What's Happening

Conecciones, January 2021 Conecciones

The latest edition Lake Chapala Society's magazine, Conecciones or Connections in English, is now available for reading [a href="https://issuu.com/lakechapalasociety/docs/jan" target="_blank" name="Conecciones"]** On-Line **[/a].

Alternatively, you may download a copy of the magazine to your PC [a href='newsletters.php' target='_blank']** DOWNLOAD HERE **[/a].

The mission of this magazine advances the mission of LCS, which is to "promote the active participation of lakeside's inhabitants to improve the quality of life Lakeside."The articles in the magazine have been carefully chosen to entertain, educate, and provide information and inspiration to live a quality life lakeside.

The magazine's name, Conecciones, reflects its purpose, with LCS acting as a link that encourages connections amongst our unique populace.With an unconventional spelling the name symbolizes the merging of cultures and ideas.
Coronavirus Bulletin The Governor of Jalisco has announced emergency public health measures designed to interrupt coronavirus transmission by prohibiting unnecessary social interactions. The policy mandates that our campus be closed from Saturday, January 16 through February 1. The government has stated that businesses who violate these two week restrictions will be fined and further legal actions may be taken.

For those who bought tickets to the sold out Branden and James Concert, we are rescheduling for a very special Valentines Day concert where the performers have something special in mind for us all.

For Open Circle we will resume presentations the first Sunday in February, the presentations that were during this period will be rescheduled.

We have always done our best to provide library services during this pandemic. However the latest guidelines prevent us from opening the library for these two weeks. The policy applies to all other services at LCS as well. So the office will not be open, all libraries will be closed, the services and all classes and activities will be postponed until February.

The café at LCS will be OPEN, as permitted by the Governor's order. The café will maintain regular hours. If you are not coming out, please support the Café and order meals for home delivery (to the central area of Ajijic). The Café phone number is 333-150-6940.

All other activities at LCS will be postponed till February. If you are registered for a class, all registrations will be extended into February.

We greatly value the health of our community and the support from all our members and participants. We know that while things are bleak right now, there are brighter days ahead for us all. We have great plans to enhance the value of your membership at the Lake Chapala Society and look forward to sharing our progress with you all.

Please Note -- This policy may be extended or modified as required to protect the public health of our community. Visit this space again for future updates.
Elderly Healthcare LCS Immunization Program

Designed for those who were unable to receive vaccines during our November 17 event.
Lake Care will provide a limited number of vaccinations to LCS Members-only until supplies are exhausted.

This program will observe the following procedures:
** Visit the LCS Office in person to confirm your Membership, pay for the desired vaccines, priced below, and receive a Lake Care receipt.
** Contact Lake Care at 376-766-2088 to make an appointment to receive your vaccination. Lake Care is open Monday through Friday from 10am-1pm.
** Present your Lake Care receipt to the nurse at Lake Care, Carreterra Chapala – Joco #141, Ajijic, (Next to Vinos America Store) at your appointment.

Immunizations available:
* Pneumonia (Prevnar 13 - Lifetime immunity) Cost $1,700 pesos.
* Pneumonia (Pneumovax - Five year immunity) Cost $750 pesos.
* Influenza (Four strain) $750 pesos.
NOTE: Influenza and pneumonia vaccines may be taken on the same day.
Canada Corona Virus Update
A message from Consular Services
Embassy of Canada in Mexico City:

Mandatory 14-day quarantine or isolation

Everyone entering Canada must follow mandatory isolation or quarantine requirements.

Testing is now required for people flying into Canada

Effective midnight on January 7, 2021, all travellers five years of age or older must provide proof of a negative laboratory test result for COVID-19 to the airline prior to boarding from another country to Canada. The test must be performed using a COVID-19 molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or a Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) test and must be taken within 72 hours prior to traveller’s scheduled departure to Canada. Travellers departing from the Caribbean or South America can use tests conducted within 96 hours of departure (instead of 72 hours) until January 14, 2021. This also applies to Mexico. All travellers going to Canada must present this information at the time of boarding. Failure to do so will mean an automatic denial of boarding by the airline operating the flight to Canada.

Evidence – elements

Evidence of a negative result for a COVID-19 molecular test must include:
• The person’s name and date of birth;
• The name and clinic address of the laboratory that administered the test;
• The date the specimen was collected and the test method used; and
• The test results.

Travellers with planned flights to Canada are strongly encouraged to take note of this information, in order to be compliant with the requirements, and to avoid being refused boarding by the airline. More information can be found [a href="https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid" target="_blank" name="COVID Travel"] ** HERE **[/a]

Positive result to a COVID-19 test

If you receive a positive test result for COVID-19, you will not be allowed to board a flight to Canada.
• Isolate at your destination, whether you have symptoms or not.
• Follow the advice and instructions of local public health authorities.
• Seek medical attention if required.
• Check with your medical provider to find out how long you must wait to retest.
• Contact your airline or tour operator to find out when you can book your return to Canada.

Canada’s Consular Services

Canadian government offices abroad do not provide medical attention (including administering COVID-19 testing) or cover medical expenses for Canadian citizens abroad. Note that if you are diagnosed with COVID-19, Canadian government offices abroad will not be able to help you find accommodation or cover your isolation expenses. To know more about Canada’s Consular services and what we can and cannot do, please visit our [a href="https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emergency-info/consular" target="_blank" name="Emergency Assistance"] About Consular Services webpage [/a].

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the following Canadian government offices in Mexico will be temporary closed to in-person visits until further notice:
Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Cancún, Guadalajara, Mazatlán, Monterrey, Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta.

Emergency consular services are offered on an appointment basis.
If you need emergency consular assistance, call 55-5724-7900 ext. 379-3348 to make an appointment with one of our points of service. Canadians can also reach out to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre (EWRC) in Ottawa which operates 24/7. The EWRC can be reached by phone at 613-996-8885 or an email can also be sent to sos@international.gc.ca.
Personal Improvement Program Lake Chapala Society's - Personal Enrichment Program (PEP)
Click the link below to learn more about the courses that will be offered. When you find a course of interest, you can enroll on-line.

[a href="personal_enrichment.php" name="Personal Enrichment Program"]LCS Personal Enrichment Program[/a]

Seminars offered in January, 2021

A minimum of 11 students -- maximum of 20 students per class are required.

This is your opportunity to participate in the Lake Chapala Society's new PersonalEnrichment Program designed to fulfill our members' call for more programs that areboth entertaining and informative.

Our next series of programs draws from the expertise and experiences ofhighly qualified experts. Each lecturer will present topics that will enrich yourunderstanding of Mexican history, culture and our Lakeside community. The programis oriented to LCS members. If you are not a current member, you can participate with the additional purchase of a 1-month membership.
Introduction to Lakeside The Lake Chapala Society presents

INTRODUCTION TO LAKESIDE on Campus AND via ZOOM
February 8, 12
On Campus - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Via ZOOM - 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Instructor: Rachel McMillen
Min/Max Students required: 4/15
Cost: $400 pesos via ZOOM.
Cost: $600 pesos ON CAMPUS.
LCS Membership Required

[a href='intro_lakeside_form.php' target='_blank']CLICK HERE TO ENROLL ON-LINE[/a]


Moving to another country can be intimidating if we don't have the basic knowledge to function successfully. That is why we offer you this class --whether you plan to move here or already live Lakeside. There's always a world to know.
This class is divided into two sessions. It is conducted online through Zoom, or in person on the LCS Campus. The ZOOM link will be sent to you before each class.

Session 1 - February 8: Exploring Lakeside
Topics Discussed:
** Where exactly is Lakeside
** Lakeside Communities
** Ajijic Village
** Fiestas
** LCS

Session 2 - February 12: Living at Lakeside
Topics Discussed:
** Health & Medical
** Eating Out - Eating In
** Money - Banks & ATMs
** Churches
** Entertainment & Recreation
** Transportation
**Accommodation & Utilities
Skin Cancer Screening Skin Cancer Screening Program

Skin Cancer Screenings will resume on February 10, 2021.

Screenings will be available 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Medical services are open to the public.

All skin cancer screening services will be BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. NO walk-ins will be allowed. Patients can call the LCS office or make an appointment in person at the LCS office. The cut off date for sign-ups is the Tuesday before the scheduled screening. LCS office personnel will assign appointments. Appointments will be made following the next available time slot, i.e. 10,10:10 etc. The screening is free, but there will be a charge for any treatment provided.

The clinic is for skin cancer screenings and treatment only. For other dermatological concerns, contact the Riberas Medical Group to make an appointment with Dra. Ballesteros, 376 688-1244.
Extraordinary General Membership Meeting Extraordinary General Membership Meeting

The Board of Directors of The Lake Chapala Society (LCS) announces an Extraordinary Meeting of members will be convened at the following time and place:
Event Date: Thursday, February 11, 2021
Event Time: 10:00 AM
Location:
On the grounds of The Lake Chapala Society
16 de Septiembre 16-A, Ajijic, Jalisco

Purpose:
The purpose of the Extraordinary Meeting is to submit to the membership for adoption certain amendments to the LCS constitution.

Meeting Agenda:
1. Call to Order
2. Establishment of a Quorum
3. Adoption of the Agenda
4. Vote to Adopt Amendments to the LCS Constitution
5. Authorization for the Board of Directors to Approve Meeting Minutes
6. Adjournment

Synopsis of Proposed Constitutional Amendments:

Amend Article 7 Section 7.05 to enable conducting Annual General Meetings of members (AGMs) via electronic means, such as internet video conferences, if it is determined that gathering members together physically in one location is not practical or advisable.

Amend Article 7 Section 7.03 to enable remote voting by members, such as via internet polling, during an Annual General Meetings (AGMs) that are conducted using electronic means.

Amend Article 7 Section 7.06 to authorize the distribution of notices concerning Annual General Meetings (AGMs) using electronic means, such as via e-mail messaging.

Amend Article 13 to correct a minor error (a reference made to Article 10.03 in this passage should refer to Article 8.02 instead).

Information for Attendees
The Extraordinary Meeting of members will be an in-person event conducted in accordance with applicable COVID-19 safety protocols. Among other measures, facemasks will be required, proceedings will be conducted outdoors, and proper spacing will be maintained at all times.

To help provide proper safety protocols, members are asked to register in advance on-line [a href='event_registration_form.php' target='_blank']** CLICK HERE **[/a] or sign up in person in the LCS office during regular office hours.

Reminder: Only members in good standing with membership dues paid up to date are allowed to cast votes during meetings of the LCS membership.
Branden and James BenefitBranden and James - Beyond the Yellow Brick Road
Benefit performances for LCS.

Two Performances:
NOTE NEW DATE:
Sunday, February 14, 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM
The concert will be held in the LCS Garden

Tickets will be limited to 100 seats for each performance, advanced purchase only. No tickets sold at the gate.
VIP tickets (50 seats, features prime location with table): $500 MXN
General Admission tickets (50 arranged in rows):$350 MXN.

Advance tickets may be purchased [a href='event_ticket_form.php' target='_blank']** HERE USING CREDIT CARD[/a]
OR in person at the LCS Office.

BRANDEN & JAMES open their new show, “BEYOND THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD”. It is a musical mash-up celebrating the brilliance of Elton John's greatest hits, plus your favorite tunes from iconic films, 'The Wizard of Oz', and'The Wiz', as well as the hit Broadway show 'Wicked'.
USConsulate US Consulate Passport Services
Saturdays until in-person services resume
10:30 - 12:30 PM

The LCS, in cooperation the US Consulate in Guadalajara, will assist US citizens to complete the renewal of existing passports or report lost or stolen passports. Completed packets can be dropped off at the LCS Office for transport to the Consulate for processing. New Passports will be returned directly to the citizen. Please follow procedures below:

1. Complete the proper application form IN BLACK INK:
For Passport Renewals, use [a href="https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds82.pdf"]Form DS-82[/a].
Paper copies of the forms are available in the LCS Office.

2.Include a 2"x2" passport photo taken without glasses.

3. Include your current passport and a photo copy of the page with your photo on it.

4. Purchase a pre-paid FedEx shipping envelope with the citizen as recipient. The shipper will be the US Consulate, Calle Progreso 175, Col Americana, Americana, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal.

5. Include processing fee, CASH ONLY in USD or Mexican pesos. If paying in pesos, consult LCS for current exchange values.
Passport Renewal - $110 USD or (currently 2, 475 pesos).

The LCS will place your materials in a personal envelope and issue a receipt for your cash and documents. The envelopes will be delivered to the Consulate every two weeks and your new passport should be returned in the pre-paid Fedex mailer in approximately 4 weeks.
Reach Out Program LCS Reaching Out Program

Created in March 2020 in response to COVID-19, the purpose of the program is for Reaching Out Volunteers to contact LCS members (called Reaching Out Companions) who live alone, are sick or elderly to make sure they are okay.

Companions are contacted daily by email and asked to email back to let the volunteer know that they are okay. Each companion has an emergency contact person who the volunteer can contact in case the companion does not respond by a set time each day. If that happens, the emergency contact person is called asked to personally check to make sure the companion is okay.

LCS expanded the program to non-members and plan to continue the program beyond COVID-19.

If you want to become a part of the Reaching Out Program, please click [a href="https://forms.gle/21WhfMWCSp987mtP9"]** HERE **[/a], complete and submit the information requested.

For further information on the Reaching Out Program, contact Glorine Barnhardt, program coordinator at reachingoutprogram2020@gmail.com.
Oral History Have you checked out the Lake Chapala Society web site dedicated to the Oral History Project?

Did you ever wonder what life was like in the villages around Lake Chapala twenty-five or more years ago? There are severalbooks in the LCS Library that you might find interesting. But it is even better to learn local history from those who actuallyexperienced it.

For this reason, the LCS organized the Oral History Project. The goal is to video tape interviews with as many long-time residents of theLakeside area as possible, recording their observations, anecdotes and experiences of an earlier period of our rapidly changing community.The first of these interviews have been annotated and made available for your enjoyment. Additional recordings will be posted in the future,so check back often. To begin your deep-dive into local history, [a href="oral_history.php" title="history"]CLICK HERE[/a]