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 One…
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."
Guest column: Mi Jefita Santos — La Curandera
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 MI jefita…
11th annual Rebozo Festival to be held in Camarillo on May 17
CAMARILLO — The Rebozo Festival will celebrate its “10-year Diamond Anniversary” from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 17 at Camarillo Ranch, 201 Camarillo Ranch Road, Camarillo. The event will honor the “1st Annual Honorary Madrina of the Year” — the…
Oxnard College’s Latino Thought Makers Series to present ‘Create Option C’ on May 13
OXNARD — Oxnard College’s Latino Thought Makers Series will present “Create Option C” — with special guest Esai Morales at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 13 at 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The documentary by Morales takes the audience through the painful and raw…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present the discussion ‘Dreaming of Selena Twenty Years Later’ on May 11
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the discussion “Dreaming of Selena Twenty Years Later” with Deborah Paredez at 6 p.m. Monday, May 11 at the MCC Lounge. 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of Selena Quintanilla…
El Concilio profile: Marisa Montgomery
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…
Book written by Allan Hancock College professor named a finalist for prestigious international Latino book awards
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College English professor Marc García-Martínez, Ph.D., has been selected as a finalist for the 2015 International Latino Books Awards. García-Martínez’s book, The Flesh and Blood Aesthetics of Alejandro Morales’ – Disease, Sex, and Figuration, is a…
Bilingual commentary: Mothers
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 Mothers…
Guest commentary: Why we distrust and fear the cops
In Oxnard and throughout the nation 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…
Guest commentary: More than student loans, they are college mortgages
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…
Guest commentary: A circular argument on impaction
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…
Guest commentary: Cinco de Mayo — A battle for recognition
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 Dr. Lily Rivera /…
Oxnard College Performing Arts Center to present Teatro de las Américas’ ‘Pedro Infante y la Suegra Triunfante / Pedro Infante and the Triumphant Mother-in-law’ May 7 through 10
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Performing Arts Center will present Teatro de las Américas’ “Pedro Infante y la Suegra Triunfante / Pedro Infante and the Triumphant Mother-in-law” at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturdays, 5 p.m. Sundays, May 5 through 170at the Black…
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to present eighth annual Mariachi Encuentro featuring Mariachi Diva on May 9
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria will present its eighth annual Mariachi Encuentro featuring Mariachi Divas from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9 at the Girls Inc. of Carpinteria campus, 5315 Foothill Road, Carpinteria. Coinciding with Mother’s Day, Mariachi Encuentro is…
Bilingual report: Free community forum on obtaining a driver’s license under Assembly Bill 60 to be held in Oxnard on May 9
OXNARD — A free community forum on obtaining a driver’s license under Assembly Bill 60 will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9 at the Center for Employment Training, 761 S. C St., Oxnard. Guest speakers scheduled include…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present the film screening of “Pelo Malo (Bad Hair) on May 6
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the film screening of “Pelo Malo (Bad Hair)” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 6 at the MCC Theater. Junior is nine years old and has curly hair, or “bad hair.” He wants to…
Oxnard College to present its 6th annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration on May 5
OXNARD — Oxnard College will present its 6th annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 at the Oxnard College Outdoor Amphitheater, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The event will feature Mariachi Alma de Mexico, Rio Mesa High…
May cover story: Helping youth make the right lifestyle choices
Santa Barbara Healthy Futures program seeks to improve health options for Latino, other youth in the region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 One in five children between the ages of 6 and 17 is now considered overweight in the…
Commentary: El Concilio Family Services to present Latino Leadership Awards
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 From a university professor and a Vietnam veteran to a successful high school senior, El Concilio Family Services will honor a wide variety of deserving community leaders and programs as it presents its annual…
El Concilio profile: Richard Camacho
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…
Local news
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, a nonprofit organization seeking to inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold, recently hosted its Eureka! College Road Trip, with a group of local eighth-grade students spending Spring Break exploring college campuses between…
Finance: Household budget building how-to
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The majority of families must live on budgets. Heads of households where money is no object may be able to spend at will, but many men and women must develop budgets so their families’ everyday…
Local business information
> The CLU Center for Entrepreneurship will presernt “Startup Weekend Conejo Valley” at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 1 at the Huddle Campus. The day after the Cal Lutheran New Venture Competition finals, the first Startup Weekend Conejo Valley will be…
Health: Encourage a love of physical activity in youngsters
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, children and adolescents should engage in physical activity for 60 minutes or more each day. While fulfilling those requirements might not have been a…
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 May in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-05 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Bilingual commentary: When I lit up like a flower
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…
Guest commentary: The Oxnard Multicultural Mental Health Coalition Latino Mental Health Survey
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 We all…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present ‘Challenging the Borders of Education: Undocumented Students …’ on April 30
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the Race Matters discussion of “ Challenging the Borders of Education: Undocumented Students and Public Pedagogy – Jennifer Nájera” at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 30 at the MCC Lounge. Who are our teachers? A critical…
Oxnard College Theatre Club to present ‘A Stand-Up Comedy Fundraiser’ on May 1
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Theatre Club presents “A Stand-Up Comedy Fundraiser” at 8 p.m. Friday, May 1 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The event features comics Jason Love, Frank Lucero, Mary Patterson Broome and Dwayne…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present film screening of ‘Cesar’s Last Fast’ on April 29
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the film screening of “Cesar’s Last Fast” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 29 at the MCC Theater. In 1988, César Chávez embarked on what would be the final act of protest in his…
El Concilio profile: José Alamillo
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…
CSU Channel Islands chosen to host 2016 national conference for Hispanic-Serving Institutions
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands has taken a lead role in a national organization dedicated to helping Hispanic-serving institutions or HSIs. In March of 2016, the university will become the first of the CSU campuses to host the Alliance of Hispanic…
Bilingual commentary: After the demise of parents
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…
Teatro de las Américas to present ‘Bellíssíma Italia’ on April 23
OXNARD —Teatro de las Américas will present “Bellíssíma Italia” from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 23 at the Condor Café at Oxnard College, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The gourmet dinner concert features the music and gastronomy of Italy.…
Ballet Folklórico Mestizo Spring 2015 to be held April 24, 25
OXNARD — Ballet Folklórico Mestizo Spring 2015 will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. The event will feature a special performance by the Oxnard…
Guest commentary: Oxnard Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training is a Fraud
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 with…
Guest commentary: In Search of the almond
Impaction: A Symptom 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. By Rodolfo…
El Concilio Family Services announces 26th Annual Latino Leadership Awards
OXNARD — A university professor, a Vietnam veteran, a registered nurse, a successful high school senior, a military officer and a police sergeant will be recognized when El Concilio Family Services presents its 26th annual Latino Leadership Awards at a…
Bilingual commentary: Educating the child at Oxnard College
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 Parents…
Guest commentary: In the name of justice and love, stop the killings
Only a Community Police Review Board can reform the Oxnard Police Department 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…
Guest commentary: ¡Agua y Libertad!
What do you do with Chicana/o Studies? 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…
Teatro de las Américas to present ‘The Truth Can’t Be Trusted / La verdad sospechos’ through April 19
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas will present “The Truth Can’t Be Trusted / La verdad sospechosa” at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 5 p.m. Sundays, April 9 through 19 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose…
Oxnard College Performing Arts Center to present ’53 Million & 1′ on April 15
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Performing Arts Center will present the Latino Thought Makers Series program — ’53 Million & 1? at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 at 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. NAHREP (National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals) brings to Oxnard…
County Chief Probation Officer Mark Varela named president of statewide association
VENTURA – Ventura County Chief Probation Officer Mark Varela has been named as the president of the Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC), county officials reported in a media release. The 55-year-old organization is based in Sacramento and Varela is…
Bilingual commentary: Rain, Gods and Saints
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 As…
CSU Channel Islands to present ‘Si, Se Puede — Four Latina recent Math Ph.D’s share their journeys’ on April 8
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands will present “Si, Se Puede — Four Latina recent Math Ph.D’s share their journeys” beginning with a reception from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8 at El Dorado Hall 110. Join four Latina recent PhDs to…
Santa Paula Museum of Art to present Gallery Talk: ‘How Coming from Uruguay Influenced My Work’ with Sylvia Raz on April 9
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Museum of Art will present its next Gallery Talk: “How Coming from Uruguay Influenced My Work” with Sylvia Raz at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 9 at 117 N. 10th St., Santa Paula. Artist Sylvia Raz…
LULAC to present inaugural ‘Health & Awareness Summit’ in Oxnard on April 9
OXNARD — The League of United Latin American Citizens — District 17 — Ventura County will present its inaugural “Health & Awareness Summit — Don’t mess with the Seniors” from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 9 at the Oxnard…
CSU Channel Islands to present ‘Farmworker Immersion Project with VC CLUE’ on April 10
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands will present the “Farmworker Immersion Project with VC CLUE” from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, April 10. The project places students in the community learning about farmworker rights and immigration issues. We will visit farmworkers, their…
20th annual ‘César E. Chávez Memorial Celebration — March for Justice’ to be held on April 12
OXNARD — The 20th annual ‘César E. Chávez Memorial Celebration — March for Justice’ will begin with the community gathering at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 12 at Oxnard Southwinds Park, 300 W. Clara St., with the march to begin at 10:30…
Literary Quinceañera for author’s ‘My Very Own Room / Mi propio cuartito’ to be held in Ventura on April 12
VENTURA — In honor of Dia del Niño/Dia del Libro (Day of the Child/Day of the Book) the community of Ventura County is invited to a literary Quinceañera, a special birthday party for Amada Irma Perez’s (Ventura) first picture book, My…
Guest commentary: His Mexican
Age of the brokers 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…
April cover story: The legacy of César E. Chávez continues
Community marches, forums, service-learning projects and film screenings to be presented in the region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It’s hard to imagine that César E. Chávez, who was born in the desert lands near Yuma, Arizona, was a big…
April cover story: One reporter’s view of a 20th-century icon
Coverage of march from Santa Paula to Cabrillo Village in Saticoy opened up the world of reporting on local, national events By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Was it really more than a quarter of century ago when I first…
Commentary: Pew Research Center provides timely info on Hispanic trends
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 How many of you dear readers know that the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. holding down blue-collar jobs is still below levels seen before the Great Recession? Guess we don’t need to…
Local news briefs
VENTURA COUNTY — Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College are offering a variety of classes this summer from general education to career technical education, basic skills and transfer courses, the Ventura County Community College District reported in a media…
Finance: Build a travel budget without compromising your trip
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Many men and women dream of vacationing overseas, where they can experience another country’s culture and history. Such trips tend to be expensive, but travelers who develop a budget in advance of their trips can…
Local business information
> The Economic Development Collaborative — Ventura County has launched its “Virtual Business Advisor,” a web-based economic development tool at http://www.qlbs.com/Qonline/EDC/ The free assessment and business assistance program is for businesses of any size, in any industry. EDC-VC is hosting…
Health: Snack foods that promote better sleep
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) According to the National Sleep Foundation, changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process. Many people experience difficulty falling asleep and then staying asleep as they age, and that difficulty can make…
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 April in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-04 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura…
Bilingual commentary: The Big Band Dance
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 Last…
Bilingual report: State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson — On César Chávez Day, let us remember his call for justice, service
SACRAMENTO – The life of civil rights leader and labor organizer César Chávez will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 31. In honor of that day, State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) released this statement: “As we approach what would have been his 88th…
Historian, author Vicki L. Ruiz to speak on ‘The Right to Remember: Latina Labor Leaders in California Agriculture’ at CSUCI on April 1
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) will host Latina scholar, historian and author Vicki L. Ruiz for “The Right to Remember: Latina Labor Leaders in California Agriculture, 1939-1961,” Wednesday, April 1, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the John Spoor Broome Library,…
Oxnard College to present César Chávez Celebration on March 31
OXNARD — Oxnard College will present a free César Chávez Day Celebration and documentary screening from 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Part of the Latinologues / Rick Najera…
Hancock graduate selected as ‘One of Top 30 Students in California Community Colleges’
SANTA MARIA — A recent Allan Hancock College graduate has been recognized as one of the top 30 students enrolled in California’s 112 community colleges. Daniela Calderon was one of 30 students from 24 community colleges selected to the Phi…
Guest commentary: The Oxnard Multicultural Mental Health (OMMH) Coalition is established
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 I have…
Bilingual commentary: Wellness Center provides help for those struggling with mental health conditions
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 the Wellness Center Depression,…
Bilingual commentary: Attachment vs. Passion
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 Most…
CSU Channel Islands panel explores local Latina women baseball teams around WWII during presentation on March 25
CAMARILLO — With the men off fighting World War II, women were left to take over jobs and in some cases, baseball diamonds. The 1992 Movie “A League of Their Own” dramatized the creation of the wartime All-American Girls Professional…
‘Oxnard Caravana (43) — Todos somas Ayotzinapa’ el 26 de marzo en Oxnard
OXNARD — “Oxnard Caravana (43) — Todos somas Ayotzinapa — ¡Su dolor es nuestro dolor!” comienza a las 5:30 pm el 26 de marzo in la Placita de Oxnard, 500 S. C St. Caminaremos a Café on A, 438 S.…
Frank Barajas to speak on the ‘Rise of the Chicano Movement in Southern California, 1960-1975’ starting March 27
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands Professor Frank Barajas will present the program “Curious Uprisings: The Rise of the Chicano Movement in Southern California, 1960 to 1975″ starting March 27 as part of the six-week Osher Lifelearning Institute (OLLI) course at CSUCI.…
Ventura College to host 28th annual Latina Leadership Network Conference through March 28
VENTURA — Ventura College will host the Latina Leadership Network’s (LLN) 28th Annual Conference, “Latina Leadership: Pursuing Equity in the 21st Century” from March 26 through 28, college officials reported in a media release. The conference will focus on the impact…
Video Watch Party for the ‘Arriba Con Hillary’ video to be held in Oxnard on March 27
OXNARD — A video watch party for “¡Arriba Con Hillary!” will be held at 5:30 p.m. Friday, March 27 at Downtown Sol, 328 W. Third St., in the Lopez building in downtown Oxnard, organizers reported in a media release. The…
Guest commentary: No, it is not wrong to celebrate Cesar Chavez Day!
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 In…
Trudy Arriaga selected as ‘Woman of the Year’ by Assemblymember Williams
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Das Williams (D – Carpinteria) has selected Ventura Unified School District Superintendent Trudy Arriaga to represent the 37th Assembly District as the 2015 Woman of the Year. “It has been a privilege to work with Dr. Arriaga…
Bilingual commentary: When failing math really hurts
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 It…
Guest commentary: St. Patrick’s Day also a time to remember strong Irish-Mexican connection
Editor’s note: A timely re-posting of a 2013 column by Mona AlvaradoFrazier. Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editors and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily…
Café on A to present ‘La Cosecha / The Harvest’ photo exhibit, film screening on March 21
OXNARD — The Dr. Rodolfo F. Acuña Art Gallery & Cultural Center at Café on A will present “La Cosecha / The Harvest” photo exhibit and film screening from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 21 at 438 S. A St.,…
Guest commentary: History is important but beware of warped historical memories
La llorona and el cucuy 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.…
Former Allan Hancock College ESL instructor to walk nearly 500 miles to fundraise for scholarship in memory of Fidel Herrera
Michael McMahon plans to help his former mentor fulfill a lifelong dream of creating a scholarship at Hancock for ESL students SANTA MARIA — For more than 20 years, Fidel Herrera taught English as a second language (ESL) classes…
Bilingual commentary: Banning the American Flag?
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’m…
12th annual Santa Barbara Brazilian Carnaval ‘Cultural’ to begin March 14
SANTA BARBARA — The 12th Santa Barbara Brazilian Carnaval “Cultural” will kick off at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 14 with the “Feijoada Sabor Carnaval” and the open house at the Brazil Arts Café, 1230 State St, Santa Barbara, event organizers…
Guest commentary: Oxnard — The Arts City of Ventura County
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 city…
Guest commentary: Impaction meeting bizarre
The illusion in the making 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.…
Early Academic Outreach Program brings colleges and universities to high schools in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB The Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) at UC Santa Barbara will hold its annual spring Higher Education Week, a four-day event beginning on Tuesday, March 10. Representatives from universities, colleges and other institutions of higher…
March cover story: Opening their hearts, home to foster children
Foster VC Kids seeks to double amount of foster caregivers in Ventura County By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While National Foster Care Awareness Month actually falls in May, Elizabeth Thasiah wants to raise that awareness immediately because of the…
Commentary: Hispanics more likely to believe humans causing climate change
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It was an interesting bit of political theater presented in Congress last week. Oklahoma Sen. Jim Inhofe wandered onto the Senate floor during a discussion questioning the science behind climate change. “Do you know…
Bilingual commentary: No girls at the Altar
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…
Local news briefs
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has announced that Arianna Lopez, an 18-year-old senior and a long-time Girls Inc. of Carpinteria participant, has been selected as a 2015 scholarship winner in the competitive Girls Inc. National Scholar Program. She was…
Finance: Rebounding from a late start to retirement savings
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Some people do not have the ability to begin saving for retirement early on. Others may have brushed retirement savings aside for so long that they are now worried that it’s too late to begin…
Local business information
> The Office of Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, District 44, has announced a regional workshop designed to help business owners understand the application process to apply for the “California Competes Tax Credit” from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, March 6 at…
Health: News for expectant Hispanic mothers
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Doctors are urging pregnant Hispanic women to be more aware of the potential birth defects that affect children of Hispanic mothers in seemingly higher rates than other ethnicities. According to a major finding in a…
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 March in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-03 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Bilingual report: Teatro de las Américas to present ‘A Night of Boleros — Our Parents’ Songs’ at Oxnard College on March 5
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas will present “A Night of Boleros — Our Parents’ Songs” from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 5 at Oxnard College, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Teatro de las Américas and Oxnard College inaugurate their 2015…
Art exhibit reception for ‘Isabel Martínez: Un diálogo en arte y cultura’ to be held at CSU Channel Islands on March 5
CAMARILLO — The art exhibit “Isabel Martínez: Un diálogo en arte y cultura” will open with a reception from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 5 at CSU Channel Islands. The exhibit, continuing from March 5 through April 4, celebrates everyday women…
‘Expectation’ exhibit to be presented at Tool Room Gallery in Ventura on March 6
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will present “Expectation,” a new series by Women’s History Month artist Marissa Magdalena Sykes and photographer Marie Gregorio-Oviedo, at the Tool Room Gallery at the Bell Arts Factory, 432 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura.…
Discussion on ‘Understanding Disenfranchisement of Latino Men and Boys’ by Dr. Aida Hurtado to be held at CSU Channel Islands on March 10
CAMARILLO — The discussion “Understanding Disenfranchisement of Latino Men and Boys” by Dr. Aida Hurtado will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10 at CSU Channel Islands, Broome Library 1320. Hurtado, a UCSB Professor Luis Leal Endowed Chair of…
Guest commentary: Chaos and the science of mass criminalization
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 In his…
First CEO of Homeboy Industries to speak at CLU’s Corporate Leaders Breakfast on March 3
THOUSAND OAKS — Thomas Vozzo of Thousand Oaks, the first CEO of Homeboy Industries, will discuss his efforts to make the nonprofit more self-sufficient at California Lutheran University’s Corporate Leaders Breakfast in Agoura Hills at 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 3 at the…
Oxnard College to present Tinto Tango in concert on March 4
OXNARD — The 2015 Oxnard College Spring Literature, Arts and Lecture Series will present Tinto Tango in concert and dance performance from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 4 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard.…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present the Cup of Culture film screening of ‘La Mission’ on March 4
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the Cup of Culture film screening of “La Mission” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 4 at the MCC Theater. Growing up in the Mission District of San Francisco, Che Rivera has always had…
Ventura College Santa Paula Site to present information on California Dream Act on Feb. 26
SANTA PAULA — The Ventura College Financial Aid Office will discuss changes in California legislation in regards to AB540 and how undocumented students are now eligible for Financial Aid and other resources from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26 at…
Bilingual commentary: Threat of the Islamic State
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,…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present film screening, discussion of ‘No Más Bebés Por Vida / No More Babies for Life’ on Feb. 25
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present the Cup of Culture film screening and discussion of “No Más Bebés Por Vida / No More Babies for Life,” the story of Mexican-American women who were sterilized at the Los Angeles County-USC…
Santa Barbara’s Casa Dolores — Center for the Study of Popular Arts of Mexico presenting ‘Banderaware — Colores of a Republic’ through May 31
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara’s Casa Dolores — Center for the Study of Popular Arts of Mexico is presenting “Banderaware — Colores of a Republic” through May 31 at 1023 Bath St., Santa Barbara. The exhibit opened Feb. 24. “Banderaware” pottery…
Guest commentary: Impaction — What goes around comes around
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 On…
M.A.K.U. SoundSystem to perform during Oxnard World Music and Art Series on Feb. 23
OXNARD — M.A.K.U. SoundSystem will perform during the Oxnard World Music and Arts Series from 7 to 10 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23 at La Fonda del Rey, 455 S. A St., Oxnard. M.A.K.U. SoundSystem is an immigrant band from New York City…
Dolores Huerta to speak in Oxnard on Latino Interactive Voter Education Project on Feb. 22
OXNARD — Dolores Huerta will speak on the new Latino Interactive Voter Education Project from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 at the home of Dr. Manuel and Irma Lopez, 1911 Cascades Court, Oxnard. Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm…
Bilingual report: Clinicas del Camino Real celebrates National Children’s Dental Health Month with Dental Health Fair on Feb. 22
OXNARD — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with a Dental Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 at Del Sol Park, 1500 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard. “Children’s teeth are meant…
Guest commentary: Death pays a visit and I find the meaning of love
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 In the…
Guest commentary: The Latin Mass
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…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present screening of Baca’s ‘A Place to Stand’ on Feb. 18
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center will present a Cup of Culture film screening of “A Place to Stand,” the story of Jimmy Santiago Baca’s transformation from a functionally illiterate convict to an award-winning poet, novelist and screenwriter, at 6…
Suzanne Vega to perform folk music at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza on Feb. 20
THOUSAND OAKS — Suzanne Vega will perform folk music at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20 at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., in the Scherr Forum. Vega emerged as a leading figure of the folk-music revival of the…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! to present M.A.K.U. SoundSystem Feb. 20 through 22
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! will present M.A.K.U. SoundSystem at 7 p.m. Friday at Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Road; at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St.; and at 7 p.m. Sunday at…
Guest commentary: The Zapatistas were right!
The Silence of the Lambs 2 7 05 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…
‘Sonido Sabor Latino,’ celebrating ‘El Día del Amor y Amistad / The Day of Love and Friendship,’ to be held Feb. 14 in Oxnard
OXNARD — “Sonido Sabor Latino,” a dinner and dance celebrating “El Día del Amor y Amistad / The Day of Love and Friendship,” will be presented at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.…
Pacific Mambo Orchestra to perform at Ventura Theater on Feb. 14
VENTURA — The Pacific Mambo Orchestra will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 at the Ventura Theater, 26 S. Chestnut St., Ventura. Tickets are $25 to $50. The 20-piece, San Francisco-based musical group is leading the rebirth of the Latin…
Bilingual commentary: A cousin’s death
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 Last…
Guest commentary: Support Francisco Romero — Todo Poder al Pueblo!
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 On February…
Guest commentary: Dying communities. Forgotten memories
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 With…
Author of ‘Solidarity Politics for Millennials’ to speak at CLU on Feb. 10
THOUSAND OAKS — CLU to present the free discussion “Intersectionality and Deep Political Solidarity: The Wonder Twin Powers of Social Justice” at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10 at California Lutheran University, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks in Ullman 100/101. There are…
Latino Thought Maker Series to present free ‘CBS Diversity Comedy Showcase’ at Oxnard College on Feb. 12
OXNARD — The Latino Thought Maker Series will present the free ‘CBS Diversity Comedy Showcase’ at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 at Oxnard College, 4000 S. Rose Ave., at the Performing Arts Center Auditorium. The showcase, spearheaded by director and head…
National Association to honor UCSB Chicana and Chicano Studies scholar
Aída Hurtado will be recognized for her contributions to the field in a career spanning three decades By Jim Logan / UCSB SANTA BARBARA — Aída Hurtado, a professor in the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies at UC Santa…
Lacayo Vista Leadership Academy to celebrate its first group of Latino/a protégés, mentors on Feb. 7
CAMARILLO — More than 55 percent of Ventura County students in pre-school through 12th grade are Latina/o, yet less than 15 percent of their teachers share their cultural ethnicity. An academy formed to promote Latina/o leadership education will celebrate the…
Bilingual commentary: Un-American Protests
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 As…
Guest commentary: Neoliberalism 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. Impact on Professors and We the…
Camerata Amistad to perform free concert featuring Hispanic-influenced music at CLU on Feb. 4
THOUSAND OAKS — Camerata Amistad will perform a free concert featuring Hispanic-influenced music at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4 at California Lutheran University, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, in the Samuelson Chapel. The chamber ensemble of orchestral musicians performs a variety…
Latino Thought Maker Series to present ‘It Gets Better’ free musical at Oxnard College on Feb. 4
OXNARD — The Latino Thought Maker Series will present “It Gets Better,” a free musical performance, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center Auditorium, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. SPEAK Theater Arts, the Gay Men’s Chorus…
Del Pueblo Cafe, Santa Barbara Arts Alliance to present ‘Living Culture’ on Feb. 5
SANTA BARBARA — Del Pueblo Cafe and the Santa Barbara Arts Alliance will present “Living Culture,” an evening of art and music featuring the works of local artists Huicho Mata, Danny Meza and Rafa Ruiz at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5 at…
‘Por El Amor de la Cultura / For the Love of Culture’ to be presented at CSU Channel Islands on Feb. 7
CAMARILLO — “Por El Amor de la Cultura / For the Love of Culture” will be presented from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 at CSU Channel Islands in Broome Library 1320. Join New Mexican artist Al Na’ir Lara and…
February cover story: Season of love — and money
Tax season is upon us. Time to gather documents, look at filing options By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Yes, February is here. Time to start thinking about getting that Valentine’s Day gift or even last-minute planning for that spring…
Make the most of your night out this Valentine’s Day
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Chocolates and flowers may be staples of Valentine’s Day, but many couples take it one step further and dine out on February 14. According to the Retail Advertising and Marketing Association’s Valentine’s Day Consumer Intentions…
Commentary: Latino youth doing better in education, but are we?
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 The news can be disconcerting for many of us who have been involved in one way or another in encouraging Latinos, and all young people, to succeed in education and life — high dropout…
Local news briefs
SANTA BARBARA — The University of California at Santa Barbara has been officially recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities. UCSB joins Riverside, Santa Cruz and Merced campuses as Hispanic-Serving Institutions. With six Nobel…
Finance: 2015 industry outlook
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) As much of the world slowly recovers from the far-reaching economic downturn that began in 2008, the International Monetary Fund has predicted a 3.2 percent growth for the global economy in 2015. Some countries, including…
Local business information
> Anna McRoberts, president of Air Bud Entertainment, will kick off the CSU Channel Islands Spring 2015 Speakers Series at noon Friday, Feb. 6 at Malibu Hall 100. Air Bud Entertainment includes a post-production company, a visual effects company and…
Health: Chocolate historically more than just food
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Many cannot resist chocolate, that beloved creamy, sweet confection derived from cocoa beans, milk and sugar. All over the world people love to indulge in chocolate, especially come Valentine’s Day. According to data from Leatherhead…
Local health information
> The Ventura County Health Care Agency provides a calendar of upcoming health events, including flu clinics during February, at http://www.vchca.org/events En español > Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health…
UCSB is officially recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities
University joins Riverside, Santa Cruz and Merced campuses as Hispanic-Serving Institutions By Andrea Estrada / UCSB For as long as she can remember, Jocelyn Ramirez enjoyed tinkering with electronics and, in general, figuring out how things work. So as a Paloma…
Guest commentary: Reflections on the Chicano Art Movimiento — A primer
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 LATEST…
Adolfo Camarillo High School Mariachi program is seeking donations
Friends of Adolfo Camarillo High School Mariachi: Economic times such as these reduce government funding. Budgets cuts have cost the school system millions of dollars. Groups such as the ACHS Mariachi must raise most of their funding on their own.…
Bilingual commentary: Free community college — Doing our homework
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 Certainly,…
UCSB Multicultural Center to present discussion on ‘Mass Deportation and Global Capitalism’ on Jan. 27
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Multicultural Center to present discussion on ‘Mass Deportation and Global Capitalism’ at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27 at the MCC Lounge. In the spring of 2014, President Obama’s administration reached a landmark of more than…
Guest commentary: The Beginning of the end of the public university
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. “The best of times …the…
CSU Channel Islands confirms a case of measles. Seeks to warn students
Second incident reported this week in Camarillo Also see: > Ventura County Public Health reports five cases of measles confirmed, including one in Camarillo CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) has confirmed that a student who does not live on campus has…
Guest commentary: Debt peonage of a new sort
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…
Guest commentary: Conscientious objector
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 contributo My brother…
Daniela Ramirez reports on fundraising campaign to launch ‘Eco AlterNATIVE tours: Indigenous Owned Business’
OXNARD — “We are excited to share with you our dream of launching Eco alterNATIVE Tours Sierra Tarahumara, an Indigenous Cultural Tour Company! We have launched a fundraising campaign to start this amazing project,” Daniela Ramirez reported in a media release.…
United Way of Ventura County calls on community for support for families displaced by fire in Oxnard
OXNARD — An Oxnard apartment fire on Friday, Jan. 9 has displaced 33 people, 17 adults and 16 children, all of whom have shown great fortitude in facing the loss of their homes and all of their belongings, the United…
Next Ventura County Foster Care Informational meeting to be held Jan. 27 in Ventura
VENTURA COUNTY — Foster VC Kids is holding a series of Ventura County Foster Parent Informational meetings on from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 27, Feb. 24, April 28, May 19 and June 30 at the Human Services Agency, 855…