OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark has introduced a new way to get to know the center’s talented line-up of bartenders along with their signature cocktails. “Toast” is a social media campaign that interviews a new bartender each month from…
UCSB’s Mario Garcia being honored in separate events for distinguished contributions to the history of Latino activists
By Jim Logan / UCSB Few scholars have done more to document the lives and activism of Mexican-Americans than Mario García. For more than four decades the professor of Chicano and Chicana studies and of history at UC Santa Barbara has given voice to the…
New Merry Makers Artisan Faire (Dec. 10-11) seeks local artists to participate
OXNARD — Calling all local artists eager to share in the holiday cheer. Applications are currently available for the new Merry Makers Artisan Faire Dec. 10 & 11 at The Collection Riverpark in Oxnard (2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, CA 93036) The…
Braille Institute Santa Barbara Recognizes National White Cane Safety Day with White Cane Walk and Proclamations
SANTA BARBARA — On October 13, Braille Institute Santa Barbara recognized White Cane Safety Day with a special awareness and education effort. Community leaders and Braille Institute staff, students and volunteers marched in solidarity for the White Cane Walk along De La Vina…
SBCC Receives $5.3 Million Grant to Support “Removing Barriers to STEM Success”
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College has received a $5.3 Million federal grant to support students pursuing a career in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM). The project, “Removing Barriers to STEM Success,” will provide resources for faculty wishing…
Family Service Agency announces $500K in funding for evidence-based Holistic Defense Program
SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency (FSA) has received a $498,524 grant from the Laura and John Arnold Foundation to conduct a pilot study of Adult Holistic Defense Case Management (AHDCM) in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Public Defender’s Office.…
Bilingual commentary: Walls, Gates and Velvet Ropes
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
The White House recognizes CSU Channel Islands for community service
CAMARILLO — For the sixth year in a row, CSU Channel Islands (CI) has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll —and for the first time, CI was recognized “with distinction.” Being named to the Honor Roll is the…
Jensen Design & Survey Hires Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Top Talent
CENTRAL COAST — Engineering design firms with innovative projects are always on the hunt for the best talent coming from the top schools in the state. Jensen Design & Survey, Inc. (JDS), a full-service civil engineering, surveying, planning, and construction…
Travel: Taking the low, slow ride
Two exhibits bring the world of the lowrider alive at the New Mexico History Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 So here I am, walking through a pair of…
YMCA Heritage Club: Strengthening Youth, Families, and the Community for Generations to Come
CENTRAL COAST — The Channel Islands YMCA has served the Central Coast community since it was established in 1887 and currently operates six health and fitness facilities, a Youth and Family services branch, and more than 20 child care locations.…
20th Mexican Literary Colloquium, Nov. 11 through 13 at UCSB, takes its metaphorical cue from a missing 19th-century cannon
By Jim Logan / UCSB You might say there was something lost in translation when Santa Barbara named a street Canon Perdido. It should have been Cañon Perdido, after a cannon that disappeared on the beach in 1848. Without that…
‘El Camino de Santiago’ in Spain with SBCC Study Abroad in Spring 2017
SANTA BARBARA — From March 23 to April 3, 2017, coinciding with Santa Barbara City College’s Spring Break, the Study Abroad Office of Santa Barbara City College will be conducting a trip to the northern Spanish region of Galicia to participate in…
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…
Mental Wellness Center Extends Family Advocate Hours for Community Members
SANTA BARBARA — The Mental Wellness Center is pleased to announce it has extended the hours of its Family Advocate, offering everyone in the community access to information, support and resources related to mental health for a family member or…
Bilingual commentary: A Visit to Mom and Dad
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
CenCal Health Launches Campaign to Educate Provider Community on Behavioral Health Services in SB, SLO Counties
CENTRAL COAST – CenCal Health, in partnership with the Central Coast Medical Association, The Holman Group, Santa Barbara County Behavioral Wellness and San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Department recently hosted three seminars in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, and San…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Awarded $11,000 to Support their Continued Leadership in Community Health Care
Foundation recognizes health center as vital member of California’s safety net SANTA BARBARA — Blue Shield of California Foundation has just awarded a grant of $11,000 in unrestricted funds to the Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics in recognition of their critical role in…
Santa Barbara Heart & Stroke Walk/Run Raises More Than $210,000 to Fight Heart Disease and Stroke
CENTRAL COAST — More than 1 in 3 Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease. Santa Barbara resident and owner of Tri-County Produce, John Dixon is all too familiar with this devastating disease. He was born with heart disease and had…
Governor signs Jackson’s bills on Title IX rights, teaching healthy relationships skills in school
SACRAMENTO – Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to ensure that students and schools are aware of their rights and responsibilities under Title IX, the landmark federal law that prohibits gender discrimination in education. Senate…
Ventura County Public Works Agency gives lessons on Ventura County water use at CSUCI’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) can add college educators to its impressive body of work. The agency has been invited to lead an 8-week course for California State University, Channel Islands’ Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLL)…
Ventura County Heart & Stroke Walk/Run Raised Nearly $150,000 to Fight Heart Disease and Stroke
CENTRAL COAST — Cardiovascular diseases are the number one killer of both men and women in the U.S. – killing about 2,200 Americans each day – one every 40 seconds. To combat these statistics, the American Heart Association (AHA) hosted…
Bilingual commentary: The Rose Bush
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
United Way of Ventura County provides update on ‘Building Healthy Smiles’ initiative
Dear Friends, We have so much to share with you in this newsletter. Thanks to your generosity, our programs are expanding and serving more local residents throughout Ventura County. Please scroll down and take a moment to read more about…
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,…
‘California’s water crisis must be attacked now to guarantee water will be flowing from taps’
LAS VEGAS — “California’s water crisis must be attacked now to guarantee water will be flowing from taps,” veteran water expert Mohammed Hasan told the Tri-State seminar in Las Vegas this Tuesday. Addressing water professionals from California, Nevada and Arizona, Hasan discussed…
El Carrillo Affordable Housing Development Celebrates 10 Years of Housing the Homeless
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) celebrated the 10th Anniversary of El Carrillo, the first development of its kind in Santa Barbara to offer permanent, affordable housing with supportive services for homeless individuals.…
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…
Annual Safety Awards Day Recognized by Gold Coast Transit District
OXNARD — On October 5th Gold Coast Transit District celebrated its Annual Safety Awards Day. Each year, GCTD recognizes those drivers who have achieved a track record of safe driving as well as members of the “Million Mile Club” who have…
Bilingual commentary: The Specter of Demonization
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
CSU Channel Islands now accepting applications for Fall 2017
OXNARD — CSU Channel Islands (CI) is currently accepting admissions for the fall of 2017. Enrollment staff members advise high school seniors and transfer students to apply early at www.csumentor.edu “The college application process can be stressful for students,” said CI Assistant Vice…
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…
Lloyd Properties donates 860 acres to local land trust
VENTURA — The Lloyd Ranch has been a part of the Ventura community for over a century, providing stewardship of a large section of the Ventura hillsides since the early 1900’s and contributing to Ventura’s economic vitality for decades. On Sept.…
You Can’t Buy Love – But You Can Adopt It!
Santa Barbara Humane Society Celebrates Adopt-a-Dog Month with “Name Your Price” Adoption Promotion SANTA BARBARA — October is national Adopt-a-Dog Month, a public awareness campaign to bring attention to the millions of homeless dogs living at animal shelters throughout the…
LULAC Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by Urging Latinos to Register to Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Hispanic Heritage Month is a time when our nation reflects on the contributions Hispanics have made to our history and culture. For the third year, LULAC joins the Hispanic Heritage Month of Action campaign in an effort to encourage the…
Rebozo Festival announces 2017 grant application now open
CAMARILLO — Rebozo Festival, Inc. is pleased to announce that awards of up to $20,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on the cultural, social and/or educational needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will close…
The Collection at RiverPark’s Pink Perks support Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October
October promotion gives guests power to shop for a cause by benefiting non-profits! OXNARD — There will be extra “perks” to shopping and dining at The Collection at RiverPark in October as the sprawling shopping center brings back its Pink…
Ventura College Puts Chicano Art on Display through Nov. 17
Featured artists from the private collection of VC professor SANTA PAULA — Ventura College presents a Chicano Art Exhibit, “The Imagery of Chicano: a Perspective of Chicanismo in Contemporary Art” through Nov. 17 at the Ventura College Santa Paula site, 957…
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…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Yolotecuani in Free Community Workshop in Music and Dance of Guerrero, Mexico on Oct. 20
Thursday / Jueves, OCT 20, 7:00 PM Casa de la Guerra, 15 E. De La Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, CA FREE workshop / Entrada gratuita Free community workshop in music and dance of Guerrero, Mexico with Yolotecuani. Students and observers…
Spanish-language presentation on farmworkers labor rights to be held Oct. 20 in Oxnard
VENTURA COUNTY — The California Rural Legal Assistance invites farmworker community members to join us for the following Spanish presentations on labor rights in Santa Paula and Oxnard. Santa Paula Date: October 11, 2016 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Police StoreFront, 431 N.…
A Day in the Life of a Social Media Manager – CSU Channel Islands Multimedia Coordinator shares knowledge at October PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting on Oct. 26
CHANNEL ISLANDS — Social media is changing the way we all manage our lives – between what we share with others and when; but, it’s a whole new game when you’re coordinating information for a large company or institution. Tom…
Montecito Family YMCA Annual Golf Tournament 2016 on Oct. 21
Join the Montecito Family YMCA for an afternoon of golf, dinner and more at their Annual YMCA Golf Tournament. All proceeds from the event will go directly to the Open Doors financial assistance program, which helps local youth and families…
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…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing to Break Ground on Affordable Goleta Apartments Oct. 12
GOLETA – Peoples’ Self-Help Housing invites the community to the Oct. 12 ground breaking ceremony for its all-new, 70-unit affordable housing development in Goleta, Village at Los Carneros. PSHH will host a ground breaking celebration at the construction site from 11:30…
Rick Najera’s Latino Thought Makers Series Returns to Oxnard College Performing Arts Center for Fourth Season on Oct. 12
2016-2017 Season Kicks Off October 12 with Hollywood & Politics featuring Award-winning Actor Emilio Rivera, Columnist Ruben Navarrette Jr. & Radio HostWendy Carrillo OXNARD — In collaboration with the Ventura County Community College District and Oxnard College, Rick Najera’s Latino Thought Makers Live Series will return…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Yolotecuani, Sones de Guerrero on Oct. 22
Yolotecuani, Sones de Guerrero Music and Dance of Guerrero, Mexico FREE concert / Entrada gratuita Saturday / Sábado, OCT 22, 7:00 PM Guadalupe City Hall 918 Obispo Street, Guadalupe Doors open one half hour before the show starts. Reception follows…
California Rural Legal Assistance to present information sessions on renters, workers rights on Oct. 28
OXNARD — The California Rural Legal Assistance will present: INFORMATION SESSIONS / PRESENTACIONES DE INFORMACION SECOND AND LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH / SEGUNDO Y ULTIMO VIERNES DE CADA MES Friday-Viernes October 14 and October 28 14 de Octubre y 28 de…
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! to present Yolotecuani through Oct. 23 in free concerts
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents the local premier of Yolotecuani, music and dance of Tixtla, from the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Yolotecuani offer free family concerts on Friday, October 21, 7 pm at Isla Vista School;…
FOOD Share launches 5th Annual CAN-tree Collection with kick-off breakfast on Oct. 13
Seeks 200,000 Pounds of Food to Restock Shelves VENTURA COUNTY — FOOD Share will launch its inaugural Share16 Holiday Campaign and 2016 CAN-tree Collection drive with a kick-off breakfast held at its warehouse on Thursday October 13th, 8:30am-9:30am. Community, business,…
The Blackboard Gallery – Studio Channel Islands to present ‘In the Dark-a pop-up exhibit’ on Oct. 29
CAMARILLO — Something new and exciting is brewing at the Blackboard Gallery at Studio Channel Islands in Camarillo. For one night only there will be an exhibit like never before, a pop-up spectacle for only the bravest artists and their victims.…
Santa Paula Art Museum to hold Día de los Muertos Free Family Day on Oct. 30
Free Family Day: Dia de los Muertos Celebrate Dia de los Muertos on Sunday, October 30, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Create paper flowers, La Catrina bonnets and El Catrin sombreros, decorate sugar skulls, and enjoy a storytelling…
E.P. Foster Library presents ‘California’s Water Crisis and Solutions’ on Oct. 9
VENTURA — E.P. Foster Library presents “California’s Water Crisis and Solutions” with engineer and local author Mohammed A. Hasan from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9 at the E.P. Foster Library, 651 E. Main St., Ventura, Topping Room. “There is a…
Oxnard native who helped animate Disney’s “Zootopia” to speak at CSU Channel Islands on Oct. 19
CAMARILLO — An Oxnard native who went on to become the first female Head of Story for Walt Disney Animation Studios on the film “Zootopia” will speak at CSU Channel Islands (CI) on Wednesday, Oct. 19. Josie Trinidad is currently Head of Story…
Central City Swing – Fall Concert on Nov. 1
ORCUTT — The Central City Swing Band will perform their annual Fall Concert on Tuesday evening, November 1st, 2016 at 7:30PM. The concert will feature music arranged in a traditional or vintage swing style as well as arrangements in a…
STEM-tastic! event on Oct. 21 open to all interested in STEM education for Ventura County students
CAMARILLO — High tech hijinks paired with old time carnival tricks will underscore how much fun a science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) career can be. The inaugural “STEM-tastic!” event aimed at helping the community promote STEM learning in Ventura County will…
Marjorie Luke Theater announces Yolotecuani to perform on Oct. 23
SANTA BARBARA — The Marjorie Luke Theater has announced the Oct. 23 performance of Yolotecuani at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23. From Tixtla, Guerrero, Mexico, an area rich in traditions, public celebrations and fiestas, comes Yolotecuani. With a 30-year career sharing the traditional…
Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Before I Die’ wall through Oct. 23
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara, in collaboration with the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA), seeks to help bring death to life with a “Before I Die” wall, inspired by artist Candy Chang’s first installation on the side of an…
October is Energy Awareness Month; County Leadership Promoting Responsible Energy Use. Workshop set for Oct. 24
CENTRAL COAST — The County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday proclaimed October as Energy Awareness Month, highlighting the county’s commitment to promoting responsible and efficient energy use, and encouraging citizens to do the same. “As residents of one of the…
Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center Hosts Halloween Spooktacular and Open House
SANTA BARBARA — Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center invites the community to its second annual Halloween Spooktacular and Open House on Wednesday, October 26 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Hearts’ riding facilities, located at 4420 Calle Real in Santa…
Day of the dead Guatemalan celebration Fundraiser for El Lustrador Foundation to be held in Los Angeles on Nov. 1
By Lea Spicker LOS ANGELES — Gran Venta de Fiambre, a beneficio de “El Lustrador Foundation,” 1 de noviembre, 5:30 a 7:30pm, 1 de noviembre, 2003W 8th St., Los Angeles. The centennial Guatemalan specialty dish, Fiambre blanco or rojo. It’s a…
Carnegie Art Museum in Oxnard to present Día de Los Muertos Free Family Day on Oct. 22
OXNARD – The Carnegie Art Museum in Oxnard will present a Día de Los Muertos Free Family Day from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at 424 South C St., Oxnard. Click here for more information.
Dia de los Muertos Altar and Speakers Put Inequity to Rest at SBCC on Nov. 2
SANTA BARBARA — “Putting Inequity to Rest” is both title and theme of a three-hour event at the SBCC West Campus Lawn to celebrate Dia de los Muertos on November 2, 2016. Organizers from the SBCC Student Equity Committee (SEC) invite students and…
Celebrate National Eating Healthy Day on Nov. 2 with the American Heart Association and Dignity Health Central Coast
CENTRAL COAST — The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association (AHA) will celebrate its annual National Eating Healthy Day on Wednesday, November 2nd. On this day, many companies across the country will join the AHA’s efforts to raise awareness of eating healthy…
Registration Open for First-Ever Global Competence Summit for Educators, Hosted by SBCC Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation on Nov. 4
SANTA BARABARA – With one in five jobs in California tied to global trade, and studies showing a lack of student preparation for careers in a global economy, the Nov. 4th Global Competence Summit aims to give high school and community…
2016 Día de los Muertos Celebracion to be held Nov. 5 in Camarillo
CAMARILLO — The 2016 Día de los Muertos Celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 at Conejo Mountain Funeral Home, Memorial Park and Crematory in Camarillo. The 2016 Día de los Muertos Celebration will feature a vintage lowrider car show,…
Latino Thought Makers Series to present ‘Hollywood and Politics’ at Oxnard College on Oct. 12
2016-2017 Season Kicks Off October 12 with Hollywood & Politics featuring Award-winning Actor Emilio Rivera, Columnist Ruben Navarrette Jr. & Radio HostWendy Carrillo OXNARD — In collaboration with the Ventura County Community College District and Oxnard College, Rick Najera’s Latino Thought Makers Live Series will return to…
One Love Experience on Oct. 8-9
OJAI — One Love Experience has been created to bring like-hearted people together to celebrate our rising human consciousness, get the transformational experiences we need, and provide a space of love to spread these positive vibrations around the world! All…
Carnegie Art Museum to present ‘Fiesta Noche de los Muertos’ on Oct. 8
OXNARD — The Carnegie Art Museum will present “Fiesta Noche de los Muertos — Exhibit Reception and Fundraiser,” from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 at 424 S. C St., Oxnard. A magical evening of giving with music by Duet…
The Legendary Harry James Orchestra Directed by Fred Radke to Headline Rona Barrett Foundation Fundraiser on Oct. 8
SANTA YNEZ — The Rona Barrett Foundation is excited to announce the legendary Harry James Orchestra directed by Fred Radke will perform at the Foundation’s Big Band Celebration Ball fundraising gala on Saturday, October 8th. The event will support the…
‘El Proximo Paso’ Event Provides College Information to Spanish-speaking Parents and Teens
SANTA BARBARA — The young members of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara’s Teen Night program recently hosted an innovative event to address what they had identified as the most pressing challenge for Santa Barbara teens – information…
Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project to present Día de los Muertos Celebration on Nov. 6
OXNARD — The Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project will present “Día de los Muertos: An Annual Indigenous Celebration” from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6 at Heritage Square, 731 S. A St., Oxnard. The event includes an altar contest, food, music,…
Renowned Middle Eastern Musicians Perform In Concert For Flutes Across The World on Nov. 12
VENTURA — Flutes Across The World will sponsor some of the world’s best-known and renowned middle eastern musicians for a concert fundraiser in Ventura to support the non-profit efforts of its programs for children in American and overseas for music and…
Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency Issues Notice of Public Workshop for Groundwater Sustainability Plan Development, Nov. 15
VENTURA — The Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency (GMA) is holding a Public Workshop on Tuesday, Nov. 15, to discuss and receive comments on the development of Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) for the Las Posas Valley and Pleasant Valley Basins,…
Intergenerational Art Program at Channel Islands Art Center Brings Children and Seniors Together on Oct. 9
CAMARILLO — Art to Heart, an intergenerational art program which bring seniors and children together to learn from and inspire each other side-by-side, begins Wednesday, October 5th. Studio Channel Islands Art Center in Camarillo is now taking applications for their…
America’s Civil War Navies: North and South is topic at Nov. 17 Channel Islands Maritime Museum Speaker Series
OXNARD — While the Union and Confederate armies fought each other on land, an extensive naval war was waged on America’s rivers and oceans, shaping the strategic and economic fortunes of the North and South. Historians Jim Kosinski and Jerry Leckie…
‘Take a Hungry Person to Lunch’ to be held at participating Ventura restaurant on Nov. 17
VENTURA — TAKE A HUNGRY PERSON TO LUNCH at a participating downtown Ventura restaurant Thursday, Nov 17 10:30 am – 2 pm in recognition of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week: November 12-20 Meet Thursday., Nov. 17, at 10:30 a.m. at…
Prestigious Ojai Studio Artists Tour set for October 8, 9 & 10
OJAI — The 33rd annual self-guided Ojai Studio Artists Tour – one of the exemplary art events in California – is set for Columbus Day weekend, October 8, 9 and 10. “We have over 50 studios on the tour this year,”…
Designs from the Deep: The Architecture of the Shell Opening Oct. 10
OXNARD – Opening October 10, 2016 and running through January 1, 2017, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum presents the exhibition Designs from the Deep: The Architecture of the Shell. Visitors will explore the science of shells, the tiny architects that reside…
Local PODS to Store Free Books for 10th Annual Storyfest on Oct. 8
VENTURA — Local PODS Moving and Storage leader will once again serve as the storage provider to the 10th Annual StoryFest, a free event that promotes early literacy amongst children and their families while preparing them for school. On Saturday,…
Bilingual commentary: Thoughts Mold Our Faces
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Two of SBCC Engineering’s Best Named Great Minds in STEM™
SANTA BARBARA — A current student and an alumnus of the Santa Barbara City College Engineering program were both awarded top recognitions by Great Minds in STEM™ for their achievements in engineering and technology. Ana Isabel Espinoza-Agundis, a mechanical engineering major, was awarded…
GranVida Educates Community on Memory Care Services
CARPINTERIA — Most seniors expect to live out their lives enjoying time with their families and making more memories to cherish, however more than 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, leaving them dependent on others to help them…
SBCC President Beebe shares Results of Community Survey
SANTA BARBARA — On his first day as Superintendent/President of Santa Barbara City College, Anthony E. Beebe sent out a community survey asking “If only I were the new SBCC President, I would…” The survey was released on July 1, 2016…
Gov. Jerry Brown signs bill authored by Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson to streamline the environmental review process
SACRAMENTO – Gov. Jerry Brown has just signed a bill authored by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to help expedite the environmental review process under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), California’s landmark law for evaluating and mitigating the environmental impacts…
Braille Institute Offers More Than 70 Fall Classes to Help People with Low Vision Pursue Passions and Stay Active in Our Communities
Free, innovative classes build confidence and skills to help people return to activities they love SANTA BARBARA —Free fall classes at Braille Institute Santa Barbara offer life-enhancing and life-changing experiences to anyone in the tri-county area facing the challenges of vision loss. The fall…
EDC-VC’s Small Business Development Center Receives Funds for Doing What Matters for Jobs & the Economy Initiative
CENTRAL COAST — The Business & Entrepreneurship Center at Cuesta College (BEC) recently awarded $25,000 to the Economic Development Center-Ventura County’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as part of the Doing What Matters for Jobs & the Economy initiative. The funding,…
City National Bank in Partnership with United Way of Santa Barbara County Provide Free Back-To-School Backpacks and Supplies to Local School children
SANTA BARBARA — Recently, students at Franklin Elementary School received backpacks filled with school supplies. The backpacks were distributed to K-2nd grade students in need, compliments of City National Bank. Each backpack included a pink eraser, No. 2 pencils, a pencil sharpener,…
Graduation Ceremony Honors Students Forging New Lives Outside of Prison
SANTA BARBARA — Thirty formerly incarcerated individuals intent on turning their lives around, including students from Santa Barbara City College’s EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services) program, were honored at the Santa Barbara Day Reporting Center (DRC) commencement ceremony on…
Bilingual commentary: “That’s How It’s Done”
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Dr. Omar Flores Brings Vast Experience to Via Real Physical Therapy
CARPINTERIA — Via Real Physical Therapy announces a new addition to its team with Dr. Omar Flores as Supervising Physical Therapist. Dr. Omar Flores, PT, DPT, CSCS received his doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of the Pacific in…
PR Pros Launch Scholarships for Area Students – New PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Launches Program to Support Tri-County College Students
CENTRAL COAST — The newly formed Central Coast chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is offering two scholarships to recognize outstanding individual college students who are committed to studying communication or public relations in the Tri-Counties area. The…
Commentary: The eternal gift of art from maestro Francisco Magdaleno
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Armando Vazquez / Guest…
VetNet Collaboration Helps Local Veterans Access Crucial Resources
SANTA BARBARA — Representatives from more than 40 local agencies and nonprofits that support veterans in the tri-counties come together every other month for VetNet meetings, which provide an opportunity to network, share resources, collaborate and coordinate services and maximize…
Sponsorships Available and Auction Items Needed for BGCOP’s 27th Annual Donald K. Facciano Kids Auction & Gala
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme is seeking the help of individuals and businesses to donate items for auction and sponsors for the upcoming 27th Annual Donald K. Facciano Kids Auction & Gala.…
New Non-Profit Provides Much-Needed Information on Ventura County Agriculture
VENTURA COUNTY — A new non-profit organization has been created to provide educational resources and highlight the important roles played by farmers, ranchers and agriculture in Ventura County. The 501(c)(3) organization, Treasure Our Farms, will showcase local growers and livestock…
CSU Channel Islands Reports Record Enrollment for Fall 2016
CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CI) is reporting its largest entering class of undergraduates in history at 2,152 students. The class includes 1,021 freshmen and was selected from a record number of freshman 10,312 applicants, an increase of nearly 9…
Guest commentary: Rest in Eternal Peace Bobby; you’re home now my Brother!
A tribute by Armando Vazquez My compadre, the great boxer Bobby Chacon, died Wednesday, September 7, 2016 according to news report I picked up on from the internet. We had long lost touch with one another. At the end…
United Way begins Campaign Year with the most Profitable Event in its History
CAMARILLO —United Way of Ventura County raised a record net profit of $75,000 at its recently rebranded Spirit Awards Gala. “We are thrilled by the outstanding result and this sets the pace of our campaigns that kicks off next month,”…
GranVida Educates Community on Memory Care Services. Walk to End Alzheimer’s to be held Oct. 1
CARPINTERIA — Most seniors expect to live out their lives enjoying time with their families and making more memories to cherish, however more than 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, leaving them dependent on others to help them…
Bilingual commentary: The Borderline
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Nationally Recognized Afterschool Program Open for Registration through Santa Barbara Family YMCA
SANTA BARBARA – As the school year begins, the Santa Barbara Family YMCA is registering children in kindergarten through middle school for its afterschool programs available at Hope Elementary School and Hope Elementary School. YMCA Afterschool is recognized as the premier…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Receives National Award for Innovation in Care
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics was honored by BD, Direct Relief and the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) with an Innovations in Care Award at the 2016 Community Health Institute and EXPO in Chicago. Part of the…
Resolving the ‘Hispanic Paradox’ — Study co-authored by a UCSB researcher reveals Latinos age slower, neutralizing higher health risks of obesity and diabetes
By Jim Logan / UC Santa Barbara A new paper co-authored by a UC Santa Barbara researcher reveals that Latinos age at a slower rate than other ethnic groups. The findings, published in the current issue of Genome Biology, may one day…
Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Chris Cooper as new Director of Engineering Services Department
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has named as the Director of the Agency’s Engineering Services Department (ESD). Cooper succeeds Herbert Schwind who served VCPWA for over 4 years and retired earlier this year. Cooper is…
Bank of America Grants $10,000 toward Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Programs
CENTRAL COAST — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) announced it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Bank of America in support of their critical affordable housing developments and support programs for their residents in the Tri-Counties. The Bank of America…
The CLL Celebrates Three Years of Lifelong Learning
More than 350 classes and workshops with 70 brand-new classes to “Fall” in love with SANTA BARBARA — Going back to school isn’t just for kids this fall. Grown-ups can discover their passion at every age at the SBCC Center for…
Youth and Family Services YMCA Welcomes Valerie Kissell as New Executive Director
CENTRAL COAST — Youth and Family Services YMCA is proud to announce Valerie Kissell as its new Executive Director. Kissell is an accomplished Executive Director with over 20 years of executive leadership and partnership building in the nonprofit and public…
It’s Back to School Time with Santa Barbara Humane Society!
SANTA BARBARA — Just in time for back to school, nonprofit Santa Barbara Humane Society is bringing valuable learning experiences to children in elementary schools throughout Santa Barbara County through its Humane Education program. “Our classroom presentations align with our…
Ventura County Education Leaders Endorse Carla Castilla For 3rd District Supervisor
CAMARILLO – Dr. Mark Lisagor, current President of the Ventura County Board of Education; Christina (Tina) Urias, Santa Paula Unified School District Board Member; Bob Rust, Pleasant Valley School District Board Member, announced their support of Carla Castilla to succeed retiring…
Ventura County Young Democrats, Ventura County Democratic Party have endorsed Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios for Ventura City Council
VENTURA —Ventura County Young Democrats and the Ventura County Democratic Party have endorsed Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios for Ventura City Council. “Jeannette’s dedication to working families is unsurpassed by none,” said Shawn Terris, Chair of the Ventura County Democratic Party. “Her integrity…
Bilingual commentary: Bilingual Antipathy
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Alumna and National Scholar Andrea Delgado Takes ‘Strong, Smart, and Bold’ Experience Abroad
Harvard pre-med student gains first-hand healthcare experience in Latin America CARPINTERIA — Andrea Delgado of Carpinteria joined Girls Inc. of Carpinteria when she was just five years old, attending the nonprofit’s After-School Enrichment and Summer Camp programs. Now, the 21-year-old is entering…
Former U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis to Lead Ventura County Democratic Party Celebration on Sept. 18
VENTURA — Democratic activists in Ventura County will come together for their annual fundraising event on Sunday, September 18th at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Hilda Solis, the first Hispanic woman to be appointed to…
Santa Barbara Family YMCA Announces Craig Prentice as New Executive Director
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Family YMCA is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Prentice as its new Executive Director. Prentice joined the YMCA family straight out of college in 1993 as a Program Director at Cresenta-Canada Family…
Bilingual commentary: The Hatred Beneath the Surface
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Lompoc Family YMCA’s 17th Annual “Kids for Character” Golf Tournament Successfully Raises Support for Local Youth and Families
LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA hosted its 17th Annual “Kids For Character” Golf Tournament, “The Ketrenia Klassic,” in memory of the late Ketrenia Hall on July 22 at the Village Country Club. This year’s tournament was a soaring success…
In a new paper, UCSB scholar says ancient hieroglyphic texts reveal Mayans made a major discovery in math, astronomy
By Jim Logan / UC Santa Barbara For more than 120 years the Venus Table of the Dresden Codex — an ancient Mayan book containing astronomical data — has been of great interest to scholars around the world. The accuracy…
Ventura County Will Be Rockin’ September 9th As Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen Opens The Doors At The Collection At RiverPark In Oxnard To The Ultimate Dining & Entertainment Experience
OXNARD — Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen will be opening their newest location at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard on Friday, September 9th. Introducing the hottest dining and live entertainmentcopper.1 concept to Ventura County, Copper Blues is a…
2016 RISE Up Award Winners Announced
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY – The RISE Up Awards recognize excellence in community service supporting RISE’s sexual assault and intimate partner violence programs; the 2016 RISE Up Award winners are District Attorney Investigator Donna Jones, RISE Friends Committee member Nancy…
NAMI Southern Santa Barbara County to Offer Family-to-Family Education Program for Families of Adults Living with Mental Illness
SANTA BARBARA — NAMI Southern Santa Barbara County, a program of the Mental Wellness Center, will offer its Family-to-Family Education Program for family members of adults living with mental health conditions. The free, 12-session course is designed to help all…
Back-To-School Essentials And Savings To Be Found At Centerpoint Mall
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall offer back-to-school essentials and savings on top items at the more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and dining options ranging from apparel and shoes to supplies and electronics, among others. Centerpoint Mall is just the right…
MAC Set to Open New Location at The Collection at RiverPark
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark announced today that internationally renowned cosmetic brand MAC would be joining the line-up of shopping options. MAC is known for its professional grade make-up, cult following and trendsetting collaborations. Originally created for professional makeup…
La Misa Negra to perform at UCSB on Sept. 19
SANTA BARBARA — La Misa Negra will from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19 at the San Miguel Stage at the UCSB Multicultural Center. La Misa Negra is a 9-piece band from Oakland, California that plays a unique blend of…
A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson to help disabled veterans who work in California Schools heads to the Governor
SACRAMENTO — A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to help disabled veterans who are transitioning from military service into a new career working in California’s public schools passed off the Assembly floor today on a bipartisan, 65-0 vote…
VCCDC Receives $35,000 From Wells Fargo To Help Women In Ventura County Achieve Homeownership & Financial Stability
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was recently awarded a $35,000 grant by Wells Fargo to support its Mi Casa Mi Hogar (My House My Home) Program which is designed to assist a highly vulnerable population – women…
State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson new parent leave bill heads to the governor
Legislation Would Provide Up to 2.7 Million More Parents With Job-Protected Leave SACRAMENTO – A California Legislative Women’s Caucus priority bill to provide job-protected new parent leave for up to 2.7 million more Californians has passed off the Senate floor and…
Elderly Couple Stores 50 Years of Memories in Donated PODS Container after Losing their Home
CENTRAL COAST — With 50 years of Hank and Helen Kawecki’s memories packed into boxes and stacked into their neighbor’s garage, friends of the couple knew that more room would be needed to help the couple store and move their…
United Way of Ventura County reports on Stuff the Bus program, 12th Annual Spirit Awards Gala honoring Hank Lacayo
President’s Message Dear Friends, Summer has been busy at United Way. Thanks to the generosity of donors contributing at 70 collection sites across Ventura County and the generous time of our volunteers, our Stuff the Bus program again exceeded our expectations.…
Oxnard Salsa Festival Announces Fundraising Totals and Winners of the 2016 ‘Dancing with our Community Stars Dance Contest & Charity Fundraiser’
OXNARD — The Oxnard Salsa Festival is pleased to announce the winners and the total amount of money raised for the 2016 ‘Dancing with our Community Stars Dance Contest & Charity Fundraiser’. This year’s competition included an All-Star line-up in celebration…
Teatro de las Américas reports Drama Department Returning to Oxnard College
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas reports that the Drama Department is returning to Oxnard College. We are happy to support the return to Oxnard College of the Drama Department. Sign up for the two courses: THTR R111 – Introduction to Theater…
Cal Lutheran receives $1.2M federal grant
TRIO programs will now reach county’s junior highs THOUSAND OAKS — The U.S. Department of Education has awarded California Lutheran University a $1.2 million grant to provide Ventura County’s only federal TRIO program serving middle school students. The Talent Search…
Kids Have a Blast at Page Youth Center’s Summer Fun Extravaganza
SANTA BARBARA — Page Youth Center (PYC) recently welcomed the community to their Summer Fun Extravaganza event. Kids of all ages enjoyed a day of craft making, face painting, jump houses, food and live music along with a visit from…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing and Duncan Group Welcomes, Bids Farewell to Board Members
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) and its affiliate nonprofit property management agent, The Duncan Group (TDG), would like to thank retiring board member B. Ray Gateley, as well as welcome newly elected members Paula Johnson and Menka Sethi.…