Sunday Sep 13

The Birth of a Nation: Understanding Mexico's War of Independence

Presenter: Clauda Miramontes

Mexico’s War of Independence was far more than a struggle to break free from Spain—it marked the beginning of a new national identity. What forces sparked the uprising of 1810, and who transformed discontent into revolution? This presentation explores the people, events, and powerful symbols that shaped the independence movement. Through historical context, visual materials, and storytelling, discover how this defining chapter gave birth to a nation and how its legacy continues to influence Mexican identity, traditions, and everyday life more than two centuries later.
Claudia Miramontes is an educator, cultural promoter, and Director of the Ajijic Cultural Center. She holds a degree in Education (Pedagogy) and specializes in making Mexican history engaging and accessible for English-speaking audiences. Her presentations combine historical research with storytelling, helping participants discover the history behind Mexico's traditions, symbols, and everyday life.

Sunday Sep 20

Reality is Not What You Think: UAPs, Perception and Consciousness

Presenter Larry DeRusha

What if the greatest mystery surrounding UFOs isn’t what’s in the sky, but how we experience reality itself? This presentation explores the intersection of UAP phenomena, neuroscience, consciousness research, and spiritual experience. Discover how the brain actively constructs the world we perceive and what that might mean for interpreting UAP encounters, near-death experiences, mystical states, and other extraordinary phenomena. Drawing on current research and eyewitness accounts, the discussion challenges assumptions about what is real and asks an intriguing question: Are we seeing reality as it truly is—or only what our minds can perceive?
Larry DeRusha is a Scientist, author, and host of the Higher Reality podcast, where he and co-hosts explore the intersection of UAPs, consciousness, spirituality, and science with guests like Bruce Lipton and Gregg Braden. They examine humanity's biggest questions about reality, perception, and our place in a universe that may be far stranger than we imagine.

Sunday Sep 27

Son de México: Keeping Mexican Traditions Alive

Presenter: BALLET FOLCLÓRICO INFANTIL SON DE MÉXICO DE SAN JUAN COSALÁ

Experience the color, rhythm, and energy of Mexico as the young dancers of Son de México bring regional traditions to life. Based in San Juan Cosalá, this local dance organization is helping a new generation discover pride in its cultural roots through music and movement. The presentation will feature dances from different states of Mexico, showcasing distinctive costumes, music, and zapateado footwork while sharing the traditions behind them. Come see how these talented young performers are preserving a rich cultural heritage—and carrying their love of Mexico into the future. (Donations from this performance will go to Son de Mexico directly to help fund their activities.)
Luis Guzman, director of THE BALLET FOLCLÓRICO INFANTIL SON DE MÉXICO OF SAN JUAN COSALÁ, was a former dancer of the dance company Ballet Folclórico of the University of Guadalajara. He has been teaching and training dancers for over twenty years. The quality of his work is outstanding and his dedication for the community inspiring.

Sunday Oct 4

Family Dynamics, Caregiving and Support in Dementia Care

Presenter: Dr. Alejandra Guadalupe Lizardi Gomez

Caring for people with dementia is often seen through the lens of women—wives or adult daughters—who typically shoulder most of the responsibility. But this excludes husbands, sons, brothers, and younger family members like children or grandchildren, who often remain in the background. This talk explores shared experiences around family dynamics, caregiving, and role assignment—and can help attendees plan care and build support teams among family or friends.
Alejandra Lizardi is a mother, sister, and daughter of a beloved woman who lived 18 years with an Alzheimer's diagnosis. She is also a registered nurse, a social science researcher, and a lecturer in the Department of History and Anthropology at the University of Guadalajara. She is interested in qualitative methodologies and arts-based research.

Sunday Oct 11

Mezcala and It’s Unique Cultural Heritage

Presenter: Cesar Hesiquio

This talk may be of interest to anyone curious about Mexico's traditional communities and their history. It explores the identity and resilience of Mezcala de la Asunción, a town with Coca indigenous roots, and how its inhabitants have preserved their culture and autonomy over the years. Attendees will hear stories full of tradition, challenges, and community pride, gaining insight into this town and its island in Lake Chapala. The talk offers an enriching and friendly experience, immersing the audience in daily life and celebrations that make this community so special.
Originally from Mezcala. Cesar is passionate about the history of Mezcala, is certified by the Colegio de Jalisco as a state historical guide. He cares about sustainable tourism development, participating in discussions at the University of Guadalajara. He has 15 years of experience as a historical-tourism guide and promoter. 

Sunday Oct 18

“Preparing for UFO disclosure & becoming a Peace Ambassador”

Presenter:  Raziel (Adam Banning) and Elena Ross

Have you ever wondered if we are alone?  Guest speaker Raziel offers a personal reflection on communication with non-human intelligence, drawn from a lifetime of exploring these questions. Attendees will be invited to consider what it might mean to approach the unknown and each other as a PEACE AMBASSADOR, with openness rather than fear. All are welcome, regardless of prior belief or experience with the topic.
On February 22, 1967, Raziel was visited by extraterrestrials.  Since the encounter, he’s had his 5 other worldly companions by his side. At the age of 7 he began performing acts of insight, wisdom and healing.  Since moving to Ajijic he’s begun sharing these experiences providing valuable insights related to the upcoming disclosure and how to effectively interact with these other worldly species in our “New Humanity.”

Sunday Oct 25

“Finding Meaning in Mourning”

Presenter: Loretta Downs

As we age, we experience loss in many forms—of people we love, of roles and identities, of independence, and sometimes of the life we once imagined.
In this Open Circle, Loretta Downs explores our deep human need for autonomy and independence alongside our equally powerful need for connection, belonging, and community.
Loretta creates a unique presentation for every LCS Open Circle. She brings 40 years of experience in service to the dying and has been a passionate advocate for improving the end-of-life experience through education, planning, and honest conversations about dying and death. She teaches an Advance Care Planning class at LCS.

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