Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Category: Health
Gold Coast Health Plan Gets Green Light from State to Repay County Loan
Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Plan in Strong Financial Position CAMARILLO — As a continuing sign of its strong financial performance, Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) received approval from the state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to repay a $7.2 million line…
Guest commentary: Multicultural Mental Health — Community Defined Practices
Message Therapy: The Intuitive Touch 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.…
Community Memorial Health Systems to present ‘Prediabetes / Diabetes Management Seminar & Workshops’ starting April 16
VENTURA — Community Memorial Health Systems to present “Prediabetes / Diabetes Management Seminar & Workshops” from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 16 at Community Memorial Hospital, 147 N. Brent St., Ventura, in Nichols Auditorium, 8th Floor. Future workshops to be…
CDA Cares free dental clinic coming to Ventura April 16-17
VENTURA — The California Dental Association Foundation will be hosting a CDA Cares free dental clinic April 16-17 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis with a goal of providing care to approximately 2,000…
CenCal Health Receives Community Partners in Excellence Award, Additional Recognition from California Assembly and Senate
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) presented CenCal Health with the “2016 Community Partners in Excellence Award” on March 8 during PHorum: Perspectives in Healthcare, a healthcare symposium hosted annually by VNHC. That same evening, CenCal Health…
Braille Institute Santa Barbara Hosts Active Aging with Low Vision Community Education Event
SANTA BARBARA — Recently, Braille Institute Santa Barbara hosted Active Aging with Low Vision: Focus on Cooking and Nutrition, a free community education event highlighting ways that people can stay safe in the kitchen as their vision changes. This event…
CenCal Health Partners with Community Action Commission of SB County and Senior Nutrition Program of SLO County to Bolster Meal Delivery Service for Seniors
SANTA BARBARA, SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES – CenCal Health is partnering with the Community Action Commission of Santa Barbara County (CAC) and the Senior Nutrition Program of San Luis Obispo County to support their meal delivery services for seniors. On Jan.…
Mental Wellness Center Awarded National Three-Year CARF Accreditation
SANTA BARBARA — The Mental Wellness Center, a local nonprofit that provides services to adults and families affected by mental illness, has been awarded a three-year accreditation by the International Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). “We are thrilled to…
Senior Health Professionals Learn About Aging in Place with Vision Loss
SANTA BARBARA — Recently, healthcare providers and professional caregivers in Santa Barbara County gathered at Braille Institute Santa Barbara for a Distinguished Speaker Breakfast: Aging in Place with Vision Loss. Breakfast presenters Jon K. Hayashida, O.D., FAAO, Braille Institute Clinical…
HSB and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School Partner for Student Bereavement
SANTA YNEZ — Hospice of Santa Barbara is partnering with Santa Ynez Valley Union High School to provide group and individual bereavement counseling free of charge to students on campus during school hours. Through this new partnership, school counselors will…
Bilingual report: Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. hosting dental health fair on Feb. 27 in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month
OXNARD — February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. If you have a baby or toddler, you may have questions about thumb sucking, your child’s first dental visit or how and when to clean your child’s teeth. If so, on…
SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning Presents Mind & Supermind Lecture on Monday, February 29th
SANTA BARBARA — On February 29th, SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning (the CLL) welcomes director and chief instructor of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi clinical and acupuncture specialist, Dr. Roger Jahnke, OMD. In his Mind & Supermind lecture,…
Local NAMI Chapter Offering ‘Family-to-Family’ Educational Course for Family Members of Adults Living with Mental Illness
SANTA BARBARA — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southern Santa Barbara County is inviting family members of adults living with serious mental health conditions to register for its upcoming “Family-to-Family” education program. The free, 12-session course is designed…
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Announces Rosanna Dellegrotti MSN, RN as Quality, Compliance & Education Director
SANTA BARBARA – Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) welcomes Rosanna Dellegrotti MSN, RN, as new Director of Quality, Compliance & Education. Ms. Dellegrotti has more than 35 years of nursing experience; 22 years being in critical care and has held…
Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care Welcomes Kyrie Belme as Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care(VNHC) is pleased to announce Kyrie Belme as Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator. Belme brings experience working with local nonprofits and a flair for creativity. As Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator, Belme will assist…
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Welcomes Scott Gordon as Annual Giving Coordinator
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) is pleased to announce the addition of Scott Gordon as Annual Giving Coordinator. Gordon brings years of experience working in various professions including development, software and management, along with a background…
Local Hospice Nonprofits Partner to Ensure No One Dies Alone
Hospice of Santa Barbara is partnering with Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care to revitalize its work in the national No One Dies Alone program. The organizations will provide training that will allow their volunteers to offer compassionate bedside presence for…
CSU Channel Island students offer free in-home service for Latina/os with traumatic brain injury
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) Health Science students are seeking Ventura County Latina/os with a traumatic brain injury to take part in a free in-home service called “Trabajadora de Salud,” the university reported in a media release. Assistant Professor of Health…
Bilingual commentary: Obesity…And We Wonder Why?
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor There was an interesting juxtaposition of articles in this past week’s Ventura County Star. One of them* was entitled “Americans becoming more obese,” as in, what else is new? In the same section of the newspaper, there…
Gold Coast Health Plan to recognize Diabetes Awareness Month with resource fair on Nov. 7 in Oxnard
OXNARD — Gold Coast Health Plan will recognize Diabetes Awareness Month in November with a “Diabetes Awareness Resource Fair” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 at the Oxnard Public Library, 1251 S. A St., Oxnard. The program will feature…
November cover story: Area agencies prepare to wage war on hunger
Holiday season is typical time for organizations to raise awareness of those in need in the region From Amigos805 staff reports Given the rebounding economy and the stereotypical image of a laid-back Golden State, the statistics seem stark. One in…
Health: Open Enrollment for Covered California begins Nov. 15
Period is one time of year when most Californians who need insurance cannot be denied by a health plan. Deadline is Feb. 15 By the Ventura County Health Care Agency VENTURA COUNTY — Open Enrollment starts Nov. 15 and continues…
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 November in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of October in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health…
September cover story: Tackling hunger one ‘Spoon FULL’ at a time
FOOD Share, Ventura County’s Food Bank, launches ‘Spoon FULL a Day’ pledge during Hunger Action Month in September From Amigos805 staff reports While September is typically the time to think about the coming fall and back to school, advocates want…
Health: Tomando Control de su Salud class hold graduation
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care hosts six-week Santa Barbara class developed by Stanford Department of Medicine to help local Spanish-speaking community with chronic conditions SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara County’s first Tomando Control de su Salud (Taking Control of Your Health) graduating class received…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of September in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health Care…
Guest commentary: The Oxnard Multicultural Mental Health Coaltion is moving forward
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Armando Vazquez / Guest contributor Sometimes…
Bilingual report: Inaugural ‘K through 12 Resource Fair’ to be held in Oxnard on Aug. 12
OXNARD — The Office of Jacqui Irwin, in collaboration with the Oxnard Police Activities League and Ventura County Public Health will present the inaugural “K through 12 Resource Fair” from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Oxnard PAL…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. to present health fair / feria de salad in Oxnard on Aug. 9
OXNARD — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will present a health fair / feria de salud from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9 at Parque del Sol, 1800 Camino del Sol, Oxnard. The event will feature blood pressure,…
Guest commentary: From the cradle to the grave
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Rodolfo F. Acuña / Guest contributor I…
Local news briefs
VENTURA COUNTY — The United Way of Ventura County has launched its “Stuff the Bus” campaign to collect new school supplies through July 23. The supplies will be “stuffed” into backpacks for children from low-income families, the organization reported in…
Commentary: Peoples’ Self-Help Housing helps to fight summer brain drain
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 With statistics showing that children lose one to three months of learning during the summer when they are out of school, it’s vital that parents find alternatives to keep those young minds active and…
Bilingual commentary: Americans—Not A Lazy People
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Sometimes…
Health: ‘Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo’ set for Ventura
The “Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo, Southern California’s Premier LIfestyle, Health & Active Aging Expo” will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, in the San…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of July in Ventura County. Click here to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Bilingual report: ‘Movement, Balance and Health!’ conference for older adults to be held in Oxnard on June 27
OXNARD — A “Movement, Balance and Health!” conference for older adults will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27 at the Oxnard Family Circle ADHC at “The Palms” Outlet Center, 2100 Outlet Center Drive, Unit 280,…
Bilingual commentary: Is this how Dementia feels?
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor I…
Local news briefs
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation awarded more than $563,000 in scholarships to 284 Ventura College students in May, the organization reported in a media release. Awards ranged from $500 to $9,500 and were presented by the foundation to recipients…
Health: Drugged driving risks and realities campaign
By Ventura County Behavioral Health As part of a new effort to support personal and public safety, the Ventura County Behavioral Health Department aims to reduce DUIs due to marijuana, prescription and over-the-counter drugs using a grant from the California…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of June in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-06 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County Health…
Café on A hosts mask-making workshop to benefit mental health
Click on courtesy photos above for a larger image OXNARD — Café on A in downtown Oxnard recently hosted a mask-making workshop to benefit mental health. “This what the Oxnard Multicultural Mental health Coalition refers to when we are advocating…
Bilingual commentary: Mental health in the Latino community
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By…
Bilingual commentary: ‘All You Can Eat’
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Editor’s…
Clinicas del Camino Real to present ‘National Women’s Health’ events May 15-16
OXNARD — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will hold a “National Women’s Health Fair 2015” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at 1300 N. Ventura Road, oxnard. The event is part of National Women’s Health Week, with other…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Bilingual report: The Wellness Center / El Centro de Bienestar in Oxnard to launch Latino Indiginous Program in Spanish starting Jan. 13
OXNARD — The Wellness Center / El Centro de Bienestar in Oxnard will launch a Latino Indiginous Program in Spanish from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays starting Jan. 13 at 2697 Saviers Road in the Centerpoint Mall, Oxnard.…
January cover story: Hunger in the 805 region — an ongoing concern
Food drives during the holidays help, but don’t solve daily issue for those in need By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It was a bountiful gathering, nearly 200,000 pounds of food collected during the weekend of Dec. 5-7 to provide…
Health: Immunizations important for adults, too
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) New parents can easily become overwhelmed by the number of pediatrician visits their children need. By the time a child celebrates his or her fifth birthday, he or she has seemingly been administered dozens of…
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 January in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2015-01 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Letter from Supervisor Zaragoza
As the year 2014 comes to a close, I want to express my gratitude; I am very thankful for the opportunity to serve the residents and businesses of the Fifth District as your representative on the County Board of Supervisors.…
Guest commentary: Women’s Economic Ventures encourages shoppers to buy gifts from local businesses this holiday season
SANTA BARBARA — As the holidays are approaching, many are thinking of the right gift to give friends and family members. Many people plan to head to the mall or department stores to purchase this season’s hottest items, but Women’s…
December cover story: Holiday charity event ready to hit the streets
Santa to the Sea Half-Marathon on Dec. 14 to benefit numerous charities in the region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It’s beginning to look a lot like — breathing hard, wheezing, thirst and aching muscles. Yes, ’tis the season…
Local news
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands has been named one of the nation’s top universities for Hispanic students by BestColleges.com, an independent, research-based college-planning website for students and families, university officials reported in a media release. The university ranked 19th on…
Health: Navigating the holidays with diabetes
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Amid a season of sweets and special foods, it sometimes can be challenging for diabetics to maintain their dietary discipline. But eating certain foods in moderation can help people with diabetes enjoy the flavors of…
Bilingual commentary: Give thanks for that?
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 A…
November cover story: Groups in region busy helping those in need
Food banks, private businesses, others lending aid this holiday season By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While hunger and finding a safe and warm place to sleep remain year-round challenges for many people in the 805 region, the need is…
Bilingual commentary: Medications and the Soul
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 Often,…
Local news briefs
SAN LUIS OBISPO — SLO RISE (Respect, Inspire, Support, Empower) has announced a change in office hours to meet funding cuts and increasing demand, the organization reported in a media release. “This decision was made after much deliberation,” Jennifer Adams,…
Health: Benefit from nutritious turkey even after Thanksgiving
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) If turkey is not normally on your lunch or dinner menu, come the holiday season it’s bound to show up in abundance. As soon as the weather cools and the crispness of late autumn is…
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 November in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2014-11 to find times, dates and locations. > The Ventura County…
Local news briefs
SANTA BARBARA — Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is seeking produce donors and volunteers for the Foodbank Backyard Bounty Day on Saturday, Oct. 25. Foodbank is calling out to community members with harvest sites (orchards or gardens) in south Santa…
Health: Avoid Halloween makeup allergies and other reactions
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) What are the horrors of Halloween? Many might say encountering a gruesome ghoul or a blood-sucking vampire is the most horrific part of the holiday. However, an allergic reaction can be just as scary as…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of October in various locations in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2014-10 to find times, dates and locations of upcoming…
iFoster event on Sept. 27 to connect foster, adoptive, kinship communities in Ventura County to valuable resources
OXNARD — iFoster, in partnership with the Ventura County Human Services Agency (VCHSA), will host a Ventura County iFoster Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 27 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 144 So. C St., Oxnard, VCHSA reported in a media…
La Colonia Community Walk / Run and Health Fair to be held Sept. 6
OXNARD — The Sixth annual La Colonia Community Walk/Run and Health Fair will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 at Cesar Chavez K-8 School, 301 N. Marquita St., Oxnard, organizers reported in a media release.…
Commentary: Wellness Center seeks to serve Spanish-speaking members
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While in theory the idea of a smaller, more financially accountable government sounds like a good thing, often those government cutbacks adversely affect those most in need — the poor, the disabled, the un-…
Health: Learn to recognize potential cancer symptoms
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) A cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event. Those diagnosed with cancer typically wonder how the disease will impact their future, including their ability to work and how the disease may impact their family’s security. Men…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of September in various locations in Ventura County. Visit http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2014-09 to find times, dates and locations of upcoming…
Guest commentary: Oxnard Latino community faces epidemic / pandemic health problem
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 internationally…
Bilingual report: Family Health Fair to be presented Aug. 16 in Santa Paula
SANTA PAULA — A free “Family Health Fair,” hosted by the Santa Clara Valley Boys and Girls Club, in partnership with Assemblymember Das Williams, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at the Santa Clara…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. to celebrate National Health Center Week — Aug. 10-15
VENTURA COUNTY — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will host events in honor of National Health Center Week (NHCW), the organization reported in a media release. These events are part of National Campaign which celebrates the record of success demonstrated…
August cover story: MICOP provides valuable support to growing Mixteco community
‘Night in Oaxaca’ fundraiser on Aug. 9, Backpack Drive ending Aug. 10 help fill needs in the community By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Just suppose you were dropped into a country where you couldn’t speak the language, couldn’t read the…
Health: Power of a positive attitude
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) A balanced diet, exercise, genetics, and even certain medications can work in concert to make a person healthy. But a person’s demeanor also can factor into personal health. The Mayo Clinic says that whether or…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of August in various locations in Ventura County. Visit the organization’s online calendar at http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2014-08 to find times,…
Bilingual commentary: Sunshine: Friend or foe?
Editor’s note: David Magallanes is on vacation this week. This is a reprint from last year about an important topic: protecting ourselves from sunshine. Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed…
Health: Keep skin healthy by knowing sunscreen facts
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The best way to care for skin is to be smart about sun exposure. Too much unprotected exposure to the sun can cause a host of problems, from premature wrinkling to skin cancer. According to…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of July in various locations in Ventura County. Visit the organization’s online calendar at http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar to find times, dates…
Bilingual report: Community Resource Fair to be held June 28 in Oxnard
OXNARD — A “Community Resource Fair,” featuring free health screenings, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 28 at Del Sol Park, 1800 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard. Presented by Gold Coast Health Plan and sponsored by…
Bilingual report: Organizacion Cultural Oaxaqueña Ñuu Savi to present ‘Guelaguetza Oxnard 2014’ on June 29
OXNARD — The Organizacion Cultural Oaxaqueña Ñuu Savi will present ‘Guelaguetza Oxnard 2014’ form 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 29 at Plaza Park, 500 S. C St., downtown Oxnard. The free event, sponsored by Clinicas del Camino Real Inc.…
Mexican Consulate to present ‘Jornada Sabatina y Dominical’ in Oxnard on June 21-22
OXNARD — The Mexican Consulate will present “Jornada Sabatina y Dominical y Feria de Salud” from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 21-22 at 3151 W. Fifth St., Oxnard. The program includes information on Matrículas Consulares, passports and…
Ventura County Public Health first in California to receive National Accreditation
Public Health Accreditation Board designation recognizes high-performing health departments VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) announced Thursday that it has achieved 5-year national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). VCPH is the first public health department…
Future Leaders of America: Youth pursue careers in medical field
By Richard Castaniero / Future Leaders of America — ric.castaniero@gmail.com OXNARD — Medical professionals from Ventura County gathered on May 31 in Oxnard to present career seminars for students of Future Leaders of America. Career seminar organizer Peter Martinez welcomed the 60 high…
Health: Relaxation techniques to calm your nerves
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Since 2007, the American Psychological Association has commissioned an annual nationwide survey to examine the state of stress across the United States and understand its impact. The 2013 survey found that people continue to experience…
Local health information
> Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will provide information on Covered California and free health screenings at selected locations throughout the month of June in various locations in Ventura County. Visit the organization’s online calendar at http://www.clinicas.org/outreach/calendar/2014-06 to find times,…
Hospice of Santa Barbara offers support, free bereavement services, tips for those affected by Isla Vista shooting
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara is shocked and saddened by the shooting in Isla Vista. Our support goes out to the victims, their families and the university and community members impacted by this tragedy, hospice officials reported Tuesday in a media…
Pink Soiree a successful event. Now seeking committee members, team leaders for Oct. 11 ‘Making Strides Against Breast Cancer’ event
VENTURA — Organizers of the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” walk report they had a successful “Pink Soiree — Make Strides for Pink” kickoff event on May 14 at Discovery Ventura. They are now seeking committee members…
Local
SANTA BARBARA — Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is holding its “Share Your Lunch” campaign from May 1 through 31. The program enables the community to help close the summer food gap by donating the amount one might typically spend…
Health: Get on the road to recovery by identifying depression
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Nearly everyone feels down at one point or another. But when feelings of sadness stretch on and are accompanied by other symptoms, normal sadness might have given way to depression. The Centers for Disease Control…
Local health information
> Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation will present ‘Motion by the Ocean Walk / Run’ on Sunday, May 4 at San Buenaventura State Beach, Ventura. Proceeds of the event will benefit the new Community Memorial Hospital. The event includes 1/5/10k courses,…
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…
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…
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-…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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: 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…
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…
Foodbank of Santa Barbara County still needs 2,660 turkeys by Nov. 22
SANTA BARBARA — Foodbank of Santa Barbara County’s annual community Turkey Drive is in its final week and the organization is inviting the community to provide the key ingredient to the Thanksgiving holiday meal for local families in need, the organization is…
Dr. Robert Gonzalez to leave position as director of Ventura County Health Care Agency
VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Robert Gonzalez will leave his position as director of Ventura County Health Care Agency upon completion of recruitment for his successor, Ventura County Executive Officer Mike Powers announced in a media release on Nov. 14. “Dr. Gonzales…
Rep. Brownley announces $850,000 in funding for Clinicas del Camino Real to improve health access
VENTURA COUNTY — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will receive more than $850,000 in funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Community Health Center Program, Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village), reported in a media release. Through its 13…
22 new volunteer wish granters needed in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo Counties
SAN LUIS OBISPO AND SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES — Make-A-Wish Tri-Counties currently has a critical need for 22 new Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo County Volunteer Wish Granters. 20 New Wish Granters are needed in Lompoc, Santa Barbara and Santa Maria and 2…
Bilingual report: Two Food Day celebrations planned for Oct. 24 in Ventura County
VENTURA COUNTY — On Thursday, Oct. 24, Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) is teaming up with FOOD Share, Ventura County’s regional food bank, to host Food Day. Food Day celebrates the importance of access to real, healthy and affordable food for all. Two celebrations will…
Binational Health Week Conference (Oct. 18), health fair (Oct. 19) to be presented in region
The Binational Health Week Conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at the Westside Neighborhood Center, 423 W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Access to Health Care and Health Care Systems will be the focus…
Bilingual report: Free flu shots starting Oct. 5 throughout Ventura County
VENTURA COUNTY — Community Memorial Health System’s Centers for Family Health, in conjunction with Ventura County Public Health, will provide free flu shots for people over 60 years old, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, healthcare personnel that provide direct patient care, children…
October Cover Story: Providing healthcare services to entire community
Binational Health Week puts spotlight on Latino health care issues in the 805 region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 For Dr. Cheryl Lambing, health care and the upcoming Binational Health Week Conference (Oct. 18) offers a very personal link.…
Bilingual report: ‘Free Emergency Dental Treatment’ to be held Sept. 25 in Oxnard, Port Hueneme
OXNARD — The 8th annual ‘Free Emergency Dental Treatment Event” will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 at California Dental Group, 305 E. Port Hueneme Road, Oxnard. The Oxnard/Port Hueneme office of California Dental Group will…
Comunicado de la SRE por inundaciones en México
MEXICO, D.F. — Con relación a los múltiples ofrecimientos de apoyo internacional, se remite de manera anexa el comunicado de prensa de la Cancillería en el que informa sobre las cuentas bancaria mediante la cual la Cruz Roja puede recibir donaciones desde…
Volunteers needed to take part on Cancer Prevention Study 3
VENTURA COUNTY — While medical advances continue, the fight against cancer remains a stubborn one with equal parts success and failure. To help understand the genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that cause or prevent cancer, the American Cancer Society has…
Cultural competency workshops on nutrition to be held Aug. 28 in Ventura, Aug. 29 in Santa Maria
The Network for a Healthy California — Gold Coast Region, will present a free training opportunity focusing the role of culture and its influence on food and nutrition and how these factors are relevant to your program. The workshops will…
Bilingual report: Family health fair to be held Aug. 24 in Santa Paula
SANTA PAULA — A family health fair, sponsored by Assemblymember Das Williams, will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24 at the Santa Clara Valley Boys & Girls Club, 1400 E. Harvard Blvd., Santa Paula. The…
Guest commentary: The Affordable Care Act: What is it?
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 Robert Freeman / CenCal Health…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. to celebrate National Health Center Week 2013 through Aug. 15
VENTURA COUNTY — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. will host a series of events from Aug. 11 to 17 in honor of National Health Center Week (NHCW). These events are part of National Campaign which celebrates the record of success…
‘El Impacto de la Reforma de la Salud en Nuestras Comunidades’ taller el 29 de junio 2013
SANTA BARBARA — El Impacto de la Reforma de la Salud en Nuestras Comunidades taller el 29 de junio 2013, 8:30 am a 5:00 p.m., Santa Barbara County Education Office, 3970 La Colina Road, Santa Barbara. En español. Los participantes comprenderán…
Response to Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics appeal provides much needed ‘Shot in the Arm’
Outpouring of financial and community support to avert local healthcare crisis is helping, on multiple levels SANTA BARBARA — After an urgent announcement to the community two weeks ago about Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ (SBNC) current financial challenges, members of…
El Concilio Family Services presents 2013 Latino Leadership Awards
Click on photo to see a slideshow from the event. OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services held its 24th annual Latino Leadership Awards on June 7, 2013 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Awards went to Haida Jimenez, (a counselor…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic’s financial challenge
Board reviewing options this month to keep health care provider in business By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 A cancer prevention fair providing free screenings at Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic’s eastside location drew more than 350 people in May 2012.…
El Concilio profile: Reiter Affiliated Companies
Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Service 2013 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Friday, June 7, 2013 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. The event is…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics issues urgent appeal to avert local healthcare crisis
Leadership reports on current financial challenge and steps toward sustainability SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC), which for 40 years has provided essential medical and dental care to patients, regardless of their ability to pay, is facing a financial…