Category: Commentary

Bilingual commentary — Losing the Boys, Naturally

It was not long ago that I used to take my two older grandsons to fun places—arcades, children’s museums and exhibits, story times at libraries, pirate festivals, butterfly events. It was only yesterday (wasn’t it?) that I was getting down on the floor with the older one, and then the other years later, to play board games or assemble jigsaw puzzles of superheroes and animals. It couldn’t have been that long ago that I held them in my arms, walked hand-in-hand with them at a park, or ran beside them as they learned to skate or ride a bicycle. 

Guest commentary — Communities across California call unscientific regulation of Cancer-Causing 1,3-D racist. Demand phaseout of fumigants and 1-mile buffer zones around schools

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local 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.

OXNARD — At five news conferences (on Nov. 18), farmworker communities across our State were scheduled to speak of their outrage over the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s recent policy regarding California’s third most used synthetic pesticide, the cancer-causing fumigant 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D; brand name Telone). They are also deeply concerned about the increasing use of not just 1,3-D but other harmful drift-prone fumigants near schools and daycares and call for significant changes to the regulation of fumigants, especially near schoolchildren in California. 

These news conferences, all sponsored by Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR), will be held in Watsonville, Fresno, Modesto, and Oxnard, as well as a statewide event online.

Guest commentary — VCTA: Bankruptcy happens gradually, then suddenly

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local 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 Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) has long supported responsible stewardship of County resources and transparent oversight of the Ventura County Medical System (VCMS). As we prepare to address the Board of Supervisors, it has become increasingly clear that VCMS is facing a financial crisis — one driven not by outside forces, but by management’s persistent failure to address its ongoing structural cash-flow deficit.

The Core Problem: A Structural Cash-Flow Deficit Getting Worse …

Bilingual commentary — The Mysterious Realm of Mushrooms

Many of us don’t think too much about mushrooms, except in terms of how they mysteriously appear in the fall, or how they might enhance a meal that we are preparing. 

I believe most of us see mushrooms as a curiosity. They seem to emerge enigmatically from out of nowhere for a season before disappearing into that mysterious realm from whence they came. 

Guest commentary — CAUSE — A bad deal for Oxnard

On Tuesday, November 18th, the Oxnard City Council faces a defining choice: will they stand with our community or take a bad deal from a polluting corporation that has spent decades deceiving and putting profit before people? Join us at City Council on Tuesday at 6:00 PM to make your voice heard and stand up for environmental justice in Oxnard.

Nyeland Promise Noticias

It’s been a little while since our last newsletter, but we’re so happy to reconnect with you! So much has been happening in our beloved Nyeland Acres from new programs to inspiring community moments that continue to remind us why we do what we do.

At Nyeland Promise, our mission remains the same: to build a healthier, stronger, and more united community through compassion, empowerment, and opportunity. Whether it’s through our Cafecito con los Vecinos senior gatherings, Comadres Unidas women’s empowerment group or our continued outreach for families, every effort is made possible because of you — our dedicated neighbors, volunteers, and partners.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans

On this day and every day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our veterans and their families for their extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and service to our country.

More than 40,000 veterans and their loved ones call Ventura County and the Conejo Valley home, and I am proud to work on their behalf in Congress. Honoring our veterans is a responsibility that never ends, and neither does the work to ensure they receive the care, benefits, and support they have earned.

As Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health, one of my top priorities is to identify disparities in care for veterans and to introduce, advocate for, and pass legislation that closes those gaps.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Thank You Veterans!

As a third-generation U.S. Navy Veteran, I’m filled with deep gratitude today for all who have worn the uniform in defense of our nation and the freedoms we hold dear.

My grandfather fought in World War II, my father served in Vietnam, and my own service was during the War on Terror — with two tours in Afghanistan.

Through those experiences, I had the honor of serving alongside remarkable people whose courage, sacrifice, and strength continue to inspire me every day. Their example reminds me that true leadership is rooted in service — in putting others before oneself and standing together for something greater.

Here in Ventura County, our Veteran Services Office carries that same spirit forward, helping veterans, their dependents, and survivors navigate federal, state, and local benefits.

If you are a veteran in need of support, please visit Ventura County Veterans Services.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Borderline Day of Remembrance

(Nov. 7), we honored the precious lives of the twelve Borderline victims, along with the survivors and first responders whose courage and compassion continue to inspire our community.

These names represent incredible people. Each left behind a legacy of kindness, love, and friendship that continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew them — and in the spirit of unity that has strengthened our community ever since.

Bilingual commentary— Learning French

French is in my blood.

No, not in the form of French family origins, if 23andMe has anything to say about it, but rather the French language courses through my veins. As far as I’m concerned, French is an undeniable part of my linguistic DNA.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — One Year After the Mountain Fire

As I reflect on one year since the November 6, 2024 Mountain Fire, my heart is with the many residents who lost so much. Time has passed, but the weight of the fire still impacts many. The pain and loss remain real and are a heavy burden each day for those still rebuilding their lives.

Over the past year, I have witnessed incredible resilience. Neighbors have lifted each other up, volunteers have given their time and hearts, and local organizations continue to help families recover. The strength, kindness, and determination shown across this community are what make Ventura County such a special place to call home.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Important Voter Information for California’s Special Election on Nov. 4

Election Day is right around the corner! With just five days until California’s statewide special election on Tuesday, November 4, I want to make sure you have the information you need about what’s on the ballot and how you can vote.

Proposition 50 is a legislative Constitutional Amendment that authorizes temporary changes to Congressional District maps in response to Texas’ partisan redistricting. It was placed on the ballot by the California State Legislature.

Bilingual commentary — Waiting For a Bus

This morning I confidently strolled out to catch a bus not far from my home. Yes, I own a car, but I often take a bus to my destination, regardless. It’s free for people my age, and it gives me an excuse to get in some walking for the day. 

I’ve been riding the bus in my area for several years, so I know the system well. To my credit, and to that of the bus system, I never missed a medical or other important appointment whenever I took the bus. Part of that is sheer good fortune, but I also build in “time cushions” to my more crucial itineraries by allowing extra time.

805UndocuFund — New public art markers to honor sites of ICE Kidnappings in Thousand Oaks

THOUSAND OAKS — In a powerful act of remembrance and resistance, a series of art markers was installed in Thousand Oaks to commemorate locations where individuals were taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The installation honors the lives disrupted by these actions and the resilience of the local immigrant community, 805UndocuFund reported in a media release.

The event was held on Hampshire Road between Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Royal Oaks Drive. Community members, artists, and advocates gathered to recognize the significance of the moment and the collective effort behind the project.

Bilingual commentary — The Importance of Modern Male Poets

One of my very close cousins, a man not much older than I am, has kept himself substantially busy in his retirement. Having worked as a chemical engineer in his previous life, he now dedicates himself to more creative work. Let’s call him “Nick.”

Nick’s photographs of the flora and fauna of his region in the Pacific Northwest are stunning, particularly those that feature birds of all types, sizes and habitats. From the tiny hummingbird to the massive, dinosaur-like Great Blue Heron, he captures superbly their mystery and majesty. 

Legacies of Hope Dinner lights a candle for People Helping People

LOS OLIVOS — The Legacies of Hope dinner, was an evening of storytelling and community, gathering many of People Helping People’s most dedicated supporters to the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos on October 17, 2025.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s Luminary Awards, for those who have given in extraordinary ways to support the mission of People Helping People (PHP).

This year’s recipients are the Becky Barieau and Billy Wathen Family, Feed the Valley with Chef Daisy and Greg Ryan, and the Brady Family.

Ventura County Office of Education — Test Scores Rise, New Welding Center, Hackathon, and more…

Ventura County students are making gains in both math and English language arts, according to the latest scores from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). The percentage of students countywide who met or exceeded state standards in the 2024-2025 school year is up by 1.3% in math and 1.9% in English. This is the fourth consecutive year of improvement since scores dipped during the pandemic. You can find CAASPP scores for individual schools and school districts at this link.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Action Alert Success: Santa Barbara County votes to end new oil drilling and begin the process to phase out existing oil operations

Thanks to your support, on Tuesday, Oct. 21, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors directed staff to develop an ordinance ending new oil drilling in the county. The ordinance process is expected to take about six months. County staff will also begin the process of phasing out existing oil operations by developing an amortization study of existing wells and conducting an environmental review.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula recognized with Statewide Award for Excellence

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula has been honored by the League of California Cities as one of only 11 cities statewide to receive the distinguished 2025 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence. Santa Paula earned this recognition in the category of Enhancing Public Trust, Ethics, and Community Involvement for its innovative efforts to strengthen civic engagement, transparency, and ethical governance.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Honoring Paul Relis: A Trailblazer Who Shaped the Environmental Movement

SANTA BARBARA — (On Oct. 16), we honored Paul Relis, whose vision helped ignite the environmental movement. In the wake of the 1969 oil spill, Paul founded the Community Environmental Council and began a journey that would shape the Central Coast’s environmental legacy for generations.

Paul’s ambition has always been grounded in hope, community, and a deep belief in our collective power to create change. From co-hosting one of the very first Earth Day celebrations in 1970 to pioneering waste management and recycling programs as a California EPA executive, Paul’s influence helped turn Santa Barbara into a beacon for environmental action.

LEAP — Community Raises 21,419 diapers for Local Diaper Bank

“LEAP has always believed that when we bring people together, we can solve big challenges. The diaper drives are proof—students, businesses, churches, and organizations all stepped up. Each diaper collected represents relief for a caregiver and comfort for a child, and we are grateful to everyone who made that possible,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP.

The Gallegly Center at California Lutheran University empowers students to become leaders in civic public discourse

THOUSAND OAKS — We are excited about the opportunity for California Lutheran University to provide nonpartisan thought-leadership through the Elton and Janice Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civil Engagement on the main campus. This center will play a pivotal role in students’ collegiate experience by helping to develop the critical academic skills and broad perspectives necessary for constructive dialogue and civil public discourse. This scholarly engagement will empower them to pursue careers of meaningful public service and informed civic engagement.

Bilingual report — From College Tours to Cultural Immersions, REACH Fellows REACH New Heights

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — This summer marked another season of growth, adventure, and celebration for REACH. Fellows toured colleges across California, trekked into the Sierra Nevada on a record four backpacking trips, and immersed themselves in the cultures of Bolivia and Guatemala. Together, these experiences embody REACH’s mission: preparing first-generation students to thrive in higher education while cultivating the resilience, leadership, and vision necessary to succeed in life.

No Kings Day rallies planned on Oct. 18 throughout the 805 region

No Kings Day rallies are planned throughout the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties region on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in protest of the policies of the Trump Administration. The rallies are being organized by Indivisible and supported by a variety of organizations.

“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings,” Indivisible stated in a variety of posts.

“Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.”

Please see links to local protests, news coverage in the region.

Santa Barbara community invited to sign petition by Oct. 21 for a ‘Balanced, Flexible Design for a Thriving State Street’

SANTA BARBARA — Join the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA) in advancing a Balanced, Flexible Design for a Thriving State Street!

The community is invited to sign the petition before the council meeting on Oct. 21.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA launches Thanksgiving Food Drive to Serve 300 Families

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is collecting donations to provide Thanksgiving dinners to 300 families facing financial hardship, including families whose children participate in the YMCA’s Find My Genius program and those affected by recent wildfires.

Each family will receive a box filled with food items such as cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, chicken stock and turkey gravy, plus a $60 Ralph’s gift card for a turkey or ham. The YMCA has already identified 100 families to receive Thanksgiving boxes.

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Together we made Raising Justice possible!

Our growing base of community champions – YOU! – raised more funds than ever at our annual community celebration and fundraiser!

Raising Justice showed us what a vibrant community of movement friends can do when we come together to uplift housing justice, environmental justice, and fight for immigrant worker power.

No one can do this work alone. Each year Raising Justice plays a central role in uplifting the organizing our region deserves — and this year’s success belongs to all of us.

Whether you joined us in person or chipped from afar — whether you’re an event sponsor, donor, grassroots leaders, partner, staff, volunteer, or table host — YOU truly help make it all happen – T H A N K Y O U!

The beautiful array of community contributions we witnessed at Raising Justice are what keep our grassroots organizing strong at a time when we need it most.

With gratitude for the grassroots,

Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter

  We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.

Partners sought for ‘Hope Grows Wild’ mural unveiling on Oct. 25 at LoDo Studios in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — Join us at LoDo Studios for the “Hope Grows Wild” Mural Unveiling, where we celebrate growth, resilience, and the beauty of community art from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez St., Santa Barbara.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — DJ Javier San Milano Drive now open!

Hello Community!

We had a blast spending time with you all this past Sunday at the opening reception of San Milano Drive! We want to thank you all for bringing the good vibes!

Big shoutout to our vendors who kept us fed, hydrated, and kept the jams flowing. Also a HUGE thanks to the amazing volunteers that made this event possible.

Special thanks to our media partners Santa Barbara Magazine, KCLU, and LUM Art Magazine.

If you haven’t seen Santa Barbara Independent’s Fall Arts Preview, read more about the exhibition.

Teatro de las Americas — Upcoming events

Clases de danza en dos estilos/?
Dance classes in 2 styles:

Folclórico
Con/with Ms. Xochitl

Movement
Con/with Mr. Javier

Niñas y niños de 7 a 14 años / Ages 7-14
(Dependiendo de la cantidad de inscripciones, las clases podrán ser separadas por edad / Depending on enrollment, ages can be divided)

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Thank you for supporting local climate action at CEC’s Green Gala

We are so grateful to those who joined us last Saturday at CEC’s Green Gala, an inspiring evening of resilience, strength, and climate action.

Together, we raised more than $100,000 to help implement and accelerate bold, equitable solutions to the climate crisis, including wildfire resilience, climate leadership, community safety, and environmental advocacy.

Your partnership strengthens our resolve to meet the climate challenges ahead and propels our dedication to building a safe, resilient, and just world for generations to come.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Trump Has Shut Down the Government (Again)

(Oct. 1), the federal government entered a “shutdown” caused by a lapse in appropriated resources. Republicans control the House, Senate, and the White House – the three bodies necessary to fund the government. And still, extremists in Congress chose to shut the government down rather than find common ground and negotiate with Congressional Democrats. 

In 2019, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans oversaw the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. In the days leading up to the current shutdown, House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled votes, and the House was not in session to vote on any compromise legislation to keep the government open.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services — The Friendly Finch: October

I recently sat down with my dear friend and former Friendship Center colleague, Hope Saxon (who many of you may know has gone on to become a geriatric nurse practitioner!).  Our conversation turned into a walk down memory lane, reflecting on how much Friendship Center has changed and grown over the past few years. Of course, I know these changes are happening. I’m living them every day. However, it wasn’t until talking with Hope, who is one of the dear members of our community that has been so close to our organization for so many years (like many of you), that I truly appreciated the magnitude of what’s unfolding.

Museum of Ventura County — Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, more news, events

Join us for a vibrant Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, where kids dive into Filipino culture by crafting their own bahay kubo! A bahay kubo is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts, made from natural materials like bamboo and coconut fibers, showcasing Filipino ingenuity, sustainability, and community spirit. This playful activity celebrates the simplicity and creativity of these iconic homes, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. Led by Pinaysphere, an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino women and youth through art and culture, this event will be filled with fun, learning, and creativity as we explore the beauty of Filipino heritage together! Register online HERE.

Bilingual commentary — AI: My Expert Helper

In the ancient past, up to around the end of 2022, I used to grapple with complex technical issues (for me, anyway) as I pursued some of my projects. When I first started building websites, for example, I often found myself stumped by some of the technical barriers that kept emerging in front of me. 

When confronted with an intractable problem that appeared insurmountable, I found myself hunting for web pages that would illuminate me and provide the answers I was looking for. Sometimes I succeeded in ferreting out a solution to a dilemma that would sometimes take days to resolve because I often didn’t even know quite what to search for.

Ventura County Superintendent of School — Hispanic Heritage Month, Logo Contest, College Readiness, and more…

VENTURA COUNTY — Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities.

In this video message, Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, reflects on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and shares some of his favorite family traditions. Keep an eye on VCOE’s social media throughout the month for special messages about Hispanic Heritage Month from our students and staff.

Bilingual report — Church Goals and the Canonization of Saints

The canonization of a saint is the culmination of a process that, in the eyes of the Catholic Church, creates a bridge between human and divine realms. The formal process of canonization has evolved over the centuries from a local affair to an intricate, institutionalized undertaking that is overseen by the pope himself.

Explore Lompoc — Where the vibe stays chill, even after dark

LOMPOC — Here in Lompoc, nightlife is about easy going good times. A relaxed drink with friends. A late bite after a day of wine tasting or hiking. Maybe some live music or a laid-back DJ set. You won’t find velvet ropes or booming nightclubs, but you will find a few friendly places to hang out and unwind when the sun goes down.

Ready for a mellow night out? These local spots keep the lights on just a little longer.

Bilingual commentary — Why Read a Challenging Book?

Let’s try to imagine an exploratory mission deep in the heart of the local library.

That is exactly what I conducted last week among the ghosts of the paper card catalogs that now haunt the modern library visitor. I felt like a hunter, seeking out a book that would mysteriously reach out to me and demand that I read it—or at least consider it. 

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) to present ‘Raising Justice’ community celebration and fundraiser in Ventura on Sept. 18

Just one week away is Raising Justice – our 19th annual community celebration and fundraiser! We want you there to celebrate our movement and support tenants, environmental justice, and immigrant workers.

LULAC — Targeted by appearance: Immigration, race and the Constitution

Click here to register and join us in this important (virtual conversation on Sept. 16).

This session will bring together leading voices in law, democracy, and civil rights to:

Examine the ruling’s implications for constitutional protections, civil liberties, and immigrant communities.
Discuss what Congress and state governments can do to protect residents, strengthen oversight, and counter discriminatory enforcement.
Explore strategies for building broad coalitions capable of defending both democracy and civil rights in the face of aggressive enforcement.

Museum of Contemporary Arts Santa Barbara — British Textile Biennial presents Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal: Learning from the Land at The Whitaker Museum & Art Gallery, Lancashire, England

British Textile Biennial (BTB) is a free festival of contemporary art, commissioning artists and designers from all over the world to make work inspired by the context and legacy of the textile industry in East Lancashire and its global impact, often in the places that were created by it. This Autumn, British Textile Biennial (BTB) explores invention and innovation in textile production; through indigenous knowledge to space-age technology, from the earliest form of shelter, the tent, to space suits, and from plant-based dyes to the first polymers.

Bilingual commentary — The AI Arms Race in the Job Market

In the 1970s, in a more prosperous country, company “headhunters” were pursuing us even before we graduated from college. Sometimes we ended up with several job offers. Our “dilemma” was having to choose from among them. 

I sympathize with today’s college graduates. Today, untold numbers of graduates are experiencing a superabundance of frustration as they submit, sometimes literally, hundreds of their résumés online to a wide range of companies.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 9. Topics Include: Responses to Grand Jury Report on South Coast Housing Crisis, more

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ meetings are available in Spanish. Watch live on our Spanish YouTube Channel, or Cable TV subscribers can access Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) in language settings.

Discover Lompoc, California’s Museums: A fun-filled tour though local history, art & culture

LOMPOC — Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, marine life enthusiast, or just looking for something fun to do on your next visit, Lompoc’s museums have you covered. From immersive historical landmarks to hands-on learning experiences, Lompoc offers a rich lineup of museums and cultural spots worth exploring. Here’s your guide to the best museums in town—each one full of personality, local flavor, and unexpected artifacts and exhibits.