CAMARILLO — Perla Hernandez Lastra has joined project management firm S.L. Leonard & Associates as a senior project manager. Prior to joining S.L. Leonard & Associates, Hernandez Lastra served as the project manager on the 115,000 square foot Marciano Art…
Author: Community Contributor
Local Girls Inc. Member Awarded $20K Scholarship from National Scholars Program
Carpinteria High senior Ana Delgado selected to speak at Girls Inc. National Luncheon in New York CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria member Ana Delgado has been selected as a 2017 scholarship winner in the competitive Girls Inc. National Scholar Program. She is…
Volunteers to be Honored at Wish Night 2017 Gala
CENTRAL COAST — Two volunteers will be honored by Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties at the 8th Annual Wish Night gala on March 3 at the Hyatt Regency in Westlake Village. Meredith Garofalo/KEYT News Channel 3 has been named community partner of the…
Centerpoint Mall Offers Sweetheart Shopping And Dining Spots For Valentine’s Day
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall retailers have many sweetheart spots to shop and dine at the more than 34 retail, specialty, entertainment and restaurants ranging from apparel and jewelry to candy and gift cards, among others. Centerpoint Mall is the popular…
San Luis Obispo Wear Red Day Luncheon Raises Awareness About Women and Cardiovascular Disease
SAN LUIS OBISPO — The American Heart Association (AHA) hosted its annual Wear Red Luncheon in San Luis Obispo on Friday, February 3, 2017 at the San Luis Obispo Country Club with the goal of raising awareness about the risk…
Bilingual commentary: The Spring 2017 Oxnard College Literature, Arts & Lecture Series
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Guest commentary: SMILE! It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month
Dear Friends, February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and United Way is proud to advocate for increased services on behalf of 100,000 children in Ventura County who qualify for Dent-Cal and do not have access to a dental…
The Collection at RiverPark diners take journey to Mediterranean with debut of Luna Grill
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark has announced today that Luna Grill will open in March, making it the first restaurant of the new year to join the center’s rapidly growing directory of eateries. Luna Grill puts a fresh twist…
Ventura County Public Works Agency receives grant funding to capture stormwater for groundwater recharge in Piru
PIRU — The Ventura County Public Works Agency Watershed Protection District’s (VCPWA WPD) proposed Piru Stormwater Capture for Groundwater Recharge project was selected for funding of $455,837 by the State Water Resources Control Board under Proposition 1 Storm Water Grant Program,…
Tickets on sale now for the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy’s 8th Annual Wild and Scenic Film Festival
VENTURA — Tickets are on sale now for the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy’s (VHC) 8th annual Wild and Scenic Film Festival (WSFF). Held high on the hill at Ventura’s Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd., on Friday and Saturday, March 3 and 4, the WSFF…
Ventura County Legislators Urge Reevaluation of Puente Power Project
SACRAMENTO – As the California Energy Commission undertakes multiple days of hearings in Oxnard regarding the proposed Puente Power Project, Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara),Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), and Senator Henry Stern (D-Canoga Park) have released the following statements urging commissioners to pause and reevaluate…
Guest Column: The Latino Art & Cultural Center of Oxnard
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. Armando Vazquez. Courtesy photo. By…
Latino News Notes: TheTRENDTalk Show Launches With A Limitless Reach to Over 140 Million Viewers
Executive Produced by Hosts Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso in Association with Latino PBS GLENDALE — TheTRENDTalk, the American TV talk show highlighting the latest trends and specifically highlighting Latino accomplishments, innovators, and trending topics, launches production on its first season slated for 13…
Bilingual commentary: Trump’s Alternative Universe
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson reintroduces bill to clean up beaches by plugging old, leaking oil wells
SACRAMENTO — State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) is continuing her efforts to protect California beaches by reintroducing a bill to monitor and cap California’s old, abandoned and leaking oil wells. Senate Bill 44, the Coastal Oil Well Clean Up and Remediation Act,…
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Names New Board Members
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is proud to welcome Kevin Baird and Jaqueline Pawela-Crew to its board of directors. Kevin Baird CFP®, AIF®, AACEP brings more than 27 years of experience in the financial services industry to Girls Inc.’s…
Local Businesses to Host Job Shadow Day for Academy Students
Young Learners Get Real-World View into Professions OXNARD – Twelve local businesses will host students from the Oxnard Union High School District Linked Learning academies for a job shadowing project aimed at introducing young people to potential career paths aligned with…
Ventura Hillsides Conservancy Expands Board of Trustees
VENTURA — The Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) recently announced the induction of a new president and three new members to their board of trustees. In Jan., 2017, Paul Meehan was elected as VHC president and Steve Doll, John Hankins (VHC secretary) and Ed…
Three Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorneys Recognized as “Rising Stars”
CENTRAL COAST — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP, Ventura County’s largest law firm, is pleased to announce attorneys Jesse Cahill, Douglas Goldwater and Kymberley Peck have been named to this year’s Rising Stars list of Super Lawyers. This is a…
Ventura County Arts Council Program Selected As JUMPStArts Success Model
A lanky 14-year-old boy puts the finishing touches on his poem entitled “Clarity,” then reads it aloud with feeling and rhythm. The poem resonates with deep emotion, expressing its author’s personal pain about the hard struggles of serving time in…
Channel Islands Maritime Museum is Recruiting New Volunteers
OXNARD — Channel Islands Maritime Museum is recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers are the backbone of the Museum. We couldn’t run without them. As a volunteer there are dozens of different ways to contribute your time. Conduct tours for visitors Staff the…
Gene Haas Foundation Awards $185,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
OXNARD — The Gene Haas Foundation recently awarded $185,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme in support of the Club’s many programs, including STEM education (science, technology, engineering and math), and life-enhancing programs such…
The Collection at RiverPark to offer two more shops for tots
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Ventura County’s burgeoning center which offers an unrivaled shopping, dining and entertainment experience, has announced the addition of popular baby and children’s clothing brands Carter’s and OshKosh to its retail line-up. Carter’s and OshKosh…
Three Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorneys Named to Super Lawyers List
CENTRAL COAST — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson announced that three of their attorneys, Michael Case, Wendy Lascher, and Theodore England, have been named to the 2017 Super Lawyers list. All three attorneys are repeat honorees. Super Lawyers is a rating…
Through Feb. 28 — California Welcome Center in Oxnard Features Artist Susan Ochoa
OXNARD – The California Welcome Center (CWC) in Oxnard, located at 2786 Seaglass Way is currently featuring Artist, Susan Weigt Ochoa, now through the end of February. Local residents and visitors alike are invited to see her work on display…
March 4 — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Celebrates Cavity Free Children
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics celebrates Children’s Dental Health on Saturday, March 4, 2017 by giving special recognition to children who are cavity free. Over one-hundred cavity free children ages 3 to 12, who are patients at one of…
March 1 — “The Love Effect” Film Screening and Q&A with Filmmakers
SANTA BARBARA — The SBCC Wellness Connection and the Mental Wellness Center sponsored Wellness Connection Club from San Marcos High School will host a special screening of the short film “The Love Effect” on Wednesday, March 1 at the Fé…
Feb. 28 — Celebrate Mardi Gras with Toastmasters X-L Club
VENTURA — The Toastmaster X-L Club invites you to an Open House on February 28, 2017 from 12 to 1 pm at Ventura City Hall in the Santa Cruz Room. Come help celebrate Mardi Gras with your downtown lunchtime Toastmasters. Our…
Through May 3 — California Rural Legal Assistance to present free bilingual educational workshops in Oxnard
OXNARD — The California Rural Legal Assistance will present present free educational workshops in Oxnard. Workshops are open to both students and parents in Spanish and translation to English or Mixteco can be made available upon request. “Become An Educational…
March 1 — Mental Wellness Center and SBCC Wellness Connection Bring “The Love Effect” to Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — The Mental Wellness Center, Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Wellness Connection, and San Marcos High School Wellness Connection Club are bringing “The Love Effect” to Santa Barbara and the community is invited to join the movement. The…
March 2 — The Collection Invites Guests to VIP Shopping Experience
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Oxnard’s premier fashion destination invites guests to round up their friends for a girl’s night out at the Passport to Spring Fashion event, Thursday March 2nd from 6-9 pm. Guests will be able to…
March 3 — Wish Night 2017
CENTRAL COAST — Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties will be hosting their 8th Annual Wish Night gala celebrating the power of a wish to inspire hope, strength and joy to courageous children battling life-threatening medical conditions. This year’s event will be held 6-9:30…
Through Feb. 27 — American Heart Association Flags to Fly on State Street in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA – In recognition of February as National Heart Month, the Downtown Organization of Santa Barbara will showcase symbolic red flags representing the American Heart Association (AHA), bearing the iconic heart and torch emblem. This will be the third year…
UCSB Chicana/o Studies scholar Aída Hurtado gives remarks at historic Women’s March on Washington
By Shelly Leachman • UCSB As a scholar, Aída Hurtado has marked multiple firsts in her study and teaching of Chicana/o studies and feminist theory. And now she’s made history of another kind, as a featured speaker at the recent…
Bilingual commentary: A Daughter’s Birthday
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Guest commentary: Mentoring — Changing Lives, One Relationship at a Time
Take a moment to think about someone who has made a positive difference in your life. Who inspired you to do your best and dream big? For so many of us, having someone who supported our aspirations, gave guidance, and…
LULAC Statement on New Executive Orders on Border Wall and Sanctuary Cities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Trump (on Jan. 25) signed two controversial executive orders regarding the construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and penalties for sanctuary cities. The proposed wall would extend along the southern border and would cost as…
Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Two New Board Members
SANTA BARBARA — The Mental Wellness Center is proud to announce the appointments of Ned Emerson and Vickie Gonzales to its Board of Directors. Ned Emerson brings over four decades of business and sales experience to the Mental Wellness Center’s…
Monique Limón “Counter Plans” for Inauguration
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) announced how she would be observing the days around the swearing in ceremonies of President-Elect Trump. “Several people have asked me what I will be doing when the 45th President of the United States…
Small Business Organizations Give Assemblymember Irwin Top Marks
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) was honored by the California Small Business Association and California Small Business Roundtable with the Summa Cum Laude distinction in their 2016 Legislative Honor Roll. Assemblymember Irwin was recognized for her extraordinary support…
Bilingual commentary: Refusing to Discuss
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Lompoc Family YMCA Accepting Applications for Upcoming LIVESTRONG Program
Free program helps adult cancer survivors return to physical activity The Lompoc Family YMCA is accepting applications for its upcoming LIVESTRONG program, which helps adult cancer survivors return to physical activity, increase fitness performance and have better quality of life.…
Guest commentary: Professor, You’re Being Watched!?
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. Frank P. Barajas. Courtesy photo.…
Guest column: Residents hold the KEYS to Transform Oxnard into a Premier Art City of California
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. Armando Vazquez. Courtesy photo. By…
New Affordable Housing for Seniors Breaks Ground
SANTA BARBARA — After 113 years in the Santa Barbara community, Grace Lutheran Church began a new chapter on Jan. 5 with a groundbreaking to celebrate the start of construction of Grace Village, a new housing community for low-income seniors. Held…
Assemblymember Irwin received the “Golden Bear Award” from the California Enlisted Association of the National Guard (CAL EANGUS)
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) was honored by the California Enlisted Association of the National Guard (CAL EANGUS) with the prestigious “Golden Bear Award” for her impressive work improving the lives of California’s National Guard members. “Assemblywoman Irwin…
Unite to Light Partners with Innovative Mobile Donation App: Coin Up Turning Spare Change into Meaningful Change
Santa Barbara nonprofit aims to increase awareness and expand reach in 2017 SANTA BARBARA — Unite to Light has joined efforts with Coin Up to offer an innovative and efficient way for donors and activists to help their favorite cause using…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County: BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE is Creating a BIG Experience for Littles!
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is looking for teams and individuals to participate in the annual BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE fundraising event, to help support a BIG experience for program youth: by supporting Bowl For Kids’…
Bilingual commentary: The Changing World of Retail
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Ventura County Public Works Agency projects receive top honors at American Public Works Association award ceremony
VENTURA COUNTY – The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) can add three more recognitions to its list of notable accolades. This month, the American Public Works Association (APWA) Ventura County chapter announced its Projects of the Year awards, honoring three…
Gold Coast Transit District’s Robert Lurie, Director of Fleet and Facilities, retires after 35 years
OXNARD — After nearly 35 years of dedicated service, Gold Coast Transit District’s Robert Lurie, Director of Fleet and Facilities has retired. Lurie joined GCTD (then known as SCAT) in March of 1982 as a mechanic and by 1986 he was…
Fundación El Lustrador ayuda con donaciones en Guatemala
OXNARD — Ésta Semana, después del drástico incendio que afectó a parte de la población aledaña al basurero de la Zona 3 en la Ciudad de Guatemala, el 29 de diciembre de 2016. Observando esta tragedia humana LA UNIDAD DE…
LinkedIn Officially Endorses SBCC Career Skills Institute
SANTA BARBARA — SBCC Career Skills Institute is proud to announce its endorsement by LinkedIn for its outstanding efforts to build a better future for the community’s workforce and employers. The Career Skills Institute and LinkedIn share the common goal…
CSU Channel Islands receives grant to develop four-year teacher preparation programs
Grant will help university’s effort to develop Bilingual and Special Education teachers CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will receive a grant of almost $250,000 from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to develop four-year teacher preparation programs. California is experiencing…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Barbara County Celebrates 30 Years of Local Mentoring
SANTA BARBARA — In 2017, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Santa Barbara County will celebrate its 30th year of providing life-changing mentoring friendships for our community’s struggling youth. January is National Mentoring Month and currently over 80 at-risk children in Santa…
Gold Coast Transit District staff brought holiday cheer to the bus this season
OXNARD – Riding on a Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) bus isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind as a way to ring in the holidays; however, for the month of December that’s exactly what many GCTD passengers…
Bilingual commentary: Another Year to Build Our Lives
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Last chance to submit art work for official poster contest of the 2017 California Strawberry Festival
OXNARD — The final days are fast approaching so start thinking berries! Art and strawberries can be a fruitful enterprise. Enter the 34th Annual California Strawberry Festival Official Poster Contest where the winner will receive $2,000 and four VIP tickets to the celebration…
Channel Island’s Maritime Museum Offers “Groups Only” Days for Customized Events
OXNARD — Private groups may now claim the Channel Island Maritime Museum as theirs exclusively for events and tours, the Museum recently announced. Perched on some of the most scenic waterfront property in Ventura County, the Museum gives visitors a…
Latino News Notes: More voters will have access to non-English ballots in the next election cycle
By D’Vera Cohn • Pew Research Center The federal government has long required election ballots in some U.S. jurisdictions to be printed in languages other than English, based on the number of voting-age citizens who live in those communities and have limited English…
Feb. 1 — Latino Thought Makers Series to present CBS Diversity Sketch Comedy Show
OXNARD — Join host of Latino Thought Makers RICK NAJERA (CBS, Hulu’s East Los High, Mad TV, In Living Color) Writer / Director / Comedian / as he directs the famed CBS Diversity Sketch Comedy Showcase from Hollywood. Now see it…
Through Feb. 12 — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Ballet Hispánico
SANTA BARBARA — Doors open one half hour before the show starts. Reception follows concert. Las puertas se abrirán media hora antes de la functión. Habrá recepción después del concierto. More info: (805) 252-3493 or facebook.com/vivaelartesb Ballet Hispánico brings communities…
Through Jan. 31 — KHAY’s Dave Daniels Joins Foster VC for “Open Heart” Home Drive
VENTURA COUNTY — Every child deserves a family, and this New Year, 100.7 KHAY’s Dave Daniels hopes that by joining Foster VC Kids for their “Open Heart” drive, through Jan. 31st, more dedicated families who are ready for the life-changing experience…
Feb. 25 — Foster VC Kids to hold Open Hearts Town Hall Meeting in Oxnard
Local Nurses’ Hearts Beat for Foster Kids VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County resident and foster parent Sandra Chronis has always had a special place in her heart for babies. The labor and delivery nurse made a career out of welcoming…
Feb. 24 — ‘An Evening of Chican@ Rock: Quetzal,” The Hub, Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center is hosting An Evening of Chicano Rock with East L.A. band QUETZAL on Friday, February 24th at 8 pm. A Grammy-Award winning East LA Chican@ rock group, Quetzal is the collaborative project of Quetzal Flores (guitar),…
Feb. 21 — Bilingual Presentation “Laundry in 18th and 19th century Mexico” by Marie Francois, Ph.D., Professor of History
Santa Paula — Bilingual Presentation — “Laundry in 18th and 19th century Mexico” by Marie Francois, Ph.D., Professor of History, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, Blanchard Community Library, 119 North 8th Street, Santa Paula. Abstract: Las lavanderas de la ciudad de México…
Feb. 25 — Social Justice Fund for Ventura County presenting free workshop — ‘Hidden Prejudice: Barriers to Success in Education’
CAMARILLO — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County will present the free workshop — “Hidden Prejudice: Barriers to Success in Education” from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 25 at the Ventura County Community Foundation, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo.…
Feb. 24 — Ventura County Go Red For Women Luncheon set for the Four Seasons – Westlake Village
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The American Heart Association will host its annual Ventura County Go Red For Women Luncheon on Friday, February 24, 2017 at the Four Seasons – Westlake Village, Two Dole Drive in Westlake Village. The Luncheon will begin…
Feb. 22 — How to Create and Market Videos to Get Your P.R. Message Across is Topic at February PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting
OXNARD — Pictures often are worth more than words for individuals and companies promoting brands and seeking publicity in today’s 24/7 media world. Tony Pinto, owner of Simi Valley-based Pinto Productions, will share his insights on delivering a public relations…
Feb. 4 — Beowulf: The Bear’s Son – A reading by local author Jon Christopher – at the Ojai Library
SUBJECT: Beowulf: The Bear’s Son – A reading by local author Jon Christopher – at the Ojai Library CONTACT: Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, (805) 218-9146 Julie Albright, Youth Librarian, (805) 646-6019 DATE: February 4, 2017; 2 p.m. Local author Jon…
Feb. 25-26 — Consulado Móvil in Santa Maria
Dears friends: On behalf of the Consulate of Mexico in Oxnard it is my pleasure to share with you the following information: On Saturday February 25th and Sunday February 26th 2017 we will have aMobile Consulate in the City of Santa Maria California We will be from 8:00…
Feb. 18-19 — Art Comes Alive at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum
OXNARD — Visitors of all ages can enjoy an assortment of maritime mysteries associated with the life and times of historical characters, portrayed by volunteers in period costume, and hear stories about the fascinating maritime heritage surrounding rare and beautiful paintings…
Through Feb. 26 — ‘On the Margin / Luchando Contra El Olvido’ at the Carnegie Art Museum
OXNARD — The exhibit of “On the Margin / Luchando Contra El Olvido” by CAM Studio Guest Artist Antonio Arredondo Juarez will be presented through Feb. 26 at the Carnegie Art Museum, 329 N. Fifth St., Oxnard. Antonio Arredondo Juarez was born…
Feb. 14 — Bruising for Besos Central Coast Premiere Film Screening
TUESDAY FEB. 14TH 6-8:30PM 1500 DEL NORTE CSU CHANNEL ISLANDS. Bruising for Besos is an intimate character study of YOLI— a charismatic and complicated Xicana lesbian making family in a Queer and Trans People Of Color (QTPOC) suburban Los Angeles…
Feb. 9 — Ventura County Climate HUB “Climate Health: Protect-Plan-Participate”
Ventura County Climate Hub Monthly Meeting 2017 Climate Protection Planning WHEN: Thursday, February 9th. Doors open 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Unitarian-Universalist Church of Ventura, 5654 Ralston St, Ventura, 93003, rear parking lot to Fellowship Hall. WHAT: The Ventura County…
Feb. 3 — San Luis Wear Red Day Luncheon at the San Luis Obispo Country Club
SAN LUIS OBISPO — The American Heart Association will host its annual Wear Red Luncheon in San Luis Obispo on Friday, February 3, 2017 at the San Luis Obispo County Club, 255 Country Club Drive in San Luis Obispo. The Wear…
Feb. 11 — Grand Opening Ushers Exceptional Senior Living into Small-Town Carpinteria
CARPINTERIA — On Saturday Feb. 11th, GranVida Senior Living and Memory Care community will celebrate the grand opening of its exceptional one-of-a-kind property in the intimate beachside town of Carpinteria, CA. Celebrated for its decision not to disturb the coastline…
Feb. 8 — Conejo Democrats to present ‘The Next Steps to Healthcare Reform’
DCCV to hold annual Oscar Party Fundraiser on Feb. 26 Conejo Democrats Club Meeting: “The Next Steps to Healthcare Reform” Wednesday February 8, 2017 Social Networking at 6:30 – Meeting at 7:00 PM North Ranch Center 1400 N. Westlake Blvd.…
Feb. 5 — Santa Paula Art Museum Free Family Day: Mysteries at the Museum
Admission is free for everyone SANTA PAULA – Discover the mysteries of the Santa Paula Art Museum at a Free Family Day event on Sunday, February 5, 2017, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Guests can explore the Art About Agriculture and The…
Feb. 9 — Speakers Rick Najera & Soraya Deen Talk Diversity at Canoga Park High School
CANOGA PARK — Diversity leaders Soraya Deen and Rick Najera will speak at Canoga Park High School in Canoga Park, CA on Thursday, February 9 at 7 p.m. to raise funds for Multicultural Learning Center’s (MLC) graduating class of 2017 and for Canoga Park High…
Bilingual report: Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. hosting Dental Health Fair on Feb. 11 in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month
OXNARD — February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. If you have a baby or toddler, you may have questions about thumb sucking, your child’s first dental visit or how and when to clean your child’s teeth. If so, on February…
Feb. 11 — 2017 Arcade Poetry Series — Alicia Morris Soto and Nancy-Jean Pement at the Carnegie Art Museum, Oxnard
OXNARD — 2017 Arcade Poetry Series — Alicia Morris Soto and Nancy-Jean Pement at the Carnegie Art Museum, Oxnard on Saturday, Feb. 11. Upcoming events: March 18 Christopher Buckley and Sara Borjas April 8 Lauren Henley & Jonathan Maule with Zayan…
Jan. 12 — Ventura County Climate Hub hosts “Water and Oil Do Not Mix” with Mni Wiconi Pacifica
WHEN: Thursday, January 12th. Doors open at 6:30 pm for meet and greet. Program starts at 7 pm. WHERE: Unitarian-Universalist Church of Ventura, 5654 Ralston Ave, Ventura, 93003. Fellowship hall; back parking lot. WHO: Presenters Kimberly Rivers, Executive Director for…
Starting Jan. 5 — Los Camperos de Nati Cano in free performances
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! opens the new year with Los Camperos de Nati Cano – Grammy-winning masters of the mariachi tradition – in a series of free, family concerts at Isla Vista School, Friday, January 6,…
State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson to speak at Women’s March in Los Angeles on Jan. 21
LOS ANGELES — State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) will join the Women’s March in Los Angeles tomorrow and speak at a rally held at Los Angeles City Hall. Jackson, the author of California’s landmark equal pay law and joint…
Nominations deadline is Jan. 11 for El Concilio Family Services’ 28th annual Latino Leadership Awards
OXNARD — The nomination deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11 for El Concilio Family Services’ 28th annual Latino Leadership Awards. We are asking for award nominations of individuals or businesses that have made an outstanding contribution in enhancing the educational…
Jan. 22 — Sunday Sidewalk Session with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin
Coffee Session with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin. Join Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin and the Westlake High School FBLA for coffee and take an opportunity to discuss legislation and local issues. When: Sunday January 22, 10:00 AM- 11:30 AM Where: Peet’s Coffee 595…
Jan. 21 — Acuña Art Gallery and Cultural Center/ Cafe on A to hold free community art workshop
The Acuña Art Gallery and Cultural Center/ Cafe on A will be hosting a free community art workshop on Saturday, January 21, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of building healthy communities through the…
Jan. 28 — Ventura Hillsides Conservancy invites volunteers to plant trees at Big Rock Nature Preserve
VENTURA — The Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) will host a community tree planting party at the Big Rock Nature Preserve near Foster Park. VHC invites volunteers of all ages to join them from 9 a.m. – 12 noon Saturday, Jan. 28 along…
26 de enero — Como Manejar los Problemas de Obtener un ITIN
OXNARD — Como Manejar los Problemas de Obtener un ITIN, jueves 26 de enero, 2017 a 5:45 pm – 7:30 pm, Oxnard Heritage Cultural Center, 141 W. 5th St., Suite E. Onxard Llamen a Carlos al 805.816.7387 para reservar su espacio.
Jan. 24 — UCSB Meet the Artist: Favianna Rodriguez/The Radical Imagination
SANTA BARBARA — The opening reception for the “Resilient Love in a Time of Hate Series” will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24 at the UCSB Multicultural Center Lounge. Favianna Rodriguez’s art and collaborative projects address…
Jan. 25 — Creating a Successful Branding Campaign is Topic at January PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting
OXNARD — The approach to building an effective branding strategy has changed significantly over the past decade. John Silva, president and creative director at Ventura-based Dupris Group, will share his insights on creating a successful brand experience for today’s audience…
Jan. 26 — Ventura Hillsides Conservancy to host free community lecture entitled “The Comeback of the California Condor”
VENTURA — On Thurs., Jan 26. at 7 p.m., the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) will host a free community lecture entitled “The Comeback of the California Condor” at the Poinsettia Pavilion in Ventura. Experts from Friends of the California Condor Wild and Free will discuss…
Jan. 27 — California Welcome Center in Oxnard Features New Artist, Patty Faux
OXNARD – The California Welcome Center (CWC) located at the Collection Shopping Center in Oxnard is featuring local artist, Patty Faux now through February 1, 2017. Her work is currently on display at the CWC and a “Meet the Artist’…
Jan. 27 — Blue Skies Listening Tour will address domestic violence in San Luis Obispo community
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY – The California Partnership to End Domestic Violence will bring its Blue Skies Listening Tour to San Luis Obispo on January 27. The tour will provide opportunities for the community to gather and share creative, practical…
Jan. 26 — Spoken Word Performances by Undocumented and UndocuQueer Poets at UCSB
SANTA BARBARA — A UCSB Reads & Immigration Awareness Week event, 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26 at the UCSB Multicultural Center Lounge. Part of the UCSB READS 2017 program. Co-sponsored with Undocumented Student Services, Resource Center for Gender &…
CSUCI Assistant Professor wins national award for dissertation on representing undocumented immigrants
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) Assistant Professor of Political Science Matthew Mendez, Ph.D., has earned national recognition for his dissertation on when and how well state lawmakers represent the interests of undocumented immigrants. “Invisible Constituents: The Representation of Undocumented Immigrants” earned…
Bilingual commentary: Is Hanukkah the “Jewish Christmas”?
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. David Magallanes By David Magallanes…
Limón Appointed to Leadership Position in State Assembly
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) was appointed Assistant Majority Whip of the California State Assembly by Speaker Anthony Rendon. “I am honored and humbled by the confidence and trust Speaker Rendon has placed in me to be an effective…
State Sen. Jackson’s Legislation To Become Law on January 1
SACRAMENTO – Among the numerous bills authored by Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) this year, the following will take effect on January 1, 2017: Senate Bill 1435, School Curriculum: Healthy Relationships: Continuing her commitment to addressing youth violence, preventing sexual assault and encouraging…
New Year’s Resolutions Can Start at Home
By Javier Saucedo / emPower Central Coast Energy Coach Now that the holiday decorations are packed away and that pesky New Year’s Eve confetti is finally swept up, many of us are going to take a look at how we…
Bilingual report: VCCDC Partners with City of Ventura for the Sale of 12 Affordable Condos for Low-Income Families
Orientations to be held in January 2017 Ventura County – Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC), the City of Ventura, and Watts Communities at Nortbank, LLC have partnered for the resale of 12 affordable condominiums for low-income households. The 12 affordable…
RISE receives $5,000 in merchandise from New Balance for holidays
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY – RISE received a donation of $5,000 in merchandise from New Balance Athletics, Inc. for shelter and case management clients, providing much-needed apparel for the winter season. RISE was selected to receive this donation by Ally Carda,…
State Sen. Jackson Introduces Legislation to Ensure More Californians Taking Family Leave Do Not Lose Their Jobs
SACRAMENTO – As momentum continues to grow nationwide for stronger family leave policies, Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) has just introduced two bills to ensure that more Californians can take leave to care for a newborn or a seriously ill family member…
8 Ways to Make Resolutions Stick in 2017: Santa Barbara Family YMCA offers tips to make lasting change
SANTA BARBARA — Making resolutions is a tradition for millions of Americans. However, while choosing a resolution is easy, sticking to it can be impossible. A 2014 YMCA survey found that less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolutions.…
Local Youth Giving Back: Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Government Delegates Hold Clean Up Day
SANTA BARBARA — Delegates from the Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Government team recently gave back to the community by helping clean up the baseball fields at Mackenzie Park in Santa Barbara. Students from the Stuart C. Gildred (Santa Ynez),…
SBCC Scheinfeld Center Receives Funding from Spirit of Entrepreneurship Foundation for Student Awards and Scholarships
SANTA BARBARA — SBCC Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is pleased to announce it has received $15,000 in funding for students participating in the 2017 New Venture Challenge business plan and pitch competition. Two checks were provided to the…
Launch a Business Idea in a Single Semester Through SBCC Scheinfeld Center Rapid Launch Program, Now Enrolling
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is now accepting spring enrollments for its Rapid Launch Intensive program that helps students launch a business idea in a single semester. The program is open…
Spirit of Giving Food Drive Raises Over 12,000 Pounds
VENTURA COUNTY — From November 28th to December 14th, Dole Packaged Foods and FOOD Share of Ventura County collaborated on their first inaugural Spirit of Giving school food drive to empower local students to give back to those less fortunate…
Getting to Know EDC-VC’s Alondra Gaytan, SBDC Program Specialist
CAMARILLO — As a program specialist for EDC-VC’s Small Business Development Center since 2014, Alondra Gaytan helps assess small business owners and innovators seeking professional/technical assistance and connects them with the appropriate resources, including SBDC’s business advisors who provide free one-on-one…
Oxnard RDA’s Successor Agency: A Christmas Story
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Armando Vazquez / Guest contributor As…
Jesus Nava selected as Oxnard’s new assistant city manager
OXNARD — City Manager Greg Nyhoff announced that he selected Jesus Nava as Oxnard’s new assistant city manager. Nava began his duties effective Dec. 19. He replaces Maria Hurtado and will oversee the Finance, Human Resources and Information Technology departments. He will…
Bilingual commentary: Is There Hope for the Rust Belt?
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes /…
CenCal Health Pilot Project to Help Eligible Seniors Receive At-Home Assistance
CENTRAL COAST — To ensure that vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities continue to receive at-home medical services, CenCal Health is launching a pilot project with DASH (Doctors Assisting Seniors at Home) to serve its members. DASH is a program…
CSU Channel Islands senior’s award-winning research compares success of immigrant Latinos to U.S.-born Latinos
CAMARILLO — Educating immigrants will strengthen a labor force in the long run by providing them with better skills and higher incomes. Further, Latino immigrants who arrived as children seem to fare even better with an education than children born in…
Holiday Shoppers Find Last Minute Deals At Centerpoint Mall During Final Week Before Christmas
Holiday shoppers are taking it down to the wire for Christmas gifts this season and Centerpoint Mall retailers have plenty of specials to offer at the more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and dining outlets ranging from apparel and electronics…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Breaks Ground on Farm Worker Housing in Santa Maria
SANTA MARIA – Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) broke ground on Los Adobes de Maria III in Santa Maria, the nonprofit’s first Platinum Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified affordable housing development ever. PSHH was joined by local dignitaries and…
Ventura County Public Works Agency appoints Glenn Shephard as new Director of Watershed Protection District
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has named Glenn Shephard as the Director of its Watershed Protection District (WPD). Sheppard’s first day will be December 19. Shephard comes to Ventura County after a successful 27-year Civil Engineering career…
Danielle Brinkman-Vera to Chair Ventura Family YMCA 2017 Annual Campaign
VENTURA — The Ventura Family YMCA is proud to announce Danielle Brinkman-Vera as Chair of the 2017 Annual Campaign. Brinkman-Vera is Partner in Charge of Tax Services-Oxnard at Farber Hass Hurley LLP. She is an expert in her field and…
VCCCD Board of Trustees names Bernardo M. Perez, Chair and Arturo Hernández, Vice Chair at December Board meeting
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees named Bernardo M. Perez and Arturo Hernández Chair and Vice Chair, respectively. The vote was taken during open session at the Board meeting held on Tuesday, December 13, 2016.…
Ventura County Public Works Agency earns top honors at American Society of Civil Engineers awards
VENTURA COUNTY – The Los Angeles Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers has selected Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Happy Valley Bioswale Meiners Oaks Urban Low Impact Development (LID) Retrofit as 2016 Environmental Engineering Project of the Year. The…
Lompoc Family YMCA Welcomes Susan Long as New Branch Manager
LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA, a branch of the Channel Islands YMCA, is proud to announce the appointment of Susan Long to the position of Branch Manager. Long has been involved with the Y for many years, initially as…
Clinicas to distribute toys throughout Ventura County through Dec. 22
VENTURA COUNTY — It has been a time honored tradition during the holiday season for Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. to distribute toys to its pediatric patients. The tradition continues this year as Clinicas’ Toy Giveaway will again take place at…
Bilingual commentary: To the Stars, John Glenn
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Family-to-Family Program Offers ‘Life-Changing’ Support for Family Members Affected by Mental Illness
SANTA BARBARA — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southern Santa Barbara County, which is hosted by and receives support from the Mental Wellness Center, has announced that pre-registration is now open for its Family-to-Family education program for family…
The Duncan Group Welcomes New Board Member Carl Steinberg
SANTA BARBARA – Carl Steinberg has been appointed as a new board member to The Duncan Group (TDG), the affiliate property management nonprofit for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) developed rental properties. Steinberg’s real estate experience and passion for the well-being…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme Receive $100,000 Grant
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) has been awarded a $100,000 grant through the Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Foundation to support BGCOP’s mission to provide a safe haven after school and…
Community Holiday Tree and Wreath Sale to Support Life-Changing Local Youth Programs at Santa Barbara Family YMCA
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Family YMCA’s junior high and high school students are selling Christmas trees and wreaths to raise money to support youth and teen programs. The community is welcome to purchase and take home the trees…
SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning Receives Top National Awards for Excellence in Marketing
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College Center for Lifelong Learning (the CLL) received the Excellence in Marketing Award from Learning Resources Network (LERN), the world’s largest professional association in continuing education and lifelong learning. LERN announced the CLL as the top winner for…
Community Commemorates 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Attacks at Event Hosted by the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation
SANTA BARBARA — The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack with a free community ceremony at the Santa Barbara Airport on Dec. 7. About 150 people attended the event to remember the attack…
New Advisor to Help Launch Spanish-Language Program for Small Business Development Center
CENTRAL COAST — The Small Business Development Center of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties (SBDC), which provides free one-on-one consulting to help strengthen the bottom lines of area companies, has recently added a bilingual advisor with experience helping Spanish-language businesses.…
FOOD Share CEO Chosen for Tournament of Roses Parade
VENTURA COUNTY — FOOD Share of Ventura County President and CEO, Bonnie Atmore, has been selected by Dole Packaged Foods to represent the regional food bank and national hunger relief network, Feeding America, in the 128th Tournament of Roses Parade…
Bilingual commentary: The Sound of Freedom
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme Servicing More Youth
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) on Dec. 7 released the findings of its recent internal audit revealing the number of youth served by the organization increased 13 percent to 10,400 children annually from…
Foster VC Kids, CSA, KVTA Radio Collaborate for “Holidays with Heart” Drive
VENTURA COUNTY — For 25 years, CSA and radio station 1590 AM KVTA Local News Talk, have collaborated to collect toys and raise funds for the more than 1,000 foster children and youth in Ventura County, as well as growing…
NSF-funded program gives academically strong, low-income engineering undergraduates get the boost they need to complete their degrees
By Sonia Fernandez / UCSB If you’re a college undergrad, you know full well your third year is your moment of truth. Gone are the days of tentatively exploring your major; gone is much of the flexibility you had to…
Jan. 25 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum’s ‘Love Letters Home’ now open. To hold reception on Jan. 25
OXNARD — In an era before high-speed travel and instantaneous communication, separation and longing were an ever-present reality for the men, women and children of both maritime and wartime communities. Through the display of original artifacts and correspondence, Channel Islands…
Jan. 5-8 — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. New York’s Ballet Hispanico to perform (Feb. 6-12), Mariachi Femenil Nuevo Tecalitán (April 27-30)
CENTRAL COAST — From cowboy traditions of Colombia and Venezuela, to the Latin dance scene of New York, and many rich cultural traditions between, ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! announces its twelfth season of free family performances in neighborhood venues…
Jan. 7 — Day of Mindfulness: Renewal for the New Year
VENTURA — A day to quiet the mind and open the heart. A day of healing, with the Venerable Kusala, an American born Buddhist monk, ordained in the Zen tradition of Vietnam. Date, time: January 7, 2017, 10am to 4pm Location of event: Unitarian Universalist…
Jan. 19 — EDC-VC Annual Meeting Focuses on Sustainable Water Solutions
CAMARILLO — As Ventura County enters its sixth year of drought, the 20th annual meeting of the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County (EDC-VC) will explore the theme “Drowning in Drought: Sustainable Water Solutions.” Featured will be keynote speakers Susan Mulligan, general manager, Calleguas…
Through Jan. 24 — Art Exhibit ‘Brings Art’ of late John Schlesinger to Hospice of Santa Barbara continues
SANTA BARBARA —Hospice of Santa Barbara is honored to have the artwork of the late John Schlesinger on display at the Leigh Block Gallery — located within Hospice of Santa Barbara, 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Suite #100, Santa Barbara —…
Through Jan. 29 — De Colores Art Show continues at the Santa Paula Art Museum
SANTA PAULA — The annual De Colores Art Show continues through Jan. 29 the Santa Paula Art Museum. The group exhibition features art by 30 contemporary artists whose vibrant works are inspired by Latino culture. The premiere party will include live music…
Ongoing: ‘Designs from the Deep: The Architecture of the Shell’ at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum
OXNARD – The Channel Islands Maritime Museum will host an opening reception for its new exhibition, Designs from the Deep: The Architecture of the Shell, from 5-7 p.m., Oct. 27. The exhibit features close to a thousand stunning shells from…
Through mid-April — Whale Watching Season continues off the coast of Oxnard
OXNARD – It’s that time of year to catch a glimpse of nature during Whale Watching Season taking place off the coast of Oxnard. The season officially begins the day after Christmas, December 26 and continues through mid-April 2017. Both Island…
Bilingual commentary: ISIS vs. Isis
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
FOOD Share Hosts SoCal’s Most Festive Holiday Food Drive: The 5th Annual CAN-tree Collection
OXNARD — For three days, Southern California’s premier destination shopping and dining center will be transformed into a stunning display of charity and cheer as FOOD Share’s 5th annual CAN-tree Collection, hosted by The Collection at RiverPark and Cumulus Media,…
United Way of Ventura County provides update on ‘Santa to the Sea’
President’s Message Dear Friends, Today is my 2nd anniversary serving as President & CEO of United Way of Ventura County. It’s hard to believe 24 months have passed so quickly and how the incredible community members here have enriched my…
UCSB Professor Francisco Lomelí is elected to the prestigious North American Academy of the Spanish Language
By Jim Logan / UCSB Francisco Lomelí had no idea he was being considered for membership in a prestigious organization of Spanish language scholars. And then out of the blue word came that he was in. A professor of Spanish and Portuguese and…
Catch the “ELF on the GO” Holiday Bus!
Ride Gold Coast Transit District’s Decorated Holiday Bus this December OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) is excited to announce that a specially decorated holiday bus will be traveling the streets of Oxnard, Ventura, Port Hueneme and Ojai this…
Ventura Family YMCA Inspires the Community at Annual Prayer Breakfast
CENTRAL COAST — More than 100 guests attended the Ventura Family YMCA’s annual Prayer Breakfast held Nov. 16. It was an uplifting morning of prayer and encouragement with music led by Pastor Troy Jones of The River Community Church. Breakfast…