en inglés

Stephen W. Heffernan. New York 8023 Subway, part of the show at Emma’s Deli.

Patrick O’Heffernan (Ajijic).-Ajijic resident Stephen W. Heffernan (no relation) opened a show of his Street Life in New York City in the 1970’s at Emma’s Deli,  a series if fine black and white photographic prints showing not only the quirks and personalities of the streets of the US’s largest city, but the almost infinite greyscale graduations of his Ansel-Adams-influenced exposure, developing  and printing process, now forgotten in the digital photo age.

 Heffernan has traveled the world, especially Latin America and Cuba, taking photographs of street life in the style of the legendary Edward Weston. His photos have been displayed in galleries and museums, including the Fototeca de Cuba in Havana. His many series include street life and scenes from Europe, México, Namibia, Nicaaragua, South Africa , the USA, and Cuba.

 “During the 1970’s I learned to make fine prints, guided by the classic books of Ansel Adams  and delving into the history of photography,”  says Heffernan, noting that  “ Edward Weston was my first inspiration but, aesthetically my eye was drawn to the renowned European photojournalists and ‘street’ photographers. This show reflects that influence.”

The photographs displayed  at Emma’s Deli have been curated from the earliest period of his 50-year career. The show will be up for three months Emma’s Deli is at Ramon Colon #5, Ajijic.

Boutique hotel located next to Club Nautico, in La Floresta, east of the Ajijic delegation.  Photo: Sofía Medeles.

Sofía Medeles (Ajijic).- Three of the seven floors built by developers of the boutique hotel under construction La Floresta will have to be removed, following an agreement between representatives of Club Náutico and members of the Fraccionamiento La Floresta. 

The president of the Asociación de Colonos del Fraccionamiento La Floresta, Fernando Plata, said that after approximately seven years of conflict, the problem was finally resolved with an agreement unprecedented in conflicts of this type, given the legal framework in Mexico. 

The developers must remove three floors of the seven that have already been  built, and instead of constructing the  three buildings originally  approved – one for 8 stories – only one four story  building with a  Roof Garden  can be constructed.

Plata explained that the  court trials and the  negotiations to reach  an agreement with which both parties were satisfied took about seven years. He added that the approval and beginning of the  project  were irregular and were handled without informing the administration of the subdivision.

«Construction or modification projects in La Floresta first go through the colonos association to be approved or rejected, according to the regulations and norms of the area. This project never went through the office and we only found out about it after construction began,» said Fernando. 

The neighbors were even more surprised when they learned of the magnitude of the project: three buildings of five stories each. They were also surprised at the time period the developer got the approvals;  according to the representative’s calculations, it was between 2012 and 2014, and the work began in 2015, completely unknown to the neighbors.

«The subdivision  (La Floresta) has been residential, low-density and single-family since it was created. Over time, some of the local names  have changed, but the same character has been maintained. In addition to these characteristics, there is a maximum of two stories and a height limit that today is six meters and 30 centimeters. The Hotel Real de Chapala and the Club Nautico de Chapala, were originated with the subdivision, and adhered to the rules of this,» added Plata.

In 2016, with two lawsuits and a building that already had six floors built, the neighbors  managed to get a judge to suspend the work.  However, the Chapala administration of  Javier Degollado González (2015-2018), did not comply with the order until at least a year and a half after it was issued. But a few days  after the suspension, the permit  was modified and a license for eight floors was authorized, ignoring the judges order.

The president of the colonos reported that it was not until 2021, at the end of the administration of Moises Alejandro Anaya Aguilar, that the municipal authorities intervened to bring both sides together to reach an agreement.

«With knowledge, common sense and understanding on both sides, the director of Urban Development, Gilberto Chairez, brought us together with the developers and we started working on the agreement. You have to understand that in this case, winning was not entirely winning,” said Fernando,  “ if we won, the developers could sue the municipality for granting permits that could not be executed, and if they won, their hotel would be  a target for further action because of the conditions under which the permits were granted,»  he explained.

After approximately ten months of meetings, an agreement was signed before a notary, with the legal description  of the land,  the approved project was registered before the Public Registry of Property (RPP), a Federal Judge and the Magistrate of the Administrative Court were notified. 

Every two months, they  (Federal Judge and the Magistrate ) receive progress reports on the work at the colonos’ office.

«They have only removed the first of the seven floors, and have stopped on the other two, because they need to reinforce the structure  before continuing to remove stories. They have complied and I am sure they will continue to comply,» said Platas.

Fernando commented that he feels satisfied with the work and the agreements reached after seven years of conflicts, and that neither he, nor the neighbors of La Floresta, are opposed to the developments, as long as they are coherent, have a balance, and also conserve the essence for which make the municipality of Chapala a popular  tourist destination.

Translated by Patrick O’Heffernan

Nighttime view on the bicycle path near Villa Nova driving west of Ajijic Photo: Sofía Medeles.

Sofia Medeles (Chapala).- Lighting will be completed along the bicycle path in Ajijic from Tempisque Street to Villa Nova, said Maximiliano Macias Arceo, who oversees the delegation office.

Last week, public lighting personnel from Chapala evaluated the lighting, wiring and material needs for lights to be installed along the bicycle path. 

The Director of Social Communication, Elizabeth Oropeza Silva, added that the agency is already working on connecting the lights, and that the work will be completed this week. She stated that the lighting has been completed from Francisco I. Madero Avenue at its intersection with Hidalgo Avenue, in the municipal capital, to the Chapala-Jocotepec highway, at its intersection with Tempisque Street where the streetlights end.

There have been frequent daily complaints on social networks from citizens wondering why it has taken so long to connect the lights since the work appears finished. 

Semanario Laguna made a tour of the area observing that it is quite dark. Cyclists who were passing through the area said they had very limited vision and felt they were at risk of being in an accident.

«From the three bridges it is already very dark and dangerous, because on this side people use the bike path as a sidewalk. They don’t see us, and we don’t see them. There have already been cases of bicycles colliding with pedestrians, but there hasn’t been a major accident.  An accident could happen, because someone trying to dodge could get into the road and another accident could occur. Hopefully the authorities will act soon,» shared Andrés, a native of Ajijic, who frequently uses the bicycle path.

The Jalisco government has been in charge of the bicycle path construction that began in October 2019.  The first stage of  8 kilometers from Chapala and to Ajijic was delivered in August 2020 with an investment of 58 million pesos.

Translated by Nita Rudy 

One of the many damaged avocados, reported by one of the street vendors. Photo: Héctor Ruiz.

Editor.- In poor condition and with losses, was how the personnel of the Department of Registration and Licensing of Jocotepec returned the products confiscated from the merchants who demonstrated on March 2. 

In what was taken away were 35 kilos of avocado, with a commercial value of 1,800 pesos, a box of raw nopales and a tub of cooked ones, as well as a full box of honey, sweet bread, among other perishable products. 

Damaged product after the merchandise was taken away by the Department of Registration and Licensing. Photo: Héctor Ruiz.

«They took our products from us, they did not let people pass by, people wanted to come closer to buy from us; I was giving them my product and the police did not let us give it to them, that is unfair,» said Carmen Aguilar. 

An hour after the dialogues between the trustee and the merchants in the town hall, around 11:00 a.m. they proceeded to give them back their merchandise, however, some of the merchants reported deficiencies in their items, such as bruised avocados and gutted mamey fruits.

«I delivered them and they didn’t take it, that’s why all the avocados were damaged», commented one of those affected.

ARIES (March 21 – April 20) 

You have set out to achieve something you want and you can achieve it if you bring out all that potential you possess. The Moon encourages you to reflect on your past to avoid making the same mistakes and lead your life in the direction you want. It is a good time to share your feelings, enjoy life and do the things you love.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20) 

Doubts can make you miss opportunities, so, if something interests you, go for it with determination and fight for what you want. The Moon alerts you to possible betrayals. Be very cautious because some people around you may not be what they seem. Look ahead with optimism, forgetting what has hurt you.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) 

The Moon opens the doors of success and puts in front of you many auspicious circumstances. Things can happen that favor you a lot and something you desire is closer. With Venus very well aspected, it is a good time for sentimental issues and to realize projects with your partner. Something may happen that makes you rethink a decision you have made.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) 

You may have worries that are weakening you. You will have to make an effort to relax and appreciate what you have so as not to enter into a spiral of tension that takes its toll on your health. The Moon can bring you a trip to help you disconnect. Bet on dialogue and do not adopt rigid attitudes that keep you away from those you love.

LEO (July 23 – August 23) 

The regenerative energy of the Moon pushes you to make the changes you’ve been thinking about. Your greatest successes will come when you let your creativity come to the surface and take risks with new things. Control your pride because you may do or say something you later regret; put yourself in the place of the other. You will make decisions that will improve your economy.

VIRGO (August 24 – September 23) 

The Moon opposite your sign is a very harmonious energy that encourages you to enjoy every moment, without worrying about the future. Your affairs are going at a good pace, but you have set the bar too high and your successes may come slowly. You can make a decision that will give a new direction to your life and open new perspectives for the future. Don’t neglect your leisure time.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 22)

There may be inconveniences, especially at work, but the Moon comes to your aid to help you find solutions. The good aspects of Mercury clarify your ideas and help you make good decisions. Your friends will be your best allies because you will be able to turn to them for everything. It is a good time to bring you closer to people from whom you are distanced.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 22)

Some matter has you restless, but the Moon brings luck into your life and when you least expect it something wonderful can happen. Many positive developments await you if you dare to make certain changes that you know you need. Wanting to be right at all costs can generate conflicts, especially in your love life. Be flexible.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 21) 

You can start activities or projects with good prospects of success, and you will even go further than you imagined. An effort you made in the past will pay off and you will get the reward you deserve. With the energy of the Moon, it is a good time for everything related to the family, and you can resolve an issue that worries you.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) 

You are under a lot of pressure and misunderstandings are hurting you, but the Moon favors communication and helps you to make things clear. Fortunately, you will have the protection of the Moon, which will transit through your sign to smooth tensions and attract harmony. Try to keep negative thoughts out of your mind.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Mercury in your sign makes you very communicative and helps you connect with people who can be very positive for you. You start March with the Moon in your sign, and you will be with magic and positive thoughts and illusions will illuminate your life. The New Moon favors your economy and can bring you unexpected money.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

The Moon in your sign boosts your creativity and offers you a magical moment to achieve success. Focus on what interests you because you are receiving such positive astral energy that you can achieve the results you expect. Find time to enjoy life and relationships with the people you love.

Cover of the book Entre El Oso y El Dragón (Between the Bear and the Dragon) 

‘Emigrantes del Lago’ Exhibition

Day: Friday, March 4, 2022

Description: Inauguration of photography, painting and sculpture exhibit.

Place: Cultural Center of Ajijic (CCA) at the plaza

Schedule: 4:00 p.m. 

Cost: Free of charge 

Bamboo Yurt Workshop

Days: Saturday March 5 and Sunday March 6, 2022

Description: Practical workshop suitable for children from 8 years old to build Yurts. 

Day 1: Children will learn how to build models, budget, design and weaving of walls and roof. Day 2: Construction of a yurt.

Place: Costa Alegre

Cost: $2,500 pesos p.p. Includes material. Information and registration: 341-170-1538

Conversation with Enrique Martínez M., author of the novel Entre El Oso y El Dragón.  

Day: Saturday, March 5, 2022

Description: A novel that intertwines true stories with shades of fiction, where a Mexican student in the former Soviet Union becomes involved in intricate stories of espionage during the Cold War years.

Venue: PabLola Gallery and Contemporary Art Studios, 16 de Septiembre #1

Time: 4:00 p.m. 

Cost: Free admission

Kyoto Classical Ballet

Presentation of Kyoto Classical Ballet

Date: Saturday, March 5, 2022 

Description: Kyoto Classical Ballet

Place: Ajijic Plaza, Guadalupe Victoria #4, Ajijic

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

5th Race for a Cause  

Date: Sunday, March 6, 2022 

Description: 5K sports race

Place: Ajijic Malecon

Cost: $100 pesos per person. Information: 331-070-1178

Performance by the Duo Stredel – Quiroz

Date: Sunday, March 6, 2022 

Description: Violin and piano concert

Venue: González Gallo Cultural Center (CCGG) “Old Train Station” in Chapala 

Time: 12:30 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

March 8th is International Women’s Day

Health care for International Women’s Day

Date: Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Description: Integrated approach to your health 

Place: Centro de Salud, Ocampo #102, Ajijic 

Cost: For information 376-766-4862

Sin Color

Day:  Friday March 11, 2022

Schedule:  6 pm  performance;  

Description: Popular  LA-based Mexican American synth-pop singer on tour in Mexico   performs her operatic synth-rock music

Place: Dharma Bistro, Malecón de, Del Paseo 18, 45920 Ajijic

Cost: free admission

Invitation to join soccer leagues «Forming Values,» in Jocotepec 

Day: Friday, March 11, 2022

Description: The Directorate of Sports and the Jocotepec City Hall invite children and young people to join soccer leagues. 

Place: Dirección de Deportes Ayuntamiento de Jocotepec. Registration closes March 11, 2022 

Cost: Information at 331-186-7415

CRISIA!  

Description: Internationally popular LA-based operatic jazz-pop-traditional Mexican music on tour in Mexico  performs jazz, opera and traditional Mexican music

Place:  Casa Domenech at Lake Cha[ala Society

Schedule:  6pm performance;  doors open  5pm

Cost: $350 pesos.  contact  33 3150 6940 for reservations

Rehearsals for the Carnival parade

Days: Every Thursday

Description: Come to the rehearsals of the Carnival parade that will be held on Thursdays in January and February. If you don’t have a drum you can borrow one.

Place: Amphitheater at Ajijic Malecon

Schedule: Starting at 7:00 p.m. 

Cost: Free activity

Puppets

Let’s make puppets

Days: Every Friday

Description: Puppet making workshop by teacher Rosita Copa

Place: Registration at Casa de Formación de San Juan Cosalá

Schedule: From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Free activity. For ages 10 and older.

Spring Equinox Tata-Heyoka

Day: Saturday, March 19, 2022

Description: Pre-Hispanic dance, drum ceremony, music and ancestral medicine

Venue: Tlalocan Thermal Spa

Cost: Hotel guests $300 pesos. Visitors $400 pesos. Information and reservations 387-761-0302 Bathing suit required. Adults only.

Venaditos (“Little Deer”) Team Races

Date: Sunday, March 27, 2022

Description: 5K Race

Schedule: 8:00 a.m.

Place: Ajijic Malecon

Cost: $80 pesos. Registration: 331-528-0151

José Palma Corona was born on June 10, 1927 and died on February 18, 2022. Photo: Lalo Palma.

Sofía Medeles(Ajijic). – José Palma Corona passed away on February 18 at the age of 95. He was a renowned contractor and native of Ajijic. He was well known by the population due to his love of participating in the traditions of the town.

He was the son of Donato Palma and Amparo Corona. Since his birth, on June 10, 1927, he lived in Ajijic. In 1957 he became a contractor, working on works such as the Casa del Estrellón located in La Mojonera (near La Cristina), and the Country Club of San Nicolás de Ibarra.

Palma Corona liked to participate in the town’s festivities, such as the balloon regatta and helping the Unión Ajijic soccer team.

«He was happy all his life and didn’t mess around,» said his son, Lalo Palma.

Translated by Kerry Watson

The Banco del Bienestar in Jocotepec was completed in January but is not yet open. Photo: Miguel Cerna.

Héctor Ruiz Mejía( Jocotepec).- The opening of the Banco del Bienestar branch in Jocotepec has been postponed until April due to the electoral ban in the country. 

A source close to the project, who preferred to remain anonymous, explained that the Jocotepec branch was completed in January. It cannot open yet because of the electoral ban, set by the National Electoral Institute, which runs until April 10.

“In fact, days ago the president of the Republic began to inaugurate the situation of the banks,” the source said. “This was at a national level and will continue in the near future, except that right now there is an electoral ban.”

He said Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has opened only four of the 130 branches that are contemplated for Jalisco.

The Banco del Bienestar in Jocotepec is on the Pedro Moreno extension, to the northeast of town, where the Unidad Básica de Rehabilitación was previously located. That building was demolished due to structural damage. 

These banks were created by the federal government to support programs aimed at the elderly, the disabled, children, as well as to pay federal officials, and will also be implemented as a commercial bank. 

However, its operation has been delayed, since at least 50 percent of the 2,700 branches that were expected to open their doors nationwide in January were not able to do so.

In Jalisco, according to a report published by Expansión, of the 130 branches planned to open, only 23 have been completed, 21 more are under construction and 86 are still to be built. 

Translated by Mike Rogers

The audiological office is located at LCS in downtown Ajijic. Photo: Sofia Medeles.

Sofia Medeles (Ajijic).- The first audiology clinic was inaugurated on February 18 in the Ajijic Delegation. 

«Oír Bien», a clinic specialized in the evaluation, adaptation, and maintenance of devices to improve hearing, is located within the facilities of the Lake Chapala Society (LCS), in the downtown area of the town. 

Gabriela Fons, the national coordinator of the Oír Bien Audiology Clinics, commented that the clinic will be a fixed point available to the public that will operate by appointment, with a schedule of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm. 

In addition, thanks to a collaboration with the Starkey brand, for each purchase of a hearing aid at the clinic, another one will be donated, said Fons. The LCS and the Sistema para el Desarrollo Integral de las Familia (DIF) Chapala will be in charge of choosing the ideal person to receive it, who will also receive follow-up care for two years.

To schedule an appointment at «Oír Bien» the telephone number is 333-945-3267.

Translated by Elizabeth Shields

There is still 15 percent to go before the completion of the San Juan Cosalá section of the bicycle lane. Photo: Héctor Ruiz.

Héctor Ruiz Mejía (Jocotepec).– The bicycle lane under construction on the Chapala-Jocotepec highway in the San Juan Cosalá section in the municipality of Jocotepec, is 85 percent complete. 

Enrique González Ramírez, head of Social Communication of the Jalisco Secretariat of Infrastructure and Public Works (SIOP), said that by the end of March the project will be completed and handed over to the municipality.

Although last November the bicycle lane was 68 percent complete, in the last three months it only advanced 17 percent, due to setbacks suffered in the section, including the landslides that affected the areas in October and negotiations with the inhabitants of the town. 

The remaining 15 percent of the work  includes the leveling of sidewalks, as well as the replacement of drinking water and drainage pipes. Gonzalez Ramirez said that the bike lane was designed with flexible lines depending on the topography of the site; it will be enclosed by two side curbs, and a red terracotta asphalt seal on the roadway, street lighting, vegetation and road safety devices.

Neighbors and owners of businesses established on the bike path demanded the completion of the road, arguing that they were tired of the traffic and dust generated by the work. 

«I pass by here every day and I just don’t see when they will finish; I see that they keep adding and adding cement, and they don’t stop», commented Ricardo, a bricklayer who passes through this section every day.

Translated by Sydney Metrick