QUESTIONS...

1. What are your plans to grow the education program so that expats and locals can see more classes for personal growth and the hiring of more Spanish language teachers?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  I would start by approaching institutions that have communication with active, retired, or trainee teachers in the language area, as this increases the chances of finding interested people with the necessary skills.
   RENEE SANDERS:  As a current participant in a Spanish in Action class,  I would like to see more Spanish classes made available. The classes are small, which keeps the learning focused and allows time for new language skills practice. The classes fill up quickly and sometimes people have to wait until the next session. If more classes are added, there would be a need for more Spanish teachers to accommodate those additional classes and students. 
   ALISON PALMER: My understanding is that many Spanish-speaking teachers in our community would like to be involved with LCS. Our role should be to ask what barriers exist and remove them so they can participate. Expanding outreach into the community and actively inviting local educators to teach will strengthen the education program and increase opportunities for both expats and local residents to learn and grow together.
   BETTI CLARK:  Regarding teachers: The semester for students under the age of 17 is almost over. We have recently had a few volunteers apply and they will start in the Fall semester. For the adults learning Spanish, that will depend on the need. If it appears that there is a need to add another class because a greater number of people are signing up, then the Education Department can add classes and hire teachers accordingly. 
   The classes that are currently offered have decreased in the past two years. So, there needs to be a search for teachers to come and have some other interesting subjects to add to the program.  It might be that we increase the fee towards the instructors for at least the first class or reaching out to places where personal growth classes are being offered and ask those instructors to come.  One thing that I hear from people is that the parking and the sidewalks are difficult to manage. So, those are issues that we need to review to see how we can minimize the difficulty.

2. Yes or no question. Will you support mudlarks and concerts in the park as it is today?

   LUIS JIMENEZ: Yes
   RENEE SANDERS:  This is not a straightforward yes or no question. Mudlarks is very popular and there is a waiting list to get in. They are having growing pains that need to be addressed. Concerts in the Park is popular, but marketing and advertising could be tweaked.
   ALISON PALMER: Yes for Mudlarks, based on what I know today.
   For Concerts in the Park, I believe the program should operate fully under LCS with oversight by an LCS employee. All equipment should be owned and managed by LCS. I have heard from several groups who have wanted to perform on the stage but were unable to. Our stage is a valuable community asset and should be available to many performers and organizations. The goal should be a win-win environment, not something perceived as exclusive to only a few.
   BETTI CLARK:  Yes for Mudlarks. I would have to see the financials before I can answer the Concerts in the Park.

3. What do you want to see for the future of LCS?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  An institution working more consistently with the riverside community and the public and private institutions in the area; I would like to see LCS as an organization more open to dialogue and interaction in the area
   RENEE SANDERS:   What I would like to see for LCS going forward is more collaboration between not only board members so that we remain alignedwith our missionand values, but with the members of LCS through out the year with table talks held at LCS between members and board members. Also, collaboration with local businesses and local organizations. Transparency between the board and LCS members so they are aware of current finances, what the money is going toward that is raised, and real stories of the impact donations,  classes,  activities have for the community.
   ALISON PALMER: I would like to see a cohesive organization with a shared vision for serving the community. LCS has the opportunity to be a gathering place where local nonprofits and community organizations feel welcome and represented. Perhaps an annual “community nonprofit fair” could allow organizations to share their missions and connect with volunteers and supporters.
   BETTI CLARK: It would be nice to see that there are more classes, as per question 1. I think that it would be great if the Saturday Open Mic was also available on another day of the week. During the summer, it would be fun if there was a music program at that space by kids who want to practice during the summer holiday.  Also, the Blue Patio would be great for some of our community programs who are wanting to share news about dog adoptions or orphanages or clothing drives. They could set up in the Open Mic area – one day every other week – we could fill it with all of the charitable organizations. Currently, they are only recognized during the Art in the Garden or on the sign above the stage.  Another opportunity would be to have Cruz Roja, the Bomberos and other organizations that have ambulances to come to all the events. We can rotate them, they could do hotdogs, grilled hamburgers or any type of food which they would keep all the profits. We would also have an ambulance and trained personnel on hand if needed. Many people have been asking why they can’t get food at the Concerts – but we could do it for all the major events – even Art in the Garden. 

4. What do you believe is LCS's role in serving the Mexican community?  What are your detailed thoughts about integrating the Mexican community into the offerings of LCS?  What are your plans to involve and welcome the Mexican community so they can be part and feel welcome within LCS?  How do you plan to bring in more of the local Mexican residents to participate with LCS?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  Activities to foster and share a cultural exchange, where some LCS activities take place in the facilities of other institutions, and afterwards those institutions feel more comfortable visiting LCS.
   ALISON PALMER: I believe LCS should serve the Mexican community based on what the community itself says it needs. That means asking, listening, and building relationships. Surveys, outreach, and ongoing dialogue will help us understand how to be most helpful. I have already begun reaching out to neighbors and members of the community who are interested in participating in a committee so we can keep our finger on the pulse of local needs and ideas.
   BETTI CLARK:  I think that we can start with the Wilkes Center. I believe that the local nationals are more comfortable with the Wilkes Spanish Library as that is where the ESL classes have been held. We could showcase it with some events and have the instructors there to be available for questions. We could do a Mexican musical event, anything from the Children’s Mariachi to other choirs. We do not have to only have things in Spanish, we can do some programs in English as well.  If we start there, we can expand the comfort level to the LCS campus.

5. How will you promote diversity?   How do you plan to create an environment here at LCS to be more inclusive?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  Clearly promoting the idea that all ideas are valid regardless of differences in sexual orientation, skin color, place of origin
   ALISON PALMER: Events that bring people together are powerful. Something like a food fair can celebrate cultures and create connection. I would also like to see more Mexican-oriented events that include both adults and children. For the past seven years I’ve helped maintain the beach park to create a clean, welcoming public space for everyone. At LCS we can also think creatively about engaging parents of children involved in programs like art or chess so those families feel welcome and included as well.
   BETTI CLARK:  We start at Wilkes and bring more Mexican traditions to the LCS campus. In October, we could have the ladies with the lovely rebozos come and do a parade here like they do at the Ajijic Centro. Maybe we could convince them to start at LCS and parade up to the Centro – it would give them more exposure.  At Christmas we could have a Spanish Choir singing on the weekend.  These are small things – but they are things most families participate in and I am sure would feel proud to show off their talents.  They did a show at the Casa del Sol with the rebozos, had some for sale and spoke about the history. It was really interesting.

6. What would you do to create bridges with the community?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  It is important to approach and knock on the doors of institutions in the area. During my time as principal of the Chapala Higher Technological Institute, I understood that going in person to introduce yourself, offer your services, and propose partnerships is the best way to begin strong and lasting relationships.
   ALISON PALMER: Building genuine relationships starts with listening. For example, we could explore partnerships with programs like the Jocotepec Culinary School. Perhaps students could host pop-up dinners at the LCS café in the evenings. We also have members with restaurant and business experience who could mentor or coach young entrepreneurs. LCS has assets that can help create opportunities if we open the door.
   BETTI CLARK:  I believe that question is answered in question 5.

7. What do you consider the top priorities for the incoming board?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:   To have greater openness to society, better institutional relations that translate into a greater presence in decisions and actions for improvement in the area, as well as the clear definition of statutes and internal guidelines that provide certainty of direction
   ALISON PALMER: Transparency, accountability, and communication. It’s important that we heal past divisions and focus on building a positive future. Some people feel disconnected from LCS today. We should be asking them directly: “What would bring you back? How can we improve?” LCS should feel like a welcoming home for the community.
   BETTI CLARK:  When someone runs for a public office/Board position, they are saying that they are willing to represent part of a population. The top priorities should be Responsibility, Accountability and Transparency.  But not many of the members know who they are, what they do or even what they look like. The current Board feels that they are transparent. But it that true? We do not see the minutes, we do not know what business is being conducted, what contracts are being considered or how the general monthly financials are handled. If a member has a concern or question the day before the Board meeting, they have to wait a full month to be heard. Heard. Not responded to, just heard. And, the only Board member who took time each week to listen to people resigned. Who will take his place?  How about the Board take the responsible position of not only hearing people, but if the question or concern is brought to the attention of the Board, one of the Board members is assigned to talk to that person?  

8. Do you think LCS needs to do fundraising and if so how would you do it?

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  Yes, if you need them, there are various ways to do so, such as organizing events for causes, activities like concerts, conferences, dinners, etc.
   ALISON PALMER: Absolutely. Over the past six years I have offered multiple times to help with major fundraising efforts and have heard similar stories from others who were willing to help but were never followed up with. We should be actively welcoming that support. Fundraising can also be a bridge-building opportunity when we invite people with experience, energy, and connections to participate.
   BETTI CLARK:  Yes, I believe that Fundraising is an integral part of this type of institution.

9. Have you thought about opportunities for local English students to volunteer at nursing homes to provide emotional support.

   LUIS JIMENEZ:  Yes, I also think it's a win-win situation; young people would surely learn a lot from older people. During my time as principal of the high school in Teocuitatlán de Corona, we developed a program in coordination with the senior citizens' home that yielded very good results for both parties.
   RENEE SANDERS:  I am part of a singing group that goes around to various assisted living and nursing homes. The seniors enjoy the music and the companionship. It would be wonderful to bring in a younger generation to read, play games, and host bingo.
   ALISON PALMER: That’s a wonderful idea. I’ve seen similar programs elsewhere and they can be very meaningful for both the students and the residents. Creating a program like that here at Lakeside could provide valuable service and strengthen community connections
   BETTI CLARK:   No, unless that student is pre-medical. Emotional support is a very important part of growth – but most people do not have that ability until they are adults. If they have classes that prepare them and they are headed to medical school for nursing, doctor or psychological, then it would be a perfect experience. Teenagers are not emotional grown yet.

10. LCS is supposed to be non-political and non-religious.  How do you plan to address any perception that LCS is political and/or religious?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  What it should not be is partisan; one is political and should seek to influence common decisions from the moment one wishes, but never allow the promotion of parties or people; the exchange of support is always institutional with the authority in the matter and in turn.
    ALISON PALMER: In 2023 I participated in a Rocky Mountain PBS forum connected to a documentary called Undivide Us. Its purpose was to reduce toxic polarization and encourage respectful dialogue. Programs like that could be helpful here as well, creating opportunities for people to engage thoughtfully while keeping LCS focused on community rather than politics
    BETTI CLARK:  I will not address either issue until we have something in writing to back up what LCS stands for, We do not have anything in writing that will hold up in a court of law, therefore we cannot legally stop anyone from participating in either issue. We can ask that they do it in an orderly and kind fashion, at this time  

11. How do you plan on creating a more transparent organization?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  Board decisions should be made public and maintained on relevant platforms, and we should remain open to dialogue with partners when you have questions.
    ALISON PALMER: I would like to see board meetings held in open spaces where members can easily attend and listen, such as the open-mic area. I would also support removing the bylaw requirement that members give 24-hour notice to speak at the end of meetings. We should always be willing to listen to members’ ideas and concerns. Transparency starts with openness and accessibility.
    BETTI CLARK:  From a Board member perspective to make this a more transparent organization, that would be to post the minutes of the meetings when they are approved at the following meeting. That will tell the community what they are talking about and taking action on.  

12. Do you have plans to unite the board or divide the board?  Do you believe in collaboration and if so how would you incorporate it on the board?  What will each of you do to build trust and civil behaviors for all?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  No matter how intelligent or capable you think you are, different profiles are needed to be strong. It's important to understand that experts in different areas should lead when it comes to their respective fields, and that together we can achieve more.
    ALISON PALMER: Unity should always be the goal. Collaboration, respect, and shared purpose are essential for the board, but also for members, volunteers, and staff. When everyone is aligned around positive progress, the entire organization benefits.
    BETTI CLARK:  I am hoping that when the Board unites, I will part of the success. I do believe in collaboration. When I was first elected as the Treasurer of my union, it came with an audit committee of 10. There were three on there who had opposite views from me. I called each person and talked to them about how important I felt their involvement was to me. If the only people on the committee were just yes people, how would I know a different point of view? I allowed them to express their issues and we found equitable grounds to work and be successful for the 3-1/2 years I served.  

13. Is it a good idea for government officials to be in leadership roles at LCS?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  If they are able to abandon bad politics and focus on institutional collaboration, it's a good idea
    ALISON PALMER: If someone involved in government wants to participate at LCS and there is no conflict of interest, that can certainly be appropriate. However, transparency around potential conflicts is essential. For example, I have concerns when community programs like Concerts in the Park are operated privately by individuals connected to leadership roles within LCS.
    BETTI CLARK:  Rarely. Government officials can quickly turn a Board into their agenda because of the publicity and power they have from their working role.  They are responsible and they have a lot of knowledge. But, they have a full time job and working a Board position correctly takes several hours a week.

14. If LCS receives a large donation what would you do with the money?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  First, I would ask those who made the donation if it is earmarked for anything in particular. If not, depending on the amount, the governing board should analyze options that can guarantee the greatest impact according to the priorities defined in its institutional planning.
    ALISON PALMER: First, I would look at how the funds could support many of the initiatives discussed above, especially community outreach and programming. Additionally, LCS and Wilkes both need capital improvements. Investments in safety, infrastructure, and security would help ensure that both campuses remain welcoming and secure for everyone.
    BETTI CLARK:  Both of the campuses are old and in need of work. One thing I would like to see is a working kitchen with an updated freezer/refrigerator. Another issue for me is the pavement being uneven. There are many bricks that have sunk and people can easily trip on them. The area in front of the stage could use a different type of ground, although it is looking a lot better than two years ago. But the gazebo leading to the tree on the east side has a tree trunk that is a walking hazard.  Those are the cosmetics.  I would like to see a larger donation to students finishing high school and getting ready for college. It appears that many have issues just completing high school. How do we help students two years away from completing high school?  

15. What is your plan to return LCS to Neil James's original focus and philosophy of empowering locals and especially children?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  working with local schools, with parents, promoting support for children and families as a central focus
    ALISON PALMER: The new Art Boutique is a wonderful example of honoring Neill James’s legacy. Continuing to support opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs is important. Programs that help emerging chefs use the restaurant space are another great example. I also believe the art program may benefit from having a dedicated employee leading it rather than relying solely on volunteers, providing continuity and stability.
    BETTI CLARK: The Children’s Art Program has no current leadership. I think that “we” (the Education Department) needs to meet with all of the current volunteers and make a decision on who can take leadership; one or two. They need to write up some protocols so that that people move in and out of the position, it doesn’t weaken the program.  And, maybe we go back to a program for after school two extra days a week and follow what Neill James did – 45 minutes of homework with a highschooler or two helping, then 1 hour of art before going home. If we can get a set of highschoolers to help, perhaps it can be an extra credit or a program where it helps them toward teaching. First you listen. Then you do. Then you teach. 

16. What are your plans to increase membership?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  Increased promotion of LCS's actions and activities, and seeking, in coordination with local institutions, more benefits for members.
    ALISON PALMER: The key is making LCS a place people want to join and renew year after year. One idea is building partnerships with local businesses that offer discounts to LCS members. For example, Gato Feo already offers members and staff a 20% discount, yet many people don’t know about it. We should highlight these benefits clearly.
    We can also better communicate the real value of membership. For example, if an exercise class costs about 200 pesos and someone attends three classes per week, that represents over 31,000 pesos in annual value—far more than the membership fee of 1,160 pesos.
    BETTI CLARK:  I believe that our problem is not “growing” membership, many of the Facebook pages and people do that for us. But our problem is retention. How do we keep a member for more than 2 or 3 years. We need to look at why they do not stay. Is it because they have found other ways to fill their day and needs? Then that goes back to the Education Department offering new classes. Is it because they just come and realize that the Activities classes they use do not check on membership status? Is it because they find it difficult to get here because of the traffic and parking? And, for those who stay; have we ever honored someone for being a 5 year member? Or a 10 year member? We can look at those option and opportunities. But new members – we need to do some community outreach and participation out in the open would be very beneficial.

17. Should members be encouraged to attend board meetings to be more aware of how the business of LCS is conducted?  If so, how would you achieve this?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  Nowadays, it's not necessary to be physically present to be there; streaming live sessions on virtual platforms is a great way for people to know what's happening in real time.
    RENEE SANDERS:  I do believe members should attend board meetings to stay updated on current business. The agenda is posted on campus before each monthly meeting.  I also believe that the agenda should also be sent out via email to all LCS members.
    ALISON PALMER: Yes. As mentioned earlier, making meetings open and accessible will naturally encourage participation and awareness of how LCS operates.
    BETTI CLARK:  Absolutely. But the minutes and the agenda need to be accessible so that they can follow the game plan. And, when they come, they fill out a card with their name for the secretary to record and if they want to speak, they simply state “Wants to Speak” and then there is some response to them for a follow-up.  

18. Do you support more involvement with the local community?  i.e. English and trash?

    LUIS JIMENEZ:  Definitely yes, nowadays the number of people who make up an institution as important as LCS should be a benchmark for actively participating in the problems that affect our communities every day.
    ALISON PALMER: Absolutely. Community trash clean-ups are a great way to build relationships and work together. I’ve also heard many positive stories about Pancake Sundays in the past—simple events like that can bring people together and create a sense of community on campus.
    BETTI CLARK:  I think that the English is part of the program at Wilkes through the Education Program. I think that most of the parades should have a gathering of the Board and other members proudly showing off LCS. When Ajijic Centro has programs, LCS should show up as an LCS group. If we do not go to them, why should they come to us?

19. Would you support a children's story reading our at the Wilkes for the local children? 
    LUIS JIMENEZ:  Yes, it's a good way to get children interested in reading.
    RENEE SANDERS:  As a former elementary school teacher, read a louds were a daily favorite. We would alternate between picture books to teach a specific social emotion lesson or skill, and chapter books to introduce different literary genres. I would love to see a story hour at Wilkes, with stories in Spanish and English. 
    ALISON PALMER: Yes. This could work well at both campuses. With so many volunteer teachers in our community, I believe programs like this could create wonderful experiences and lasting memories for local children.
    BETTI CLARK:  I would support a Children’s Reading hour about any subject.

20. Do you think concerts in the park should be run by an LCS employee?

    LUIS JIMENEZ: It is possible to be open to more than one option, that is, not to think about the exclusive way of doing it, but about one of the possibilities of doing it, in such a way that the situation is additive and not restrictive.
    ALISON PALMER: Yes. Events of that scale should always be managed by an LCS employee to ensure proper oversight, transparency, and long-term development. The stage area and restaurant are two of LCS’s largest and most underutilized assets, and we should always be exploring ways to maximize their value for the community
    BETTI CLARK:  I think that the Concert’s in the Park needs to have a review and more transparency. I think the program could be better – not the talent, that is fine – except it should include Jimmy Buffett, Macy Gray, Barbra Streisand and Janis Joplin, too. But there could be a better logistics of having one of the charities come and provide food for sale that they keep all the profits and advertise. This would not necessarily be the charity that the concert provides money for – just a group that provides a need and keeps the profits and gets to have a bit more advertising. I do think that if we are going to keep the equipment on the grounds rent-free, we need to have an employee be a responsible party along with the current producer. I also believe that there needs to be transparency and inventory kept regarding equipment and alcohol. We do not know what the profits are versus our expenditures (theft, depreciation, usage).

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The following questions were asked by the OC audience, but pertained to LCS governance issues and the candidates could not really address these.  I include them only to acknowledge that they were asked and were of concern to the audience.  These questions serve as a archive of the concerns and to demonstrate our transparency in recording all the concerns of members.  The board should be addressing these concerns in the future.

Is there a published version of the budget and allocation of funds?

There have been multiple vacancies on the board over the past year. Why weren't these positions filled?

How much money (grows) was (paid to) brought to Steve Balfour this year?

Regarding transparency, why does the board not share where the money goes?

Do you think anyone on the board has a conflict of interest with LCS activities?

Can any current board member share light on the March 12th board meeting appointments of the board when dead in the water?

What happened to Carla after her incident with Mario?

How come board members and volunteers must sign a non-disclosure statement?

If not today at this forum, will the director's statement that the organization “has not demonstrated alignment in the areas of ethics and governance” be fully addressed at the general meeting? We are fairly new to the area we have not signed up for membership yet due to the concerns of what has been going on with the board. We have not had enough details. Where is the transparency? If members do not know what the issues are, they cannot make informed decisions when voting period maybe the solution, is to vote everyone out and start a new to get rid of the problem board members?