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: Local
Youth and Family Services YMCA Welcomes Tom Richards to the Board of Managers
The Youth and Family Services YMCA is proud to announce the election of Tom Richards to its Board of Managers. YFS provides safe, supportive and healing programs and environments to high-risk youth. While growing up in Chicago, the YMCA had…
Sponsor the upcoming Girls in STEM/STEAM Hackathon at Cal State Channel Islands!
CAMARILLO — In honor of Earth Month, SOCIHACKS™ is partnering with the Small Business Institute of California State University Channel Islands on Saturday, April 2, 2016 to provide an interactive hackathon where 100 young girls (ages 9-12) from low income…
Women’s Economic Ventures Graduates Step into Success with WEV Spanish Self-Employment Training Program
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) recently celebrated the accomplishments of ten men and women graduating from the WEV’s Basic Spanish Self-Employment Training program. Students in the four week course explored the risks and benefits of starting a business and important characteristics…
Local PODS Moving & Storage Donates to American Red Cross of Ventura County in Preparation for El Nino Storm
VENTURA COUNTY — Local PODS moving and storage is helping the American Red Cross of Ventura County prepare for the upcoming El Nino storm by donating the use of its PODS containers. The American Red Cross of Ventura County is…
Find Your Lucky Charm at the Santa Barbara Humane Society: Special St. Patrick’s Day Pet Adoption Fee $17 from March 14-17
SANTA BARBARA – This St. PAWtrick’s Day, to find your lucky charm look no further than Santa Barbara Humane Society. From March 14th-17th, Santa Barbara Humane Society will offer a special adoption fee of $17, just in time to bring you…
La Celestina, una cantata mediterránea el 20 de marzo
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas inicia su Ciclo de Teatro del Atril 2016 con la tragicomedia clásica de Fernando de Rojas “La Celestina” en una versión de cantata mediterránea de Costa Palamides, quien dirigirá este montaje, para Teatro de las…
Guest commentary: Where is the Bold Leadership? or How They Came to Love Save and Cushy Jobs
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Frank P. Barajas / Guest contributor…
Bilingual commentary: The Facebook Photo
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…
Oxnard teen honored as BGCOP’s 2016 Youth of the Year
OXNARD — Singled out among several outstanding youth, 18-year-old Glenda Guzman has been chosen as this year’s Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme. A seven-year Club member, Guzman is a…
Graduados de Women’s Economic Ventures Toman un Paso Hacia el Éxito con el Curso de Capacitación Empresarial de WEV en Español
Hay un dicho que dice “un viaje de mil millas, empieza con un solo paso”. El miércoles, 24 de febrero, Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebró los primeros pasos tomados por 10 mujeres y hombres que se graduaron del curso Básico…
Student Teams Visit Santa Barbara for Affordable Housing Design National Competition
SANTA BARBARA — Now in its third year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Innovation in Affordable Housing Student Design and Planning Competition seeks to encourage research and innovation in the areas of affordable housing design and…
Righetti High School Marimba Band & Ballet Folklórico to present its 39th annual “Big Show” performance on March 18, 19 in Santa Maria
SANTA MARIA — The Righetti High School Marimba Band & Ballet Folklórico will present its 39th annual “Big Show” performance at 7: 30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19 at Santa María High School’s Ethel Pope Auditorium, 901 S. Broadway, Santa…
Author/engineer presents new sustainable water solutions
VENTURA — California’s recurring drought problem can be solved permanently by new sustainable water solutions, according to prominent civil engineer Mohammed A. Hasan. Speaking at the University Club of Ventura, Hasan, who has 41 years of experience dealing with water issues,…
Information session for foster parents to be held March 22
VENTURA COUNTY — As a resource family, you become a link in a lifelong chain. You can provide the unconditional healing, support, and guidance that can help a child and siblings thrive and grow as every child needs. When children…
Sesión informativa para padres de crianza el 22 de marzo
VENTURA COUNTY — El mejor regalo que puede darle a un menor es dejarlo ser un niño rodeado del amor de una familia. Como padre de crianza, usted ayudara a mejorar la seguridad, permanencia y bienestar para toda la vida. Ofrecerle…
Poet, orator and education Enedina Castañeda to present readings from 2nd issue of Spanish literary journal at Café on A on March 30
OXNARD — Poet, orator and education Enedina Castañeda to present readings from 2nd issue of Spanish literary journal “Mi comunida y yo: Una relación dana y just a — My Community and I: A Relationship Towards Health and Justice,” from…
Seasonal Savings At Centerpoint Mall For Springtime and Easter
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall is downtown’s spot to shop for Springtime and Easter with more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and dining options. Centerpoint Mall is the ideal shopping destination to get that perfect present by Easter on Sunday, March…
Dominga Cepeda Ceja, Maricela Morales among women honored by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson at ceremony in Santa Barbara, Oxnard
SANTA BARBARA and OXNARD – To commemorate Women’s History Month, State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) will honor eight women from Santa Barbara and Ventura counties as her 19th Senate District’s 2016 ‘Women of the Year’ in two separate ceremonies held in Santa Barbara…
Share Your Bounty: Help the Foodbank Distribute 225,000 Pounds of Produce by April 1
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — It’s peak citrus season in Santa Barbara and that means there’s lots of excess healthy — and delicious — fruit to harvest and distribute to those in need. Backyard Bounty, a volunteer program of the Foodbank of…
Book reading by Javier Gomez to be held at Frida’s Treasures, Oxnard on April 1
OXNARD — Join me in my 1st book reading of my latest bilingual book, “Estos Demonios No Se Aguantan,” at 7 p.m. Friday, April 1 at Frida’s Treasures, 535 S. A. St., Oxnard. “Estos Demonios No Se Aguantan” was released by…
Girls will go full STEAM ahead during second annual STEM-STEAM Hackathon on April 2
CAMARILLO — An estimated 100 Ventura County girls ages 9 to 12 will collaborate with female mentors during the second annual CSU Channel Islands (CI) STEAM Hackathon on Saturday, April 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Through a partnership…
Ocean View Pavilion to present ‘Boxing by the Beach’ on April 2
PORT HUENEME — The Ocean View Pavilion will present “Boxing by the Beach” featuring Francisco Santana vs Ed Paredes on April 2. Boxing By The Beach is presented by Top Rank, in association with Bash Boxing at theOceanview Pavilion in Port Heneme. Tickets start at $40 for Theatre…
Bilingual commentary: Falls from Grace
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 County Democratic Central Committee vote to support Carla Castilla in the race to replace retiring 3rd District Supervisor Kathy Long
Castilla also earns endorsements from Channel Islands College Democrats, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 46 Editor’s note: It is the policy of Amigos805 not to endorse any political candidates running for office in the 805 region. Political candidates do…
Celebrando la inauguración de las obras del maestro oaxaqueño Francisco Toledo
Editor’s Note: The Mexican Consulate in Oxnard celebrated the opening of an exhibit featuring the works of Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo on Feb. 19. The exhibit room was filled with guests from throughout California including Santa Maria, Lompoc, Oxnard…
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.…
Ventura County Public Works Agency receives $7 million grant toward Moorpark Desalter Project
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Department of Water and Sanitation received a $7 million proposition 84 grant from the State Department of Water Resources through the Watershed Coalition of Ventura County for its Moorpark Desalter Project.…
VCCDC Hosts Free ‘For Sale By Owner’ Workshop for Home Sellers on March 15
VENTURA – Most of us have seen those “For Sale By Owner” signs on the lawns of homes around our neighborhood but what does a “For Sale By Owner” really consist of and is it something that all home sellers should…
Bilingual commentary: Girl Scout Cookies — The Controversy
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 County Community Development Corporation Provee Taller Sobre Las Ventas de Casa Hecha Por Proprietarios el 15 de marzo
VENTURA COUNTY — La mayoría de nosotros hemos visto los letreros que dicen “For Sale By Owner” o “Venta por el Propietario” enfrente de algunas casas en nuestro vecindario, pero en que consiste una “Venta por el Propietario” y es…
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…
Santa Barbara Family YMCA Youth & Government Delegates Experience Democratic Process First Hand in Sacramento
SANTA BARBARA — The Channel Islands YMCA Youth & Government delegation joined more than 3,500 youth from throughout California for the 68th Model Legislature & Court held Feb. 11-15 at the Sacramento Convention Center and State Capitol. Part of the…
Bilingual commentary: The Ominous Rise of Trump
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…
Dads and Daughters Dance Night Away at Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA’s Cinderella’s Ball
SANTA YNEZ – Approximately 500 dads and daughters of all ages bonded during an evening of dancing, games and prizes at Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA’s Cinderella’s Ball themed father-daughter dance. The dance took place over two nights inside the Stuart…
Centerpoint Mall Offers Sweetheart Shopping And Dining Spots For Valentine’s Day
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall has many sweetheart spots to shop and dine at the more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and restaurants ranging from apparel and jewelry to perfumes and gift cards, among others. According to the National Retail Federation…
Bilingual commentary: Einstein’s “Pandora’s Box”
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes In chapter 3, verse 5 of Genesis, we read in the story of Adam and Eve that they were warned—by God, no less—to abstain from eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge lest “their…
Santa Barbara Family YMCA Kicks Off 2016 Annual Campaign with Kentucky Derby-Themed Soirée
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Family YMCA launched its Annual Campaign on Saturday with a Kentucky Derby-themed soirée. Approximately 300 people attended to kick off the YMCA’s fundraising efforts with dinner, drinks and dancing. The Santa Barbara Family YMCA…
Consortium Media welcomes Briana Frank, Melina Esparza to brand development agency
VENTURA — Consortium Media, an award-winning brand development agency for local, regional and nationally-recognized businesses, non-profits and government agencies, announces the addition of two new employees to its dynamic team. Multimedia Specialist Briana Frank’s scope of responsibilities includes project management,…
FOOD Share revels in community spirit, celebrates end of most successful Tackle Hunger campaign to date
VENTURA COUNTY — FOOD Share, Ventura County’s food bank and distribution network, scored a huge win for its annual Tackle Hunger campaign. The 2015-2016 campaign, which ran from October 2015 until Super Bowl Sunday, finished big by replenishing its warehouse…
“Dine for a Cause” Events to Benefit Lompoc Family YMCA
LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA is launching its 2016 Annual Campaign in the most delicious way – with its upcoming “Dine For a Cause” events. This year, the following locations will be participating in the events: Monday, Feb. 15,…
49 Oxnard High School students participate in National Groundhog Job Shadow Day Event
Congresswoman Julia Brownley phones in from Washington, D.C. OXNARD — A total of 18 businesses in the Esplanade financial area of Oxnard hosted 49 Oxnard High School sophomore academy students for a Job Shadow day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The…
Food Processing Holds Opportunities for Ventura County: Newly released feasibility study highlights how the county’s agricultural sector can grow
VENTURA COUNTY — Food processing in Ventura County is currently estimated to support about 1,480 jobs. That number could jump to between 2,680 and 5,450 new jobs, with relatively small-scale development, according to the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County’s new feasibility…
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…
Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara Names New Board President, Welcomes New Members
SANTA BARBARA — Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara is pleased to announce the election of a new president and four new members to its Board of Directors. Tracy Jenkins, the incoming board president, and new members James Aviani, Victoria…
Classical Piano Concert in Santa Paula on Feb. 13
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Concert Series has been revived and will have its fourth concert of the new series, “Music for a Romantic Night: Classical Piano Music with Geno Palilla,” on Saturday, February 13th at 7:00 PM at…
Bilingual commentary: The Spring 2016 Oxnard College Literature, Arts & Lecture Series
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes In an unexpected corner of Ventura County, we have access to an impressive array of educational, musical, literary, artistic, historical, poetic and theatrical presentations for our community—free of charge. That former “diamond in the rough”…
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…
Acuna Art Gallery at the Café on A in Oxnard to present opening reception for artist ‘George Yepes y Amigos’ on Feb. 12
OXNARD — The Acuna Art Gallery at the Café on A in Oxnard will present the opening reception for artist “George Yepes y Amigos: from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12 at 438 S. A St., Oxnard The exhibit will…
Ventura County Public Works Agency begins the year with two new accolades
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s (VCPWA) Water and Sanitation Department has received two new honors for recent projects. On Thursday, Feb. 25, the Santa Barbara/Ventura Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will honor…
Bilingual report: Exhibit by Mexican artist Francisco Toledo to be held in Oxnard on Feb.19
OXNARD — An exhibit by world famous Mexican artist Francisco Toledo will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 at the Mexican Consulate, 3151 W. Fifth St., Oxnard. The exhibit has been touring the globe over the past year. The event…
Bilingual report: Latino Thought Makers Series at Oxnard College to present ‘Conversation with Stars in Hollywood’ featuring Josefina Lopez (Real Women Have Curves), Luis Guzman (Code Black) on March 10
OXNARD — Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts proudly presents the next installment of the Latino Thought Makers series featuring nationally acclaimed writer, Josefina Lopez and multi-award winning actor, Luis Guzman. The series, led by writer-director-comedian, Rick Najera will take place on Thursday, March 10th at Oxnard College’s Performing Arts Center…
Las Contemporáneas of the Museum of Ventura County to present the 2nd annual Latina Film Festival on March 12, 13 in Ventura
VENTURA — Las Contemporáneas of the Museum of Ventura County proudly present the 2nd Annual Latina Film Festival. Come celebrate Latinas in film and help us pay special tribute to award-winning Actor/Writer/Producer, Evelina Fernández. March 12 & 13, 2016 The Latina…
Inlakech Cultural Arts Center to celebrate 43 years of service on Feb. 27
OXNARD — The Inlakech Cultural Arts Center will celebrate 43 years of service with a “Red Charro Suits and Raffle Fundraiser” from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27 at The Kitchen Restaurant, 529 S. A St., Oxnard. Featuring a new…
Mix and Mingle at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum on March 24
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum will be hosting a party for new and prospective members at the museum on Thursday, March 24, 2016 from 5-7 pm. Refreshments will be served to guests, and there will be a cash bar for…
Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara Flags to Fly on State Street through March 25
SANTA BARBARA — Flags celebrating Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara will be flying high along downtown State Street from March 18 through March 25 in honor of Girls Inc.’s more than 60 years of life-changing programs and services for…
Channel Islands YMCA Welcomes Dr. Jeff Schloss as Guest Speaker for Annual Good Friday Breakfast on March 25
SANTA BARBARA — The Channel Islands YMCA Association is pleased to welcome Dr. Jeff Schloss as the guest speaker for its 39th Annual Good Friday Breakfast. The breakfast, themed Keeping Hope Alive, will take place Friday, March 25 at the…
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…
Special Olympics Santa Barbara Hosts 2nd Annual Polar Plunge Fundraiser on Feb. 27
SANTA BARBARA — Are you “freezin’ for a reason?” Special Olympics Southern California-Santa Barbara Region invites the community to participate in the coolest fundraiser of the year: its 2nd Annual Polar Plunge on Saturday, February 27. Companies, school groups, community…
Danish String Quartet to perform at UCSB on March 1
SANTA BARBARA — The Danish String Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 1 at UCSB’s Campbell Hall. One of the hottest string quartets right now, the Danish returns for a consecutive season, following its thrilling 2014 Santa Barbara debut.…
Sebastião Salgado at the Arlington Theatre on March 2
SANTA BARBARA — “Sebastião Salgado — In Conversation with Pico Iyer” will be held at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 2 at the Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara. The subject of the Academy Award-nominated documentary film The Salt of the Earth, Brazilian-born Sebastião…
UCSB to present ‘Sarah Koenig & Julie Snyder — Binge-Worthy Journalism: Backstage with the Creators of Serial’ on March 3
SANTA BARBARA – UCSB to present ‘Sarah Koenig & Julie Snyder — Binge-Worthy Journalism: Backstage with the Creators of Serial’ on March 3 Co-created by veteran radio journalists and producers Sarah Koenig and Julie Snyder, Serial launched in the fall of…
Ventura County Public Works Agency, Ojai Valley Land Conservancy host ribbon cutting ceremony for completion of Happy Valley Bioswale Project on March 4
VENTURA COUTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Watershed Protection District (VCPWA WPD) and Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC) will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the completion of the Happy Valley Bioswale Project on Friday, March…
YMCA and Special Olympics Team Up to Spread the Word to End the R-Word day of awareness on March 5
MONTECITO — On Saturday, March 5th, the Montecito Family YMCA and Special Olympics Santa Barbara invite the public to attend the Spread the Word to End the Word day of awareness in support of the Special Olympics R-Word Campaign. From…
REI at The Collection at RiverPark invites little tykes to learn to ride bikes at its How to Ride a Bike event on March 6
OXNARD — REI, the specialty outdoor retailer, located at The Collection at RiverPark, will introduce its How to Ride a Bike class series to the Oxnard shopping center. Kicking off Sunday, March 6, from 9 – 11 a.m., the monthly…
UCSB to present National Geographic Live wildlife photographer Steve Winter on March 6
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB to present National Geographic Live wildlife photographer Steve Winter at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 6 at Campbell Hall. Go around the world in search of big cats with award-winning photographer Steve Winter. A determined explorer, Winter will…
UCSB to present ‘Taylor Mac — A 24-Decade History of Popular Music: 1916-1936’ on March 8
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB to present ‘Taylor Mac — A 24-Decade History of Popular Music: 1916-1936″ at 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 at Campbell Hall. Get ready for an evening of glittering musical time travel. Equal parts bedazzled shaman, searing…
UCSB to present Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal on March 9
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB to present Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 9 at Campbell Hall. Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash will perform selections from the acclaimed album The River and the Thread with collaborator, guitarist and husband, John…
José González and yMusic to perform at UCSB on March 10
SANTA BARBARA — José González and yMusic to perform from 8 to 10 p.m. Thursday, March 10 at UCSB Campbell Hall. José González is a testament to the irrefutable power of one man and a guitar. His classically-inspired playing draws comparisons…
Bilingual report: Teatro de las Américas to present ‘Locuras en Wichita’ on March 11 and 12 at Oxnard College
OXNARD — The 2016 season begins when Teatro de las Américas and Oxnard College present Lina Gallegos’s comedy, WILD IN WICHITA, directed by Denise Blasor. Don’t miss this charming play. An elegant Puerto Rican woman and an irreverent Mexican man fall in love when they meet at…
Ventura College to Host Open House Extravaganza Open to the Community on March 12
Event features department presentations, financial aid application workshops, free lunch, and more VENTURA —Ventura College will hold an open house available to all those interested in learning more about the college and its programs and services, as well as those who would like…
Art Exhibition, with reception on Feb. 10, to Benefit Hospice Nonprofit
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara welcomes local artist Jim Hill, who will display his art at the Leigh Block Gallery located within Hospice of Santa Barbara — 2050 Alameda Padre Serra, Suite #100, Santa Barbara – beginning February…
CSU Channel Islands professor helps create ‘Latinos and Baseball’ exhibit at the Smithsonian
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) Professor of Chicana/o Studies Jose Alamillo, Ph.D., helped launch an exhibit for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History called “Latinos and Baseball: In the Barrios and the Big Leagues.” Alamillo and other scholars from across…
UCSB to present ‘Juan Felipe Herrera — An Evening with the 2015-16 United States Poet Laureate’ on Feb. 1
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures will present ‘Juan Felipe Herrera An Evening with the 2015-16 United States Poet Laureate’ at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 1 at UCSB’s Campbell Hall. U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera is the first Latino…
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…
Ventura College named one of top 150 in the nation
VENTURA — Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees, along with Chancellor Bernard Luskin congratulate Ventura College President Greg Gillespie. The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program this week named Ventura College one of the nation’s top 150 community colleges eligible to…
Boys & Girls Club members proudly display National Fine Arts pieces at Carnegie Art Museum Feb. 5-7
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme invites the community to its annual National Fine Arts Exhibit Feb. 5-7 at the Carnegie Art Museum, 424 South C Street, Oxnard. The private Club reception and…
Las Contemporaneas of the Museum of Ventura County to present ‘Luminarias’ film screening fundraiser on Feb. 6
VENTURA — Las Contemporaneas of the Museum of Ventura County will present the film screening of “Luminarias,” a fundraiser to support the second annual Latina Film Festival, at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6 at the Bell Arts Factory, 432 N. Ventura Ave.,…
Reserve tickets for ‘El Bracero — A Mariachi Opera’ return performance at Oxnard College on Feb. 6
OXNARD — Back by popular demand!! “El Bracero — A Mariachi Opera,” will return at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. El Bracero is a dynamic one-act “Mariachi Opera”…
CSU Channel Islands’ Student Affairs division earns national award for excellent diversity, staffing practices and work environment
CAMARILLO — Excellent diversity, staffing practices and work environment are among the reasons CSU Channel Islands (CI)’s Division of Student Affairs has won a designation as one of the “Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs” for a second year in a…
Bilingual commentary: Equal Opportunity in Creation
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes Some of us in our Western culture turn to the Bible to teach us something about the nature of ourselves as human beings, about our origins and early history. Others of us who are less…
Oxnard College Presents CBS Diversity Sketch Comedy Showcase PLUS Lalo Alcaraz from Fox’s New Animated Comedy, Bordertown LIVE, Feb. 3
Writer-Director-Comedian Rick Najera Blends Hollywood Comedy Sketch Show with Local Performers at Oxnard College Performing Arts Center as Part of Growing Latino Thought Makers Series OXNARD — Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts presents the much-anticipated CBS Diversity Sketch…
Jackson Introduces legislation to protect Californians from unsafe drone use
SACRAMENTO – State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) has just introduced a bill to set comprehensive limits around the use of drones near critical infrastructure such as bridges and power plants as well as in state parks and wildlife refuges,…
The Collection at RiverPark expands fashion empire adding Victoria’s Secret to its growing retail roster
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Oxnard’s premier retail, dining and entertainment destination, announced this week that Victoria’s Secret will join its budding line-up of fashion retailers this summer. Victoria’s Secret is the largest retailer of women’s lingerie and other…
‘An Evening with 2015 Women’s World Cup Champion Carli Lloyd’ to be held at Arlington Theatre on Jan. 26
SANTA BARBARA — “An Evening with 2015 Women’s World Cup Champion Carli Lloyd’ to be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26 at the Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara. “Carli Lloyd isn’t just on a roll. She has morphed into a…
UCSB to present ‘Culture Clash Muse & Morros: True Stories – Real People’ on Jan. 27
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures will present ‘Culture Clash Muse & Morros: True Stories – Real People’ at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27 at UCSB’s Campbell Hall. For 30 years, Culture Clash has scoured the nation searching for the…
Bilingual commentary: The Stars and Planets at Christa McAuliffe Elementary School
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes With so many children admiring celebrities these days and questionably holding them up as role models, it was refreshing this past Friday to attend McAuliffe Elementary School’s (Oxnard School District) annual “Astronomy Night.” The school…
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…
Bilingual commentary: The Power of Parents
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor We parents may not be aware of the power we possess to literally make or break the lives of our children. Teachers likewise exert enormous power over the lives of their students. As parents and teachers, we…
“Remembering Our Fallen” Traveling Portrait Exhibition on Display throughout Santa Barbara County
Deeply moving memorial exhibition features 721 photo portraits of California’s fallen SANTA BARBARA — The community is invited to the “Remembering Our Fallen” memorial exhibition that is on display in Santa Barbara County during the month of January. The deeply moving…
Santa Barbara Humane Society Unveils New Logo for New Year
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Humane Society is pleased to unveil a new logo with a contemporary color palette as we celebrate a new year. “Since 1887, the Santa Barbara Humane Society has been a resource for animal advocacy and education,”…
Guest commentary: Adelante… into the New Year with Café on A
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 It is…
The Collection at RiverPark announces Stefanie Muegel, Jill Almonia as new marketing team
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Oxnard’s premier fashion retail, dining and entertainment destination, recently announced Stefanie Muegel as the center’s Marketing Manager, and Jill Almonia as the Marketing and Business Development Coordinator. At The Collection, a CenterCal Properties, LLC…
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…
Bilingual commentary: What Is A Secular Catholic?
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor In the Jewish American community, many within the group quite proudly and nonchalantly refer to themselves as “secular Jews.” Within the U.S. Latino community, on the other hand, many are secular Catholics, but they don’t go around…
‘El Bracero – A Mariachi Opera’ to be presented at Oxnard College on Jan. 16
OXNARD — “El Bracero — A Mariachi Opera” will be presented at 7 p.m. at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Theater, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Featuring Mariachi Aguilas de Oxnard and Ballet Folklorico Mestizo. Set in the 1950s at…
emPower Hosts Free Energy Efficient Furnace Workshop in Santa Maria on Jan. 19
Jan. 19 workshop to be held at Veterans Memorial Building SANTA MARIA — With Santa Barbara County now firmly in winter, emPower Central Coast will be offering advice and information on selecting a new high-efficiency furnace during a free, Jan. 19 workshop. …
Guest commentary: Justice in the New Year
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 At…
Classes start Jan. 11 for English as a Second Language Basic English course at Oxnard College
OXNARD — Classes start for English as a Second Language Basic English course at Oxnard College. Free books available. Classes include: ESL R046 — English Conversation 4; ESL R065 — Prep for Academic Reading & Writing; ESL R056 — Reading Skills…
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…
Foodbank of Santa Barbara County Publishes Report on Distribution to Foodbank Non-Profit Partners
SANTA BARBARA — The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County worked with over 300 nonprofits and programs countywide (one of them isyour favorite) in 2015 to help serve the community by providing healthy food and produce. “Without the support of the Foodbank of Santa…
United Way of Ventura County: 36 hours left to make a difference
President’s Message Click here for the entire January 2016 E-newsletter Dear Friends, I returned from serving in the Peace Corps as a teacher in the 5th poorest country in the world just two weeks prior to 9/11. What was so…
El Centrito Family Learning Centers thank you
Joseph Castañeda Carrera / El Centrito Family Learning Centers Season’s greetings to you and yours! El Centrito Family Learning Centers thank you for believing that every child and every family deserves the opportunity to reach their greatest potential. To donate in support…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Welcomes New Project Manager
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has hired Toby Seiler as Project Manager to its Multi-Family Housing Development (MHD) Department, announced PSHH President & CEO John Fowler Working out of PSHH’s San Luis Obispo headquarters, Seiler will be responsible for project management…
Bilingual commentary: Dream Boards and Visualization
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor As we approach, thankfully, the transition to a new year in our lives, many of us harbor a sense of responsibility to “make resolutions.” The problem is that we fail to understand the process that would be…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County looks forward to celebrating National Mentoring Month 2016
/ Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is looking forward to celebrating National Mentoring Month for January 2016. The National Mentoring Month campaign will acknowledge the ‘Bigs’- adult…
Local PODS® Moving and Storage Serves As “Santa’s Sleigh” For 12th Annual Santa Claus Park Toy Giveaway
/ PODS Local moving and storage company, PODS teamed up with Ventura County’s most popular running event, the Santa to the Sea ½ Marathon and 5K, to collect unwrapped toys for the 12th annual Santa Claus Park toy giveaway taking…
FOOD Share ends successful 4th annual CAN-tree Collection weekend with 201,200 pounds of food
/ FOOD Share The Collection at RiverPark and Cumulus Media hosted FOOD Share’s successful 4th annual CAN-tree Collection drive in support of the regional food bank’s annual Tackle Hunger campaign, bringing in 201,200 cans of food (one can of food…
Shoppers Make Mad Dash To Christmas Shopping Finish Line, Centerpoint Mall Offers Many Deals And Savings
/ Centerpoint Mall As the last week of Christmas shopping gets into full swing, millions of people are still finalizing their shopping lists. And to help meet the last-minute Christmas crush, Centerpoint Mall has many deals and savings at the…
Surfer Santa and Scrooge, the new favorites at The Collection at RiverPark
/ The Collection at RiverPark While most shopping centers promise children a chance to meet and take a picture with Santa Claus, The Collection at RiverPark goes a step further and surprises customers with the opportunity to meet other lively…
Local Holiday Toy Drive Receives Donations for Foster, Low-Income Children
/ Foster VC Kids / Children’s Services Auxiliary Currently there are 1,000 children in foster care and thousands of additional low-income kids in Ventura County, and these youth are in need of toys and other gifts this holiday season. In an…
Women’s Economic Ventures to present free Spanish Self-Employment Training Orientation in Ventura County
/ Women’s Economic Ventures Have you wanted to run your own business, but don’t know where to start? Or do you already own a business and want to expand? Learn how to make those dreams a reality with Women’s Economic…
Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara Members Awaken the Force with Hour of Code
/ Girls Inc. Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara’s Goleta and Santa Barbara Centers were buzzing on Friday afternoon, as the local affiliate hosted the “Hour of Code” to introduce girls to coding and computer science. Approximately two dozen girls…
California LULAC will focus on new voting rights cases in 2016
Plan will impact scores of California cities and school districts CAMARILLO —The California League of United Latin American Citizens will partner with the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF) and private attorneys in a significant expansion of cases brought…
Bilingual commentary: What Really Happens On A Clear Day
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor As Christmas Day approaches, many of us focus on the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. But let’s not forget that Jesus was a revered teacher who grew in age and wisdom and tried to instruct us on…
Gold Coast Health Plan’s Membership Hits a Milestone
Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Plan Now Serves More than 200,000 Residents CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) reached a milestone in its membership this month, surpassing 200,000 members. With 202,360 members, GCHP is on track to quickly surpass its projected membership…
Catherine Rodriguez named Ventura County chief financial officer
VENTURA — The Ventura County Executive Office announced that Assistant County Executive Officer Catherine Rodriguez has been named the County Chief Financial Officer and Shawn Atin has been promoted to Assistant County Executive Officer, Human Resources. The moves follow the…
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: Trump’s Parallel Universe
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor I think I have it figured out. Donald Trump is actually working for Hillary Clinton. He must be, given that many political pundits predict that he will hand over the White House to Hillary if indeed he…
December cover story: Holiday events add to the magic of the season
Posadas (Dec. 11), La Pastorela (Dec. 19, 20) to be presented at El Presidio de Santa Barbara Historic Park From Amigos805 staff reports The public is invited to participate in Santa Barbara’s oldest Christmas traditions as the Santa Barbara Trust…
Bilingual commentary: The Case Against Homework
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor There has been a quiet controversy involving our children that has been brewing over the past several years. As in any controversy, there are exaggerated claims, false accusations and biased statements that serve to befuddle anyone trying…
El Concilio Family Services seeks nominations for 2016 Latino Leadership Awards. Deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for 2016 Latino Leadership Awards. The deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15 The 27th annual Latino Leadership Awards will recognize individuals and business partnerships that have made significant contributions to education…
Teatro de las Américas to present final two performances of ‘Your Friends Would Never Harm You’ on Dec. 4, 5
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas will present final two performances of “Your Friends Would Never Harm You” at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5 at the Oxnard College Black Box Theatre, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard…
Bilingual commentary: The Crashing Wave of Paper
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Being disorganized carries a hefty price tag. We burn up valuable time looking for things. We miss appointments, miss paying bills, miss opportunities and don’t fulfill our dreams because we don’t even know what those dreams are—we…
Teatro de las Americas, MusicaLatitudes, and Oxnard College to present a Christmas concert on Dec. 6
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas y MusicaLatitudes invite the community to participate in a free Christmas choir program that will be featured in Songs and Odes of Christmas at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at Teatro de las Américas at Oxnard…
El Concilio seeks support during ‘Giving Tuesday’ on Dec. 1
Dear Friend,
We are coming to the end of the year and over the last year we have enjoyed support of many of you.
We have served over 17,000 client contacts in the areas of Citizenship, Immigration, Youth Leadership and Development and Direct Client Assistance.
This is a request to join our end of the year campaign by making a donation to El Concilio Family Services.
All donations are most gratefully received regardless of the amount.
Ventura County officials to celebrate ‘Giving Tuesday’ on Dec. 1 at Santa to the Sea starting line
Ceremonial ribbon cutting and toy drive kick off “12 Days of Giving” at iconic Santa Claus Park OXNARD — Ventura County Fifth District Supervisor John C. Zaragoza and Ventura County CEO Mike Powers will be joined by county non-profit organizations, local…
Oxnard College kicks off holiday season with Latino Thought Makers ‘Ha Ha Holidays Live Comedy,’ music show and benefit on Dec. 2
Special Guests DJs Rico & Mambo, comedians Momo Rodriguez and Jill-Michele Meleán and singers Karina Nuvo and Vanessa Verduga join host Rick Najera at Oxnard College Performing Arts Center OXNARD — The Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts will…
‘Love in the Tetons’ to be presented at REI Oxnard on Dec. 2
Latino couple reflects on love for the outdoors OXNARD — Fifteen years ago, Juan, an at-risk youth from south-central Los Angeles, stepped off a bus in Grand Teton National Park and saw the stars for the first time in his life.…
Bilingual commentary: Gratitude
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Because of the expectations of our culture, we might feel that we never quite achieve “success,” or “contentment.” After all, whenever we do attain a degree of success or fulfillment, there’s always the next goal, the new…
Guest commentary: Forgotten Memories — Wasted Years
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 By…
A new book co-authored by a UCSB researcher details how the Maya have farmed sustainably and survived for millennia
By Jim Logan / UCSB History has not been kind to the Maya, an indigenous people of Mesoamerica. They’re usually portrayed as the hapless victims of European colonialism who collapsed and disappeared as a result of overpopulation and environmental degradation. A…
UCSB’s Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science is named an outstanding regional role model
By Julie Cohen / UCSB The UC Santa Barbara chapter of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) has received the 2015 Outstanding Regional Network Role Model Award. This award marks the fourth in as many years bestowed…
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…
Museum of Ventura County to present sneak preview of ‘Bordertown’ on Nov. 20
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County will present a sneak preview of “Bordertown,” a new Seth MacFarlane comedy to debut on Fox in January 2016, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20 at 100 E. Main St., Ventura.…
Bilingual commentary: Avoiding What We Don’t Understand
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor This past week, I decided to confront something that I had studiously avoided all my life because I just didn’t understand it. Abstract art. I had grown up surrounded by the classical art created by my Mexican…
Emmy Award-winning journalists join Oxnard College’s Latino Thought Makers for ‘Politics in America’ talk on Nov. 12
OXNARD — Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts will present a special evening of political discussion and debate on Thursday, Nov. 12 with award-winning journalists Myrka Dellanos, Ruben Navarrette Jr. and Julio Varela as part of its continuing Latino Thought Makers Live…
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…
2015 Día de los Muertos Celebracion to be held Nov. 7 in Camarillo
CAMARILLO — One of the final Day of the Dead events will occur this weekend when the 2015 Día de los Muertos Celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 at Conejo Mountain Funeral Home, Memorial Park and…
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…
Local news briefs
SANTA BARBARA — Award-winning author Reyna Grande will be presented with UCSB’s 12th annual Luis Leal Literature Award during a ceremony at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, in the McCune Conference Room, 6020 Humanities and Social Sciences Building at UCSB.…
Commentary: Paying homage to sacrifices of veterans of all eras
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It was a cool, foggy evening when our bus finally arrived at the U.S. Naval Recruit Training Center in San Diego. We had just witnessed a bunch of Marine recruits being dropped off at…
Bilingual commentary: “After 17”
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Country-Western music is well-known for its ability to powerfully express the heartaches, the grudges, the pleasures and the joys that we experience in our lives. It often sings of our delights, tragedies and transitions — including those…
Business: WEV to present free Spanish self-employment sessions
Orientations will be held Nov. 4 in Oxnard, Nov. 11 in Fillmore and Nov. 12 in Ventura From Amigos805 staff reports Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV). will hold free, one-hour informational sessions facilitated by Spanish Program Coordinator Leticia Sandoval in Ventura…
Local business information
> The EDC-VC and EDD will present a “Federal / State Basic Payroll Tax Seminar” from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3 at the Ventura EDD Tax Office, 4820 McGrath St., Suite 200, Ventura. Participants will receive information…
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…
More Día de los Muertos events coming this weekend, beyond
From Amigos805 staff reports Día de los Muertos events will continue this weekend in Camarillo, Goleta, Nipomo, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Santa Paula and Ventura. Camarillo • CSU Channel Islands will present its annual Día de los Muertos celebration 4…
SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning presented Día de los Muertos celebration
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Community College SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning (the CLL) hosted its free family-friendly Día de los Muertos celebration on Oct. 24 at the Schott Campus to commemorate the dead through a 4000-year-old Mesoamerican tradition. Children of all ages…