eventos

(From left to right) Filiberto Pérez Vega, Nadia Vega and José González Valenzuela. Photo: Sofía Medeles.

Sofía Medeles (Ajijic).- Three athletes from Ajijic from the group of mountain runners «Team Jou», managed to stand out in the competition «Ultra Cerro Rojo» in Tlatlauquitepec, Puebla, which took place on April 30.

They are José «Jou» Valenzuela, Filiberto Pérez Vega and Nadia Vega, who ran in the free category, in different  distances; Jou in the 50 km reaching the ninth place; Nadia in 15 km achieving the sixth place; and Filiberto in the 30 km, positioning himself in the number 15.

Both Filiberto and José said they were happy with this experience, even though they described it as a «heavy» race. For Nadia, this competition was the second in which she participated outside of Jalisco, so she shared that she found it incredible to go out and see these places that she described as beautiful.

«Because of my injury, the race was a little difficult for me, but I finished it out of pride. On the route they supported me and gave me a pill to keep me going. Although in my case I did not achieve the goal and I felt frustrated, that motivates me to continue and be better in the next races,» said Jou Valenzuela. 

The three mountain marathoners agreed that they will continue running in races outside the town, and that they feel very motivated, as well as grateful for the support that the people of Ajijic have given them. 

Regarding the selection of those who will represent «Team Jou» in this type of races, Valenzuela mentioned that they are chosen for «the desire» they put into their training.

He also invited anyone who wants to be part of his team to contact him through his Facebook page «Jou Valenzuela» so that he can provide them with information about the meetings.

Translated by Patrick O’Heffernan

In the competition in Tepatitlán, the cyclists from San Juan Cosalá scored first, second and third place. 

Alma Serrano.-  San Juan Cosalá. Children and teenagers from the San Juan Cosalá Cycling School participated in their first two cycling competitions, one in Lagos de Moreno on May 1 and the other in Tepatitlán on May 8.  

In the May 1 race, five kids from the school participated in age-appropriate categories, with routes ranging from 2 to 35 kilometers; their final result was two fourth places and one fifth. 

Members of the cycling school with promoter Joel Nava

For the Tepatitlán race on May 8, the athletes scored first, second and third places in the competition. 

For promoters Joel Nava and Samuel Camarena, these results were the fruit of rigorous training; the members of the school have practiced for an hour and a half six days a week for months.

Young cyclists on the go

The promoters commented: «It fills us with satisfaction to see that the children are attracted to this beautiful sport. We are pleased with the results throughout the competitions. We also thank our sponsors and the people who make it possible to attend these events, we hope that more people become interested and that it grows even more,»

Despite the fact that the young cyclists are between eight and 14 years old, the promoters have been surprised at how committed they have been in their training and enthusiasm to compete; on June 6 they will participate in another cycling competition in Zapotlán el Grande.

Translated by Paul Weeks

Jocofest Biker

Date: May 15

Motorcycle event

Location: Starting Jocotepec’s main plaza, continuing to the lookout point, and ending at the Jocotepec Boardwalk 

Time: Starting at 10:00am

Cost: Free 

Course «Literature of Mexican Women Writers». 

Dates: April 28, May 5, 12, 19 and 26

Virtual literary course, taught by Charlotte Carranza.

Location: Virtual course. For more information, call 33-1273-1110.

Time: 6:00-10:00pm

Vaccination for dogs and cats

During the next few days the Municipal Government through the Directorate of Ecology, in collaboration with the Secretary of Health Jalisco, will carry provide anti-rabies vaccinations day in Chapala and the other towns in the municipality

Locations: Centro de Salud Chapala, Flavio Romero de Velazco #406, Centro

Danvet Veterinary Clinic, Francisco I. Madero #699, local 22, Chapala

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 pm. 

Cost: Free 

With the soul of an infant

Date: May 14

Art Exhibition with cocktails

Location: Galería Sol y Luna, Río Bravo #10ª Ajijic
Time:

Cost. Free

Perspectives
Date: May 14

Plastic exhibition with cocktails

Location: House of Culture »José Vaca Flores,» Jocotepec
Time:

Cost: Free 

Avianto

Date: May 14
Inauguration of art exhibition

Location: González Gallo Cultural Center, Chapala
Time:
Cost: Free

Juan Carlos Arancibia

Date: May 15

Guitar concert

Location: González Gallo Cultural Center, Chapala
Time:
Cost: Free 

1st International Theater Festival of Jocotepec 2022

Date: April 27 to May 31

Information at Casa de Cultura «José Vaca Flores.» Call for more information: 38-7763-1621.

Location: Hidalgo Sur #38, Jocotepec, downtown

Time: 

Cost: Free 

The Whirlpool

Date: May 14

Book presentation with cocktails

Location: House of culture »José Vaca Flores,» Jocotepec

Time:

Cost: Free 

Translated by Amy Esperanto

Municipal Public Security officers. Photo: Jazmín Stengel.

Jazmín Stengel (Chapala).- During the Holy Week and Easter holiday period from April 9 to 24, there was one death, two arrests, three injuries, 20 road accidents, 87 infractions and two closed bars. This balance was presented by the municipality based on the Security Operation Joyful Holidays in Chapala.

A 42-year-old man from El Salto lost his life after he overturned his ATV on the road from San Nicolás de Ibarra to Atotonilquillo on the evening of April 16. No details are known about the accident since it was reported to the Fire Department and Civil Protection by citizens who were passing by.

The first arrest was the result of a serious accident between a car and a motorcycle, in which the motorcyclist was seriously injured and was treated by the Chapala Red Cross and later transferred to a hospital. The driver of the car was arrested.

The second person arrested was due to traffic officers who were looking for the driver of a vehicle that was blocking the road and who tried to flee in a car while inebriated, stated the director of Mobility Chapala, Moisés Ochoa Urquieta.

In another incident, two people were injured in an accident between cars in which both drivers were injured and taken to hospitals for medical attention. The Public Prosecutor’s Office did not arrest either of them, specified Ochoa Urquieta.

In total, 20 road accidents were reported during the holiday period by the Chapala traffic department, however, most were only material losses. 

The department’s report also includes 87 infractions issued from April 9 to 24; 15 complaints from the community, and two vehicles stopped for blocking parking lots or interrupting the flow of traffic. This is in addition to road assistance that was required for three hours due to demonstrations on April 14.

The Regulations Department also reported the closure of two stalls on the Chapala boardwalk due to a dispute over space between the two owners, 25 warnings, 15 summonses and 20 visit orders were issued to supervise different commercial activities.

During the operation, the departments of Mobility, Public Safety, Fire and Civil Protection, Regulations and Tourism were involved. In addition to the heads of each department, 60 police officers, 17 traffic officers, 19 inspectors and 42 firefighters participated throughout the municipality of Chapala.

Translated by Sydney Metrick

San Juan Cosalá delegation crosses were decorated with floral arrangements.

Alma Serrano (San Juan Cosalá).- Traditionally, parishioners go up to the cross on a hill to pay their respects or simply as an act of faith. On the way, some pick up stones. When they arrive at their destination, they leave the stones next to the cross as a symbol of offering. Others leave money, objects, written notes and even food. 

The cross on Morelos Street was decorated with composure and floral arrangements. Photo: Alma Serrano.

In the town, the crosses were decorated with flowers and colorful composure. Some are on La Paz, Morelos and Vicente Guerrero north streets. The general population, especially the elderly, visited the crosses near their homes to participate in the Eucharistic celebrations and prayers. 

At the cross on north Vicente Guerrero street, the neighbors celebrated with a mass. Photo: Alma Serrano.

“Because of my legs, I can no longer go to the cross on the hill,” said a 63-year-old San Juan Cosalá resident. “It is very tiring to climb, so I just come like today, but here. It is nice and one comes to ask things to the Holy Cross.”

This day is also to remember the dignified and invaluable work of the masons, who honor the date by erecting a cross decorated with paper flowers. “I have been a mason since I was 13 years old,” said a 57-year-old worker. “We build homes, and it is an important and dignified job.”

Translated by Mike Rogers

The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco began its season with a concert in Jocotepec. Photo: OFJ.

Héctor Ruiz Mejía (Jocotepec).- The Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra (OFJ) performed for the first time in the municipality of Jocotepec.

Hundreds of citizens packed the temple of Señor del Monte to listen to the first concert of the orchestra’s tour outside the Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara (ZMG).  With guest conductor Mariana Martinez, the orchestra will visit the 12 regions of Jalisco.

Noé Reynoso Hermosillo, Culture Director for the municipality, said that the 368 tickets distributed by City Hall for the recital were sold out, and additionally, there were people from other delegations or municipalities who attended.  A little less than 500 in total, due to the limited capacity of the venue. 

Full house at the temple of the Lord of the Mountain to listen to the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco. Photo: Carlo Cuevas.

«Although this was a municipal event, was more of a regional event, because people came from Ocotlán, from Guadalajara, from Jamay, from La Manzanilla, even from Tizapán,» commented Reynoso Hermosillo.

«They should bring this type of event more often, I loved it, I loved seeing so many people enjoying real music, something other than Maluma,» commented one of the attendees to the musical.

Culture director Hermosillo was satisfied with the results of the orchestra’s first presentation in the municipality.  Previously the orchestra was reluctant to perform outside the ZMG as «it was very expensive.»

This was the first concert of the Jalisco Philharmonic in an «extensive» tour, said Noé Reynoso, which will tour the 12 regions of Jalisco as part of the strategy of decentralization of culture of the Ministry of Culture of Jalisco. 

Translated by Paul Weeks

From left to right Filiberto Pérez Vega, Nadia Vega and José González Valenzuela. Photo: Sofía Medeles

Sofía Medeles (Ajijic).- Three Ajijic runners from the   «Team Jou,» mountain runners  shined  in the competition «Ultra Cerro Rojo» in Tlatlauquitepec, Puebla, which took place on April 30.

They are José «Jou» Valenzuela, Filiberto Pérez Vega and Nadia Vega, who ran in the free category, covering different distances: Jou competed in the 50 km race, reaching ninth place, Nadia in the 15 km race, achieving sixth place and Filiberto in the 30 km race, positioning himself in fifteenth place.

Both Filiberto and José said they were happy with the experience, even though they described it as a «hard» race. For Nadia, this competition is the second in which she has participated outside of Jalisco.  She shared that she found it incredible to go out and see these places that she described as beautiful.

«Because of my injury, the race was a little difficult for me, but I finished it out of pride. On the route, organizers supported me and gave me a pill for the pain to keep me going. Although I did not reach the goal I had set for myself and felt frustrated, it motivates me to continue and to do better in the next races,» said Jou Valenzuela. 

The three mountain marathoners agreed that they will continue running in races outside of their hometown, and that they feel very motivated – as well as grateful – for the support that the people of Ajijic have given them. 

When asked about how runners are selected to represent «Team Jou» in this type of race, Valenzuela said that they are chosen for «the commitment» they put into their training.

He also invited anyone who wants to be part of his team to contact him through his Facebook page, «Jou Valenzuela» so that he can provide them with information about the group.

Translated by Rebecca Zittle

The fundraising event was sold out, attracting both Mexicans and expats. Credit: Asociación Civil Pro México

Alma Serrano (San Juan Cosalá).–  At a sold-out event, more than 170 people enjoyed a historical talk, musical presentations, and grape harvests at Raquet Club in San Juan Cosalá. The April 29th event was a fundraiser for Asociación Civil Pro México, an association that strengthens educational processes for socially vulnerable people in Jalisco. The Coordinator of Community Development, María Blanco, was pleased with the turnout; people came from Chapala, Ajijic, El Chante, San Juan Cosalá, and Guadalajara. Both Mexicans and expats attended. «It was very crowded, all the tables were full. Many people who bought tickets, and could not attend, donated their tickets. This allowed others to attend in their place,» she said. 

Gabriel Chávez giving a historical talk about San Juan Cosalá. Credit: Asociación Civil Pro México

María Blanco also acknowledged the work of the entire Asociación Civil Pro México team, as well as the support of the various sponsors and collaborators. The organization’s mission is to continue carrying out projects for the empowerment of local women. «We had support from the entire Asociación Civil Pro México team, but there were also sponsorships that funded a local photographer, chairs, tables, refreshments, floral arrangements, sound system, and more,» she added.

Translated by Amy Esperanto

Vid Wine Forum 2022 

Day: May 7 and 8

16 wineries, tastings, culinary tastings, musical presentations 

Venue: Chapala Yacht Club

From $540 to 1,000 pesos, children under 12 years old free of charge

Traditional Mother’s Day Festival «Adolfo Rayo»

Day: Tuesday, May 10

Cultural activity with mariachi, contests and gifts for mothers

Place: Atrium of the parish of San Francisco de Asis, Chapala

Time: 8 pm

Free

Joco Loco May Cultural Festival

Day: May 14 and 15

Cultural Festival with more than 22 musical presentations and other artists

Venue: Casa Joco – Calle el Chante #5, Jocotepec

Hours: noon – midnight 

Tickets available through Facebook, Casa Joco or through email jocotepeccasa.joco@gmail.com $500 pesos each day or $800 pesos for both

JOCOFEST BIKER DAY

Day: May 15

Motorcycle event

Place: Starting at the main square of Jocotepec, continues to the lookout point and ends at the malecon 

Schedule: Starting at 10 am 

Course “Literature of Mexican Women Writers” 

Day: April 28, May 5, 12, 19 and 26

Virtual literary course taught by Charlotte Carranza

Place: Virtual course Information: 331-273-1110

Schedule: 6 to 8 pm

Vaccination day for dogs and cats

Place: Centro de Salud Chapala, Flavio Romero de Velazco #406, Centro

Danvet Veterinary Clinic, Francisco I Madero #699, local 22, Chapala

During the next few days, the Municipal Government through its Directorate of Ecology in collaboration with the Secretary of Health Jalisco, will carry out an anti-rabies vaccination day in Chapala and its delegations

Schedule: 9 am – 3 pm 

Free

1st International Theater Festival of Jocotepec 2022

Day: April 27 to May 31

Information at Casa de Cultura “José Vaca Flores”

Location: Hidalgo Sur #38, Jocotepec, downtown Telephone: 387 763 1621

Free

Translated by Mike Rogers

Erika Navarro and the Ajijic Potranquita team ready to perform. Photo:  Patrick O’Heffernan

Patrick O’Heffernan and Sophia Medeles (Ajijic).- The Encuentro Nacional Caballito de Palo was held successfully in the Lienzo (bullring) in Ajijic last Saturday to a cheering crowd from around the country.  The Encuentro is a demonstration of the skills of girls 4-11 riding stick horses in precision drills as part of training for the Escaramuza women’s event in the Charreadas, the  Mexican rodeos.

No prizes were given out to the teams from different states but the head of the Ajijic team received a proposal for marriage in the Lienzo field, which she accepted, along with an engagement ring.

Drill team from San Pedro at the Ajijic Lienzo. Photo: Patrick O’Heffernan

Teams rode their “palos” – stick ponies – in “skirmishes” consisting of circling, riding to rapid stops, and executing drill team movements. Saturday’s event was a demonstration, not a competition. The teams pay a registration fee, present their routines in the skirmishes and  receive a certificate of recognition and a dinner.

Erika Navarro, as a guest, with Mrs. Amparo Robledo,  coaches the Ajijic team, told Laguna that this is the 7th year that the Escaramuza Caballito de Palo national circuit  has been held, and  Saturday’s event was the opening  event of the circuit’s 2022 season.

Erika Navarro hugs her now-fiancé Betoo Pérez after accepting his proposal. Photo: Patrick O’Heffernan

The Caballito de Palo girls are in training to ride the Escaramuza which consists of 8 women riding sidesaddle in full costume executing complex, military-style drills, or “skirmishes”.  The sport is fast-paced and often dangerous.

Teams from 6 states attended, most bringing large, noisy cheering sections with them. Each team was dressed in their state’s  traditional Caballito de Palo costume and brought their stick horses with them. The Ajijic team was dressed in turquoise and included a young boy who accompanied the girls on some of the drills and the hat dance.

Erika Navarro and Beto Pérez show off her new engagement ring . Photo: Patrick O’Heffernan

Toward the end of the event, Ms. Navarro walked out to the field to meet one of the staff, her long-time boyfriend Beto Pérez , and was surprised when he dropped to his knees and proposed   marriage. After accepting, Navarro gave her now-fiancé a big hug and turned to the cheering crowd to show off the engagement ring he had just slipped on her finger.

The Circuito Nacional De Escaramuzas Caballito de Palo »is a national organization directed by Pamela Ángeles Sáenz.  Itzel González was in charge of the Ajijic event, together with the municipal government of Chapala, and the Asociación de Charros de Ajijic, which provided them with the facilities. The next event in the circuit will be in Acambay, State of Mexico, on June 16 and the Potranquitas – the Ajijic team plan to be there but needs to raise the funds for transportation.  To donate contact Erika Navarro through the Potranquitos FB page at  https://www.facebook.com/escaramuzacaballosdepalolaspotranquitas.ajijic