Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Services 2014 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, May 31 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here to register or to…
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 commentary: Cops in OSD schools
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 This week…
Guest commentary: Successful partnership continues to benefit McGrath State Beach
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 Melissa Baffa / Executive director of Friends…
Bilingual commentary: Cold War II?
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…
Bilingual report: PODER to voice opposition to Santa Barbara gang injunction on April 22
SANTA BARBARA — PODER (People Organized for the Defense and Equal Rights of Santa Barbara Youth) will gather with other community members to voice opposition to the gang injunction prior to City Council’s first-ever public vote on the matter at 4…
Oxnard College to present Ballet Folklórico Mestizo performance April 25-26
OXNARD — Oxnard College to present the Spring Show 2014 performance of the Ballet Folklorico Mestizo, with special performances by Oxnard Scholars After School Program, Lemonwood and Ramona Folklórico Students and Angels on Harps, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 25…
Future Leaders of America to present STEM Career Seminar on April 26
OXNARD — Future Leaders of America will be hosting a Science/Technology/Engineering/Mathematics (STEM) Career Seminar for 60 high school and junior college students from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at the Center for Employment Training, 761 So. C…
Bilingual report: ‘Noche de Poesia, Canto y Literatura’ to be held April 26 in Santa Ana
Update: event sold out SANTA ANA — The 6th Annual “Noche de Poesia, Canto y Literatura,” in honor of poetry month, will be held from 4:40 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 26 in Santa Ana, reports Santa Maria poet Enedina Castañeda.…
Ventura County hospital leaders to report findings from community health-needs assessments on April 29
CAMARILLO — Representatives of hospitals, health systems and the Public Health Department will present a “state of Ventura County’s health” during the “Public Health and Hospital Needs Assessment Findings” session at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 29 at the VCCF Nonprofit…
Guest commentary: Horatio Alger — The Illusion of Public Higher Education
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 The…
El Concilio profile: Frank P. Barajas
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Service 2014 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Saturday, May 31 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here to register or to…
Bilingual report: Enedina Castañeda takes part in ‘Mujer: Versos en Vuelo’ at USC
“Woman: Verses in Flight “ Summary Recital Words host: Dr. Dagoberto Ramos “In the academic setting of the University of Southern California, USC Campus , on March 30, 2014 , the International Women’s Day program, entitled I celebrate ” Verses…
Ninth annual Noche de Fiesta to be held April 16 at CSU Channel Islands
CAMARILLO — The ninth annual Noche de Fiesta, presented by El Club de Español, will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 in Malibu Hall 100. Come celebrate the diversity of the Hispanic cultures as we feature…
Bilingual commentary: Short lives in Port Hueneme
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…
El Concilio Family Services announces 25th Annual Latino Leadership Award winners
OXNARD — Two university professors, a college and career counselor, an attorney, a coordinator of a college-readiness program, a gifted high school student, a successful high school and a police sergeant will be recognized when El Concilio Family Services presents…
Ventura College Santa Paula to present ‘Panel Discussion: Transforming Adversities to Resounding Victories!’ on April 10
SANTA PAULA — Ventura College Santa Paula will present the ‘Panel Discussion: Transforming Adversities to Resounding Victories!’ from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 10 at 957 Faulkner Road, Santa Paula. Featured panelists include: Councilwoman for the City of Oxnard, Carmen…
Earth Day volunteer event to be held April 12 at McGrath State Beach
Beautification event to be co-hosted by Ventura County Supervisor Zaragoza, SoCal Gas VENTURA – Friends of Channel Coast State Parks, the nonprofit cooperating association that serves the Channel Coast district of the California State Parks, will be joining with Ventura…
Guest commentary: You can make a difference by supporting the CAUSE Summer Youth Fellowship
By Marcos Vargas / Executive director of the Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy Friends, Here’s an exciting opportunity to open your heart for the hardworking youth who give so much outside of school to lead organizing campaigns for…
Bilingual commentary: Internet marketing — The new frontier
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…
Guest commentary: Criminal justice professionals assist Future Leaders of America
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 Mona AlvaradoFrazier/ Guest contributor Criminal…
April cover story: Empowering youth, adults through education
Ventura-based GOCARE Inc. seeks to expand its efforts to business education in Nicaragua By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Nicaragua is the poorest country in Central America and the second poorest in the Western Hemisphere. Much of the nation’s infrastructure was…
Commentary: Segue Career Path Mentors offer inspiration one student at a time
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 You just never know when that moment of inspiration arrives — when you are set on a career path that will guide the rest of your life. My moment of inspiration came after I…
Local
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara), along with many of her colleagues, demanded that the House of Representatives vote on a comprehensive immigration reform bill by signing a discharge petition on H.R. 15, the bipartisan Border Security, Economic…
Bilingual commentary: ‘Someone’ has to do something…
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…
Business: Regaining your work-life balance
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Balancing work and family life is a major challenge for many professionals. Many established professionals find it stressful to juggle the demands of successful careers with the obligations they have to their families and regaining…
Local business information
> Allan Hancock College to present its second annual “54-hour Startup Weekend Santa Maria” on April 4-6. “Bring your business idea, and we’ll help make it happen,” said Anne Cremarosa, director, Small Business Entrepreneurship Center, and one of the organizers…
Health: The link between diabetes, dental health
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Regular dental checkups are essential to maintaining oral health. In addition to preventing tooth decay and removing tartar that contributes to gum disease, dental checkups can alert patients to other potential health problems. For example,…
Local health information
> “Baby Steps — A Comprehensive Prenatal Progam” will be presented by the Ventura County Health Care Agency at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 8 at Ventura County Medical Center, 3291 Loma Vista Road, Ventura in the large auditorium. Spanish-, English-…
Guest commentary: Let us honor César
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 Tribute to César Chávez and all the disciples of non-violence
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…
Poder and the Coalition of Sustainable Communities to hold documentary screenings, forums on immigration on April 1
SANTA BARBARA — Poder and the Coalition of Sustainable Communities will hold a series of free documentary screenings and forums in Spanish to address the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement expansion of detention centers in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria from…
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara will present Julia Barbosa Landois on April 3
SANTA BARBARA — The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara will present Julia Barbosa Landois at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 3 at 653 Paseo Nuevo, Upper Arts Terrace, Santa Barbara. Visit http://www.mcasantabarbara.org/node/187 for more information.
Bilingual commentary: On César Chávez Day, let us continue his fight for justice and opportunity for all
By State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson / District 19 SACRAMENTO – “This weekend, across California and the nation, we will remember the extraordinary life and contributions of César Chávez. As president of the United Farm Workers, Chávez shone a national spotlight on the…
César E. Chávez events scheduled for March 28-30 in Oxnard
OXNARD – The community premier of the film “Cesar Chavez” will be held at 7:45 p.m. Friday, March 28 at the Plaza Cinemas 14 in Oxnard, organizers reported in a media release. An educational premier will be held at 9…
Bilingual commentary: Lost …
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 At…
Santa Paula High School, Latino Town Hall to present two-day leadership conference on March 25-26
SANTA PAULA — Santa Paula High School, Latino Town Hall and other community partners will be hosting a two-day leadership conference during spring break for 100 students from the Santa Paula community on Tuesday, March 25th and Wednesday March 26th,…
Closing weekend for Teatro de las Américas’ “Three Faces of Love” in Oxnard
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas will present the closing weekend of “Tres Caras de Amor / Three Faces of Love,” three one-act plays about love at various stages of life at at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 21…
Chicana and Chicano Studies scholar to receive II Galardón Don Luis Leal
UCSB’s María Herrera-Sobek is the first woman to be so honored By Kateri Wozny / UCSB María Herrera-Sobek, professor of Chicano and Chicana Studies at UC Santa Barbara, has been named to receive the II Galardón Don Luis Leal…
Bilingual commentary: Leaping over the wage gap
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 Much…
UCSB professor receives the Outstanding Latino/a Faculty in Higher Education Award
Aída Hurtado honored for her innovative research in Chicano/a studies By Julie Cohen / UCSB SANTA BARBARA — For the second time, Aída Hurtado, a professor and Luis Leal Endowed Chair in UC Santa Barbara’s Department of Chicana and Chicano…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Plena Libre in free concerts March 21-23
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! will present Plena Libre in free concerts at 7 p.m. Friday, March 21 at Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Road, Goleta (805-893-5037); 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 22 at Guadalupe City…
Acuña Art Gallery @ The Café on A to present ‘Our Town Our Children’ on March 22
OXNARD — The Acuña Art Gallery @ The Café on A will present “Our Town Our Children,” a social awareness art project, from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 22 at 438 So. A St., Oxnard. The program features award-winning…
Bilingual report: UFW founder Dolores Huerta partners with Covered California to promote Latino enrollment
Human Rights Activist Featured in Radio Ads and Video Urging Californians to Sign Up for Health Insurance Coverage SACRAMENTO — Covered California™ announced that Dolores Huerta, co-founder of United Farm Workers and a longtime civil rights leader, will appeal to…
Bilingual commentary: Music by which we grieve
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…
Guest commentary: Roger Rabbit and the Great Angelino Land Robbery
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 As…
Oxnard College to present ‘Latinologues’ on March 12
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Literature, Arts and Lecture Series will present “Latinologues” from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 12 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 So. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Award-winning actor-writer-director-producer-comedian Rick Najera will entertain the…
UCSB Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) to present Spring Higher Education Week starting March 11
Representatives from the public and private universities and colleges visit high school campuses to meet with students and discuss post-secondary education opportunities By Andrea Estrada / UCSB The Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) at UC Santa Barbara will hold its…
Rigoberto Vargas, Marvelle Berry appointed to board of Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
OXNARD — Rigoberto Vargas and Marvelle Berry have appointed to board of Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme, the organization reported this week in a media release. Vargas is public health director at the Ventura County Health…
Bilingual commentary: Fighting with Finesse
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…
Guest commentary: Access — Coming Home
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…
Castañeda appointed as new executive director of El Centrito Family Learning Centers
OXNARD — The Board of Directors of El Centrito Family Learning Centers in Oxnard has announced the appointment of Joseph A. Castañeda as its executive director, the organization reported in a media release. Castañeda will lead the organization’s team in delivering…
Bell Arts Factory to present opening reception for Frank Romero exhibit on March 7
VENTURA — The VITA Art Center at the Bell Arts Factory will present the opening reception for Frank Romero exhibit from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 7 at 432 No. Ventura Ave., Ventura in Studio 30. The exhibit will continue…
‘From Hell to Healing — The Art of Vietnam Vets’ opening reception to be held at Bell Arts Factory on March 7
VENTURA — The City of Ventura, the Big Read and Bell Arts Factory will present “From Hell to Healing — The Art of Vietnam Vets” featuring the works of Vietnam veterans Jess Gutierrez, Orlando Menchaca, James Graca and Michael Arndt from 5:30…
Opening reception for ‘Mujer’ exhibit to be held at Bell Arts Factory on March 7
VENTURA — The Tool Room Gallery at the Bell Arts Factory will present the opening reception for “Mujer” from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 7 at 432 No. Ventura Ave., Ventura. The exhibit features the work of Judy Baca, Gayel…
Las Contemporañeas at the Museum of Ventura County to present inaugural Latina Short-Film Festival on March 8
VENTURA — Las Contemporañeas at the Museum of Ventura County will present the inaugural Latina Short-Film Festival (LSFF) on Saturday, March 8. The LSFF begins with a dessert and champagne reception from 6:30-7:15 p.m. followed by an award to keynote speaker,…
‘Beyond the Latino Sports Hero: The Role of Sports in Creating Communities, Networks and Identities’ to be presented in Simi Valley on March 8
SIMI VALLEY — CSU Channel Islands will present the Spring Lecture Series talk “Beyond the Latino Sports Hero: The Role of Sports in Creating Communities, Networks and Identities” at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 8 at the Simi Valley Public Library,…
Latin Grammy Nominee QUATTRO to perform at Oxnard High School Band fundraiser on March 9
OXNARD — 14th Annual Latin Grammy Nominee for Best New Artist QUATTRO will partner with OMAG (Oxnard Music Advocacy Group) and the Oxnard High School Band in a fundraiser to support getting music programs back into local schools at 3 p.m.…
‘Latinologues’ to be held at Oxnard College on March 12
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Literature, Arts and Lecture Series will present “Latinologues” from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 So. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Award-winning actor-writer-director-producer-comedian Rick Najera will entertain the audience with monologues…
March cover story: Health care issues take centerstage
Affordable Care Act March 31 deadline, new health agency chief and health plan’s improvement of services top the list By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 With the deadline looming for open enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace, the announcement of…
Business: Improving office productivity
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Productivity is paramount to a company’s success. A productive staff tends to meet or even exceed its goals, strengthening a company along the way. As a result, business owners often find themselves looking for ways…
More local business information
> California Lutheran University will present “The Equipped Mind,” a free public workshop to help entrepreneurs deal with the psychological issues that come with launching new businesses, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 9, in Lundring Events Center on…
Health: Eyes on health: What your eyes can tell doctors
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) People who have been putting off eye examinations may want to call their ophthalmologist to schedule an appointment. That’s because vision checkups can do more than protect your eyes. By examining the eyes, doctors may…
UCSB Professor Sara Poot-Herrera is elected to Mexican Academy of Language
SANTA BARBARA — Sara Poot-Herrera, professor of Spanish and Portuguese and director of UC-Mexicanistas at UC Santa Barbara, has been elected a corresponding member of the Mexican Academy of Language, a cultural organization that aims to maintain the purity of the…
Leah Lacayo elected president of Ventura County Fair board
VENTURA — The board of directors of the Ventura County Fairgrounds has elected Leah Lacayo president, the organization reported in a media release. The board also elected Bonnie Weigel vice president. Lacayo is serving her second appointment to the board of…
Bilingual commentary: Desiderata — Part VII Achievements and Plans
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 American…
Ramon Ayala to perform on Feb. 21 at the Majestic Ventura Theater
VENTURA — The Majestic Ventura Theater will present Ramon Ayala in concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21 at 26 So. Chestnut St., Ventura. Tickets are $49 to $80. Call 805-653-0721 or visit http://www.venturatheater.net/event/435641-el-gran-silencio-inspector-ventura/ for more information.
Comedian Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias to perform Feb. 22 at Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — Comedian Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias to perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 the Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St., Santa Barbara. Iglesias is launching his 2014 world tour, “Unity Through Laughter” with stops across the U.S. and internationally…
Institute for Latino Performing Arts to present CBS Diversity Comedy Showcase on Feb. 22 at Oxnard College
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts presents “CBS Diversity Comedy Showcase” on Saturday, Feb. 22 in the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center Auditorium, 4000 So. Rose Ave., Oxnard. There is a 6 p.m. reception, followed by the main…
Guest commentary: Tickets now available for inaugural Latina Short Film Festival on March 8
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 Mona AlvaradoFrazier/ Guest contributor Las…
‘Love, Hate and Everything in Between’ to be presented Feb. 14 at Café on A
OXNARD — The Valentine’s Day event ‘Love, Hate and Everything in Between’ will be presented from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at Café on A, 438 So. A St., downtown Oxnard. Organized and curated by Gee Gee Ontiveros and…
UCSB Conference on Feb. 21-22 to examine the historiography of the Chicano Movement
Special guest panel will discuss ‘The Blowout Generation and Sal Castro’ By Andrea Estrada / UCSB In March 1968, thousands of Chicano students walked out of their East Los Angeles high schools to protest decades of inferior or discriminatory education…
Bilingual commentary: The enduring symbolism of roses
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 Valentine’s…
CSU Channel Islands’ Pilar Pacheco receives statewide award for excellence in community engagement
CAMARILLO — Pilar Pacheco, associate director of the Center for Community Engagement at CSU Channel Islands, has earned a prestigious statewide recognition for her impact on service-learning and campus-community partnerships throughout Ventura County and the CSU system, the university reported Thursday in…
Angeles Small named executive director of Social Justice Fund for Ventura County
CAMARILLO — Angeles Small has been named executive director of the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County, the organization reported in a media release. Small has more than 15 years of experience in the management and development of organizations in United…
Bilingual commentary: Desiderata — Part VI — Comparing ourselves
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…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Perla Batalla in free concerts Feb. 7-9
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Grammy-nominated vocalist Perla Batalla and her combo in free family concerts at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7 at Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Road, Goleta (805-893-5037); 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at…
Guest commentary: Obamacare — Greed and Health Care gap
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…
February cover story / Portada: A romantic time of year
February is a perfect time to think about romance, finalizing wedding plans Editor’s note: Time is running short to finalize both your plans for a romantic Valentine’s Day and be more creative as you finalize plans for your wedding. Here is…
Commentary: February means that romance is in the air, money is in the wind
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Like Christmas, which is now making an appearance for retailers in late summer, the trappings of Valentine’s Day seem to be coming out earlier and earlier each year. I’m sure I saw some kind…
Local briefs
VENTURA COUNTY — Low- to moderate-income workers who had a household income of $52,000 or less in 2013 can receive free tax preparation and income tax filing at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site located throughout Ventura County, the…
Home: Make your home safer for children
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) According to the Home Safety Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing home injuries, half of the children who die before their first birthday die from choking or suffocation. Many times such tragedies can be…
Business: What are consignment shops?
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Consignment stores have grown in popularity in recent years, particularly among bargain hunters. In addition to offering great deals, such shops also buy clothing, giving shoppers a chance to make a little money when retiring…
More local business information
> Dave Power, founder of J.D. Power and Associates, will be the first speaker in the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics at CSU Channel Islands’ Spring 2014 Speaker Series, “Lessons from Successful Entrepreneurs and Executives,” from noon…
Health: Amazing facts about the human heart
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Every Valentine’s Day homes and businesses dress up the decor with cupids and hearts to celebrate a day all about love and affection. The heart shape has been used to symbolically represent the human heart…
More local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will present information on Covered California on Feb. 6 in Oak View, Fillmore and Simi Valley; Feb. 7 in Santa Paula and Fillmore; Feb. 11, 12, 13 and 14 in Oxnard; Feb. 13 in…
Technology: How to usher your office into the eco-friendly era
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, with once groundbreaking ideas and devices becoming obsolete in what seems like the blink of an eye. Despite such advancements, many professional environments are still consuming far…
Finance: Tips for newlyweds about to merge finances
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Newlyweds often have a lot on their plates upon returning from their honeymoons. One of the more critical issues newly married couples must address is their finances and how those finances will be combined going…
More local financial news
> California Lutheran University this summer will open a Westlake Village center to house a new business incubator and provide expanded facilities for its Community Counseling Center and School of Management, the university reported in a media release. At the…
Food: Improve your home and diet with a vegetable garden
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Planting a garden can add aesthetic appeal and functionality to a property. Vegetable gardens can transform landscapes while putting healthy and homegrown food on the table. By growing their own fruits and vegetables, homeowners have…
Food: Clean produce properly to avoid contaminants
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The demand for fresh produce has increased in recent years as more people are turning to fresh fruits and vegetables for their nutritional value. That increase in demand has forced many suppliers to import more…
UCSB to honor ‘City of Night’ author John Rechy with Luis Leal Award for Distinction in Chicano/Latino Literature
SANTA BARBARA — Novelist John Rechy is this year’s recipient of the UC Santa Barbara’s Luis Leal Award for Distinction in Chicano/Latino Literature, university 0fficials reported in a media release. The award will be presented during a ceremony at 4 p.m.…
Guest commentary: Agrarian Year Up program would benefit area youth, restore Ormond Beach
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 at…
La Santa Cecilia shout out to Santa Barbara County youth at the 2014 Grammy Awards!
SANTA BARBARA — La Santa Cecilia, winners of the the Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Grammy for Treinte Días, gave thought in their acceptance speech on Jan. 26 to the incarcerated youth in Santa Barbara County they had visited through…
Bilingual commentary: Young Latinos and the New Economy
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…
CSU Channel Islands’ Antonio Jiménez Jiménez named administrator of the American Translators Association’s Educators Division
CAMARILLO — Antonio Jiménez Jiménez, Associate Professor of Spanish at CSU Channel Islands (CI), has been named administrator of the American Translators Association’s (ATA) Educators Division. Based in Alexandria, Va., the ATA is the nation’s largest professional organization for translators and interpreters, with…
Jan. 31 nomination deadline approaching for El Concilio’s Latino Leadership Awards
OXNARD — The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31 to submit nominations for the 25th annual El Concilio Family Services’ Latino Leadership Awards, to be presented at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 31 in Oxnard. “Since 1990, El Concilio Family Services has recognized…
Guest commentary: Chrysler’s follow up to “To the Farmer in All of Us’ Superbowl commercial needs to be more inclusive
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…
Hospice of Santa Barbara to present bilingual support groups for parents, children starting in Feburary
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara will present free support groups, in both English and Spanish, for adults and caregivers of bereaved children and teens every Wednesday from Feb. 19 through April 9, the organization reported Tuesday in a media release. The…
Bilingual commentary: The Demise of the Mall?
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…
Consulate of Mexico and the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking to hold forum on Jan. 23 in Oxnard
OXNARD — Consulate of Mexico and the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking will hold forum “Abolish Salvery & Trafficking of People and the Signing Ceremony of MOU” from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23 at El Alfarero Assembly of…
‘An Evening With Edward James Olmos’ to be held Jan. 25 at Oxnard College
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Latino Thought Makers Series will present “An Evening With Edward James Olmos” at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, in the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center Auditorium (OCPA), 4000 S. Rose Ave. in Oxnard. Olmos, a Tony…
Guest commentary: Ivan Illich’s toe
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 Other…
CSU Channel Islands took part this week in ‘Operation Ready Ventura County 2014’ earthquake drill
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands took part in ‘Operation Ready Ventura County 2014,’ a multi-agency earthquake drill held Jan. 14-16. The event comes during the same week as the 20th anniversary of the Northridge Earthquake on Jan. 17, 1994. The Ventura…
Bilingual report: Rep. Brownley reports on $1.5 million in overdue federal benefits delivered to Ventura County
THOUSAND OAKS – In the year since Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) took office, Brownley and her staff have successfully delivered $1.5 million in overdue federal benefits to her Ventura County constituents, Rep. Brownley reported Friday in a media release.…
Bilingual report: State Sen. Jackson, Assemblymember Williams to co-sponsor Jan. 18 health care forum in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) and Assemblymember Das Williams (D-Santa Barbara) will host a Town Hall forum Saturday, Jan. 18 to help explain how federal health care reform will affect Californians. The meeting will take place from 10:30…
Bilingual commentary: Desiderata — Part V — Loud and aggressive persons
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…
El Concilio wins award from Bank of America
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services in Oxnard was selected by Bank of America for a $3,000 award to support its effort to enhance the community, El Concilio reported in a media release. “El Concilio relies on the contributions of committed…
Guest commentary: El Baruyo. Context in understanding history’s unforgettable characters
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 Context…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! to present La Santa Cecilia in free concerts Jan. 10-12
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! will present La Santa Cecilia, the “Best Alternative Band of the Year” (LA Weekly, 2012), in free family concerts at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10 at Isla Vista School, 6875 El…
Consulado de México en Oxnard abre 2014 con anuncios
Descarga “MICONSULMEX”, aplicación sobre servicios consulares, en tu teléfono o dispositivo móvil Para acercar la labor consular cada vez más a los mexicanos en Estados Unidos, está disponible MiConsulmex, una aplicación para teléfonos inteligentes y dispositivos móviles. Puede descargarse sin costo…
Bilingual commentary: The Wisdom of Desiderata — Part IV — Speaking Our Truth
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 Once…
Guest commentary: Back to Bachimba — Why history makes us important
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 History…
January cover story: Hunger issue continues after the holidays
Cuts to federal funding, growing population base lead to increasing needs in 2014 By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 The winter holidays are over. Time to put away the decorations for another year. Unfortunately, it is also the time of…
Commentary: I resolve not to resolve this New Year’s season, maybe?
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 So how many times have I resolved to do something at the start of the year, only to quickly fall back into my old habits before the end of the first week in January?…
Local news
Children’s Resource Network of the Central Coast reported that it received more than 670 Christmas gifts. “We were able to give to every single child brought to us in need of Christmas presents,” organizers reported in a media release. “A big hug…
Home: Begin the new year in a new home
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) After flatlining during the economic downturn that began around 2008, housing markets in many regions of the United States and Canada have shown signs of recovery. Those in the market to buy and sell may…
Business: 4 Steps to becoming a Certified Personal Trainer
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Kelly Smith was like most young moms —she struggled with her weight after having her second child, but eventually managed to shed the pounds through setting and achieving fitness goals. But the triumph of getting…
Local business information
> CSU Channel Islands will host Federal Reserve Economist Gary Zimmerman from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 in the university Grand Salon in Camarillo. Zimmerman, senior economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, will discuss the bank’s…
Health: Healthy resolutions for the year ahead
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) As the calendar turns to a new year, the focus of men and women often shifts as well. After the hectic holiday season has come and gone, many people re-dedicate themselves to their personal health…
Local health information
> Cottage Health Systems will present its Prepared Childbirth Weekday Series on Thursdays from Jan. 2 through Jan. 30 at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, 400 W. Pueblo St., Santa Barbara. The program includes prepared childbirth series, condensed class, breastfeeding, new…
Technology: What’s in your 21st-century survival kit?
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Of the 1,272 federal disaster declarations issued in the last decade, more than half were classified as major disasters. These include calamities such as floods, hurricanes and tropical storms, winter storms and others. In the…
Technology: Local tech news
> UC Santa Barbara engineering professors Samir Mitragotri and Steven DenBaars have been named to the rank of Fellows of the National Academy of Inventors, the university reported in a media release. Recognized for their “highly prolific spirit of innovation,”…
Finance: How to prepare for tax time
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Although some are ready to say their fond farewells to 2013, thought needs to be given to the 12 months that just passed as tax-filing season approaches. It’s never too soon to begin preparations for…
Local financial news
> California Lutheran University is launching a Veterans Entrepreneurship Institute in January as part of an increased emphasis on preparing people to create their own business opportunities. Nelson Pizarro, an assistant professor of entrepreneurship in CLU’s School of Management, will…
Food: Must-haves for any Super Bowl party
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The Super Bowl, the annual championship game of the National Football League, has become a global event. According to Nielsen, a ratings measurement firm, the 2013 game, which pitted the Baltimore Ravens against the San…
Food: Throw a sensational Super Bowl party
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) As the opening kickoff draws closer, here are some keys to Super Bowl party success. • Know your playing field. Your home is only so big, and that means you will have to limit the…
Bilingual commentary: Father-daughter Christmas gifts
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…
Guest commentary: The word Neo is not new. The age of the billionaires
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 Every…
Nominations open for 2014 El Concilio Family Services’ Latino Leadership Awards
OXNARD — Nominations are open for El Concilio Family Services’s 25th annual Latino Leadership Awards, to be presented at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 31 in Oxnard. The deadline to submit nominations is 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31. “Since 1990, El Concilio…
Guest commentary: The need for a paradigm shift > toward unconditional 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 At the…
Bilingual commentary: The Wisdom of Desiderata — Part III — On good terms with others
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…
Bilingual report: Rep. Brownley’s bill benefitting Ventura County sent to president’s desk
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Senate sent to the President’s desk on Dec. 20 legislation passed last week by the House that includes a provision spearheaded by Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) that will directly benefit Ventura County. Brownley originally introduced the…
Guest commentary: The tyranny of words privatization, marketization, globalization “Greed is Good”
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 People…
El Centrito Family Learning Centers in Oxnard thanks supporters
Dear El Centrito Family & Friends, We are inspired by the tremendous community support our holiday campaign has received. Thank you for your generous donations that nurture our roots and support us as we reach for new heights. The El Centrito…
Guest commentary: Supervisor Zaragoza reports on progress in 2013
OXNARD — It’s been a great year at the County of Ventura. In the fall of 2013, construction began on the new Ventura County Medical Center Hospital wing. In addition to meeting earthquake safety standards, this new hospital wing will…
Ventura County FOOD Share seeks helps to reach 200,000 pound donation goal
VENTURA COUNTY — Eight schools in the Pleasant Valley School District stuffed a school bus with 6,250 lbs of food in an effort to help Ventura County FOOD Share reach its “Tackle Hunger” 200,000-pound food donation goal, the organization reported…
Bilingual commentary: The Wisdom of Desiderata — Part II — The Peace of Silence
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…
Wells Fargo, Santa Barbara County community help make Foodbank Turkey Drive a success
$26,100 raised and 2,075 turkeys and 2,000 chickens distributed for Thanksgiving SANTA BARBARA — Thanks to Wells Fargo and the entire Santa Barbara County community, 2,075 turkeys and 2,000 chickens were distributed this Thanksgiving season, officials with Foodbank of Santa…
Guest commentary: The Great American chastity belt — The obsession to control our minds
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 The…
De Colores Music Studio to hold ‘Open House / Posadas’ on Dec. 15
SANTA PAULA — De Colores Music Studio, directed by Xavier Montes, is having an “Open House / Posadas” celebration from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15 at 217 N. 10th St., Santa Paula. Montes, former director and founder of the De…
Guest commentary: A home for the holidays
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 Mona AlvaradoFrazier/ Guest contributor Many…
Bilingual commentary: The Wisdom of Desiderata — Part I
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 Over…
Guest commentary: ¡Tierra y Libertad! Articles 27 and 28 of the Mexican Constitution. Does History Matter?
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 El…
December cover story: The magic of the season comes to 805 region
Religious and cultural celebrations, giving campaigns mark the holidays By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 The lighting of the Christmas tree, holiday parades, religious and cultural observances and, above all, the spirit of giving mark the return of the holiday…
Commentary: Remembering ghosts of Christmas past and things yet to come
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 An aluminum tree. A gigantic, shiny aluminum tree — gigantic to a three-year-old, anyway. I can’t remember what year dad brought the five-foot-tall contraption into our house, but it must have been in the…
Commentary: 10 reasons for kids to read multicultural books
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 Mona AlvaradoFrazier / Guest…
Travel: New Mexico — Deer or Los Matachines Dance at Taos Pueblo Festivities?
By Stacey Wittig / Vagabonding Chica – Travel Writer Speculation abounds among northern New Mexicans this time of year. Will the Deer Dance be performed at Taos Pueblo for the Christmas Day ceremonial dance? Or will it be Los Matachines…
Bilingual report: Promotoras y Promotores Foundation to present bilingual program on the Affordable Care Act on Dec. 5
OXNARD — The Promotoras y Promotores Foundation will present a bilingual information program on the Affordable Care Act and Covered California from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 at its offices, 1500 Camino Del Sol, Room 21, in the…
Bilingual commentary: New family holiday ‘Traditions’
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 Gray…
Guest commentary: Blame the Greek! Criticism, an abandoned process
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 The…