com).

FOR SALE: New Shaw receiver. Never out of box. HD and 3D ready.

Complete with remote.

Price: $2,500 pesos. Phone 376 766 4872 or cell: 333 499 7673.

FOR SALE: Microwave, Daewoo CRS, White, Like new condition, Price:$1,000 pesos.

Phone: (376) 766 4872.

WANTED: Looking for portable sewing machine. In a very good condition. Call: (376) 766-3862 or 331-302-7035.

FOR SALE: Shaw Direct receiver with remote DSR205 clear and ready for activation. Price: $800 pesos. Call: 765-4590.

FOR SALE: Italian freezer for Gelato, Super9-60hz, 230v, 700w, Capannori-Lucca, Italy. Measurements Largo 1.61 mts (long) Ancho 72.5 cms (wide) Alto 1.16 mts (heigh) Price: $18,000 pesos. Call: (376) 766-4422.

FOR SALE: Precor low impact treadmill – Price: $2,800 US, or best offer. Call (331330-1050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@gmail.com).

FOR SALE: Landice L8 Cardio Trainer Treadmill –Price: $2,800 US, or best offer.

Please call (331- 330-1050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@gmail.com).

FOR SALE: Hobart “under the counter” LX30 Commercial Dishwasher. Wash cycle: 85 seconds/150° F (66°C), rinse cycle: 10 seconds, 180° F (82° C) – Price: $2,000 pesos, or best offer. Please call (331-3301050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@ gmail.com).

FOR SALE: Sliding double glass door Coca Cola refrigeration unit (Beverage Air 134a). Inside measurements: 4 ft x 4 ½ ft, 2 ½ ft deep – Price: $500.00 US, or best offer. Please call (331 330 1050) or e-mail me (livingincommunitymx@gmail.com).

FOR SALE: The John Frieda JFHA Hot Air Brush has 2 heat settings plus cool shot. Titanium ceramic coated barrel gives safe, even heat with no damaging hot spots.

Price: $475 pesos. Call 765-7629.

FOR SALE: CANON Power Shot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 CMOS Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom. Includes Case logic TBC-302 Ultra Compact Camera Case with storage and Transcend 8 GB Class 10 SDHC Flash Memory Card. Price: $1,690 pesos. Call 765-7629.

FOR SALE: Magic Lumi Primer is a liquid light formula that blends seamlessly into skin to boost its liveliness and luminosity.

Price: $175 pesos. Call: 765-7629.

FOR SALE: 8’X 8’ Hot tub. Price: $2,500 USD. Call: 763-5067. Gas Opt. FOR SALE: Earth Therapeutics Loofah Exfoliating Scrub Qty(5.) Neutrogena Triple Moisture 1-minute Daily Deep Hair Conditioner. Helps even severely dry, over-processed hair Qty(4.) Nailtiques Nail Protein Formula 2+ Treatment for excessive problem nails Qty(2.) Ketoconozole 2% shampoo-US equivalent of KETOMED at a significantly lower price Qty(8.) Price: $130 pesos each. Call 765-7629 before 6 PM. WANTED: Countertop Icemaker Call: 766-2398 WANTED: Sewing Machine, new or used for volunteer work.

FOR SALE: This DeLonghi Safeheat radiator heater features 3 variable heat settings and a thermostat that automatically maintains the selected temperature Price: $400 pesos. Contact me at ernst_graf@yahoo.com or call me at 766-3210.

FOR SALER: New offset 10’ umbrella, crank open system. Dark tan color comes with all hardware, new in box. I have two for sale. Price: $2,200 pesos each. Call: 7665686.

FOR SALE: Retractable awning, 10’ wide extends out to 8’ It is not sun setter, but similar, with green and tan stripes. Price: $5,500 pesos. Call: 766-5686.

FOR SALE: Squat Rack with 6 levels, heavy duty. Price: $500 pesos. 765-4590 FOR SALE: Complete Encyclopedia Sal vat 13 books complete 1976 edition and one update to 1977. $750 pesos FOR SALE: Sony Wega TV 32”, Remote, Manual,2500Ps..- Space heater , elec.

280 Pesos.-Garden tools, some tools, oil can, axes, some art work, Deutsche Gramophone, all Beethoven records in cassettes, all for $290 pesos. Call 766-2839 FOR SALE: Sony Wega TV 32”, great picture, works well, remote, manual, $2,500 Pesos.- 8 ft wood ladder $350 Ps., Tools, Artwork, Elec.Space heater, $280 Pesos.Much more, Call: 766-2839, come and look.

FOR SALE: Hoover Upright Vacuum.

Power Drive Supreme Self propelled 22.2 per amp uses only 7.38 amps. 3 extra bags, all attachments included has hose. Price: $1,200 pesos. Call: 765-5221.

FOR SALE: Elec. Space Heater for Dec./ Jan., portable, Travel Aire, was new $448.-, will sell for $280.- Pesos. Call 766-2839.

FOR SALE: Beautiful 29’ Samsonite Expandable Spinner suitcase, black, Price: $199.00 USD. FOR SALE: Unused 61 key roll-up silicone electronic keyboard with AC power and percussion. Price: $75.00 USD. FOR SALE: Games. Scrabble, brand new in case, $100.00 Pesos. - Cribbage board, new, $50.00 Pesos, - Monopoly game, excellent condition, $90.00 Pesos.

New Puzzles 500 & 750 pieces, $50 Pesos and $80 Pesos. Call: (376) 766-2839

FOR SALE: “Red Hat Society” book: Fun and Friendship after Fifty. FREE with Red Hat $250.- Pesos. Call: (376) 766-2839 FOR SALE: Men’s casual and dress pants, size 34-38, brand names, Price: $95 Pesos each. Leather belts, regular and reversible, size 36-38, Price: $30-60 Pesos.

Call: (376) 766-2839 FOR SALE: Satellite receiver, Dish Network. Remote. Moving Sale. $280 Pesos.

FOR SALE: Olympia Typewriter in carrying case. Price: $210.00 pesos.

WANTED: Share our Mail Box at Home services. The annual fee is $3,459 pesos so half amounts to $1,729 pesos. Call: (376) 766-5779.

FOR SALE: Brand New electric scooter never used. Fire engine red lights and horn, Comes with hydraulic lift and ramps. Price: $2,000 USD. Call or email to see 766 4456 766 4087 766 2066 Ask for Susana

Saw you in the Ojo 85

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El Ojo del Lago / January 2013