Lake Chapala Society Newsletter – July 2026

CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

The LCS Department of Education and Culture is pleased to offer its signature classes, along with Advanced Care Planning. Art enthusiasts can also enjoy two inspiring new classes that combine creativity, learning, and fun.

Mexican Manners

Wednesday July 1st-10am to 12 pm
Instructor: Victor Camarena
Members: $532.00 | General: $760.00
Feel more at home in Mexico with this one-session introduction to local customs, communication styles, body language, and the cultural perspectives behind everyday interactions.

Canvas and Tote Painting

Thursday July 2nd -10am to 12 pm
Instructor: Karla Vazquez
Members: $595.00 | General: $850.00
Create a unique design on a canvas tote bag while learning painting fundamentals such as color harmony, composition, and brushwork. Guided step by step through the process, participants of all skill levels will find painting approachable and enjoyable. No experience necessary—all materials included.

Introduction to Spanish

Thursdays July 2, 9 and 16 -. 10am to 12 pm
Instructor: Inez Dayer
Members: $553.00 | General: $790.00
A three-session class designed for those with no prior Spanish experience. Learn pronunciation, essential vocabulary, and everyday social expressions—from greetings and basic questions to numbers—so you can begin communicating with confidence.

Get your Jalisco Driver’s License without losing your mind

Wednesdays July 8th and 15th. 10am to 12 pm
Instructor: Victor Camarena
Members: $602.00 | General: $860.00
Take the stress out of obtaining your Jalisco driver’s license in this two-session class. Learn the required documents, application process, traffic rules, and exam requirements, then complete your testing together at the Chapala licensing office. The first session is held at LCS; the second takes place at the licensing office.

Create Your Own Mandala

Monday July 13, 20, 27 and August 3
Instructor: Lauren Fonda
Members: $546.00 | General: $800
Discover the calming art of mandala creation. These traditional circular designs promote balance, focus, and relaxation while encouraging creativity and mindfulness. Participants can unwind and enjoy the meditative process of making art. No art experience necessary. All materials included.

Advanced Care Planning, Living Well and Dying Well in Lakeside

Wednesdays July 15th and 22nd. 10am to 12 pm
Instructor: Loretta Downs
Members: $546.00 | General: $788.00
Session 1: Learn about essential legal documents in Mexico, how to avoid unwanted medical interventions, and ways to build a reliable support system.
Session 2: Review key concepts from Session 1 and explore eight practices for creating a more peaceful transition through life and death, including how to discuss your wishes with loved ones.

Meditation & Everyday Mindfulness Classes

• Everyday Mindfulness
  Every Monday, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm, in the Ken Gosh Pavilion.
• Intermediate Hatha Yoga with Meditation
  Every Tuesday, 2:00 – 3:30 pm, in the Gazebo.
• Raise Your Spiritual IQ – Spiritual discussion series
  Every Tuesday, 2:00 – 3:15 pm. Call Andrea at 669 431 8484 for info.
• Gentle Yoga & Body Awareness
  Every Wednesday, 10:00 – 11:00 am, in the Blue Umbrella Patio.
• “NIA” Fitness / Joy of Movement
  Every Friday, 10:00 – 11:00 am, in the Gazebo.
• Iyengar Yoga
  Every Friday, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, in the Gazebo.

---

OPEN CIRCLE: JULY 2026

Sundays, 10:15–11:30 a.m. Lake Chapala Society Campus, Ajijic Schedule subject to change. All are welcome; no cost to attend (donations welcome).

July 5

The Founding Moments of a Nation

Presenter: Steven Nousen

July 5, 1776. Philadelphia buzzes with rumor and uncertainty. Has Congress truly declared independence from Great Britain? As the Second Continental Congress remains silent, citizens search for answers.

In this immersive presentation, historian Steven Nousen brings audiences into that pivotal moment through the eyes of Benjamin Franklin—printer, patriot, and champion of an informed public. Gather in the State House and experience the tension, curiosity, and historic significance of the events that helped shape a new nation.

Steven Nousen, an award-winning teacher and lobbyist, returns to Open Circle to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. For most of the 21st century, Steven has helped audiences better understand the most influential American of the 18th century. He has appeared in venues ranging from the Library of Congress and the National Geographic Society to elementary schools.

July 12

Unsung Songs of Legendary Mexican Women Composers

Presenter: Dr. Juanita Ulloa

Discover the remarkable women behind two beloved classics, “Bésame Mucho” and “What a Difference a Day Made.” In this engaging presentation, Dr. Juanita Ulloa—Operachi singer, songwriter, scholar, and Professor of Voice—explores the lives and legacy of these pioneering composers while examining why so few women compose or perform mariachi music today. Through live singing, storytelling, and audience participation, attendees will gain fresh insights into Mexican vocal traditions, deepen cultural connections through song, and join in a final piece sung in Spanish.

Dr. Juanita Ulloa is an international Operachi songstress/songwriter who inspires powerful beauty of songs from Mexico/Latin America. She was reviewed alongside Santana as a pioneering artist in a vocal niche of her own (Hispanic Magazine), champions female composers and just moved to Ajijic!

Presenters for July 19 will be announced soon. Please visit the Open Circle Website: OpenCircle Ajijic at LCS (https://prylett.wixsite.com/opencircle) for updated program information.

July 26

Mindful Walking and Living – A Playful Experiential Talk

Presenter: Taj Baker

What if your daily walk could reset your body and lift your mood? Join Taj Baker for a lively, practical exploration of mindful walking—designed for real life, from uneven sidewalks to busy minds. Through simple, playful practices, you’ll discover how to feel more present, confident, and energized with every step. No special gear or perfect posture required—just curiosity and a willingness to move.

Taj Baker is a painter/printmaker and mindfulness and creativity coach with an M.A. in Art Therapy from Naropa University. Drawing on decades of meditation practice, Taj brings warmth, humor, and real-world insight to help you feel steadier, safer, and more alive—even when life gets wobbly.

Interested in Presenting?

Open Circle Ajijic welcomes new presenters year-round. To learn more or apply, visit the Lake Chapala Society website: www.lakechapalasociety.com.