CAMARILLO — Slime, banana pianos and the ever-popular screaming Gummi bears will be among more than 80 exploding, oozing, glowing and just plain fascinating hands-on science activities at CSU Channel Islands(CI)’s Seventh Annual Science Carnival, the university reported in a media…
Author: Amigos805.com
Frank X. Moraga is publisher / editor of Amigos805, providing information for and about the vibrant Latino community in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties — "Bringing cultures together by sharing information."
Bilingual commentary: The Love of Math
By David Magallanes/ Guest contributor In a recent newspaper article (I still read the paper version daily), an event in our county and elsewhere caught my attention: a “TriMathlon.” I had never seen this clever play on the word “triathlon,” which refers…
The OC Literature, Arts and Lecture Series Fall 2015 to present ‘Réne Corado — From Shoeshine Boy to Scientist’ on Oct. 21
OXNARD — The OC Literature, Arts and Lecture Series Fall 2015 will present “Réne Corado — From Shoeshine Boy to Scientist” from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard.…
Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts to present ‘An Evening with Actors Judy Reyes, Reynaldo Pacheco and Julissa Arce’ on Oct. 21
OXNARD — Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts will present a special evening with actress Judy Reyes and immigrant rights activist Julissa Arce with host Rick Najera at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21 as part of Oxnard College’s Latino Thought Makers…
A UCSB professor’s personal experience with issues of immigration shapes her academic passions
By Nora Crutcher / UCSB Narayani Lasala-Blanco knows firsthand the struggles Latino and other immigrant families face when they come to the United States. She experienced them herself, as a child living in Santa Barbara in the late 1980s. Now an…
Bilingual commentary: The Anti-Islam Protesters
By David Magallanes/ Guest contributor Last week I wrote about the Golden Age of Islam (http://amigos805.com/bilingual-commentary-the-golden-age-of-islam)—the time during which Islam thrived and contributed to civilization in Europe and the Middle East. This week, we explore the grim experience of Muslims in our…
A UC Santa Barbara researcher’s book on Spanish-language radio earns national awards and a place in the national conversation
By Jim Logan / UCSB Dolores Inés Casillas, an associate professor in the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies at UC Santa Barbara, picked a good time to write a book about the ways Latinos use Spanish-language radio. Not that…
Día de los Muertos events beginning this weekend
Día de los Muertos events are beginning this weekend in many locations in the 805 region. The Carpinteria Library will present “La Catrina,” a Día de los Muertos celebration, from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at 5141 Carpinteria Ave.,…
De Colores Art Show to hold opening reception on Oct. 17
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Art Museum will present the 22nd “De Colores Art Show: Campesinas,” opening with a reception from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at 117 N. Tenth St., downtown Santa Paula. The De Colores Art Show is an annual…
Santa Barbara Art Museum to present ‘Looking In, Looking Out: Latin American Photography starting Oct. 18
The Santa Barbara Art Museum will present “Looking In, Looking Out: Latin American Photography” from Oct. 18 through Feb. 14 at 130 State St., Santa Barbara. Selected from the museum’s permanent collection, the 47 works explore various aspects of Latin American history and…
Bilingual commentary: The Golden Age of Islam
By David Magallanes/ Guest contributor In the midst of turbulence and social upheaval in the Middle East today, and with prejudicial hatred against Muslims increasing throughout our country, it is hard for us to comprehend a time in which Islam was highly…
Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hern to perform in Oxnard on Oct. 11
OXNARD — Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hern will perform will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 S. Hobson Way, Oxnard. The USA 2016 Tour is entitled “The Force and the Passion…
CLU’s International Film Festival to present ‘Even the Rain’ on Oct. 7
THOUSAND OAKS — CLU’s International Film Festival will present “Even the Rain” (Spanish) at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 at the Carmike Thousand Oaks 14, 166 W. Hillcrest Drive. With ample irony, Even the Rain explores the effects of Spanish imperialism,…
UCSB Multicultural Center’s Cup of Culture to present film screening of ‘Cartel Land’ on Oct. 7
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center’s Cup of Culture Film screening of “Cartel Land” will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 at the UCSB Multicultural Center, UCSB. Hailed by The New York Times as “urgent and…
Carnegie Art Musem to present ‘Artist’s Gallery Talk — Carmen Abelleira — Reclaimed Stories’ on Oct. 8
OXNARD — The Carnegie Art Musem will present “Artist’s Gallery Talk — Carmen Abelleira — Reclaimed Stories” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at 424 S. C St, Oxnard. The creator of the museum’s newest “Celler” exhibit, “Reclaimed Stories,” she will share…
October cover story: Day of the Dead coming to life in 805 region
Cities from Camarillo to Santa Maria will present numerous activities during Día de los Muertos celebration to honor departed souls By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 About three decades ago most of the general public in the 805 region had not…
Commentary: Campesinas are the focus of this year’s De Colores Art Show in Santa Paula
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 For Xavier Montes, the inspiration for this year’s De Colores Art Show hit close to home to the aunt who raised him. “When I see women working in the fields, I think of Carmen, my mother…
Local news briefs
OXNARD — CSU Channel Islands will present the 2015 Science Carnival from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School, 2900 Thurgood Marshall Drive, Oxnard. Free to the public, the event provides students through grade 8…
Finance: WEV to present free Spanish self-employment sessions
Orientations will be held Oct. 8 in Ventura, Oct. 13 in Port Hueneme, Oct. 15 and 26 in Santa Maria From Amigos805 staff reports Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV). will hold free, one-hour informational sessions facilitated by Spanish Program Coordinator Leticia…
Local business information
> Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin will present a “Manage Your Money Financial Literacy Workshop” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at CSU Channel Islands, Malibu Hall Room 100. Learn how to manage student loans, everyday tools to save money, common…
Health: ‘Think Pink’ for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Awareness month offers an opportunity to take steps to detect the disease By the Ventura County Health Care Agency VENTURA COUNTY — This October, Ventura County Health Care Agency is proud to participate in National Breast Cancer…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of October in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health…
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County announces 2015 grantees
CAMARILLO — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJF) has awarded almost $30,000 to five local organizations that inspire and educate young leaders who work to improve fairness and justice in their communities, the organization reported in a media release.…
Bilingual commentary: The Lessons of Trees
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 I…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! to present Patricio Hidalgo y el Afrojarocho through Oct. 4
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! will present Patricio Hidalgo y el Afrojarocho in free family performances from through Oct. 4 in various locations in Santa Barbara County. Hidalgo is a world-renowned musician and poet and a third-generation jaranero, a master of the music…
Teatro de las Américas, Oxnard College to present ‘Songs of the Mediterranean’ dinner, concert fundraiser on Oct. 1
Teatro de las Américas and Oxnard College continue their 2015 Season of Concert-Dinners with “Songs of the Mediterranean” from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1 at The Bistro at Culinary Arts Building at Oxnard College, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. In this third edition, guests…
CSU Channel Islands is among seven minority-serving institutions singled out for national recognition
CAMARILLO — Family-friendliness, workplace diversity, salaries and professional development opportunities were some of the criteria that recently put CSU Channel Islands(CI) among the “2015 Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs at Minority-Serving Institutions,” university officials reported this week in a…
UCSB receives $2.6M grant from the U.S. Department of Education under the Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB UC Santa Barbara has been selected to receive a $2.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education for Opening New Doors to Accelerating Success (ONDAS), a new Title V program. The five-year grant is…
Bilingual commentary: The Math Crisis
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 Mathematics…
Latino Thought Maker Series to present ‘An Evening with Marco Antonio Regil & Scott Montoya’ at Oxnard College on Sept. 24
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts will present its second performance of Latino Thought Makers at Oxnard College Performing Arts Center at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. The live show, hosted by comedian Rick Najera, will…
Javier Gomez to present Día de los Muertos free pre-planning art workshops starting Sept. 26
OXNARD — Javier Gomez will present the annual Día de los Muertos free pre-planning art workshops starting Sept. 26 at 250 E. 5th St., Oxnard. All workshops will be held from noon to 3 p.m. The schedule includes: Sept. 26 —…
Bilingual report: Teatro de las Américas to present ‘Our Lady of the Clouds’ on Sept. 27
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas will present ‘Our Lady of the Clouds’ at 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27 at the Oxnard College Black Box Theatre, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The play is directed by Pantelis Palamidis. Written by Arístides…
LEON awarded Santa Barbara County resolution in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month
SANTA BARBARA — Latino Elders Outreach Network (LEON) was presented with a Santa Barbara County resolution in honor of Hispanic Heritage month. On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, First District Supervisor Salud Carbajal presented the award in recognition of the…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! recognized by Santa Barbara County Supervisors on 10th anniversary season
SANTA BARBARA — The County of Santa Barbara has honored ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! on its tenth anniversary season with a resolution of the Board of Supervisors recognizing the program for its innovative and diverse contributions to community cultural life throughout the…
UCSB professor’s new biography of labor leader César Chávez is one of few in the U.S. to be written in Spanish
By Jim Logan/ UCSB When César Chávez founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers (UFW), he did it mostly in Spanish. For more than 30 years, he inspired millions of people — and hundreds…
Bilingual commentary: Speaking “American”
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 For…
Guest commentary: On the ‘Bacon Trail’ — Part 2
The Precursors 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. Note: The following…
California Secretary of State Alex Padilla to be keynote speaker at CAUSE’s ninth annual ‘Raising Justice — Building Community’ celebration on Sept. 17
VENTURA — California Secretary of State Alex Padilla will be the keynote speaker at CAUSE’s ninth annual ‘Raising Justice — Building Community’ celebration on Thursday, Sept. 17 at the Ventura Beach Marriott, 2055 E. Harbor Blvd., Ventura. “Join us in reaffirming our…
Ballet Folklórico de Los Angeles opens ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!’s 10th anniversary season on Sept. 11
SANTA BARBARA — Ballet Folklórico de Los Angeles opens ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!’s 10th anniversary season with free performances at Isla Vista School (Sept. 11), Guadalupe City Hall (Sept. 12) and the Marjorie Luke Theatre (Sept. 13). The company…
CSU Channel Islands Nursing alumnus / MBA candidate wins prestigious Trustee Scholarship
CAMARILLO — Registered nurse Gabriel Guillén is one of the recipients of the CSU Trustees’ Award, the CSU system’s highest for student achievement. The married father of four is attending CSU Channel Islands (CI) with plans to graduate in May of 2016…
Kenya Rodriguez joins Girls Inc. of Carpinteria as new Eureka! and Teen Coordinator
CAPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has announced that Kenya Rodriguez, a former volunteer for the organization, has been named its new Eureka! and teen coordinator. In her new role, Rodriguez will design, implement and manage summer programming at UCSB, monthly meetings and…
Bilingual commentary: The Oxnard College Literature and 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. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor In…
September cover story: Tackling hunger one ‘Spoon FULL’ at a time
FOOD Share, Ventura County’s Food Bank, launches ‘Spoon FULL a Day’ pledge during Hunger Action Month in September From Amigos805 staff reports While September is typically the time to think about the coming fall and back to school, advocates want…
Commentary: Back-to-school time includes new faces, changes at local institutions
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It’s back-to-school time for many local public school districts, private schools, colleges and universities. Time for students to pick up their books, meet new classmates, teachers and administrators. There are a few changes in…
Local news briefs
VENTURA — The United Way of Ventura County will present CSU President Richard R. Rush with a Lifetime Achievement Award during its 11th annual Spirit of Community Partnership Awards on Sept. 17. For the first time in the 70-year history…
Bilingual commentary: A pulsating anger
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 On…
Finance: Bill to close the gender wage gap passes off Assembly floor
State Sen. Jackson’s SB 358 would be the strongest equal pay law in the nation From Amigos805 staff reports With women in California making 84 cents for every dollar a man earns, an effort to address pay inequality recently passed…
Local business information
> Ventura SCORE will present the free seminar “Improve your website design and add videos and extra punch” from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 at the Ventura Community Foundation Non-Profit Center, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo. Click here to…
Health: Tomando Control de su Salud class hold graduation
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care hosts six-week Santa Barbara class developed by Stanford Department of Medicine to help local Spanish-speaking community with chronic conditions SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara County’s first Tomando Control de su Salud (Taking Control of Your Health) graduating class received…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of September in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health Care…
Reception for ‘Huicho!’ exhibit to be held Sept. 4 at CLU
THOUSAND OAKS — The reception for the exhibit “Huicho!” will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, at California Lutheran University’s Kwan Fong Gallery, 120 Memorial Parkway Thousand Oaks. Hüicho Lé makes remarkable paintings that combine contemporary imagery with themes from…
Bilingual report: Feria Campesina to celebrate Ventura County farmworkers on Aug. 30
OXNARD – More than 25 representatives from the Employment Development Department (EDD), other state agencies and local, community-based organizations will join hundreds of Ventura County farmworkers and their families Sunday, August 30 to celebrate the 10th annual Farmworker Fair – Feria…
Bilingual commentary: Transformation in Middle Age
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 Just…
Guest commentary: On the ‘Bacon Trail’ — Part 1
Exposing Historical Myopia 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 Rodolfo F.…
Rick Najera and Friends Celebrity Golf Classic Fundraiser to benefit El Concilio Family Services to be held on Aug. 24
CAMARILLO — The Rick Najera and Friends Celebrity Golf Classic Fundraiser will be held at Spanish Hills Golf & Country Club, 999 Crestview Ave., Camarillo. The tournament will benefit El Concilio Family Services’ mission to support agricultural workers and their familes…
Bilingual report: Women’s Economic Ventures graduates Step into Success with WEV Self Employment Training Program
Spanish orientations sessions for next class to be held Aug. 20, 26 Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) on Aug. 12 celebrated the accomplishments of fourteen men and women graduating from the WEV en Español’s Basic Self-Employment Training (SET) program, the organization…
Local writer to receive ‘Guatemalan Writer of the Year’ award next week in Hollywood
Award part of “Celebration of La Semana del Guatemalteco en Los Angeles” René Corado, a Guatemalan biologist, writer and resident of Oxnard, will be honored on Aug. 25 with the “Guatemalan Writer of the Year” award presented by the Comite…
Bilingual commentary: Dads protecting daughters
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 We…
Mexico U-17 National Team vs. Ventura County Fusion at Ventura College Sportsplex on Aug. 20
VENTURA — Mexico U-17 National Team vs. Ventura County Fusion will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30 the the Ventura College Sportsplex, 4667 Telegraph Road, Ventura. One of the most popular and successful youth national teams in the world…
Sonikete Productions to present ‘MoForró’ at Downtown Sol in Oxnard on Aug. 22
OXNARD — Sonikete Productions will present “MoForró” from 8 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Downtown Sol, 328 W. 3rd St., Oxnard. Come enjoy this Brazilian treat with us on the last day of summer, organizers reported in a media release.…
Discovery Ventura to present Los Lonely Boys on Aug. 23
VENTURA — Los Lonely Boys will perform at Discovery Ventura, 1888 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Texan brother trio bounces back from adversity with its adventurous self-produced album, “Revelation,” which chronicles its return to the stage…
Acuña Art Gallery @ The Café on A in Oxnard to present ‘Endless Summer — Back to School’ party on Aug. 14
OXNARD — The Acuña Art Gallery @ The Café on A will present “Endless Summer — Back to School’ all ages party from 7 p.m. to midnight on Friday, Aug. 14 at 438 S. A St., Oxnard Featuring performances by C-Minor,…
Carnegie Art Museum to present opening reception for Olguin Tapia Heredia on Aug. 14
OXNARD — The Carnegie Art Museum in Oxnard will present the CAM Studio Gallery opening reception for Olguin Tapia Heredia from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14 at 424 S. C St., Oxnard. Born in Michoacán, Mexico and raised in Oxnard,…
MICOP to present ‘A Night in Oaxaca 2015’ on Aug. 15
OXNARD — The Mixteco / Indígena Community Organizing Project will present its annual “A Night in Oaxaca 2015” fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. “Join us…
Guest commentary: The Oxnard Multicultural Mental Health Coaltion is moving forward
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 Sometimes…
Bilingual commentary: Under attack
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 On…
Guest commentary: ‘Panen et circenses’
Inequality of sports — The grand illusion 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…
Bilingual report: Inaugural ‘K through 12 Resource Fair’ to be held in Oxnard on Aug. 12
OXNARD — The Office of Jacqui Irwin, in collaboration with the Oxnard Police Activities League and Ventura County Public Health will present the inaugural “K through 12 Resource Fair” from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Oxnard PAL…
Ventura Harley-Davidson matching funds for El Centrito campaign for after school STEAM academy
OXNARD — Ventura Harley-Davidson has joined El Centrito Family Learning Centers to the organization raise $8,000 during its five-day fundraising campaign to launch its after school STEAM Academy, the organization reported Friday. “Donate now and it will be matched by…
20th annual Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival to be held at Santa Barbara Bowl on Aug. 8
SANTA BARBARA — The 20th annual Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival will be held at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8 at the Santa Barbara Bowl, 1122 N Milpas St., Santa Barbara. Performing at this year’s milestone festival will be Ballet Folklorico de Los…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. to present health fair / feria de salad in Oxnard on Aug. 9
OXNARD — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will present a health fair / feria de salud from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9 at Parque del Sol, 1800 Camino del Sol, Oxnard. The event will feature blood pressure,…
Bilingual commentary: A father’s daughter who ruled over Jerusalem
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 Let…
Guest commentary: Gracias a la Vida!
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 Rodolfo F. Acuña / Guest contributor Just…
August cover story: Local teens travel to D.C. to tour sights, talk politics
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria members visit with local representatives, discuss youth mentoring grants, STEM legislation, immigration and other pressing issues By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 After a long week of meeting with congressional representatives in Washington, D.C., discussing issues…
Local news briefs
VENTURA — Anna Bermudez, the curator for the Museum of Ventura County and a member of the Bell Arts Factory board of directors, recently received a commendation from the Mexican Community Consul Jonathan Elias Alvarez. The recognition is for the…
Commentary: TRIO grants at local institutions help first-generation students
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 At a time when some political leaders in Congress are trying to outdo themselves by cutting programs to the bone, first-generation college students recently received a significant boost with the awarding of federal grants…
Finance: WEV welcomes 18 entrepreneurs into the world of business
Students graduate from Santa Maria-based Advanced Spanish Self-Employment Training Course. Next session begins Aug. 18. Next orientation is Aug. 4 in Santa Maria Amigos805 staff reports Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrated the accomplishments of 18 women and men graduating from…
Local business information
> The EDC-VC and EDD will present “Get it Right from the Start — State Labor Law and Payroll Tax Seminar” from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6 at the America’s Job Center of California, Simi Valley Room,…
Health: VCHCA celebrates ‘World Breastfeeding Week’
Amigos805 staff reports The Ventura County Health Care Agency has announced that it is supporting “World Breastfeeding Week,” which continues through Aug. 7. “VCHCA proudly supports breastfeeding as the cultural norm in our community by providing education, resources and support…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of August in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-08 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Standout Santa Maria High School students earn scholarships to prestigious Research Mentorship Program at UCSB
By Shelly Leachman / UCSB Determined to position herself for a successful future, Esmeralda Cruz is about as dedicated as teenagers come. Working hard and studying harder, she’s laser-focused on getting into college and, ultimately, forging a solid career. Asked…
Bilingual commentary: The Importance of a Positive Masculine Ally
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 Men,…
Guest commentary: ‘Hearts and Minds’ forgotten
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 Rodolfo F. Acuña / Guest contributor Understanding…
Oxnard Salsa Festival returns to Plaza Park with special ‘Friday Night Concert’ on July 24
Amigos805 staff reports OXNARD — The 22nd annual Oxnard Salsa Festival returns to Plaza Park during the weekend of July 25 and 26. The festival kicks off with a special “Friday Night Concert” featuring Oscar Hernandez and Alma Libre, with…
Bilingual commentary: The Jerusalem Syndrome
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 According…
Linda Vega Dance Studio and ¡Flamenco! Santa Barbara to present ‘Romeria de Verano’ on July 25
SANTA BARBARA — The Linda Vega Dance Studio and ¡Flamenco! Santa Barbara will present ‘Romeria de Verano,’ an afternoon of flamenco dance and live music, featuring the city’s young flamenco professionals, at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 25 at the Marjorie…
Guest commentary: From the cradle to the grave
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 Rodolfo F. Acuña / Guest contributor I…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! awarded California Arts Council Local Impact Grant
SANTA BARBARA — The California Arts Council announced it plans to award ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! $8,040 as part of its Local Impact program, the organization reported in a media release. The Local Impact program fosters equity, access,…
Margarita H. de Escontrias selected as new CEO of Cabrillo Economic Development Corp.
VENTURA — The Board of Directors of the Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. (CEDC) has announced that Margarita H. de Escontrias has been selected as CEDC’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the organization reported in a media release. Ms. de Escontrias…
Presentation on Hispanic literature on July 18 has been rescheduled
OXNARD — The Oxnard Public Library has rescheduled the July 18 presentation by Dr. Jesus Gonzales on the development of Hispanic literature in the United States. More information will follow. Call 805-385-7532 or visit http://www.oxnardlibrary.net for more information.
Guest commentary: Murgia of the Past and Present
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 Frank P. Barajas / Guest contributor…
Bilingual commentary: The Donald Dilemma
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 The…
VCCF awards nearly $1.2 million at annual scholarship reception
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation awarded nearly $1.1 million in scholarships to local students at the recent 2015 Scholarship Awarded Reception attended by more than 400 students, their families, and many of the donors who made the awards…
Guest commentary: Remembering Ruben Jaramillo
A recent history of privatization 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.…
New book by UCSB’s Mario T. García explores the Chicano civil rights struggle in Los Angeles in the 1960s and 1970s
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB The Chicano movement of the late 1960s and 1970s was the largest and most widespread civil rights and empowerment movement by Mexican-Americans in U.S. history. But without strong and dedicated leadership, it might not have…
Local writer to be part La Feria Chapina / the Guatemalan Fair in Los Angeles through July 12
Amigos805 staff reports René Corado, who has published his first book in Spanish — “El Lustrador / Dreams of a Shoeshine Boy,” has been invited to participate in La Feria Chapina / the Guatemalan Fair starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, July…
Bilingual commentary: The Fetters 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 When…
July cover story: Cultural events heating up summer in 805 region
From performances by Teatro de las Américas to the Oxnard Salsa Festival and Old Spanish Days in Santa Barbara, events filling up summer season By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 From theatrical performances to moving to the salsa beat and…
Local news briefs
VENTURA COUNTY — The United Way of Ventura County has launched its “Stuff the Bus” campaign to collect new school supplies through July 23. The supplies will be “stuffed” into backpacks for children from low-income families, the organization reported in…
Commentary: Peoples’ Self-Help Housing helps to fight summer brain drain
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 With statistics showing that children lose one to three months of learning during the summer when they are out of school, it’s vital that parents find alternatives to keep those young minds active and…
Bilingual commentary: Americans—Not A Lazy People
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 Sometimes…
Bilingual report: Women’s Economic Ventures celebrates Spring 2015 WEV en Espanol’s Self Employment Training graduates
Next Spanish orientation to be held July 1 in Port Hueneme On Wednesday, June 17th, Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrated the accomplishments of twelve men and women from WEV en Español’s Advanced Self-Employment Training (SET) program during a graduation ceremony…
Local business information
> Ventura SCORE will present the small business workshop “How to manage your time and become more effective” at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 1 at the SCORE Office Thousand Oaks, 516 Pennsfield Place, Suite 206. Learn how you can free…
Health: ‘Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo’ set for Ventura
The “Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo, Southern California’s Premier LIfestyle, Health & Active Aging Expo” will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, in the San…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of July in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
‘Weaving the Past: Journey of Discovery’ screening to be held July 1 in Santa Paula
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will present the next screening of “Weaving the Past: Journey of Discovery,” an award-winning documentary by Santa Paula-born filmmaker Walter Dominguez at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 1 at the Regency Santa Paula 7 theater…
BGCOP appoints new members to its board of directors
Strategic business developer and bookkeeping/tax manager join the club’s leadership team OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme announces the addition of Gregory Siuta and Veronica Quintana to its board of directors. Siuta,…
Bilingual commentary: The Bat Mitzvah
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 This…
New LULAC Council in Paso Robles to serve San Luis Obispo
By Dave Rodriguez / State President California LULAC Last Thursday it was my pleasure to swear in our officers for the new council in Paso Robles. President Steve Orduno and his team organized opening ceremonies with a crowd of about…
Bilingual report: ‘Movement, Balance and Health!’ conference for older adults to be held in Oxnard on June 27
OXNARD — A “Movement, Balance and Health!” conference for older adults will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27 at the Oxnard Family Circle ADHC at “The Palms” Outlet Center, 2100 Outlet Center Drive, Unit 280,…
Women’s Economic Ventures to present free Spanish self-employment training orientation in Ventura County on July 1
VENTURA COUNTY — Women’s Economic Ventures will present free Spanish self-employment training orientation in Ventura County. Have you wanted to run your own business, but don’t know where to start? Or do you already own a business and want to expand?…
Javier Read de Alaniz named UCSB’s 2015-16 Plous Award Winner
Read de Alaniz will showcase his research in chemistry when he delivers the annual Plous Lecture next spring By Andrea Estrada / UCSB Javier Read de Alaniz, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UC Santa…
Bilingual commentary: The plight of Middle Eastern women
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 Recently,…
Guest commentary: The blessing of fatherhood
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 My…
Santa Paula Art Museum to present ‘John Nava: Selected Paintings and Tapestries’ starting June 20
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Art Museum will present “John Nava: Selected Paintings and Tapestries,” a survey of works by internationally renowned painter and tapestry designer John Nava from June 20 through Nov. 8 at 117 N. 10th St., Santa Paula.…
Bilingual report: ‘Saturday Sidewalk Coffee Session’ with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to be held June 20 in Oxnard
OXNARD —A “Saturday Sidewalk Coffee Session” with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to be held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 20 at Heritage Square, 230 W. 7th St., Oxnard. Constituents of the 44th Assembly District can join Irwin for coffee…
UCSB announces winners of top awards
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB Three remarkable graduating seniors at UC Santa Barbara have been named winners of the university’s top awards for their scholastic achievement, their extraordinary service to the university and the community, and their personal courage and…
Bilingual commentary: Is this how Dementia feels?
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 I…
Bilingual report: Tickets now on sale for 20th annual Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival
SANTA BARBARA — Tickets are now on sale for the Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival, which returns to the Santa Barbara Bowl on Saturday Aug. 8 to celebrate it’s 20th Anniversary. Performing at this year’s milestone Festival will be: Ballet Folklorico de…
CLU student gets national research fellowship
Oxnard resident spending the summer in a Texas lab HOUSTON — A California Lutheran University student is researching muscle and neuronal development at the Baylor College of Medicine this summer as the recipient of a prestigious fellowship, the university reported…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! awarded NEA grant for presenting performances, sharing cultures
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! has received a grant of $20,000 from the National Endowment for the Arts to further its program of performances and educational outreach in 2015-2016, the organization reported in a media release.…
The UCSB Library acquires major Chicano/Latino graphic art collection from San Francisco’s Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB The UC Santa Barbara Library has acquired two individual art collections from the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts (MCCLA) in San Francisco’s Mission District, university officials reported in a media release. Together they consist…
El Concilio profile: Many Mansions and One Step a la Vez
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Services’ 2015 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, June 6 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here or call 805-486-9777 for…
Assemblymembers tour Oxnard nonprofit preschool center
Visit highlights local and statewide issues in early childhood education for agricultural families Oxnard, CA – The Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF) is a non-profit, community-based organization that was established in 1963 in order to serve disadvantaged individuals and families throughout…
Guest commentary: Power Corrupts, Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely!
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 The…
Gold Coast Health Plan to present 4th annual Community Resource Fair on June 6 in Oxnard
OXNARD — Gold Coast Health Plan will present its 4th annual Community Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 6 at Plaza Park, 500 S. C St., downtown Oxnard. The event includes free health screenings and resource…
VCCDC to present 3rd annual ‘Homeownership Fair’ on June 6 in Oxnard
OXNARD — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation will present its 3rd annual “Homeownership Fair — A Dream Within Your Reach,” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6 at 2231 Sturgis Road, Suite A, Oxnard. Held in collaboration…
June cover story: Stopping the summer brain drain for students
While Hispanic students have been making gains in classrooms during the year, summer becomes a crucial time to maintain those educational achievements By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Summer vacation time is upon us. K-through-12 schools are busy completing their…
Commentary: June is a time for new faces at two area nonprofit organizations
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While change is in the air for two 805 area nonprofits, the new faces of those organizations will be quite familiar to local residents. Marcos Vargas has left his position as executive director of…
Bilingual commentary: The mess we leave behind
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 I…
Local news briefs
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation awarded more than $563,000 in scholarships to 284 Ventura College students in May, the organization reported in a media release. Awards ranged from $500 to $9,500 and were presented by the foundation to recipients…
Finance: Consuls general from Asian countries to visit CSUCI
Panel talk to focus on how local businesses can trade with emerging Asian markets CAMARILLO — Small and medium-sized businesses in Ventura County can and should be trading with emerging Asian markets, according to CSU Channel Islands (CI) economic expert…
Local business information
> The Maritime Advanced Systems & Technology (MAST) will hold an open house and technology expo starting at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10 at the Port of Hueneme, 333 Ponoma St., Port Hueneme. MAST fosters leading-edge technological innovation and integration…
Health: Drugged driving risks and realities campaign
By Ventura County Behavioral Health As part of a new effort to support personal and public safety, the Ventura County Behavioral Health Department aims to reduce DUIs due to marijuana, prescription and over-the-counter drugs using a grant from the California…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of June in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-06 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health…
Museum of Ventura County to present gallery talk, tour on ‘We Remember: Ventura County to Vietnam and Back’ on June 3
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will present the Gallery Talk & Tour on “We Remember: Ventura County to Vietnam and Back” at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 3 at 11 E. Main St., Ventura. Led by co-curators Anna Bermudez,…
‘Oxnard Home and Energy Workshop and Dinner’ to be held June 2
OXNARD — The “Oxnard Home and Energy Workshop and Dinner” will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 at the Oxnard Public Library, Meeting Room B, 251 S. A St., Oxnard. Join the County of Ventura’s emPower…
El Concilio profile: Christopher Williams
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Services’ 2015 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, June 6 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here or call 805-486-9777 for…
Café on A hosts mask-making workshop to benefit mental health
Click on courtesy photos above for a larger image OXNARD — Café on A in downtown Oxnard recently hosted a mask-making workshop to benefit mental health. “This what the Oxnard Multicultural Mental health Coalition refers to when we are advocating…
Bilingual commentary: Mental health in the Latino community
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor 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…
Sergio Arau, film director of ‘A Day Without a Mexican,’ to be keynote speaker at Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s 6th annual Currents of Change fundraiser on May 31 at Camarillo Ranch
CAMARILLO — Sergio Arau, film director of “A Day Without a Mexican,” will be the keynote speaker at Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s 6th annual Currents of Change fundraiser on from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 31 at Camarillo…
El Concilio profile: Capt. Lawrence Vasquez
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Services’ 2015 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, June 6 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here or call 805-486-9777 for…
Guest commentary: STEM investment, new engineering school needed at CSU Channel Islands
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 Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, D-Thousand…
Allan Hancock College honors graduating first-generation college students during special ceremony
SANTA MARIA — The TRiO College Achievement Now (CAN) program at Allan Hancock College celebrated the perseverance and success of dozens of its students who graduated this week and transferred to four-year universities. The TRiO/CAN recognition ceremony was held May…
Bilingual commentary: ‘All You Can Eat’
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 Editor’s…
UCSB undergraduate María Prado is named a Woodrow Wilson-Rockefeller Brothers Fund Foundation Fellow
By Jessica Fenton / UCSB UC Santa Barbara undergraduate María Prado has been named one of nine new Woodrow Wilson-Rockefeller Brothers Fund Foundation (WW-RBF) Fellows for Aspiring Teachers of Color, university officials reported in a media release. Selected through a…
Clinicas del Camino Real to present ‘National Women’s Health’ events May 15-16
OXNARD — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will hold a “National Women’s Health Fair 2015” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at 1300 N. Ventura Road, oxnard. The event is part of National Women’s Health Week, with other…
Traumatic childhood fuels resilience in CSU Channel Islands professor named an ‘Exceptional Emerging Leader’
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands Professor of Early Childhood Studies Carola Matera was five years old when soldiers showed up at her home in Argentina during the “Guerra Sucia” or “Dirty War,” university officials reported in a media release. Matera’s mother told her to…
El Concilio profile: Jose Miguel Undurraga
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Services’ 2015 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, June 6 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here or call 805-486-9777 for…
SBCC MESA Program’s transfers surpass 100 mark
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College’s MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Program reached a milestone this spring surpassing the 100-student mark for members who successfully completed their studies at SBCC and will or have transferred to four-year colleges or…