Sunday Mar 22

Come to Know Mexico: Civic Commemorations and their Meanings

Presenter:  Claudia Miramontes

How do national commemorations shape a country’s identity? This special talk explores the history behind Cinco de Mayo and how 19th-century foreign intervention altered Mexico’s political path and global relationships.
Claudia Miramontes, Director of the Ajijic Cultural Center, brings history to life through cultural education and heritage preservation. A longtime Chapala resident, she also honors the artistic legacy of her father, master sculptor Miguel Miramontes, and champions museum access for underserved youth.

Sunday Mar 29

A New Vision for Dementia Care

Presenter:  Elly Contreras

Facilitated by story teller and photographer Alicia Knox, a group of Five women shared their stories about how dementia affects their lives of caregivers.
These stories were turned into a Readers play, which was performed in October and by request will now be shared at Open Circle.
"To Whom WE May Concern" is one of the many projects coordinated by local resident Elly Contreras, who has made it her mission to make Lakeside a Dementia Inclusive Community. 
Join us for this powerful performance.

Sunday Apr 5

Sacred Medicine and Spiritual Psychology: A Healing and Awakening Alchemy

Presenter: Dayna Dunbar

This alchemical pairing has been proven in legal clinical trials to have profound outcomes for people stuck in patterns of trauma, PTSD, addiction, depression, and fear of dying. It also supports overcoming plateaus on the spiritual path. Dayna will present some of the science, psychology and spirituality of this profound work as well as share case studies of clients who have gone through this process.
With a master’s degree in spiritual psychology, Dayna is a spiritual and therapeutic counselor and retreat facilitator. She supports the shift in identity from a “separate self” structure to the knowing of our true nature and our oneness in Spirit.

Sunday Apr 12

Frenemies: General Howard and Chief Joseph

Presenter: David Ellison

For years, these figures were dear friends, often exchanging gifts for their wives. But when the decision was made to take the Nez Perce’s land and to force them into a reservation, it fell to Howard to carry out the terrible order – leading to, perhaps, the greatest pursuit in US history.
David Ellison MA taught US history in California public schools for 36 years. He creates interactive, cooperative content and his talk will expose his talents in teaching middle school students and adults.

Sunday Apr 19

Lago Alianza and Lakeside Charities: Giving that Counts

Presenter: Joan Machlis-Crasemann

Many of us care deeply about our community. We give money. We give time. Yet philanthropy can feel fragmented or quietly frustrating—for donors and nonprofits alike. This talk may be of interest to anyone who has ever donated to a cause, served on a board, volunteered, or wondered whether their efforts truly make a difference. Joan shares the evolving story of Lago Alianza and poses a simple but ambitious question: What would it look like if we treated nonprofits and philanthropy not as isolated acts, but as a shared ecosystem?
Drawing on real experiences at Lakeside, Joan explores the pressures nonprofits face, and the questions donors quietly carry. This conversation invites reflection, practical insight, and a more connected way of strengthening the community we already care about.

Sunday Apr 26

Reimagining Dementia Neighborhoods in the Lake Chapala Community

Presenter: Elly Contreras, Joan Fletcher & Ann Godshall

Introducing Lakeside Memory Neighborhood, a nonprofit initiative at Lakeside. Compassionate, culturally-responsive dementia care is needed for everyone. You will learn about the Montessori approach, and how communities can come together to support dignity, engagement, and quality of life for people living with dementia and those who love them.
Elly is the driving force in building dementia awareness, education, and community-based support initiatives throughout the Lakeside region. 
Ann is a registered nurse who brings nearly three decades of non-profit healthcare leadership.
Joan is a dynamic community builder with exceptional rapport and creative vision. Skilled at inspiring volunteers and fostering meaningful connections.