CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) is among the top 20 colleges and universities in the nation in terms of social mobility, a term synonymous with a low income students being able to improve their socioeconomic circumstances. CSUCI is ranked number 18…
Category: Youth
Ventura County School Closures for Thursday, Dec. 14
VENTURA COUNTY — Due to air quality concerns, some Ventura County school districts will remain closed through the remainder of this week (Dec. 13, 14 and 15). This includes school sites and classrooms operated by the Ventura County Office of…
Ventura County Office of Education announce school closures due to wildfire for Dec. 7, 8
VENTURA COUNTY —Due to the ongoing fire emergency, several Ventura County school districts will be closed for the remainder of this week. The current list of closures is below. The latest updates will be posted at www.vcoe.org. The following districts will…
Jan. 19 through 21 — Boys & Girls Club members display winning art at Carnegie Art Museum; receive recognition at reception and award ceremony
VENTURA COUNTY — More than 60 members from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme will have their winning National Fine Arts pieces on display 5:30–7:30 p.m. January 19 at the Carnegie Art Museum, 424 S…
Jan. 20 — Ventura County Arts Council presents ‘Emerging Artists: A Student Reading’ in Oxnard
OXNARD — The Ventura County Arts Council will present “Emerging Artists: A Student Reading” from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20 at the Oxnard Downtown Main Library. 251 S. A St., Oxnard. Presented by Oxnard Friends of the Library Foundation – Hosted…
Jan. 21 — BBSVC celebrates volunteers & first responders for National Mentoring Month
VENTURA COUNTY — January is National Mentoring Month, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is celebrating with some very special events and activities, with a message of volunteerism and thanking First Responders in Ventura County. All month long,…
Jan. 24 — ‘Toying with Science Show: Free and Open to the Public at Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center
OXNARD — As part of its renewed effort to present dynamic public programming to the Greater Oxnard area, the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center (The PACC) is pleased to host Garry Krinsky and his “Toying with Science” performance with two…
KidSTREAM Receives Grant to Measure Impact of Children’s Museum
VENTURA COUNTY — KidSTREAM, the emerging children’s museum based in Camarillo, received funding from the William A. and Cynthia D. Fairburn, Jr. Memorial Fund to assess needs and measure the expected economic and social impacts that will be created by…
El Centrito Family Learning Centers update for Nov. 30
Click here to visit El Centrito Family Learning Centers During this holiday season, El Centrito Family Learning Centers wants to Thank you! We want to thank you for making it possible for our programs to thrive and helping us…
OSD Recognizes School Psychologists During Awareness Week
OXNARD — The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) declared November 13-17, 2017 as School Psychology Awareness Week: “Power Up! Be a Positive Change.” The Oxnard School District recognizes School Psychologists for the important and vital role that they play…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Nov. 16
Click here for the entire e-newsletter This week at CAM Looking for an art engagement activity for your children ages 7-11 this weekend? The education department has a few spots open for this Saturday, November 18 – Building Blocks of…
United Way of Santa Barbara County’s Young Leaders Society Raises $6,000+ at Bowling Fundraiser
SANTA BARBARA — United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) Young Leaders Society donned their goofiest get ups and hit the lanes for their biggest United We Bowl fundraiser ever, raising more than $6,000 in support of youth education. More…
Bilingual commentary: Adjusting Education for the New Economy
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes Perhaps we need to re-think the entire approach to high school and college education as a new economic age dawns on the millennial generation beginning to enter the work force. Our curriculum…
10th annual Día de los Muertos Celebration returns to Conejo Mountain Memorial Park on Nov. 4
CAMARILLO — 10th annual Día de los Muertos Celebration returns to Conejo Mountain Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at 2052 Howard Road, Camarillo. “Hasta La Muerte — Comida, Altars, Prayers, Laughter…
Halloween brings community, residents together at the Villas at Higuera affordable housing complex
SANTA BARBARA — Everyone knows Halloween is about tricks and treats, but it’s also about coming together as a community – and being a kid. Children from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing’s (PSHH) Villas at Higuera affordable housing complex dressed in festive…
Dec. 16 — Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley for a Showing of ‘Star Wars…The Last Jedi’
AGOURA HILLS — Local youth are invited to join with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley for a private showing of ‘Star Wars…The Last Jedi’ on Saturday, December 16 at 10 a.m. at Agoura Hills Stadium 8, 29045…
Jackson praises more than 100 after-school programs that are making healthy eating, exercise a priority
SACRAMENTO — As a result of legislation authored by State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to curb childhood obesity, the California Department of Education has just released the names of more than 100 additional California after-school programs that have received recognition for…
Help BBSVC save Ventura County’s BIGS!
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is putting out a special call for BIGS – mentors who can benefit from the friendship of a Little Brother or Little Sister. There are 150 youth in Ventura County,…
Local Engineers Provide Career Advice at Cal State Northridge
NORTHRIDGE — Two local engineers from Ventura County have made a presentation at California State University, Northridge for career guidance to students. It was arranged by the student chapter of The American Society of Civil Engineers at the University. Engineering students of…
Bilingual commentary: A Requiem for Classical Music?
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes This past Sunday, along with other aficionados who filled the First United Methodist Church in Ventura, I attended a concert of the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra (“CHICO”). The classical music was as…
Students Celebrate Signing of Community College Placement Legislation
Bill changes the way that Community Colleges will place students in remedial courses SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Jerry Brown announced the signing of AB 705, which changes the way that community college students are placed in remedial courses at all 114…
United Way of Ventura County update for Oct. 10
Click here for the entire e-newsletter President’s Message Dear Friends, It’s hard to believe that in less than 100 days, we’ll welcome in the New Year. From the heartache of global natural disasters to the recent…
Grant to Help Boys & Girls Club Maintain Buildings – VCCF Board approves $25,000 to Oxnard, Port Hueneme Club to fund capacity-building work
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme has received a $25,000 grant from the Ventura County Community Foundation. The VCCF’s board of directors recently approved giving BGCOP the funds to help the Club’s…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Oct. 6
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Thank you to our generous donors during September… Including each of the attendees for the 3rd annual HOME is where the heART is at the home of Mona and Tom Neuhaus. Click here to view…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Announce New Chief Executive Officer
AGOURA — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley is pleased to announce the appointment of their new CEO, Dr. Crystal N?one. Before joining the Boys & Girls Clubs, Dr. N?one served as the Chief Executive Officer of…
Nov. 4 — Bilingual report: CSU Channel Islands to present 9th annual Science Carnival in Oxnard
OXNARD — CSU Channel Islands will present its 9th annual Science Carnival from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at Rio Vista Middle School, 3050 Thames River Drive, Oxnard. The Science Carnival is FREE to the public! Kids in kindergarten through…
Nov. 5 — Zocalo: Dia de los Muertos Features Art, Music and Poetry
Colorful community celebration offers free fun for all ages VENTURA — The community is invited to a traditional celebration of Dia de Los Muertos as created by four Ventura County artists in the spirit of the zocalo, or “village square,” complete with…
Nov. 10 — United Way of Santa Barbara County’s Young Leaders Society Presents the 8th Annual United We Bowl
SANTA BARBARA — Join United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) by heading down to the lanes Nov. 10 for the Young Leaders Society’s (YLS) 8th Annual “United We Bowl” fundraiser to have fun bowling in kooky costumes in support…
Nov. 10 — Young Leaders Society Presents “United We Bowl”
SANTA BARBARA — Join United Way of Santa Barbara County for a fun-filled night with costumes and raffle prizes at the Young Leaders Society’s 8th Annual “United We Bowl” event. The bowl-a-thon will raise funds for the Young Leaders Society’s…
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County update for Sept. 21
Click here to view the entire e-newsletter Creating Change, Not Charity Dear Friends, We are on our way to another year of grant making! The Social Justice Fund’s Board members are meeting with neighborhood activists, nonprofit leaders and elected…
Free DACA Renewal at El Concilio Family Services in Oxnard
OXNARD — We want to assure our community that El Concilio Family Services will continue to serve by providing accurate information and family strengthening services, which include renewals of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). We stand with immigrant families, Dreamers, DACA recipients, and…
The Collective Studio at Pacific View Mall seeking participants for free Día de los Muertos Workshops
PACIFIC VIEW MALL – VENTURA WE WANT YOU! FREE COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS NOW SEEKING PARTICIPANTS preparing for the FREE community celebration absolutely no experience required! FREE WORKSHOPS NOW IN SESSION All ages invited to be part of the preparations…
Jackson And De León Issue Statement On Trump Roll Back Of Title IX Protections
SACRAMENTO — Following the announcement (Sept. 7) by federal Education Secretary Betsy DeVos that the Trump Administration would be rolling back Obama-era guidelines on Title IX and student sexual assault and harassment, State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) and Senate President pro…
‘Back to School Drive’ Drops Off Back to School Items at Franklin Elementary
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Franklin Elementary School students grinned and giggled as City National Bank and United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) staff recently outfitted them with backpacks and classroom supplies to get them ready for the new school…
Jackson bill to protect scientists, scientific data passes off assembly floor
SACRAMENTO – Introduced in response to threats by the Trump Administration, a bill by State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to protect scientists and scientific research from censorship or destruction passed off the Assembly floor today on a 59-13 vote. Senate Bill…
Assemblymember Irwin’s Statement on Ending the DACA program
SACRAMENTO — “I’m appalled by today’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) “Nearly 800,000 DACA recipients in the United States have now been put at risk of deportation, including close to…
Oct. 7 — Hands-on fun: KidSTREAM and Studio Channel Islands sponsor Global Cardboard Challenge
OXNARD — KidSTREAM, an emerging children’s museum committed to bringing hands-on STEM learning to the Ventura County community, and Studio Channel Islands Art Center invite kids of all ages to bring their imaginations and creativity to the Global Cardboard Challenge,…
Oct. 14-15 — Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Hosts Naturally Wild Weekend
SANTA BARBARA — Science, nature, space, bugs, mammals, art…there’s something for everyone at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Naturally Wild Weekend. The Museum has a special lineup of activities planned for this Saturday, October 14 and Sunday, October…
Oct. 14 — Fiesta Noche Fund RaiserART SALE and Nicho Silent Auction
It’s almost here ….. FIESTA NOCHE DE RECUERDOS Saturday, October 14 6-9 pm | 6-7 VIP Preview Reception 7-9 General Event Reception An evening of memories, contemporary art and heritage Music, food, hops, amazing desserts, affordable art, prizes and Día…
Oct. 17 — “Science of the Impossible” magician Jason Latimer to perform at STEMtastic! Awards Event
OXNARD — World-renowned science magician Jason Latimer will give one of his hallmark “Science of the Impossible” presentations during the second annual STEM-tastic! awards ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 17 in Oxnard. Sponsored by the Ventura County STEM Network, STEM-tastic will take…
Oct. 22 — Community Celebration
SANTA BARBARA — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara: Celebrate Contemporary Art from Guatemala with refreshments, entertainment, and special tours at the full hour! Join us for an interactive weaving activity with Guatemalan performance artist Hellen Ascoli at the Community Arts Workshop!…
Oct. 26 — Ghosts and Goblins invited for a Spooktacular Evening of Halloween Fun at The Collection at RiverPark
OXNARD — Ghosts, goblins and monsters galore – it’s time for trick-or-treating once more. The Collection at RiverPark invites children and their families to an evening of Halloween grandeur on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 6-8 p.m. Sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dentistry…
Oct. 27 — Santa Barbara City College To Host “Trunk or Treat” Halloween Event for Children of the Community
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College Athletics Department will be hosting their First Annual Trunk or Treat event for the children of Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara City College community on Friday, October 27, 2017, from 6:30 p.m.…
Oct. 28 — ‘Tales and Scales’ Event Promises a Gh’oul Time
SANTA BARBARA — Don’t miss out on a spook-tacular event happening at the Sea Center this weekend. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History presents “Tales and Scales,” a family-friendly, educational and interactive Halloween weekend event on Saturday, October 28,…
Oct. 29 — Channel Islands Harbor Hosts Annual Farmers Market Pumpkin Fun Day
OXNARD — Channel Islands Harbor will hosts its Annual Pumpkin Fun Day Oct. 29. The community is invited to join in the fun at the Channel Islands Harbor Farmers’ Market located in the north parking lot adjacent to Marine Emporium…
Oct. 29 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Free Family Day: Dia de los Muertos
SANTA BARBARA — For the 28th year, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a variety of family festivities in the galleries, front steps, and back plaza, featuring traditional Mexican folk music by…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Summer Programs Help Local Schoolchildren Start the Year Strong
SANTA BARBARA — To help its resident families prepare for the upcoming school year, Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) hosted a variety of fun and engaging activities for resident children over the summer, including nutrition, computer coding, STEM and other programs.…
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Attorney General Xavier Becerra provide update on child identity theft law
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and California Attorney General Xavier Becerra provided an update on child identity theft law (AB 1580), which now allows parents, legal guardians or conservators to freeze the credit of children and incapacitated adults. The Attorney…
Landscape exhibit by Juvenile Facilities youth takes 3rd place at the Ventura County Fair
VENTURA COUNTY — Youth working in the Juvenile Facilities’ landscaping program, along with a certified instructor and Corrections Services Officers, planned, organized resources, completed a project, and entered their work into the Ventura County Fair’s Landscaping and Horticulture exhibit. The exhibit…
Oxnard PAL Helps Kids Start the School Year Prepared!
OXNARD – On the heels of the 3rd Annual K-12 Resource Fair with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Oxnard PAL is expanding their Back to School Outreach programs to the Southwinds Neighborhood; the soon-to-be location of a new Oxnard PAL Chapter is set to officially open in…
Ventura County Public Works Agency Hosts Tour of Santa Clara River at Future Site of New Rio School District Academy
VENTURA COUNTY — On Aug. 8, the Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Watershed Protection District (VCPWA WPD) hosted a tour of the Santa Clara River for the Rio School District (Rio) Superintendent’s office. Rio is building a new 11-acre, K-8…
CSUCI students team up with Oxnard Police Department, Ventura County and other volunteers to paint over graffiti
CAMARILLO — Almost 150 new transfer and first year students joining CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) in the fall will get a jump on their community service with a graffiti abatement event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug.…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley offer Fifth Grade Transportation throughout Conejo Valley
CONEJO VALLEY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley is taking reservations for reliable after school van transportation to four local Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the Conejo Valley. The cost is just $50 per month, Monday…
BGCOP Appoints New Member to its Board of Directors
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme announces the addition of Andrew Salinas, Port Hueneme Police Department, to its board of directors. “Andrew has a passion for helping kids and his community. He…
Santa Barbara City College update for Aug. 15
Message from the President – August 2017 We have many events and gatherings at the college that typically focus on ourselves and our work. On Monday, July 31 we had a seminal college event that focused externally on our community. …
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Celebrates National Health Center Week with Free Health Screenings and Vaccinations
National Campaign Celebrates the Key to Healthier Communities SANTA BARBARA — On Monday, August 14th Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) will hold a “Pop Up” Clinic where William Sansum Diabetes Center will provide free blood pressure and hemoglobin A1c screenings.…
RISE Helps Local Children Find Hope through Camping
RISE and Camp HOPE America wrap up another successful summer camp SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — RISE is proud to have partnered with Camp HOPE for the third year, sending 12 local children to participate in a week-long camp at Lopez Lake.…
Here come the Guerreros — The Kingsmen running the professional soccer expansion club are trying to help the community of Oxnard
By Fred Alvarez • California Lutheran University The sun is slowly sinking behind Oxnard’s Del Sol Stadium and the hometown Guerreros have taken the field, zipping through their pregame soccer warm-ups. A boom-ch-boom-chick reggaeton beat bumps through the loudspeakers, and the souvenir shop…
Sept. 23 — 12th Annual Boys & Girls Club’s “Day for Kids” – Free Event Provides Families a Day of Fun and Quality Time Together
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme invites the community to the 11th Annual “Day for Kids” 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Martin V. Smith Youth Center, 1900…
Sept. 29 through Oct. 1 — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! announces Buyepongo: Traditional sounds of Central America + Los Angeles Sonic Diversity = Tropical Cumbia Dance Party!
Warm up with free cumbia dance class before each show Summary: Los Angeles- based group specializing in cumbia and Afro-beat music from the coasts of Central America Three opportunities to see them for FREE: Friday, September 29, 7 pm, Isla Vista…
Sept. 30 — 6th Annual Port of Hueneme Banana Festival
PORT HUENEME — Bananas are tops at the 6th Annual Port of Hueneme Banana Festival, Saturday, September 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival guests will enjoy a variety of delicious foods, including BBQ, empanadas, gourmet grilled cheese, sushi…
Sept. 3 — Free First Sunday at the Museum of Ventura County: It’s a Day at the Farm!
VENTURA — September 3 is Free First Sunday and the Museum of Ventura County is hosting a Day at the Farm 11 a.m.– 5 p.m. Enjoy a screening of the beloved film, Babe, at 1 p.m. and a chance to…
Sept. 4 — Free Labor Day Tractor Fair at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula
SANTA PAULA — Bring the family for a fun-filled Labor Day at the Agriculture Museum, 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., September 4. Move to the music of Cruise Knights as you cruise the vintage tractor…
Bilingual commentary: Education — An Accelerating Divide
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes /…
United Way of Santa Barbara County Fun in the Sun Campers Pull for Olympic Glory
300+ Fun in the Sun Kids Competed in Team-Building Games at El Camino Elementary SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — More than 300 students from United Way of Santa Barbara County’s six-week Fun in the Sun (FITS) camp competed in the summer program’s…
Boys & Girls Clubs Honor Staff and Board Members at Annual Event
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme installed its 63rd Board of Directors and honored staff and board members at its annual installation and staff appreciation dinner at the Martin V. Smith Clubhouse…
SBCC EOPS Summer Bridge Program Graduation on Aug. 3
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) will hold a graduation ceremony for over 125 students who have completed the Running Start, SPARC and Transition Programs. The SBCC EOPS Summer Bridge Graduation will be held on…
Bilingual commentary: Men and Mermaids
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes /…
Aspiring engineers in CSUCI’s Summer Bridge program to test the strength of their spaghetti bridges
CAMARILLO — After a month of study on various aspects of engineering design, physics and teamwork, 40 aspiring engineers from Hueneme High School will test their skills by building a bridge out of dry spaghetti, then seeing how much weight it…
Bilingual report: Through Aug. 4 — Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundations presents Summer Camps
PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundations will present Summer Camps through Aug. 4. The Music & Dance camp will be held through Aug. 4. Early enrollment starts now through May 31 at $115 per student, with the cost…
Aug. 12 — Child Hope Services and Foster VC Kids invite community members to an inspirational and informative Foster Care Summit
VENTURA COUNTY — Child Hope Services and Foster VC Kids will host a Foster Care Summit, August 12, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Reality Ventura Church, 1954 Goodyear Avenue, Ventura, 93003. The Foster Care Summit is free and community…
Aug. 17 — FREE Children’s Dental Day
CENTRAL COAST — Dr. Steven Johnson is hosting the eighth annual FREE kids dental day, Little Hearts, Big Smiles, Thursday, August 17, 2017 from 1:00 to 5:00pm. Johnson Family Dental in Solvang, Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Camarillo will offer free…
Aug. 20 — Studio Channel Islands hosts KidSTREAM-sponsored Solar Eclipse Event
CAMARILLO — Studio Channel Islands Art Center will host SUNday SOLebration, a free kid-friendly solar eclipse celebration sponsored by KidSTREAM, an emerging children’s museum committed to bringing hands-on STEM learning to the Ventura County community, 1–3 p.m., Aug. 20, at…
Santa Barbara Bowl Announces Spring 2017 Grant Awards
Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation awards over $112,000 to Santa Barbara County performing arts programs as part of its Spring 2017 Education Outreach Grant Program. Santa Barbara, CA, (June 22, 2017) – The Santa Barbara Bowl Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to…
Bilingual report: Academia de Verano para Jóvenes / The Youth Summer Academy
La academia busca a los estudiantes con el deseo de beneficiarse en su futuro
United Way of Ventura County On the Move
Click here for the entire e-newsletter President’s Message Dear Friends, There are many caring nonprofits throughout Ventura County, but one of the most caring is Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC). A long-standing community partner of United Way’s, CEDC is truly…
Summer Camp at Santa Paula Museums (July 31 through Aug. 4) Offers Adventure in Art and Science
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Art Museum and the California Oil Museum are teaming up to launch a new summer camp in downtown Santa Paula for children in grades K-5. The week-long Museum Exploratory Summer Camp will be held July 31,…
Through July 28 — Bilingual report: Teatro de las Américas to present workshop for children, youth
OXNARD — Doing theater has many benefits, especially for children and youth because it increases confidence in expressing themselves in social and learning situations. Doing theater in Spanish is also advantageous because it enhances development in the young brain when it…
Celebration of Life for Hank Lacayo to be held on June 24 at CSUCI
CAMARILLO — A voice for workers, a force for seniors, a champion for education and a true friend to CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI), Henry L. “Hank” Lacayo will be honored on Saturday, June 24 on the campus. The public is invited to a…
Local Boys & Girls Club Receives National Honors — BGCOP given two Merit Awards for Program Excellence
CENTRAL COAST — The Boys & Girls Clubs of America recently honored the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme with two national merit awards for program excellence. The Club also received $5,000. BGCOP won an award…
Lawn Bowling for Dollars: United Way of SB County’s Young Leaders Society Raises Funds for Youth Book Program
Event proceeds benefit Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides children ages 0-5 with a book a month. CENTRAL COAST — United Way of Santa Barbara County’s Young Leaders Society and the community recently took to the green for the inaugural United…
Santa Barbara City College Student Isabel Agundis Selected to Visit NASA
SANTA BARBARA — Isabel Agundis, a Santa Barbara City College student, has been selected to travel to NASA’s Johnson Space Center this spring to participate in the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars project (NCAS). Agundis, a mechanical engineering major, is one…
Builders Circle Signifies Mark of Excellence for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Partners
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has created a category of recognition that distinguishes those partners who work alongside the nonprofit to ensure more affordable housing along the Central Coast. The Builders Circle is a prestigious group of contractors, designers…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley offer Summer Musical Camps
Newbury Park – Youth looking to show off their talents can learn new skills and improve their showmanship during the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley’s Summer Musical Camps. The Boys & Girls Clubs offer two choices –…
CSUCI’s Computer Science students place 3rd in national NASA Swarmathon competition
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Computer Science students who placed third in the nation in the Second Annual NASA Swarmathon competition will demonstrate how they developed their winning algorithm during the SAGE Research Conference Saturday. The NASA Swarmathon team traveled to…
CSUCI, Oxnard College and Oxnard Union High School District will enter into STEMpacts with students
CAMARILLO — With their families by their sides, 70 high school and middle school students will gather at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center on May 11 to enter into a pact with Oxnard College and/or CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI). Oxnard Union High School…
June 28 — Social Justice Fund for Ventura County to announce grant winners
A Celebration of Justice Breaking Down Barriers to Success in Education Wednesday, June 28 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Four Friends Gallery 1414 Thousand Oaks Blvd Suite 111 Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 RSVP Today Next week the Social Justice Fund for…
Fatima Ponce from Hathaway Elementary School in Oxnard wins 2017 Youth Art Contest for the 34th annual California Strawberry Festival
OXNARD — From 951 entries Kindergarten to 6th grade, the whimsical roller skating strawberry design of five-year-old Fatima Ponce from Hathaway Elementary School in Oxnard was selected as the grand prize winner of the 34th Annual California Strawberry Festival Youth Art Design…
May 23 — Local Culinary Students Vie for Top Honors during the Third Annual Student Culinary Competition ‘Sweets by the Beach’
OXNARD — Students from three culinary academies in the Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD) will put their culinary skills to the test at the Third Annual “Sweets by the Beach” Student Culinary Competition. The event takes place on Tuesday, May…
UCSB’s Early Academic Outreach Program to host annual UC Success Night events honoring regional high school seniors
By Andrea Estrada • UCSB The Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) at UC Santa Barbara will hold a series of UC Success Night events April 19-28 to celebrate the academic success of seniors from UCSB’s EAOP partnership schools who have been admitted to the…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County: Jersey Mike’s Subs & Vince Ferragamo are taking a swing to make a BIG impact!
VENTURA COUNTY — Watching Vince Ferragamo and Dan Burrell joke with one another like longtime friends at the Jersey Mike’s Subs in Westlake Village, you would never expect that the two gentlemen had only met a few hours earlier that same…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Accepting Registrations for the 2017 Spring Sports Leagues
AGOURA HILLS — The community is invited to register for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley’s Spring 2017 coed Jr. NBA Basketball League and Sunday Soccer League through April 17. The Sports Leagues are open to ages 3-12.…
May 13 — Local PODS Helps Foster Youth Transition to Independence
VENTURA COUNTY — Local PODS Moving and Storage leader will be supporting local foster group Women of Substance Men of Honor (WOSMOH) at their 9th Annual Embracing Hearts for Foster Youth Rummage Sale with a donation of two PODS containers.…
June 12 — Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Invite the Community to ‘Swing into Action’ at the 8th Annual Golf Classic
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Golfers are invited to participate in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley’s 8th Annual Golf Classic while helping raise funds for local youth on Monday, June 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the…
June 3 – 27th Annual Horse Show & Tack Sale to Showcase Local Riders’ Equitation Skills
SANTA BARBARA – Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center will host its 27th Annual Student Horse Show & Tack Sale showcasing riders of all ages and capabilities on Saturday, June 3 from 9:00am to 4:00pm at their riding facilities, located at 4420…
Through April 30 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to present 26th Annual High School Art Exhibition
OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum will be exhibiting art work from students of the Oxnard Union High School District from April 3 – April 30, 2017. On Thursday, April 6 from 5-7pm, a reception and awards ceremony will…
Hundreds of Central Coast Students and Educators Participate in Global Entrepreneurship Summit
SOLVANG — More than 200 students, teachers, career counselors, and administrators from regional high schools met at the Hotel Corque in Solvang on March 17 for the 2017 Global Entrepreneurship Summit hosted by the Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Scheinfeld…
Family Service Agency moves to new Lompoc location
LOMPOC — To better serve its clientele, Family Service Agency will begin providing services at a new location in Lompoc starting Monday, April 3, 2017. The agency purchased former medical offices, and after extensive renovations, will move staff in its senior…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley announce Youth of the Year winners
AGOURA — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley announced the Youth of the Year winners during their 14th Annual ‘Superstars of the Year Celebration’ held on March 19 at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. Iverson Rodriguez won…
Local Teens Practice Lawmaking in Sacramento as Lompoc Family YMCA Youth & Government Delegates
LOMPOC — The Channel Islands YMCA Youth & Government delegation joined more than 3,000 youth from throughout California for the 69th Model Legislature & Court held Feb. 16-19 at the Sacramento Convention Center and State Capitol. Among them was Lompoc…
BGCOP Appoints Four New Members to its Board of Directors
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme announces the addition of Alison Norris, Michael Vasalos, Evan Scott and Dr. Cynthia Azari to its Board of Directors. “These four individuals come from very different…
Sunrise Rotary Supports Bright Smiles for the Sixth Consecutive Year at Eastside Family Dental Clinic
SANTA BARBARA — The skies cleared on Friday, February 24th for the Free Dental Day at Eastside Family Dental Clinic. The event has been sponsored by Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise since 2012 and has provided hundreds with dental procedures…
CSUCI hosts STEM Innovation Challenge on March 18 for middle school girls
CAMARILLO — About 60 middle school girls ages nine to 12 will race the clock to build a prototype during a STEM Innovation Challenge at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) on Saturday, March 18. Sponsored by the Business & Technology Partnership (B&TP), the…
Assemblymember Irwin Introduces Workforce Development Legislation
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D – Thousand Oaks) has introduced two bills to modernize community colleges and prepare students for the 21st century economy. Assemblymember Irwin, chair of the Select Committee on Cybersecurity, introduced AB 405 which would create…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme Servicing More Youth
VENTURA COUNTY — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) recently released the findings of an internal audit revealing the number of youth served by the organization increased 13 percent to 10,400 children annually from its…
May 13 — Gold Coast Health Plan to present 6th annual Community Resource Fair in Oxnard
OXNARD — Gold Coast Health Plan will host their 6th Annual Community Resource Fair at Plaza Park in Oxnard. Free health screenings and resource information will be offered by various health and community agencies. Please see flyer for more information.
April 14-15 — The Collection at RiverPark Hops into spring with Bunny Hop event and photos
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark will be hosting its family favorite Bunny Hop event sponsored by Natural Green Landscape, on Saturday, April 8. The expanded holiday event will host a range of spring-themed activities and a special visit from…
April 3 — Inspirational Women Take the Stage at Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Luncheon
CARINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria will host its annual “Women of Inspiration” luncheon on Monday, April 3, welcoming Erica Ford, CEO and founder of LIFE Camp, Inc., who will serve as the keynote speaker. Ford’s motivation to make a…
May 1 — Women & What We Love: An Evening of Friendship and Fundraising
OXNARD — Benefiting the children of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme, “Women & What We Love” is a unique fundraising event taking place 5-8 p.m., May 1 at Waterside Restaurant and Wine Bar, 3500…
YCE, Inc. rolls out the “green carpet” to over 300 guests for “Dream Big” movie premiere on Feb. 26
VENTURA — Ventura-based YCE, Inc. a woman-owned engineering and surveying firm, hosted the local premiere of Dream Big – Engineering Our World at the Collection’s Century Riverpark 16 theater on Feb. 26. Over 300 enthusiastic guests were greeted by YCE, Inc. owner Marta…
Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government Delegates Return from Training & Elections Conference in Fresno
VENTURA — The Channel Islands YMCA Youth & Government delegation joined more than 3,500 youth from across the state in Fresno for their second Training & Elections conference held Jan. 14-16 at the Fresno Convention Center. Twenty-four teens with the…
Lompoc Family YMCA Kicks Off 2017 Annual Campaign
LOMPOC – The Lompoc Family YMCA on Feb. 15 kicked off its Annual Campaign, which brings together staff, board members and volunteers to raise funds to provide scholarships that will enable the Y to “Build a Better Lompoc.” The Lompoc Family…
March 9 — UCSB sociologist Victor Rios to discuss how emotional support from authority figures impacts the lives of marginalized students
By Andrea Estrada / UCSB Research on students who overcome adversity to successfully navigate higher education has shown that emotionally relevant educators often make the difference, by fostering the resilience that makes success possible. No one knows that better than…
March 19 — Celebrity Artists Join with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley to Honor Local Youth & Volunteers during the 14th Annual ‘Superstars of the Year’ Celebration
THOUSAND OAKS — The community is invited to attend one of the signature events for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley – ‘14th Annual Superstars of the Year Celebration’. This free, annual event, is open to all ages…
CSUCI senior earns scholarship for her work in the student food pantry
CAMARILLO — Sociology major Alexis Marquez, 21, was called to act when she learned that one in four students in the 23-campus CSU system may be going hungry. Her community service project heading a student-run food pantry on the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)…
Oxnard teen honored as BGCOP’s Youth of the Year
OXNARD — Singled out among several outstanding youth, 18-year-old Nathan Llorin has been chosen as this year’s Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme. A four-year Club member, Llorin is a…
Local Girls Inc. Member Awarded $20K Scholarship from National Scholars Program
Carpinteria High senior Ana Delgado selected to speak at Girls Inc. National Luncheon in New York CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria member Ana Delgado has been selected as a 2017 scholarship winner in the competitive Girls Inc. National Scholar Program. She is…
Guest Column: The Latino Art & Cultural Center of Oxnard
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. Armando Vazquez. Courtesy photo. By…
Ventura County Arts Council Program Selected As JUMPStArts Success Model
A lanky 14-year-old boy puts the finishing touches on his poem entitled “Clarity,” then reads it aloud with feeling and rhythm. The poem resonates with deep emotion, expressing its author’s personal pain about the hard struggles of serving time in…
March 3 — Wish Night 2017
CENTRAL COAST — Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties will be hosting their 8th Annual Wish Night gala celebrating the power of a wish to inspire hope, strength and joy to courageous children battling life-threatening medical conditions. This year’s event will be held 6-9:30…
Guest commentary: Mentoring — Changing Lives, One Relationship at a Time
Take a moment to think about someone who has made a positive difference in your life. Who inspired you to do your best and dream big? For so many of us, having someone who supported our aspirations, gave guidance, and…
Guest commentary: Professor, You’re Being Watched!?
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. Frank P. Barajas. Courtesy photo.…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County: BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE is Creating a BIG Experience for Littles!
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is looking for teams and individuals to participate in the annual BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE fundraising event, to help support a BIG experience for program youth: by supporting Bowl For Kids’…
CSU Channel Islands receives grant to develop four-year teacher preparation programs
Grant will help university’s effort to develop Bilingual and Special Education teachers CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will receive a grant of almost $250,000 from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to develop four-year teacher preparation programs. California is experiencing…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Barbara County Celebrates 30 Years of Local Mentoring
SANTA BARBARA — In 2017, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Santa Barbara County will celebrate its 30th year of providing life-changing mentoring friendships for our community’s struggling youth. January is National Mentoring Month and currently over 80 at-risk children in Santa…
Through Jan. 31 — KHAY’s Dave Daniels Joins Foster VC for “Open Heart” Home Drive
VENTURA COUNTY — Every child deserves a family, and this New Year, 100.7 KHAY’s Dave Daniels hopes that by joining Foster VC Kids for their “Open Heart” drive, through Jan. 31st, more dedicated families who are ready for the life-changing experience…
Feb. 25 — Foster VC Kids to hold Open Hearts Town Hall Meeting in Oxnard
Local Nurses’ Hearts Beat for Foster Kids VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County resident and foster parent Sandra Chronis has always had a special place in her heart for babies. The labor and delivery nurse made a career out of welcoming…
Bilingual report: Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. hosting Dental Health Fair on Feb. 11 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 February…
Local Youth Giving Back: Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Government Delegates Hold Clean Up Day
SANTA BARBARA — Delegates from the Channel Islands YMCA Youth and Government team recently gave back to the community by helping clean up the baseball fields at Mackenzie Park in Santa Barbara. Students from the Stuart C. Gildred (Santa Ynez),…
Danielle Brinkman-Vera to Chair Ventura Family YMCA 2017 Annual Campaign
VENTURA — The Ventura Family YMCA is proud to announce Danielle Brinkman-Vera as Chair of the 2017 Annual Campaign. Brinkman-Vera is Partner in Charge of Tax Services-Oxnard at Farber Hass Hurley LLP. She is an expert in her field and…
Clinicas to distribute toys throughout Ventura County through Dec. 22
VENTURA COUNTY — It has been a time honored tradition during the holiday season for Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. to distribute toys to its pediatric patients. The tradition continues this year as Clinicas’ Toy Giveaway will again take place at…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme Receive $100,000 Grant
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) has been awarded a $100,000 grant through the Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Foundation to support BGCOP’s mission to provide a safe haven after school and…
Community Holiday Tree and Wreath Sale to Support Life-Changing Local Youth Programs at Santa Barbara Family YMCA
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Family YMCA’s junior high and high school students are selling Christmas trees and wreaths to raise money to support youth and teen programs. The community is welcome to purchase and take home the trees…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme Servicing More Youth
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) on Dec. 7 released the findings of its recent internal audit revealing the number of youth served by the organization increased 13 percent to 10,400 children annually from…
Foster VC Kids, CSA, KVTA Radio Collaborate for “Holidays with Heart” Drive
VENTURA COUNTY — For 25 years, CSA and radio station 1590 AM KVTA Local News Talk, have collaborated to collect toys and raise funds for the more than 1,000 foster children and youth in Ventura County, as well as growing…
NSF-funded program gives academically strong, low-income engineering undergraduates get the boost they need to complete their degrees
By Sonia Fernandez / UCSB If you’re a college undergrad, you know full well your third year is your moment of truth. Gone are the days of tentatively exploring your major; gone is much of the flexibility you had to…
Ventura Family YMCA Inspires the Community at Annual Prayer Breakfast
CENTRAL COAST — More than 100 guests attended the Ventura Family YMCA’s annual Prayer Breakfast held Nov. 16. It was an uplifting morning of prayer and encouragement with music led by Pastor Troy Jones of The River Community Church. Breakfast…
And the Winner is… Local Youth: Ventura Family YMCA Flag Football Team Builds Teamwork and Confidence in Final Tournament
CENTRAL COAST — Four flag football teams from the Montecito, Santa Barbara, Stuart C. Gildred (Santa Ynez) and Ventura branches of the Channel Islands YMCA competed in their Bowl Games on Nov. 12 at the Carpinteria High School football field.…
Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government Delegates Host Bill Hearing Night to Prepare for State Conference
CENTRAL COAST — The Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government team introduced and debated three mock bills on Nov. 28 at the California Court of Appeals. The bill hearing night is part of their preparation for the 69th Model Legislature…
Montecito Family YMCA Elects Sally Jo Murren as New Board Chair
MONTECITO — The Montecito Family YMCA is proud to announce Sally Jo Murren as new board chair. Murren has served on the Board of Managers since 2013. She currently serves as the Director of Sales with Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore…
UC Santa Barbara undergraduate one of only 10 college students nationwide selected as a Frederick Douglass Global Fellow
By Shelly Leachman / UCSB It’s a long way from Wilmington to London. But Georgina Aguilar will soon make the trek from her home city of nine square miles and 57,000 people to 600-square-mile London, nine million people strong. And…
U.S. Dept. of Education awards CSU Channel Islands $6 million grant to promote STEM education
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) has received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education for nearly $6 million to help Hispanic and low income students gain greater access to a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. The grant is…
Guest commentary: History of Professors — Stories to Connect with Students, especially First Gens. Part 1
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. Frank P. Barajas. Courtesy photo.…
Law authored by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson to encourage young people to vote takes effect
SACRAMENTO – A law authored by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to encourage young people to vote by allowing voter pre-registration beginning at age 16 has just taken effect. In 2014, Jackson authored Senate Bill 113 and Governor Jerry Brown signed it…
Montecito Family YMCA: 7 Healthy Habits for Your Family to Help Solve Childhood Obesity
California now ranked No. 1 in percentage of children considered overweight or obese; Childhood obesity has more than tripled during the past 30 years MONTECITO – September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, and while the dangers of childhood obesity are…
Hispanic Heritage Month: One month is not enough
Too many issues and events to squeeze into one month of reflection and celebration By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Many folks wonder why Hispanic Heritage Month is divided between September and October. Yes, at least we get a month,…
Community Philanthropy Teams Up to Fund New Vehicle for Youth and Family Services YMCA
SANTA BARBARA – Noah’s Anchorage, a program of Youth and Family Services YMCA, was the grateful recipient of a new vehicle to aid in the necessary daily transportation of youth in the program. The vehicle purchase was funded by donations from the…
Foster VC Kids, Ventura County Office of Education Collaborate on Innovative Support Systems for Foster Youth
Parent Teacher Forum to be held Oct. 11 VENTURA COUNTY — School stability is extraordinarily difficult for youth that experience life in foster care. Less than 50% of foster youth graduate from high school and only 3% go on to…
Snap a “Selfie” for Hunger Action Month
VENTURA COUNTY — September is Hunger Action Month, and FOOD Share is asking everyone to share the message that 1 in 6 Ventura County residents is still food insecure. That’s 136,000 of our children, families, and seniors who lack, at…
The Collection at RiverPark Hosts 3rd annual Trick-or-Treat Event, Oct. 27
OXNARD — Little ghosts and goblins are invited to an evening of Halloween splendor for The Collection at RiverPark’s Trick or Treat event on Thursday, Oct. 27 from 6-8 p.m. In an event sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dental for Children…