SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health, the regional health plan for Medi-Cal, recognized the work of local network physicians and healthcare centers through their Primary Care Providers (PCP) Incentive Top Performer awards. The awards acknowledge PCPs across San Luis Obispo and…
Local PODS® Moving and Storage Offers Declutter Tips for the New Year
VENTURA COUNTY — As we enter 2019, New Year’s resolutions are at the forefront of everyone’s mind. While gyms start to reach capacity and homes receive fresh face lifts, local PODS moving and storage is stepping in to help local…
State Sen. Jackson Applauds Governor’s Bold First Budget Proposal
Budget commits to robust emergency preparedness and paid family leave SACRAMENTO – State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) released the following statement on Governor Gavin Newsom’s January budget proposal released today. “I applaud Governor Newsom’s visionary yet prudent approach to addressing some…
State Leaders Representing Woolsey Fire Impacted Communities: We Need Partnership, Not Politics, on Emergency Response
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), Assemblymember Christy Smith, Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, Assemblymember Richard Bloom and Senator Henry Stern today issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s comments regarding FEMA emergency aid: “It is unacceptable to use…
CSUCI awarded $1.1 million grant for Early Childhood Dual Language Learning
CAMARILLO — For children whose families don’t speak English at home, research has shown there are numerous advantages to educating young children in English and their native language simultaneously. These young students are called Dual Language Learners or DLLs. Developing strategies…
Museum of Ventura County update for Jan. 9 — Help Shape the Future of Our Museum
Dear Friend of the Museum, We are in the process of gathering information to shape the Museum’s priorities for the next five years. We would really appreciate your taking the time to envision the future with us. Please share your thoughts…
Bilingual report: Ventura County Health Care Agency Vaccine and Medication Ineffectiveness Update
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Health Care Agency provides Vaccine and Medication Ineffectiveness Update. Click here for information in English Click here for information in español
Cottage Health Employees, United Way Spread Joy to Elementary Students
SANTA BARBARA — United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) and Cottage Health employees teamed up to ensure 30 elementary age students all had gifts to unwrap for the holidays. Cottage Health employees contacted UWSBC in the fall to arrange…
State Sen. Jackson Issues Statement In Advance of One-Year Anniversary of Montecito Debris Flow Anniversary
SACRAMENTO – In advance of the one-year anniversary of the January 9 Montecito debris flow, State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) released the following statement: “The Montecito debris flow was a devastating tragedy that claimed 23 lives, destroyed dozens of homes, and…
FEMA Offers Free Advice on Repair, Rebuilding at Woodland Hills Home Depot through 12
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Thousands of homes and businesses were burned to the ground in mid-November, as wildfires spread through portions of Butte, Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Countless other structures were damaged — many so severely as to make them…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County treating Ventura County volunteers to free coffee
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is kicking off National Mentoring Month by taking over Ventura County’s favorite coffee shops! Through the month of January, anyone interested in becoming a volunteer mentor to a young…
Santa Paula Art Museum update for Jan. 7 — Tell Us About Yourself and You Could Win $25 Toward a Class
As the Santa Paula Art Museum approaches its ninth birthday (on February 14), we’d like to know how the Museum can better serve you and our entire community. We would be so grateful if you would participate in our audience…
Bilingual report: VCAAA, Alzheimer’s Association Challenge Local Businesses to Become Dementia Friendly
VENTURA — A new movement was introduced to Ventura County this summer as the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association, and other partnering agencies rolled out Dementia Friendly Ventura County to provide better service to local residents living…
Bilingual report — Fire-Damaged Septic Systems and Wells May Be Eligible for Assistance
SACRAMENTO — California residents whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the November wildfires in Butte, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties, may be able to get help paying for some household repairs not usually covered by insurance. Repair or replacement of…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Jan. 4 — Exhibitions on view through Feb. 17
Click here for the entire e-newsletter EXHIBITIONS on view through – February 17, 2019 recent landscape paintings by Karen Kitchel This work re-frames traditional landscape imagery. Mischieviously beautiful, the paintings are made of asphalt emulsion, tar, wax, shellac, and powdered…
Bilingual report: Volunteers needed for annual homeless count in Ventura County
VENTURA — Community volunteers are needed for the annual count and survey of homeless persons in Ventura County. The 2019 Ventura County Homeless Count and Subpopulation Survey has been scheduled for Tuesday, January 22, 2019. The annual Homeless Count is…
Guest commentary: Department of Pesticide Regulation finds illegal pesticides on our food at a rate equivalent to once a week in a Californian’s diet
Claims that rate is “low” By Californians for Pesticide Reform Once again, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has released its annual study of pesticide residues on food (2017 data); once again it found illegal pesticide amounts on more…
Bring Your Appetite and Head to Oxnard …. Oxnard Restaurant Week 2019 “Tacos, Treats & Tastings” Takes Place Jan. 18-27
OXNARD — Put the diet aside and treat yourself to a culinary feast during Oxnard Restaurant Week 2019, “Tacos, Treats & Tastings”. The week-long celebration spotlights Oxnard’s culinary culture taking place Friday, January 18, 2019 through Sunday, January 27, 2019. Many of…
CSUCI Entrepreneurship & Small Business Institute gets a new director
CAMARILLO — A unique CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) institute designed to help launch student entrepreneurs is getting a new director. Beginning with the spring semester, Assistant Professor of Management, Cynthia Sherman, Ph.D., will head the Entrepreneurship & Small Business Institute (ESBI),…
Five Board of Governors Members with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) Receive High Honors from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America
AGOURA HILLS — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) are pleased to announce that five members of the BGCGCV Board of the Governors were recently recognized with prestigious national awards by the Boys & Girls Clubs of…
Bilingual report: Deadlines for fire victims (Jan. 11) to apply for Individual Assistance or debris removal approaching
THOUSAND OAKS — The deadline for residents affected by the Woolsey or Hill fires to apply for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is January 11, 2019. Ventura County residents can apply online or at the Disaster Recovery…
Museum of Contemporary Arts Santa Barbara update for Jan 2 — Happy New Year from all of us at MCASB!
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Happy New Year from all of us at MCASB! We’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead, beginning with the opening of our upcoming February exhibition featuring Lara Favaretto. Thank you to everyone…
Museum of Ventura County update for Jan. 2 — Opening Reception! Chris Hillman: Time Between on Jan. 11
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Happy New Year! There is plenty to be excited about to start the New Year at the Museum of…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Jan. 1 — Art Classes for Kids
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Art Classes for Kids Jump into the New Year with art classes for kids ages 7 – 11, a perfect gift for your creatives! Building Blocks of Art Saturdays – January 5, 12, 19…
February — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care in Santa Barbara ‘Grief Walk and Talk’
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care in Santa Barbara will present a ‘Grief Walk and Talk.’ Join this easy-paced walking group that provides informal support as we walk together through grief. Facilitated by Dairine Pearson, LCSW Every Friday starting February 1st, 10:00…
February — Livingston’s Camarillo Hospice Announces New Group
Understanding Your Grief, a 10 Week Grief Support Group for Widow and Widowers Starting Wednesday February 6thfrom 5:00 to 6:30 pm Understanding Your Grief, written by author, educator and grief counselor, Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD is intended to companion the…
February — Art Trek announces upcoming events
NEWBURY PARK — Art Trek, at 703 Rancho Conejo Blvd. Newbury Park, will present the following events: Family Paint Night All Ages Friday, February 1 6:00p-8:30p $12.50 per person Art Trek, 703 Rancho Conejo Blvd. Newbury Park, CA 91320 Sign-up Online at arttrek.org/fampaint/…
Through Feb. 12 — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care in Santa Barbara present ‘Loss of a Spouse or Partner’
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care in Santa Barbara presenting “Loss of a Spouse or Partner session,” facilitated by Mara Petrick, MSW, LCSW, Six Tuesdays, 1/8/19 to 2/12/19, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Contact (805) 690 6296 or mara.petrick@vnhcsb.org for more details.
Feb. 13 — Healthy Heart, Healthy Aging Expo
SANTA BARBARA — Come discover the latest on how heart health impacts us as we age and new ways to maintain our healthy hearts from a variety of local vendors and health care providers. The “Health Hear, Healthy Aging” expo…
Feb. 13 — OC LIVE to present African American History Month event — Think – Act – Lead
OXNARD — Celebrating African American History Month ~ “THINK ~ ACT ~ LEAD” with Sara Mayo-Rex, Wednesday, February 13 @2:30pm in the Oxnard College Performing Arts Building, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. Learn how to activate your intrinsic excellence! Join us at the PAB…
Feb. 16 — Design in the Making: Ventura County Architecture – Opening Reception!
VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County and the American Institute of Architects Ventura County (AIAVC) present Design in the Making: Ventura County Architecture, a community architectural exhibit exploring the dynamic role of architects and designers in affecting positive change…
Feb. 16-17 — Life Celebrates Art as Art Comes Alive at Channel Islands Maritime Museum
OXNARD — Did you know that when “Art Comes Alive,” life is so much more interesting? Join the Channel Islands Maritime Museum on Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 12-4PM as friends of the museum dress up in costume and…
Bilingual report: Through Feb. 16 — Food for Fines week at Ventura County Library
VENTURA COUNTY — Food for Fines week at Ventura County Library is February 10 – 16, 2019:Ventura County Library, in partnership with FOOD Share Ventura County, is offering customers the ability to return overdue items along with canned food donations to…
Feb. 16 — Ojai Library to present ‘Life-Force Energy Expo and Immersion – A presentation by renowned Grandmaster Qin from China’
OJAI — At 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 16, 2019, Grandmaster Qin will visit the Ojai Library to deliver a presentation on the Life-Force Energy Expo and Immersion. The Life-Force Energy Expo and Immersion explores the Qigong method of cultivating bioforce…
Through Feb. 17 — Carnegie Art Museum announces upcoming exhibits
Click here for the entire e-newsletter OPENING EXHIBITIONS December 9, 2018 – February 17, 2019 In the aftermath of the 2017 Thomas Fire, Luther Gerlach turned his camera on the destruction and regeneration spanning Ventura county, using chemical elements gathered…
Feb. 17 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum presents ‘Art Comes Alive’
OXNARD — Did you know that when “Art Comes Alive,” life is much more interesting? Join the Channel Islands Maritime Museum on Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, 12-4PM as friends of the museum dress up in costume and activate…
Feb. 17 — ‘The Search for Silence in Turbulent Times – An introductory talk by Anagarika Sucinno’ at the Ojai Library
OJAI — Anagarika Sucinno will visit the Ojai Library at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 17, 2019, to deliver an introductory talk titled “The Search for Silence in Turbulent Times.” Are we inevitably stuck in history’s turbulence and personal suffering? How…
Feb. 17 — Art Film: An Economy of Grace (Kehinde Wiley)
CARPENTERIA — The Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center will present “An Economy of Grace” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17 at 855 Linden Ave., Carpinteria. In the 1970s, Kehinde Wiley was inspired to become an artist by childhood visits to the Huntington…
Feb. 19 — MCASB to present ‘In Conversation: Emerging Leaders in the Arts’
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Did you know that in 2018 only 12 percent of senior leaders in American museums were people of color? Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara is taking steps to change that! Join Abaseh Mirvali, Executive…
Feb. 20 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum Speaker Series to present Richard Senate discussion on: ‘Oxnard’s Literary Gift to the world, Mystery writer, lawyer, defender of the underdog, Erle Stanley Gardner’
OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum’s Speaker Series will present “Oxnard’s Literary Gift to the world, Mystery writer, lawyer, defender of the underdog, Erle Stanley Gardner” with Richard Senate at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard. Entry is free…
Feb. 22 — Ojai Library to present ‘Walking on Eggshells and Communicating with Adult Kids – A presentation by Judy Devore’
OJAI — Communications consultant, attorney, and senior peer counselor Judy Devore will visit the Ojai Library at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 22, 2019, to deliver a presentation titled “Walking on Eggshells and Communicating with Adult Kids.” Senior parents often feel…
Feb. 23 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘California Dreaming: A Lecture by Dylan Turk on Frank Lloyd Wright and the Architecture of Southern California’
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present “California Dreaming: A Lecture by Dylan Turk on Frank Lloyd Wright and the Architecture of Southern California,” from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, Dylan Turk is an…
Feb. 23 — Ojai Library to present ‘Monsters: The Dark Side of Human Imagination – A presentation by Kathryn Padgett’
OJAI — Kathryn Padgett will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2019, to deliver a talk entitled “Monsters: The Dark Side of Human Imagination.” Ms. Padgett comes to us via the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s…
Feb. 23 — Righetti High School Marimba Band, Ballet Folklorico to perform at SLO Library
SAN LUIS OBISPO — The Righetti High School Marimba Band and Ballet Folklorico will be heading north to perform at the SLO Library on Saturday, Feb. 23. The band will play popular rancheras and cumbias melodies and perform dances from Sinaloa,…
Feb. 23 — Moorpark College to Host Region in Statewide Cybersecurity Contest
MOORPARK — Moorpark College was named as one of 12 regional sites to host the California Mayors Cyber Cup, (CMCC) a statewide cybersecurity contest for middle and high school students. Simultaneous regional competitions around the state create one virtual statewide…
Feb. 23 — League of Women Voters ‘Love the League’ Event
VENTURA — The League of Women Voters of Ventura County (LWVVC), a nonpartisan political organization, invites all public-spirited citizens and community members to join us in a Celebration of Empowered Women and the 60 Year anniversary of the LWV in Ventura…
Bilingual report: Feb. 23-24 — The PACC proudly presents RESCUECON
OXNARD — The Oxnard Performing Arts Center (The PACC) presents RESCUECON, a convention like no other, where the human-animal bond takes center stage. Through visual and performing arts, hands-on workshops, talks by inspiring individuals, an artisan marketplace, and so much more,…
Feb. 23 — Ojai Library to present ‘Cadillac Desert: Part II’
OJAI — At 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2019, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) will visit the Ojai Library to host an encore viewing and discussion of the 1997 documentary Cadillac Desert: Water and the…
Feb. 24 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘The Erotic Art of Japan’s Ukiyo?e Masters in a Comparative Context Lecture by Ellis Tinios’
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present “The Erotic Art of Japan’s Ukiyo?e Masters in a Comparative Context Lecture by Ellis Tinios,” 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24. All of Japan’s great “floating world” (ukiyo-e) print artists—Moronobu,…
Feb. 24 — Oceanview Pavilion presents the LIVE television taping of the PP3 CUP FINALS!
PORT HUENEME — On February 24th, at Port Hueneme’s Oceanview Pavilion, 575 E. Surfside Drive, Championship Wrestling from Hollywood presents a blockbuster event with the FINALS of the annual Percy Pringle III Memorial Cup Tournament! Former Television Champion Bateman has qualified, but who…
Feb. 24 — Hill Road Library in Ventura to present ‘I’m a Little Brain Dead – A book presentation by Kimberly Davis Basso’
VENTURA — Acclaimed author Kimberly Davis Basso will visit the Hill Road Library at 12 p.m. on Sunday, February 24, 2019, to present her inspirational book, I’m a Little Brain Dead. Basso’s book is a thoughtful and humorous take on her…
Feb. 25 — One-stop-shop event connecting underrepresented groups to difficult-to-obtain benefits, services to be held in Morro Bay
SAN LUIS OBISPO — A one-stop-shop event connecting underrepresented groups to difficult-to-obtain benefits and services is being held in Morro Bay this month. The County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office and the County Department of Social Services are…
Feb. 25 — Grammy-nominated blues singer Janiva Magness to perform at CSU Channel Islands
CAMARILLO — The second woman ever to be named the Blues Foundation’s B.B. King Entertainer of the Year will be performing on the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. on Monday, February 25, in Malibu Hall, Room…
Feb. 26 — Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) hosting free online webinar for the community, ‘Preserve Your Home’
OXNARD — Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) in Oxnard is hosting a free online webinar for the community, “Preserve Your Home”. You will learn about the options available to help you save your home, how to recognize and avoid foreclosure scams, and/or about…
Feb. 27 — Courage, Love, and Compassion: An evening with Joan Halifax
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s Community Education and Engagement Series is pleased to present “Courage, Love, and Compassion: An Evening with Joan Halifax”. On Wednesday, February 27th, Roshi Joan Halifax, a renowned Buddhist teacher, author, Zen priest, and…
Feb. 28 — OC Live to present ‘Crooked Eye Tommy’
Click here for the entire e-newsletter OXNARD — Coming up! CROOKED EYE TOMMY Thursday, February 28 @ 6pm in the Performing Arts Building Are you ready to get serious about the blues? ‘Cause OC is gonna be rockin’ with some deep…
Through Feb. 28 — Tuition-Free Career Skills Classes Begin Soon at SBCC School of Extended Learning
SANTA BARBARA — As the season cools, SBCC School of Extended Learning is giving working professionals and job-seekers tuition-free options to heat up their career paths with skills in Business, Design and Technology. Short courses and series in digital design…
March 1 — Kathy Ireland Joins Women United for ‘A Classic Storybook Luncheon’
SANTA BARBARA — Supermodel turned businesswoman Kathy Ireland will join United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) Women United in support of early education programs during “A Classic Storybook Luncheon” March 1 at the Coral Casino. Proceeds from the special…
March 1 — Learn about Summer Camp Options during STEAM Family Night Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCCGV)
THOUSAND OAKS — Families are invited to learn all about the programs and experiences the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCCGV) will offer this summer during STEAM Family Night held on Friday, March 1 from 5 to 7…
March 2 — Common Ground’ Exhibit at the Santa Paula Art Museum to Feature Meredith Brooks Abbott, Susan Petty and Gail Pidduck
Exhibit opens with a premiere party on Saturday, March 2, 2019, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. Admission to the premiere is $10.00 for members and $15.00 for non-members. Exhibit will be on view March 2, 2019 through July 7, 2019. SANTA…
Bilingual report: Las Cafeteras Bring it Home. Oxnard/Ventura Natives Headline their First 805 Concert, Work to Move the Arts Forward in VC with concert on Feb. 1
OXNARD — As part of its 50th anniversary season, the PACC is excited to present Las Cafeteras in concert with special guests The Villalobos Brothers on Feb. 1, 2019 starting at 7 p.m. Las Cafeteras remix roots music and tell…
Santa Paula Museum of Art update for Jan. 1 — Watch Our Video: A Year in Images
2018 was a year of big and wonderful changes at the Santa Paula Art Museum, particularly with the renovation and opening of our second building, the Cole Creativity Center. And it is all thanks to the support, encouragement, and inspiration…
Friendship Center of Santa Barbara update for Jan. 1 — Self-Care: New Year’s Resolution for Caregivers
Click here for the entire e-newsletter About Us Programs For Caregivers Calendar of Activities Events Donate Contact Us Train Your Brain! CONNECTIONS Now Mondays & Wednesdays in Montecito: GOLETA 805-845-7442 Persons w/Memory Loss & Their Caregivers 2nd & 4th…
United Way Seeks Volunteers for Income Tax Assistance Program
SANTA BARBARA — United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) is recruiting volunteers to help local families and individuals prepare their tax returns and practice financial responsibility as part of its annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Volunteer training…
Teen shows resilience through her life-long foster experience; shares how finally having a home and family impacted her life
The teen and Foster VC Kids are sharing her story to encourage Ventura County families to help by fostering, mentoring or providing permanency. VENTURA COUNTY — Keanna, age 18, is sharing the story of her life-long foster experience with the hope…
Pew Research Center’s Hispanic Trends update for Dec. 21 — U.S. unauthorized immigrant total dips to lowest level in a decade
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Hispanic Trends December 21, 2018 U.S. unauthorized immigrant total dips to lowest level in a decade The number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. fell to its lowest level in more than a…
Bilingual report: FEMA Eligibility Letter May Not Be Last Word on Disaster Assistance
SACRAMENTO — If you applied for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and received a letter or text message saying you were not eligible for disaster aid, you should know that the first communication may not be the…
Santa Barbara City College update for Dec. 21 — SBCC to offer Evening College
Santa Barbara City College’s Community Newsletter December 2018 SBCC to offer Evening College Juggling work, school and family prevents many college students from enrolling full time, making it difficult to persist and succeed. In 2017, SBCC was awarded a Federal…
Bilingual commentary: On Christmas Day…
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 •…
MONEY magazine ranks CSUCI 4th best college in the nation for transfer students
CAMARILLO — The journey to a university diploma doesn’t always mean a straight four-year shot through a single college. Finances, family obligations or a number of other reasons compel millions of students to choose two years at a community college first…
Santa Maria High School ASB students ring bells for Salvation Army’s ‘Kettle Drive’
SANTA MARIA — Santa Maria High School ASB students rang bells for the Salvation Army’s “Kettle Drive” and raised more than $1,000 for the needy this holiday season. The bell ringers participated during lunch at the Saint campus from Nov. 26…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Dec. 20 — Photographic Gifts-The Museum Project
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Photographic Gifts-The Museum Project During this Season of Giving, Carnegie’s collection is happily being enlarged by gifts from California-based photographers facilitated by The Museum Project, a group of preeminent American artists who express…
Ventura College Foundation Receives $2 Million Donation From Helen Yunker Estate
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation has received a $2 million donation from the Helen Yunker estate. Honoring Yunker’s request, the donation will establish endowments for the Ventura College Music Department and the Opera and Musical Theatre program. The gift…
Register Now For A Free California Friendly Landscape Training Class (Jan. 26 through April 13) and Apply For Water and Money Saving Rebates
OXNARD — To help Oxnard make water conservation a way of life, the City is offering classes to teach residents how to transform lawns into beautiful, water-efficient gardens. All residential water customers are invited to register for one of the following…
Bilingual report: After Applying for FEMA Assistance, it’s Important to Keep in Touch
SACRAMENTO — Immediately after a disaster, keeping in touch with family is important. It’s also important to keep in touch with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after you have registered for disaster assistance. Many survivors of the November wildfires…
Museum of Ventura County update for Dec. 19 — Seasons greetings from your friends at the Museum of Ventura County!
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Seasons greetings from your friends at the Museum of Ventura County! This is a friendly reminder that during the…
Assemblymember Irwin and State Treasurer Chiang host press conference to announce the launch of CalABLE Accounts
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and California State Treasurer John Chiang announced the roll out of CalABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Accounts. These special accounts, which were created by Assemblymember Irwin’s 2015 bill AB 449, are designed…
Registration is Now Underway for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley 2019 Winter Sports Leagues….Free Basketball Clinic is Offered
AGOURA HILLS — Registration is now underway for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley’s Winter 2019 coed Jr. NBA Basketball League. The season kicks off with a free Basketball Clinic offered from January 6-27, on Sundays, at the…
SBCC Announces Executive Vice President of Educational Programs
Dr. Pamela Ralston. Courtesy photo. After an extensive and competitive search process, SBCC is pleased to announce that Dr. Pamela Ralston has been selected as the College’s permanent Executive Vice President of Educational Programs. Dr. Ralston has extensive experience in…
Marjorie Luke Theatre update for Dec. 18 — Where Dreams Take Stage!
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Click Here to Donate now! Brad Hall shares the importance of The Luke to the entire Santa Barbara community.
Santa Maria’s Delta High School students getting help meeting their post-secondary educational goals during ‘College Thursdays’
SANTA MARIA — Delta High School students are getting help meeting their post-secondary educational goals during “College Thursdays”. The workshops, held afterschool and in the evening, feature instruction on how to complete college financial aid forms, scholarships and applications, according to…
SBCC Board of Trustees elects new officers for 2019
Robert Miller Board President Dr. Peter Haslund Board Vice-President At its organizational meeting on December 13, the District Board of Trustees elected Robert Miller as president of the board for the 2019 calendar year. Dr. Peter Haslund was elected board…
Miller YMCA Youth & Government Delegation Makes Lunches for the Homeless
NEWBURY PARK — Thirty members from the Miller YMCA Youth & Government delegation made over 300 lunches that were then delivered to East Rancho Dominguez Community Center in Compton to help feed the homeless. This is the fifth year that…
CSUCI Biology faculty receives grant to help increase STEM degrees among minorities
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Biology Lecturer Caryl Ann Becerra, Ph.D., has received $35,000 for a project called “California State University Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (CSU-LSAMP).” LSAMP stands for the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation program, which…
Ventura County Community College District Welcomes New Board Members and Elects Board Officers
CAMARILLO — The Board of Trustees of the Ventura County Community College District held its annual organization meeting Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, and welcomed new members Gabriela Torres, Area 5 and Josh Chancer, Area 1. Chancellor Gillespie administered the oath…
Bilingual report: County of Ventura announces launch of Clean Power Alliance
Residents and businesses will soon enjoy the advantages of clean, renewable power at competitive rates VENTURA COUNTY — The County of Ventura is proud to announce that the unincorporated areas of the County will soon enjoy the advantages of clean,…
More than 40 Santa Maria Joint Union High School District students receive scholarships generated by the ‘Patch’
SANTA MARIA — Scholarships generated by the “Patch” were recently awarded to more than 40 SMJUHSD students who worked on the agritourism project at Los Flores Ranch. The “Patch” made $13,000 in scholarships to students a reality. They collectively contributed 2,814…
CSUCI-led VC STEM network receives $75,000 grant from Amgen Foundation
CAMARILLO — A recently-released White House five-year strategic plan to promote science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning indicates that Ventura County is already ahead of the curve, thanks to the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)-led Ventura County STEM (VC STEM) network.…
Thousand Oaks Disaster Recovery Center to Close on Dec. 17
SACRAMENTO — The Thousand Oaks Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Ventura County will close permanently at 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 17. The DRC, located at 173 Moorpark Rd., Suite A, Thousand Oaks, is open today, Saturday, Dec. 15 from 9 a.m.…
United for Literacy Forum Emphasizes Power of Bilingual Education
SANTA BARBARA — Local education experts discussed how effective bilingual instruction plans help raise GPAs and reduce drop out rates during a recent forum presented by United Way of Santa Barbara County. The United for Literacy Education Forum, held Nov.…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. Distributes Toys Throughout Ventura County
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…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Dec. 14
Click here to see the entire e-newsletter Give the Gift Art Help CAM Cornerstones fund art exhibitions, education, and programs by giving the GIFT of ART. Membership never looked so BRIGHT! Now through the New Year CAM members receive a…
Santa Barbara Museum of Art update for Dec. 14
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara, announces the following exhibits. Exhibition Openings A Brilliant Spectrum: Recent Gifts of Color Photography to the Collection January 27 – May 5, 2019 Representing a broad…
‘Esteban’s Caravan: From Hope to an American Cage’ by local author Denis O’Leary now available
VENTURA COUNTY — Local author and educator Denis O’Leary has announced the publication of his new book — “Esteban’s Caravan: From Hope to an American Cage,” now available on Amazon.com. Published by Floricanto Press, “Esteban’s Caravan is the compelling story…
Coming to America — Understanding the migrant caravan requires an awareness of Central America’s recent history, social scientists say
By Andrea Estrada • UCSB . The migrant caravan that traveled from Central America to the United States last month generated headlines — and angry rhetoric — long before it arrived. The situation reached fever pitch the Sunday after Thanksgiving when…
Bilingual report: Federal resources available for under-insured Hill and Woolsey fire victims
VENTURA — Some homeowners affected by the Hill and Woolsey fires are discovering that they may be under-insured for their losses. Help is available. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides housing assistance for people who have lost their homes as…
Bilingual commentary: The Invasion of Automation
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 •…
Bilingual report: The PACC Welcomes Nonprofits to Apply for Rental Credit
OXNARD — The PACC has announced its annual rental credit program and welcomes 501c3 nonprofits in good standing within the City of Oxnard to apply. Details on eligibility, the current application, sample grant, and scoring rubrics are all available on The…
Community Environmental Council and Santa Barbara Channelkeeper join effort to keep film plastic out of waste stream, serving as additional public drop-off locations
Click here for the entire e-newsletter SANTA BARBARA, CA – The Community Environmental Council (CEC) and Santa Barbara Channelkeeper (SBCK) are pleased to work together with Ablitt’s Fine Cleaners to collect and repurpose hard-to-recycle plastics. Sasha Ablitt, owner of Ablitt’s Fine…
Moorpark College Theatre Arts announces auditions for Spring 2019 production of ‘SPAMALOT’
MOORPARK — Moorpark College Theatre Arts is pleased to announce auditions for its upcoming Spring 2019 production of SPAMALOT; a production based on the uproarious Monty Python comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Auditions will be held Dec. 17, 18…
Ventura County general fund ends fiscal year in a strong position
VENTURA — Through a combination of strong management efforts and thoughtful, conservative fiscal projections, the County ended last fiscal year with savings of $43 million. The savings were bolstered by an unexpected one-time receipt from the state of $10 million…
Pioneer Valley High School culinary arts students learn about food handing production
SANTA MARIA — Culinary Arts students at Pioneer Valley High School are getting a first-hand look at how a restaurant handles food production in an effort to help them prepare and earn a ServSafe Managers Certificate. The certificate, which is valid…
Museum of Ventura County update for Dec. 12 — Free Las Posadas Celebration, New Exhibit Sneak Peek, Documentary Screening, and more
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Exhibit Sneak Peek! Click for a Sneak Peek Look at Wrapped With Care at The Ag Wrapped With Care,…
CSUCI receives two separate grants to empower immigrants and transfer students
CAMARILLO — Vulnerable student populations at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) are benefitting from two separate grants from one local and one national organization. Professor of Chicana/o Studies Jose Alamillo and Assistant Professors of Sociology Luis Sanchez and Karina Chavarria applied for…
SBCC Arts & Crafts Fair Draws Big Crowds to Local Talents
SANTA BARBARA — From hand-knit scarfs to intricately crafted jewelry, thousands of unique creations were on display December 1 at the SBCC School of Extended Learning annual Arts & Crafts Fair. Shoppers filled the SBCC Wake Campus, 300 N. Turnpike…
Jackson Introduces Bill to Reduce Gun Violence
SACRAMENTO– Based on research by the UC Davis Violence Prevention Research Program (VPRP), which found an increased risk of future violence among firearm owners with certain alcohol-related convictions, State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) introduced legislation today to restrict gun ownership among…
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District AVID students, peers visit Levi Stadium for PAC-12 Championship Sports Career Education Day and College Fair
SANTA MARIA — Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Avid students and their peers recently took over Levi Stadium for the PAC-12 Championship Sports Career Education Day and College Fair in the San Francisco Bay Area. About 200 Saints, Panthers…
Jackson Bills, Including Ban of New Offshore Oil Drilling, to Become Law on Jan. 1
SACRAMENTO – Among the numerous bills authored by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) this year, the following will take effect on January 1, 2019: Senate Bill 834, No New Offshore Oil: SB 834 blocks the Trump Administration from expanding federal oil…
Ventura County announces addition to health care leadership team
VENTURA — Bill Foley has been selected as the new Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. The appointment was made by County Executive Officer Mike Powers with the unanimous approval of the Board of Supervisors. “The Health Care…
Two New Trustees Join Ventura County Board of Education
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Board of Education welcomed two newly-elected trustees at its meeting tonight in Camarillo. Rob Collins and Mike Teasdale were formally sworn in as trustees following their election victories in November. Collins now represents trustee area…
Three Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Board of Education Members sworn in
SANTA MARIA — Three re-elected Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Board of Education members were sworn in during the Dec. 11 meeting. The meeting was held at the Support Services Center on Skyway Drive. Superintendent Dr. Mark Richardson administered…
Professional Athletes and Southeast Ventura County YMCA Join Forces to Create California Strong
VENTURA COUNTY — In response to the recent tragedies in California, professional baseball players Christian Yelich, Ryan Braun and Mike Moustakas, along with Rams’ quarterback Jared Goff, have joined forces with the Southeast Ventura County YMCA to create California Strong.…
Drop Off Your Christmas Tree At Agromin, Get Free Potting Mix
VENTURA COUNTY — Agromin, the green waste recycler for most of Ventura County, is accepting Christmas trees at three of its locations from December 26 through January 19. Residents who drop off their trees will receive a free bag of…
Wild California condor chick fledges in Santa Barbara County for first time since 1982
SANTA BARBARA — For the first time in more than three decades, an endangered California condor chick has successfully fledged from a cliff-side nest in Santa Barbara County. Last month, condor number 933 took its first short flight after six months…
CSUCI Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) receives $25,000 boost from grant
CAMARILLO — Enrollment will begin right after the new year for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) for the spring semester with climate change, psychopathology, antebellum America and Sherlock Holmes among the offerings. CSUCI’s popular OLLI…
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County: Holiday Angels Program Returns
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is proud to once again partner with Harbor Freight, First Bank (Westlake Village), Student Corps, and individual donors for the organization’s Holiday Angels gift-giving program. BBSVC’s Holiday Angels opportunity for…
Bilingual report: Application period open for no-cost debris removal program
VENTURA —Ventura County is coordinating the application process for the California Office of Emergency Services Consolidated Debris Removal Program (CalRecycle) for Woolsey and Hill fire victims. The program is offered to Ventura County residents whose home was destroyed in the…
Bilingual report: Ventura County District Attorney Warns About Price Gouging
VENTURA — District Attorney Gregory D. Totten warned Ventura County residents today to beware of individuals and businesses who attempt to illegally profit from the recent fires by engaging in price gouging. California law generally prohibits businesses and individuals from…
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Recognizes Key Community Contributors in 2018
AGOURA HILLS — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) recognized several key community contributors in 2018 during their annual “Stand up for Kids Gala Dinner & Auction”, the organization’s main fundraising event of the year. Joe Seetoo…
Marjorie Luke Theatre update for Dec. 7 — Mac Powell and The Family Reunion
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Upcoming Events Mac Powell and The Family Reunion ~FLASH SALE~ Wednesday, December 12th 8:00PM Transparent Productions presents former Third Day musician/vocalist ‘s exciting new band with special guests Land of Color! For the…
Updated Dashboard Provides Clearer Picture of School Performance in Ventura County, throughout the state
A redesigned and expanded California School Dashboard is now available to the public at www.caschooldashboard.org. The Dashboard, which debuted in 2017, has a new look that makes it easier to see how individual schools and districts are performing in six…
SMHS FFA Member now has raised two puppies for Guide Dog Project
SANTA MARIA — Santa Maria High School FFA senior Ariadna Romero, who has spent hundreds of hours raising a puppy for Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), was proud to see the dog graduate as a guide in a formal…
Bilingual commentary: What’s Good for General Motors…
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 •…
Juan Soria School receives Golden Bell Award at recognition ceremony on Nov. 29
OXNARD — Juan Soria School in Oxnard received the Golden Bell Award at recognition ceremony held on Nov. 29 at the California School Boards Association (CSBA) Annual Education Conference and Trade Show in SanFrancisco. Juan Soria School is one of 51 recipients of…
Anthology of Latino speculative fiction co-edited by a UCSB scholar wins an American Book Award
By Jim Logan • UCSB Ben Olguín remembers the moment he discovered science fiction. He was a teenager, doing three weeks in jail for being, as he puts it, “a knucklehead.” Books get passed around inside and one of them was…
Community Environmental Council Welcomes New Board and Staff Members, including Retired Fire Chief and Green Business Leaders
Click here for the entire e-newsletter CEC invites in strong environmental advocates to support green business and transportation efforts SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is pleased to announce two new Board members, as well as new staff. Additions…
Carnegie Art Museum update for Dec. 6 — Opening reception of ‘Catalysts of Change’ on Dec. 8
Click here for the entire e-newsletter OPENING EXHIBITIONS December 9, 2018 – February 17, 2019 In the aftermath of the 2017 Thomas Fire, Luther Gerlach turned his camera on the destruction and regeneration spanning Ventura county, using chemical elements gathered…
Camarillo Hospice offers grief support groups focusing on the holidays
CAMARILLO — When grieving the death of a loved one, the holidays can be a painful time. It can feel as if the holiday light has diminished as face the challenge of finding continued meaning in our rituals and connection with…
County recruits for Farmworker Resource Program positions
VENTURA — The County of Ventura opened a recruitment for two new fixed-term positions to staff the Farmworker Resource Program, which was approved unanimously by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors in October 2018. The program was developed by an…
Assemblymember Monique Limón is Sworn-in for a Second Term and elected Vice-Chair of the CA Legislative Women’s Caucus
SACRAMENTO — After two years of unprecedented legislative successes Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) was again sworn-in to continue serving the 37th Assembly District. “I am honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve the 37th Assembly District for a second…
Museum of Ventura County update for Dec. 5 — Thomas Fire Quilt Relief Project, Documentary Screening
Major funding for these programs is made possible by the City of San Buenaventura, the County of Ventura and private and community donors. Upcoming Events 2019 Ventura Film Society 2.0 Launch Reception Dec. 7, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Ventura Film…
Bilingual report: Food benefits now available for Ventura County wildfire victims
SACRAMENTO –The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) today announced that, as part of the continuing disaster recovery effort, individuals and families impacted by the wildfires in Ventura County may be eligible to receive one month of Disaster CalFresh food…
Bilingual report: Ventura County Health Care Agency Discovers Vaccine & Medications Ineffective and Launches Remedy
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Health Care Agency Discovers Vaccine & Medications Ineffective and Launches Remedy. Click here for the English-language version Click here for the Spanish-language version
Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Family, Finance, Local, Locales, News, Noticias
Bilingual report: Deadline for Woolsey Fire victims to apply for Individual Assistance from FEMA is Jan. 11
THOUSAND OAKS — The deadline for residents affected by the Woolsey or Hill fires to apply for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is January 11, 2019. Residents can apply online or at the Disaster Recovery Center FEMA…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Welcomes Three New Partners
VENTURA — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP), Ventura County’s largest law firm, recently announced a significant addition to its intellectual property group with the addition of three new partners. Attorneys Jaye G. Heybl, Brian J. Philpott and Corey A.…