Category: Local

PR Pros Launch Scholarships for Area Students – New PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Launches Program to Support Tri-County College Students

CENTRAL COAST — The newly formed Central Coast chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is offering two scholarships to recognize outstanding individual college students who are committed to studying communication or public relations in the Tri-Counties area. The…

VetNet Collaboration Helps Local Veterans Access Crucial Resources

SANTA BARBARA — Representatives from more than 40 local agencies and nonprofits that support veterans in the tri-counties come together every other month for VetNet meetings, which provide an opportunity to network, share resources, collaborate and coordinate services and maximize…

New Non-Profit Provides Much-Needed Information on Ventura County Agriculture

VENTURA COUNTY — A new non-profit organization has been created to provide educational resources and highlight the important roles played by farmers, ranchers and agriculture in Ventura County. The 501(c)(3) organization, Treasure Our Farms, will showcase local growers and livestock…

CSU Channel Islands Reports Record Enrollment for Fall 2016

CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CI) is reporting its largest entering class of undergraduates in history at 2,152 students. The class includes 1,021 freshmen and was selected from a record number of freshman 10,312 applicants, an increase of nearly 9…

GranVida Educates Community on Memory Care Services. Walk to End Alzheimer’s to be held Oct. 1

CARPINTERIA — Most seniors expect to live out their lives enjoying time with their families and making more memories to cherish, however more than 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, leaving them dependent on others to help them…

Bilingual commentary: The Borderline

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…

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Receives National Award for Innovation in Care

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics was honored by BD, Direct Relief and the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) with an Innovations in Care Award at the 2016 Community Health Institute and EXPO in Chicago. Part of the…

Resolving the ‘Hispanic Paradox’ — Study co-authored by a UCSB researcher reveals Latinos age slower, neutralizing higher health risks of obesity and diabetes

By Jim Logan / UC Santa Barbara A new paper co-authored by a UC Santa Barbara researcher reveals that Latinos age at a slower rate than other ethnic groups. The findings, published in the current issue of Genome Biology, may one day…

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Chris Cooper as new Director of Engineering Services Department

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has named as the Director of the Agency’s Engineering Services Department (ESD). Cooper succeeds Herbert Schwind who served VCPWA for over 4 years and retired earlier this year. Cooper is…

Bank of America Grants $10,000 toward Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Programs

CENTRAL COAST — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) announced it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Bank of America in support of their critical affordable housing developments and support programs for their residents in the Tri-Counties. The Bank of America…

The CLL Celebrates Three Years of Lifelong Learning

More than 350 classes and workshops with 70 brand-new classes to “Fall” in love with SANTA BARBARA — Going back to school isn’t just for kids this fall. Grown-ups can discover their passion at every age at the SBCC Center for…

Youth and Family Services YMCA Welcomes Valerie Kissell as New Executive Director

CENTRAL COAST — Youth and Family Services YMCA is proud to announce Valerie Kissell as its new Executive Director. Kissell is an accomplished Executive Director with over 20 years of executive leadership and partnership building in the nonprofit and public…

It’s Back to School Time with Santa Barbara Humane Society!

SANTA BARBARA — Just in time for back to school, nonprofit Santa Barbara Humane Society is bringing valuable learning experiences to children in elementary schools throughout Santa Barbara County through its Humane Education program. “Our classroom presentations align with our…

Ventura County Education Leaders Endorse Carla Castilla For 3rd District Supervisor

CAMARILLO – Dr. Mark Lisagor, current President of the Ventura County Board of Education; Christina (Tina) Urias, Santa Paula Unified School District Board Member; Bob Rust, Pleasant Valley School District Board Member, announced their support of Carla Castilla to succeed retiring…

Ventura County Young Democrats, Ventura County Democratic Party have endorsed Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios for Ventura City Council

VENTURA —Ventura County Young Democrats and the Ventura County Democratic Party have endorsed Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios for Ventura City Council. “Jeannette’s dedication to working families is unsurpassed by none,” said Shawn Terris, Chair of the Ventura County Democratic Party.  “Her integrity…

Bilingual commentary: Bilingual Antipathy

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…

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Alumna and National Scholar Andrea Delgado Takes ‘Strong, Smart, and Bold’ Experience Abroad

Harvard pre-med student gains first-hand healthcare experience in Latin America CARPINTERIA — Andrea Delgado of Carpinteria joined Girls Inc. of Carpinteria when she was just five years old, attending the nonprofit’s After-School Enrichment and Summer Camp programs. Now, the 21-year-old is entering…

Former U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis to Lead Ventura County Democratic Party Celebration on Sept. 18

VENTURA — Democratic activists in Ventura County will come together for their annual fundraising event on Sunday, September 18th at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Hilda Solis, the first Hispanic woman to be appointed to…

Bilingual commentary: The Hatred Beneath the Surface

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…

Lompoc Family YMCA’s 17th Annual “Kids for Character” Golf Tournament Successfully Raises Support for Local Youth and Families

LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA hosted its 17th Annual “Kids For Character” Golf Tournament, “The Ketrenia Klassic,” in memory of the late Ketrenia Hall on July 22 at the Village Country Club. This year’s tournament was a soaring success…

In a new paper, UCSB scholar says ancient hieroglyphic texts reveal Mayans made a major discovery in math, astronomy

By Jim Logan / UC Santa Barbara For more than 120 years the Venus Table of the Dresden Codex — an ancient Mayan book containing astronomical data — has been of great interest to scholars around the world. The accuracy…

Ventura County Will Be Rockin’ September 9th As Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen Opens The Doors At The Collection At RiverPark In Oxnard To The Ultimate Dining & Entertainment Experience

OXNARD — Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen will be opening their newest location at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard on Friday, September 9th. Introducing the hottest dining and live entertainmentcopper.1 concept to Ventura County, Copper Blues is a…

2016 RISE Up Award Winners Announced

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY – The RISE Up Awards recognize excellence in community service supporting RISE’s sexual assault and intimate partner violence programs; the 2016 RISE Up Award winners are District Attorney Investigator Donna Jones, RISE Friends Committee member Nancy…

NAMI Southern Santa Barbara County to Offer Family-to-Family Education Program for Families of Adults Living with Mental Illness

SANTA BARBARA — NAMI Southern Santa Barbara County, a program of the Mental Wellness Center, will offer its Family-to-Family Education Program for family members of adults living with mental health conditions. The free, 12-session course is designed to help all…

La Misa Negra to perform at UCSB on Sept. 19

SANTA BARBARA — La Misa Negra will from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19 at the San Miguel Stage at the UCSB Multicultural Center. La Misa Negra is a 9-piece band from Oakland, California that plays a unique blend of…

A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson to help disabled veterans who work in California Schools heads to the Governor

SACRAMENTO — A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to help disabled veterans who are transitioning from military service into a new career working in California’s public schools passed off the Assembly floor today on a bipartisan, 65-0 vote…

VCCDC Receives $35,000 From Wells Fargo To Help Women In Ventura County Achieve Homeownership & Financial Stability

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was recently awarded a $35,000 grant by Wells Fargo to support its Mi Casa Mi Hogar (My House My Home) Program which is designed to assist a highly vulnerable population – women…

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson new parent leave bill heads to the governor

Legislation Would Provide Up to 2.7 Million More Parents With Job-Protected Leave SACRAMENTO – A California Legislative Women’s Caucus priority bill to provide job-protected new parent leave for up to 2.7 million more Californians has passed off the Senate floor and…

United Way of Ventura County reports on Stuff the Bus program, 12th Annual Spirit Awards Gala honoring Hank Lacayo

President’s Message  Dear Friends, Summer has been busy at United Way. Thanks to the generosity of donors contributing at 70 collection sites across Ventura County and the generous time of our volunteers, our Stuff the Bus program again exceeded our expectations.…

Oxnard Salsa Festival Announces Fundraising Totals and Winners of the 2016 ‘Dancing with our Community Stars Dance Contest & Charity Fundraiser’

OXNARD — The Oxnard Salsa Festival is pleased to announce the winners and the total amount of money raised for the 2016 ‘Dancing with our Community Stars Dance Contest & Charity Fundraiser’.  This year’s competition included an All-Star line-up in celebration…

Cal Lutheran receives $1.2M federal grant

TRIO programs will now reach county’s junior highs THOUSAND OAKS — The U.S. Department of Education has awarded California Lutheran University a $1.2 million grant to provide Ventura County’s only federal TRIO program serving middle school students. The Talent Search…

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing and Duncan Group Welcomes, Bids Farewell to Board Members

SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) and its affiliate nonprofit property management agent, The Duncan Group (TDG), would like to thank retiring board member B. Ray Gateley, as well as welcome newly elected members Paula Johnson and Menka Sethi.…

St. Francis Foundation Awards $940,000 in Grants for Community Health to 18 South Coast Nonprofits

SANTA BARBARA — St. Francis Foundation of Santa Barbara has awarded its 2016 grants totalling $940,000 to 18 community nonprofits that provide healthcare, senior services or end of life care to those most in need throughout Santa Barbara’s South Coast.…

Bilingual commentary: Careers and Jobs in a technical world

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. David Magallanes is on vacation.…

Last weekend: Teatro de las Américas to present ‘Esperanza Rising’ Sept. 30 through Oct. 2

WHAT: “Esperanza Rising” WHO: Teatro de las Américas and Oxnard College present a play written by Lynne Alvarez based on the book by Pam Ryan Muñoz. Music by Victor Zupanc. Directed by Miguel Heredia. WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays, September 16, 23, 24, 30,…

National Voter Registration Day is Sept. 27

VENTURA COUNTY — On Tuesday, September 27, 2016 the Ventura County Elections Division along with the rest of the country will be celebrating Nation Voter Registration Day! This is a great opportunity for those who have yet to register to vote…

4th Annual ‘Evening in Bloom’ Gala to Honor Betty Brown to be held Sept. 24

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria will host its largest annual fundraiser “An Evening in Bloom,” a glamorous evening of dinner, dancing and beautiful orchids, on Saturday, September 24 from 5:30pm-10pm at Westerlay Orchids in Carpinteria. The elegant annual affair…

After rescuing animals in Japan for the past 5 years, Nyander Guard Comes to Ventura County Animal Services, Camarillo to share their story Sept. 20

CAMARILLO — After dedicating the last five years of his life to rescuing animals in Japan, Nyander Guard Animal Rescue founder, Akira Honda (Taicho) comes to Ventura County to share his story Sept. 17-20 at the Ventura County Animal Services,…

Anchors Away! Cabrillo’s San Salvador makes its Maiden Voyage to Oxnard through Sept. 18

OXNARD — Join in the celebration and step back in time as the remarkable full-scale replica of San Salvador – the first European vessel to explore California’s coast – makes her maiden voyage and first stop at the Channel Islands…

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Members Visit Washington D.C.

CARPINTERIA — Ten local girls from Girls Inc. of Carpinteria recently returned from an inspiring trip to Washington D.C. as part of the organization’s Eureka! program, a five-year, college-bound program that aims to break gender stereotypes and encourages girls to…

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! announces Cimarrón: Music from the plains of Colombia performance from through Sept. 18

  SANTA BARBARA — From the plains of the Orinoco River which runs between Venezuela and Colombia, Cimarrón perform the festive dance music of joropo, a fiercely virtuoso display of rippling melodies and powerful rhythms combining Andalusian, indigenous American, and African roots.…

Changes and Challenges: An Inside Look at the LA Rams Move -LA Rams Director discusses move and challenges at September PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting on Sept. 28

THOUSAND OAKS — It’s been over 20 years, but the Rams are back in Los Angeles again and practicing at California Lutheran University. Artis Twyman, senior director of communications for the Rams, shares his story of changes and challenges with…

CSU Channel Islands to host San Francisco Mime Troupe actors as they take an irreverent look at 2016 politics on Sept. 29

CAMARILLO —  CSU Channel Islands (CI) Performing Arts students and two members of the award-winning San Francisco Mime Troupe will conduct an interactive lecture/performance satirizing the politics of 2016 along with political shenanigans from years past. The public is welcome to…

Sept. 30 Registration Deadline for High Schoolers Interested in Santa Barbara Family YMCA Youth & Government Program

SANTA BARBARA – High school students interested in a six-month hands-on experience in democracy are encouraged to apply to the Santa Barbara Family YMCA’s Youth and Government program. Registration closes on September 30. Participants experience first-hand how state government works;…

Ventura County Housing Trust Fund (VCHTF) announces Sept. 22 as date for annual fundraising event to focus on ‘Housing Opportunities for People with Special Needs’

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Housing Trust Fund (VCHTF) is proud to announce the date of its annual fundraising event with a focus on Housing Opportunities for People with Special Needs, on Thursday,September 22, 2016, 5:00-8:30 p.m., at the historic Camarillo Ranch, Camarillo,…

United Way of Ventura County to honor Hank Lacayo with ‘Lifetime Achievement Award” on Aug. 25

President’s Message Dear Friends, Spring is passing us by quickly and, before you know it, graduations will take place and our Stuff the Bus program will be gathering school supplies again for the next school year. Where does the time…

Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft show comes to Ventura County Fairgrounds Sept. 30 through Oct. 3

VENTURA — A filled to the brim showcase of 24,000 handmade creations, the 27th Annual Ventura Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft show gets underway Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Seaside Park at the beach becomes a…

‘Making Amends: Wyatt Amend, Susan Stinsmuehlen-Amend, Richard Amend’ exhibit at Studio Channel Islands through Aug. 27

CAMARILLO — The new exhibition “Making Amends,” opening at the Blackboard Gallery at Studio Channel Islands in Camarillo, is a family affair. A father, mother and son trio, each an accomplished professional artist in their own right, now for the first…

Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District to celebrate works of hundreds of regional artists for annual ArtWalk Ventura, Oct. 1-2

VENTURA — The streets of the city of Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District will transform into a mecca of artistic expression for the 23rd ArtWalk Ventura event the weekend of Oct. 1-2. The two-day Southern California art tradition…

Ventura County Military Collaborative to present ‘Military & Veterans Expo & Job Fair’ on Aug. 27

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Military Collaborative will present a “Military & Veterans Expo & Job Fair” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 at the Camarillo Community Center, 1605 Burnley St., Camarillo. The free event will bring more than…

Free Community Jarocho Workshop with Cambalache presented by ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! on Sept. 15

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Cambalache in Free Community Jarocho Workshop Thursday / Jueves, SEPT 15, 7:00 – 8:30 PM La Casa de La Raza, 601 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA FREE / Entrada gratuita Free community…

Top level music production technology company to visit Haydock Academy of Arts & Sciences on Oct. 7

OXNARD — On Friday October 7th the top level music production technology company Ableton will be visiting the Haydock Academy Middle School in Oxnard, CA as part of the International Push Initiative to bring music technology into educational institutions. This…

RSVP deadline is Aug. 26 for CAUSE’S Raising Justice ‘Quinceañera — An Afternoon of Celebrating 15 years of Working for Regional Equality on the Central Coast’

VENTURA — Patti Chang, former president and CEO of The Women’s Foundation of California, will be the keynote speaker at CAUSE’S  Raising Justice “Quinceañera — An Afternoon of Celebrating 15 years of Working for Regional Equality on the Central Coast,” on…

Local PODS Puts Oxnard Union High Schools Football Training Camp Fundraising in Scoring Position

OXNARD — Local PODS moving and storage may make a winning season for Oxnard Union High School’s football teams by donating containers and services for the football boosters’ yearly fundraiser at this summer’s Dallas Cowboys Training Camp in Oxnard. Two…

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Los Cambalache in free concerts through Sept. 18

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Cambalache, Son Jarocho, Sept. 16 through 18. CONCERT Friday, September 16, 7:00 – 8:00 pm, Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd., Goleta CONCERT Saturday, September 17, 7:00 – 8:00 pm, Guadalupe City Hall, 918…

Hospice of Santa Barbara Presents Fourth Annual Heroes of Hospice Awards and this Year’s Recipients on Sept. 7

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara will recognize its 2016 Heroes of Hospice in three categories: Partnership, Legacy and Volunteer. Each year, HSB honors the outstanding community volunteers and supporters who play a vital role in its mission to provide…

Pages from life in the 1960s Los Angeles barrio on display at CSU Channel Islands through Oct. 7

CAMARILLO — School segregation, the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War were topics pulsing through Los Angeles barrios in the 1960s, but the Latino voices in the area went largely unheard and unpublished. Writer/editor Tony Solis Gomez and about five…

Bilingual commentary: Gender Labels

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…

Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen Opens the Doors at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard on Sept. 9

OXNARD — Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen will be opening their newest location at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard on Friday, September 9th. Introducing the hottest dining and live entertainment concept to Ventura County, Copper Blues is a…

Support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Enter to Win V.I.P. Tickets to See Dolly Parton at the Santa Barbara Bowl

United Way of Santa Barbara County Program Ensures Children Ages 0-5 Have Access to Books SANTA BARBARA – In support of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, United Way of Santa Barbara County is raffling an exclusive V.I.P package to Dolly Parton’s…

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson, Assemblymember Das Williams to host Family health Fair in Santa Paula on Sept. 10

SANTA PAULA – Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) will host a free Family Health Fair on Saturday, September 10th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park across from City Hall in Santa Paula. Hosted in conjunction with…

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County to present ‘Education and the American Dream’ on Sept. 10

CAMARILLO — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County will present the interact workshop “Education and the American Dream” from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Ventura County Community Foundation, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo. Education is…

Legendary Music Icon Johnny Mathis Supports Local Seniors Through Special Event Sponsorship

SANTA YNEZ — Rona Barrett Foundation announces sponsorship opportunities and first four sponsors for annual fundraising event benefiting the Golden Inn & Village The Rona Barrett Foundation is honored to announce legendary singer Johnny Mathis as the Sentimental Journey sponsor…

Boys & Girls Clubs Honor Staff and Board Members at Annual Event – 62nd Board of Directors and Officers Installed

VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme installed its 62nd Board of Directors and honored staff and board members at its annual installation and staff appreciation dinner at the Martin V. Smith Clubhouse…

Latino Museum of History, Art and Culture at CI joins Getty-led collaboration with arts institutions across Southern California

CAMARILLO — An exhibit scheduled to go up in fall of 2017 on the CSU Channel Islands (CI) campus will be part of a larger collaboration of exhibits across Southern California called Pacific Standard Time LA/LA. The Getty-led collaboration explores Latin American and…

Bilingual report: Ambassador Roberto Rodriguez-Hernandez named new Consul of Mexico in Oxnard

Dear Friends and Colleagues The Consulate of Mexico in Oxnard is pleased to welcome Ambassador Roberto Rodriguez-Hernandez as the new Consul of Mexico in Oxnard California. In July 2016, Amb. Rodriguez-Hernandez took office after Consul Berenice Diaz-Ceballos was designated as…

El Centrito Family Learning Centers unveils updated website

OXNARD — El Centrito Family Learning Centers unveils a refreshed website that highlights the agency’s mission “to create a multicultural community of excellence by inspiring the children, youth and families of Ventura County to learn, lead and reach their greatest potential.”…

Testing for TCE at SLO county airport underway

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Independent contractors began testing at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport this week to determine if airport property is the source of toxic chemicals found in nearby groundwater. Roux Associates, an environmental consulting and management…

Local Contractors Recognized for Energy Efficient Projects

CENTRAL COAST – The Tri-County-operated emPower program has recognized several local contractors for their dedication to affordable, energy efficient home upgrades. emPower teams with qualified contractors to assist interested homeowners in completing projects that will make their homes more comfortable,…

Bilingual commentary: Centers of Peace

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…

Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation Welcomes Peter Jordano as Honorary Chairman of the Wings of Honor Committee

SANTA BARBARA — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation welcomes Peter Jordano as Honorary Chairman of the Wings of Honor Committee. He brings his years of experience in the business sector as well as service in the Marine Corps to the committee.…

Rabobank Donates $7,500 for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Youth Education Program

CENTRAL COAST — Rabobank has presented Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) with a $7,500 grant in support of the nonprofit’s Youth Education Enhancement Program (YEEP), focusing on improving the literacy, English and math skills of student residents. Rabobank regularly supports nonprofit…

Assemblymember Irwin Pushes Two Bills to Benefit Military Personnel at Home

Two bills proposed would encourage improved mental health practices and provide legal assistance to members of military SACRAMENTO – Two assembly bills authored by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) have been approved by Senate committees and await further review. The first,…

Ventura County CDC receives $60,000 from the Citi Foundation to help local families achieve homeownership and financial stability

VENTURA COUNTY – The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was recently awarded a $60,000 grant by the Citi Foundation to support its Changing Lives through Homeownership Program which provides homebuyer education and counseling services to low-to-moderate income families in Ventura…

“Breaking News–How to Get Your Local Story Covered” – Local News Moguls Share Important Tips at July PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting

CENTRAL COAST — What makes a news story pitch perfect? Local broadcast media managers focus on this and other aspects of getting stories into the news at the next PRSA Gold Coast Chapter meeting, July 27. Mark Danielson, General Manager,…

Down & Dirty: Troubles with Attics & Crawlspaces

By Javier Saucedo, emPower Central Coast Energy Coach Squeeze your way into a home’s attic or crawlspace and you’ll know why I often come out covered in a combination of spider webs, dirt, dust and more. As an emPower Energy…

Computer Camp Prepares College-Bound Foster Youth

VENTURA COUNTY — 20 local transitional-aged foster youth have been selected to participate in a digital literacy computer training seminar, taking place July 15 and 16 at the County of Ventura Human Services Agency. A powerful collaboration between the Ventura…

Bilingual commentary: Lessons From the Story of Dory

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…

Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. celebrates National Health Center Week 2016 throughout Ventura County through Aug. 13

VENTURA COUNTY — August 7-13th, Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. will host events throughout all 13 of its health centers, in honor of National Health Center Week (NHCW)! These events will be part of a national campaign, with the goal of…

MICOP hiring a Project Coordinator to identify and recruit; train and mentor Clubes de Oriundos (Townhall Associations)

OXNARD — MICOP is currently hiring a Project Coordinator to identify and recruit; train and mentor Clubes de Oriundos (Townhall Associations), to strengthen their organization and leadership capacity. S/he will inspire and support Clubes de Oriundos (Townhall Associations) leaders to design and submit  a “community project-program plan” that…

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces $7 million in cost avoidance from Lean Six Sigma program over six years

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s (VCPWA) announced that using Lean Six Sigma efficiency programs provided nearly $2 million in cost avoidance this fiscal year, and almost $7 million in cost avoidance over the past six years.…

State Budget Includes $22 Million for Assemblymember Irwin’s UC Innovation Initiative

SACRAMENTO — $22 million in funding for the UC Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative proposed by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) has been included in the 2016-17 budget signed by Governor Brown. Irwin’s legislation, which has been touted as a “Job Creator”…

Bilingual commentary: Caring Enough to Vote

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…

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Welcomes 14 Entrepreneurs into the World of Business

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) recently celebrated the accomplishments of 22 women and men who have successfully completed WEV’s Santa Maria-based Advanced Spanish Self-Employment Training (SSET) course with a graduation ceremony held at the United Domestic Workers (UDW)…

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Welcomes 11 Entrepreneurs into the World of Business

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) recently celebrated the accomplishments of 11 women and men who successfully completed WEV’s Ventura County-based Advanced Spanish Self-Employment Training (SSET) course with a graduation ceremony held at National University in Oxnard. After 14…

Bilingual report: Mohammed Hasan’s ‘Drought Is Not a Four-Letter Word’ has been translated into Spanish

VENTURA — “Drought Is Not a Four-Letter Word,” a 52-page book that describes the state’s water issues, has been translated into Spanish, according to author Mohammed A. Hasan. “Sequia: La realidad sin frontera: La guía ciudadana sobre nuevas agues” comes at an important…

Teatro de las Américas to hold light design workshop on Aug. 6

OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas announces this exciting  workshop: “Science and Art of Dealing with Lights I” This workshop is for directors, producers, high school teachers, tech kids, photographers, actors, students.  It is particularly helpful for “talking to light…

Vietnam Veteran Recognized for His Outstanding Service

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) selected Richard F. Camacho of Camarillo as the 44th District ‘Veteran of the Year’. His extraordinary bravery and accomplishments as a warrior at home and overseas exemplify the core American values of service, community, and compassion.…

Biólogo René Corado de Oxnard presenta libro bilingüe ‘Las Aventuras de René Corado El Lustrador’ el 6 de agosto en Santa Mónica

SANTA MONICA — Biólogo René Corado de Oxnard presenta libro bilingüe “Las Aventuras de René Corado El Lustrador” a 2 a 5 p.m. sábado, el 6 de agosto en el Santa Mónica Library, Pico Branch, The Annex Room, 2201 Pico Blvd., Santa…

Bilingual report: Second Annual K-12 Resource Fair to be held in Oxnard on Aug. 13

OXNARD — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, in collaboration with the Oxnard Police Activities League (PAL), and the Ventura County Public Health, will present the second annual K-12 Resource Fair “Transitions to the Future” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 at…

Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation’s 23rd Annual Fainer/Tauber, MD Awards on Aug. 18

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation (VCMRF) has many reasons to celebrate milestones: It is VCMRF’s 60th Anniversary, Leo Tauber, MD’s 100th birthday, and the recipients of the 23rd Annual Fainer/Tauber, MD Health Care Awards –Night of Stars.…

MICOP to present ‘Night in Oaxaca Quinceañera 15’ on Aug. 20

OXNARD — The Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project will present “Night in Oaxaca Quinceañera 15” from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact Genevieve Flores-Haro at…

Foodbank Needs Your Help to End Summer Hunger

Foodbank of Santa Barbara County Seeks Donations by June 30 to Reach $100K Matching Grant SANTA BARBARA — Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is approaching the end of its End Summer Hunger campaign, a month-long campaign to raise $100K to help feed…

321 Ways to Love: Local couple dedicates 35 years of service to Ventura County children and youth

VENTURA COUNTY — When Barbara and Edward Williams became a foster family in 1981, they couldn’t have foreseen the love that would fill their home. Recently honored by Foster VC Kids and the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, the Williams…

Santa Barbara Humane Society New Website is a Communitywide Resource for Pet Owners and Adopters

SANTA BARBARA – As a provider of animal welfare services since 1887, the Santa Barbara Humane Society continues to adapt to the needs of today’s community with its new website, featuring a fresh user-friendly and mobile responsive design and expanded resources…

Ventura County Public Works Agency Appoints J. Tabin Cosio New Central Services Director

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency appointed J. Tabin Cosio as Director of Central Services. Cosio replaces Janice Turner, who served the VCPWA for 35 years and retired earlier this year. As director of the Ventura County…

Jensen Design & Survey Engineering Los Angeles Rams Facilities Under Extreme Deadlines

THOUSAND OAKS — Jensen Design & Survey (JDS) announced that the engineering firm is completing the planning, survey, engineering and permitting for new temporary athletic facilities for the Los Angeles Rams football team, which is returning to Southern California and…

Bilingual commentary: First-Generation College Students

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…

Ventura College Launches New Programs this Fall

VENTURA — Ventura College is offering several new programs this fall, including a Diesel Mechanic Program, Workplace Competencies Program and Social Media Marketing. Registration opens to all students July 11 for the fall 2016 semester at Ventura College. Current students,…

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson honors La Hermandad Hank Lacayo Youth and Family Center as her Non-Profit of the Year

SACRAMENTO – State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) honored La Hermandad Hank Lacayo Youth and Family Center in Oxnard as her 2016 Non-Profit of the Year in the first annual California Nonprofits Day today in Sacramento. La Hermandad provides free legal services,…

Channel Islands YMCA Association chosen to be honored at first-ever California Nonprofits Day celebration

SACRAMENTO — On Wednesday, June 22, Channel Islands YMCA Association, with branches in Camarillo, Ventura, Montecito, Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez and Lompoc, will be honored as a Nonprofit of the Year at a celebration of California Nonprofits Day at the…

Bilingual commentary: Flowers and Daughters

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…

United Way of Ventura County: Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive continues through July 21

VENTURA COUNTY — The “Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive” continues through July 21, the United Way of Ventura County reported. Gather NEW school supplies and bring them to a designated collection site. Click here for more information.

Hospice of Santa Barbara Extends Bereavement Support in Wake of Orlando Shooting

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara is deeply saddened by the nightclub shooting in Orlando and extends it heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families and members of the LGBT community impacted by this senseless tragedy. “It’s…

Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Welcomes Dr. Christopher Thrash to the Board of Directors and Heather Stern to the Senior Leadership Team

SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Christopher Thrash to our Board of Directors. Dr. Thrash is a private practice physician in Santa Barbara. His prior experience includes Internal Medicine Hospitalist…

The David Geffen Foundation Joins Rona Barrett Foundation to Support Affordable Senior Housing

SANTA BARBARA — The David Geffen Foundation is the newest “Golden Star” to support the Rona Barrett Foundation Golden Inn & Village, a model solution to community-based housing for low-income seniors. The Golden Inn & Village is near completion as the…

The Collection at RiverPark next free summer concert, ‘Rock the Collection’ on July 14

OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark is encouraging the community to bring their lawn chairs and picnic blankets, while they kick back, relax and enjoy a series of free live music acts for its Rock the Collection concert events. Kicking…

Channel Islands Maritime Museum Speakers Series to present ‘Linda Cuy Thornton – Surf Adventures’ on July 21

OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum Speakers Series will present “Linda Cuy Thornton – Surf Adventures” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 21 at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, 3900 Bluefin Circle Oxnard. A resident of Ventura, Linda Cuy Thornton will give…

Women’s Economic Ventures seeking full-time bilingual program assistant

CENTRAL COAST — WEV is hiring a full-time bilingual Program Assistant to work out of its Santa Barbara OR Ventura office beginning in June. Position’s Purpose: A bilingual (English/Spanish), enthusiastic, detail-oriented and helpful individual acts as the first point of…

Lompoc Family YMCA to host 17th annual ‘Kids’s For Character’ Golf Tournament on July 22

LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA is accepting registrations, sponsorships and donations for the 17th Annual “Kid’s For Character” Golf Tournament, “The Ketrenia Klassic” in memory of the late Ketrenia Hall. This premier charity event tournament will be held at…

PSHH College Club lends homebuilders a hand for NeighborWorks Week 2016

CENTRAL COAST — Fifteen current and past students from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing’s College Club, their parents and community members volunteered Sunday, June 12, assisting 11 families with assignments around their new homes through PSHH’s Self-Help Home Ownership Program. The students…