The Guadalajara Reporter
Guadalajara's Largest English Newspaper
The figure of La Virgen de Zapopan arrived in Chapala on Sunday, July 12, amid an estimated throng of 12,000 pilgrims, including 3,000 danzantes dressed in elaborate indigenous costumes, who marched down Avenida Madero to the city pier where the venerated spiritual patroness of Jalisco was elevated for a blessing over the rising waters of Lake Chapala.
At the time of year when fruits ripen in quince orchards planted in the countryside just over the hill from Lake Chapala, Ixtlahuacán de los Membrillos is preparing to host its tenth annual Festival Internacional del Membrillos over the July 31-August 2 weekend. A full schedule of activities will attract both residents and out-of-town visitors.
Don’t be fooled by what you may have recently seen on local Facebook sites. The Chapala government has not prohibited the use of fireworks in the community.
As the rainy season progresses, inflow from rivers feeding into Lake Chapala increases, bringing in aquatic weeds that begin appearing in patches on the lake surface.
With faith and hope instilled in their hearts, the people of Chapala anxiously await the arrival of the Virgin of Zapopan on Sunday, July 12, when they will join hundreds of visiting pilgrims in raising prayers for divine intercession to assure the well-being of Lake Chapala.
After a decade of informally sponsoring social assistance projects, a group of migrants originally from Chapala has established a non-profit (Asociación Civil) that will allow them to expand their reach and manage resources more transparently.
Early risers in the north shore corridor witnessed the formation of waterspouts hovering over Lake Chapala on Thursday, July 25.
In the latest chapter of the sister city pact between Chapala and Pico Rivera, California, mayors and city council representatives from both communities reaffirmed their commitment to fostering collaboration in culture, education, tourism, economic development and social affairs. These efforts were highlighted Friday, July 3, when Chapala Mayor Alejandro Aguirre welcomed his Pico Rivera counterpart, Gustavo Camacho, and his travel companions for a brief visit.
Unfortunately, some of Lakeside’s well-established restaurants have fallen on hard times over the past year. It’s heartbreaking when one of its most esteemed restaurateurs is struggling in the current business downturn.