MONTECITO — On Sunday, June 19, the Montecito Family YMCA joins the nation in celebrating Father’s Day and recognizing the impact fathers and adult male role models make in children’s lives. The Y, a leading nonprofit in fostering positive youth…
Dads To Receive A Range Of Gifts For Father’s Day That Can Be Found At Centerpoint Mall
A recent National Retail Federation survey shows total spending is expected to reach $14.3 billion, highest in the survey’s 13-year history OXNARD — It’s neckties, sporting goods and greeting cards, among other great gifts for Dads as shoppers head to Centerpoint Mall…
Just Being Healthy in Today’s Mobile World
Just Being Healthy (JBH) will participate in the 5th annual Global Wellness Day, an international day to celebrate wellness and healthy living, by working to improve a person’s total body wellness caused by the stressors of life, and in many…
Lompoc Family YMCA Receives National CDC and YMCA Grants to Develop Self-Service Bicycle Repair Station
LOMPOC — The Lompoc Family YMCA will receive $2,000 in total grants awarded to the Channel Islands YMCA to develop a public self-service bicycle repair station, helping empower local residents with more healthy physical recreation opportunities. The grant will support…
Bilingual commentary: Pessimism and Marriage
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…
Public Invited to Review Proposed County of San Luis Obispo Budget
SAN LUIS OBISPO — The community has an opportunity to provide more input on the County of San Luis Obispo’s fiscal year 2016-17 proposed budget in June. The County will host public budget hearings June 13 through 15 at the…
Ground Breaking Gives Potential Residents First Look at New Home
CARPINTERIA — Steadfast Carpinteria Senior, LLC and Seniority, Inc. commemorated the ground breaking of GranVida, Carpinteria’s first senior assisted living and memory care community. The new community is an amazing example of corporate responsibility as an adaptive reuse of an…
16 Star Chefs Combine Culinary Talents to Support Youth and Family Services YMCA at 17th Annual ‘Reaching for Stars/
SANTA BARBARA — Sixteen highly acclaimed local chefs came together to prepare extraordinary cuisine for the 160 guests who attended Youth and Family Services YMCA’s sold-out “Reaching for Stars” event on May 25 at the Santa Barbara Woman’s Club, which…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Receives Support for Homeless Placement and Services from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has received a $10,000 grant from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County (CFSLOCO) to aid with the transition of 15 homeless families into permanent housing with support services and providing 75 households…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Breaks Ground on Affordable Santa Barbara Apartments
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing broke ground on its newest 40-unit affordable housing development Jardin de las Rosas, near downtown Santa Barbara, at a June 1 ceremony. The development at 510 North Salsipuedes St. will feature a community center,…
Certificate in Healthcare Interpreting available through CSU Channel Islands beginning fall 2016
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) will offer classes required for a Certificate of Healthcare Interpreting beginning in fall of 2016. The Healthcare Interpreter Certificate prepares students to become English-Spanish interpreters in medical settings, a field that is exploding with opportunity. According to…
Film Screening ‘Video Letters from Prison’ at Oxnard Public Library on June 28
Tuesday, June 28, 4:00 p.m. at the Oxnard Public Library, 251 S. A St., Oxnard. We celebrate Father’s Day in June, but many children have an absentee father. In this touching documentary, three girls struggle with what place their father,…
‘Shark Week’ is now ‘Bark Week’ in Santa Barbara through July 2
Spin the Wheel for a Special Pet Adoption Fee at the Santa Barbara Humane Society, June 26 – July 2 SANTA BARBARA – With a local play on Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, the Santa Barbara Humane Society is taking a bite…
Conservation of the American Pyramids (CAP) presenta ‘Anahuac: Raices y Esencia del Mexico Antiguo’ el 23 y 24 de julio
SANTA BARBARA — Conservation of the American Pyramids (CAP) presenta al Maestro Guillermo Marin, Autor y Profesor de Historia, radicado en Oaxaca, Mexico, quien visitará por primera vez Santa Barbara y dictará un Taller: ANAHUAC: RAICES Y ESENCIA DEL MEXICO ANTIGUO…
Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Andrea Carnaghe as New Board Chair
SANTA BARBARA— The Mental Wellness Center is proud to announce Andrea Carnaghe as the organization’s new board chair. The Mental Wellness Center is a private, non-profit organization providing recovery, education, and support services for individuals affected by mental illness including…
Fireworks by the Sea- Channel Islands Harbor celebrates July 4th with a full day of food and fun
OXNARD — Channel Islands Harbor celebrates the 4th of July with a full day of family activities. Fireworks display begins at 9 p.m., but there is plenty to do before then. July 4th festivities begin with the Channel Islands Harbor…
Bilingual commentary: Are We Losing Our National Mind?
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…
Communications Expert to Discuss the Subtle Art of Turning Detractors into Advocates at June PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting on June 22
CAMARILLO — Finding common ground with those who disagree with you and your company can be a challenging task. But, as communications expert Dave Barthmuss, former group manager, communications for General Motors’ West Coast Region explains it, through transparency and…
Victory Gymnastics Celebrates National Olympic Day with Open House on June 23
NEWBURY PARK — To celebrate National Olympic Day, Victory Gymnastics Academy will host an open house for families and children interested in learning first-hand about the sport of gymnastics. The free event takes place June 23, 5:15 – 7 p.m.,…
A Different Point of View’s 3-Day Aviation Career Program Begins June 24
SANTA BARBARA — Local aviation nonprofit A Different Point of View (ADPOV) will give youth hands-on training in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) during its Aviation Career Program, June 24-26. This uniquely focused program, held at the Santa Barbara…
Writer, biologist Rene Corado to be keynote speaker at VCCDC 4th annual Homeownership Fair on June 25
OXNARD — Writer, biologist Rene Corado will be the keynote speaker at VCCDC 4th annual Homeownership Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at the VCCDC Homeownership Center, 2231 Sturgis Road, Oxnard. Rene is the author of…
Carnegie Art Museum’S ‘Arcade Poetry Series’ to feature Ángel García and Teddy Macker on June 25
OXNARD — The Carnegie Art Museum “Arcade Poetry Series” will feature Ángel García and Teddy Macker at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at 424 S. C St., Oxnard. Ángel García has lived in several cities throughout Southern California. He has worked in…
Teatro de las Américas to present ‘Words From A Cuban Father’ and ‘Circo de tu corazón’ June 25, 26
WHAT Words From A Cuban Father and Circo de tu corazón WHO Teatro de las Americas and Oxnard College present a double header of theatrical fun with playwright and performer Alina Ceñal and director and performer James Donlon WHEN Saturday,…
CAUSE Action Fund to present ‘Quinceañera AT The Ranch’ at Rancho Las Posas, Somis on June 26
SOMIS — The CAUSE Action Fund will present “Quinceañera AT The Ranch” from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 26 at Rancho Las Posas, 4192 Bradley Road, Somis. The event celebrates the CAUSE Action Fund’s 15th anniversary. RSVP by June 10. Click…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Honors 78 Business Training Graduates
CENTRAL COAST — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrated the accomplishments of 78 women and men who have successfully completed WEV’s Self-Employment Training program during a ceremony held at the New Vic Theater in Santa Barbara the evening of May 17th.…
Beat the Summer Heat Without Hurting your Wallet
CENTRAL COAST — Temperatures are on the rise and summer is just around the corner. But you won’t have to keep your home’s air conditioning unit cranked up throughout the coming months just to stay cool. In fact, with a…
VCCDC Celebrates 15 Years of Changing Lives Through Homeownership
An accomplished local activist, Rodney Fernandez made it his life’s work to achieve the impossible. The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was founded by Rodney as a way to bring together private financing and public funding to bring homeownership…
LinkedIn Volunteers Lend a Helping Hand at Santa Barbara Humane Society
SANTA BARBARA — A group of LinkedIn employees joined the Santa Barbara Humane Society for an afternoon of volunteering. The group was hard at work repainting worn benches and later spent time with the adoptable dogs. “We’re thrilled to have…
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Welcomes Michelle Dahlkemper and Lailain McGrath
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) is pleased to announce the addition of Michelle Dahlkemper as Chief Operating Officer. Dahlkemper brings sixteen years of experience as a registered nurse with extensive experience in post-acute healthcare including palliative…
Nonprofit Grace Housing Begins to Fulfill Legacy of Grace Lutheran Church with First Community Contributions; Disbursements Top $60K
SANTA BARBARA — Continuing the legacy of the former Grace Lutheran Church, Santa Barbara, a 113-year ministry that held its final service in 2015, nonprofit Grace Housing, Inc. awarded its first funding allocations — totaling more than $60,000 — to…
Gold Coast Health Plan Awards Nearly $60,000 to Support Community Health Care Programs in Ventura County
Medi-Cal Plan Issues Funds Under New Community Investment Initiative CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) is sponsoring two programs under its newly created Alternative Resources for Community Health (ARCH) initiative. The goal of ARCH is to invest in the health and…
Bilingual commentary: Cognitive Testing…What’s My Name?
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Santa Barbara County launches first-ever Food Action Plan
Major community-led effort aims to make our food system more resilient for future generations SANTA BARBARA — Supervisors Salud Carbajal and Steve Lavagnino will join community leaders throughout the county on May 24 for the unveiling of the Santa Barbara County…
33rd annual California Strawberry Festival (May 21-22) benefits local charities, students
OXNARD — The 2016 California Strawberry Festival gets underway with its 33rd seasonal celebration May 21 and 22 on 15 picturesque acres at Strawberry Meadows of College Park in Oxnard. Ranked nationwide among the top outdoor Festivals, the event boasts strawberries…
CenCal Health Presents Dignity Health with Healthcare Innovation Award for Outstanding Care and Service
SANTA BARBARA / SAN LUIS OBISPO — CenCal Health, the health care program serving low-income residents of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, presented a Healthcare Innovation Award to Dignity Health at their board meeting on May 18. The…
A passion to help incarcerated youth helps CI senior Ashley Medina win a Newman Civic Fellows Award
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) English major and fall 2016 graduate Ashley Medina, 23, has been named a Newman Civic Fellow. The Newman Civic Fellows Award honors college student leaders who represent the next generation of public problem solvers and civic…
Women’s Economic Ventures Presents Trailblazer and Business of the Year Awards at “Empowerment is Priceless” Event
VENTURA — Nearly 300 women and men attended non-profit Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) annual Empowerment is Priceless event held on May 12th at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach Hotel in Ventura. The breakfast fundraiser recognized WEV’s 2016 Trailblazer, Business of…
Work begins on Carpinteria’s first senior assisted living and memory care community
CARPINTERIA — Steadfast Carpinteria Senior, LLC, announced that it has begun conversion of an office building at 5464 Carpinteria Ave. to create GranVida, Carpinteria’s first and only large-scale community for seniors needing assisted living or memory care. Working with Steadfast…
Five Local Korean War Veterans Honored at “The Forgotten War” Symposium
SANTA BARBARA — Five local veterans of the Korean War were honored on May 9 at a luncheon and symposium, The Forgotten War: Korea 66 Years On, co-hosted by Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) and the Channel City Club at…
Bilingual commentary: Paradise Lost…Or Was It?
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…
UCSB history professor Sarah Cline’s LASA-award-winning essay deconstructs an iconic colonial Mexican casta painting of racial hierarchy
By Sonia Fernandez / UCSB In 18th-century Mexico, casta paintings were all the rage, as the bloodlines of Spanish colonizers and of the colonized indigenous, black and mixed-race populations mingled and American-born Spaniards sought to define themselves apart amid increasingly blurry racial…
Dr. Rodolfo F. Acuña Art Gallery & Cultural Center with Lead Artist, Ana M. Carrillo, Receive California Arts Council “Artists Activating Communities” Grant Award
State funds will support sustained artistic residency for Ana M. Carrillo at Dr. Rodolfo F. Acuña Art Gallery & Cultural Center at Cafe on A. OXNARD – The California Arts Council, a state agency, announced it plans to award $12,000…
Santa Barbara Conscious Networking Event and Celebratory Party to be held June 3
SANTA BARBARA — The much-anticipated Santa Barbara Conscious Networking Event will open its doors to the public for the first time in an extraordinary evening of entertainment, networking, healthful food and important information. Many of the area’s conscious professionals and…
Gold Coast Health Plan Teams Up with Health Partners to Host Diabetes Awareness Event on June 11
Public is Invited to Day of Free Health Screenings, Cooking Demonstrations, Entertainment and Raffles CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) has partnered with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the Ventura County Department of Public Health and Dignity Health’s St.…
Bilingual report: Auditions for ‘Esperanza Rising’ to be held June 3, 4
OXNARD — Teatro de las Américas to present Auditions for ‘Esperanza Rising’ to be held June 3, 4.
El Lustrador Rumbo a Hollywood el 11 de junio
UFW’s Roman Pinal, actor Daniel Stern to speak at Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s Currents of Change fundraiser on June 12
THOUSAND OAKS — Roman Pinal, an activist with the United Farm Workers of America, and actor, director and activist Daniel Stern will speak at the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s Currents of Change fundraiser from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday,…
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County to present ‘Currents of Change’ fundraiser on June 12
THOUSAND OAKS — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County to will present its 8th annual “Currents of Change — On the Wing for Justice” fundraiser from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, June 12 at Los Robles Greens Golf Course, 299…
UCSB to present ‘READINGS: Tides by Pedro Xavier Solís’ on May 31
SANTA BARBARA — Professors Suzanne Jill Levine and Jorge Luis Castillo will present a bilingual reading of Tides, at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 31 at the McCune Conference Room. The reading is a translation of a chapbook of poetry by Pedro…
Central City Swing Band to perform annual ‘Summer Concert’ on June 14
ORCUTT — The Central City Swing Band will perform their annual Summer Concert on Tuesday evening, June 14th, 2016 at 7:30PM. The concert will feature music arranged in a traditional or vintage swing style as well as arrangements in a…
Sesion Informativa Sobre DAPA y DACA el 16 de Junio en Oxnard
OXNARD — Sesion Informativa Sobre DAPA y DACA, 6 pm el 16 de Junio en el Center for Employment Training (CET), 761 S. C St., Oxnard. Para reservar su lugar llame a CLUE-VC 805.607.2114, www.cluevc.org o facebook.com/Clue-Vc
Jess Ramirez Birthday Fiesta and Fundraiser for the Café on A on June 16
OXNARD — Join us in celebration of TATA LOUIE’S (AKA Jess Ramirez’s Birthday on June 16 at the beautiful Downtown La Fonda del Rey. Please join us in this great night of fun, entertainment, community support. It promises to be…
UCSB’s Miroslava Chávez-García receives summer residency at University of Tübingen in Germany
By Jim Logan / UCSB Miroslava Chávez-García, who has done groundbreaking studies on race, gender and power in California, is taking her scholarship in a new direction: Germany. A professor in the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies at UC Santa Barbara,…
Bilingual commentary — Fair Wage: Let’s Be Cautious
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…
May is Mental Health Month: Mental Wellness Center Offers Tips to Improve Your Mental Wellness
SANTA BARBARA — In honor of Mental Health Month in May, the Mental Wellness Center is spreading the word that mental health is something everyone should care about. The nonprofit organization is offering the community a few easy tips to…
Guest commentary: Institutions of higher learning in need of more H.U.G.s
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. Frank P. Barajas. Courtesy photo.…
New Traffic Signal at Wendy and Gerald Drive Enhances Pedestrian Safety
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Transportation Department and Ventura County Supervisor Linda Parks commemorated the completion of the long-awaited new traffic signal at the intersection of Wendy and Gerald Drives. The new signal provides a safer…
Ventura County Public Works Agency highlights careers, hands-on demonstrations for over 500 students
VENTURA COUNTY — In what’s becoming a favorite educational experience among local students, Ventura County Public Works Agency’s National Public Works Day public event on Tuesday, May 17, aims to pique students’ interests in the Public Works sector. With over…
Moms To Be Spoiled With Jewelry, Electronics and Special Outings; All To Be Found At Centerpoint Mall For Mother’s Day
OXNARD — Shoppers can spoil mom at Centerpoint Mall for Mother’s Day with the more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and dining options. Centerpoint Mall is the ideal shopping destination to get the right gift for Mom by Mother’s Day…
Bilingual commentary: The Political Flames Ignite
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Santa Barbara Client Business Expo
SANTA BARBARA — In honor of Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) 25th anniversary, the Santa Barbara community gathered to support local small businesses and network at a celebratory WEV Client Business Expo. Thirty vendors—past and present WEV Loan recipients, Thrive in…
Letter Carriers prepare to collect and carry more than 100,000 pounds of food in one day for Ventura County’s hungry
VENTURA COUNTY — On Saturday, May 14, Ventura County letter carriers will be caravanning more than just incoming and outgoing mail; and community members won’t have to venture far from their doorsteps to give back to the local hungry in…
El Centrito Family Learning Centers announces ‘Pathways Community Luncheon 2016’ on May 20
OXNARD — El Centrito Family Learning Center has announced its “Pathways Community Luncheon 2016″will be held from noon to1:30 p.m. Friday, May 20. The third annual event brings together more than 150 community leaders, parents, speakers and businesses to raise funds…
Ventura County Public Works Agency to demonstrate state’s first application of precast pervious concrete panels on May 20
New low maintenance technology conserves water, recharges aquifers, reduces polluted runoff VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura Public Works Agency will demonstrate California’s first installation of precast pervious concrete slabs, a type of pavement that is porous enough to filter storm…
33rd Annual California Strawberry Festival set for May 21-22
OXNARD — It’s a berry bash of iconic portions, the 33rd Annual California Strawberry Festival May 21 & 22 featuring berrilicious fun with outlandish eats, entertainment, fine arts & crafts, and more. Ever had strawberry pizza with a strawberry beer?…
Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center Invites Community to 26th Annual Horse Show & Tack Sale on May 21
SANTA BARBARA — Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center invites the community to its 26th Annual Student Horse Show & Tack Sale on Saturday, May 21 from 9:00am to 4:30pm at their riding facilities, located at 4420 Calle Real in Santa Barbara.…
May 25: “Reaching for Stars” Evening of Fine Dining and Wines to Benefit Youth and Family Services YMCA
SANTA BARBARA — Join the Youth and Family Services YMCA for an unforgettable evening of extraordinary cuisine in a lovely setting, benefiting vital programs for local youth. Enjoy tantalizing dishes prepared by Santa Barbara’s top chefs, paired with fine wines…
Life and Work of the artist Ed Cristál explored in new exhibit now open at Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Opening reception on May 28
OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is pleased to announce a new exhibit open to the public on May 9, 2016. The exhibition features painting and ceramics by artist Ed Cristál, the artist who created the whale sculptures that flank…
Del Pueblo Cafe presents Los Very Be Careful on May 29
SANTA BARBARA — Very Be Careful, back to Santa Barbara after 4 very long years! A Caribbean soul and a California heart have sustained two decades of ceaseless romp-downs and raucous times for L.A.’s vallenato veteranos, inciting 10s of 1000s of…
Community Invited to Memorial Day Ceremony Hosted by Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation on May 30
SANTA BARBARA — Veterans, their families, and the community are invited to join the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation from 10-11 a.m. on Memorial Day (May 30) at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive, for a free ceremony honoring all…
¡Presentación sobre derechos laborales! el 25 de mayo
OXNARD — ¡Presentación sobre derechos laborales! a las 6 pm el 25 de mayo en el California Rural Legal Assistance Inc., 338 S. A St., Oxnard. ¡La información y servicios son gratuitos! En Esta Presentación se incluirá información sobre: ? ¿Ha…
Celebrate World Trade Week on May 18
PORT HUENEME — A celebration of “World Trade Week” will be held from 11:30 a.m.to1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 18 at the Port of Hueneme, 333 Ponoma Road, Port Hueneme. Hear from the business community at this special program and luncheon.…
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. celebrates 2016 National Women’s Health Week throughout Ventura County through May 14
VENTURA COUNTY — May 8-14th, Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. will host events in honor of National Women’s Health Week! Women throughout Ventura County can visit any of the 13 Clinicas Health Centers and participate in the FREE activities being…
SCAPE ~ Presents ‘Visions of the Gaviota Coast’ on May 13, 14
GOLETA — On Friday and Saturday, May 13 &14, 2016, SCAPE, Southern California Artists Painting for the Environment, will host the fourth annual “Visions of the Gaviota Coast,” an art exhibition of photography and fine art that showcases the beautiful…
Letter Carriers prepare to collect and carry more than 100,000 pounds of food in one day for Ventura County’s hungry on May 14
VENTURA COUNTY — On Saturday, May 14, Ventura County letter carriers will be caravanning more than just incoming and outgoing mail; and community members won’t have to venture far from their doorsteps to give back to the local hungry in…
Public invited to “Monarch Madness” milkweed planting event on May 14
VENTURA — On Sat., May 14, from 9 a.m. – 12 Noon, the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) will host “Monarch Madness” – a free family-friendly milkweed planting event at their Willoughby Preserve in the Ventura River estuary. This open-to-the-public event is appropriate for people of all…
12th annual Rebozo Festival to be held May 15 at Camarillo Ranch
Proceeds benefit Ventura County non-profit agencies CAMARILLO — The Rebozo Festival, Inc. is pleased to announce the 12th annual Rebozo Festival, which will be held on Sunday, May 15th, 2016 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Camarillo Ranch. In…
Gold Coast Health Plan Hosts 5th Annual Community Resource Fair on May 14
Public is Invited to Day of Free Health Screenings, Resources and Entertainment OXNARD — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) is holding a family-themed health fair in Oxnard on Saturday in anticipation of the thousands of children that are expected to enroll…
Former Oxnard Police Officer Lives Life of Purpose Through Foster Care
Natalie Cardenas Torres joins panel of inspirational speakers at Foster VC Kids Informational meeting, May 21 in Oxnard VENTURA COUNTY—Ventura County resident Natalie Cardenas Torres has always been drawn to a life of service, but she never imagined she’d be…
Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation Welcomes Jon L. Parra as New Board Member
SANTA BARBARA — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) welcomes retired Army Master Sgt. Jon L. Parra to the Board of Directors. Jon brings 20 years of experience in the Army with numerous years in leadership roles, extensive course training and multiple…
Bilingual commentary: Grandparent Privileges and Responsibilities
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…
VCMMCC Signals Rejection of Pharmacy Benefit Manager Selection
Commissioners to be More Active in the Selection Process CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) directed staff to prepare an agenda item for an upcoming special meeting formally rejecting all current bids received for the pharmacy benefit manager…
Community Discovers Future of Technology for Visually Impaired
SANTA BARBARA — Technology leaders recently shared insights on the evolution and future of technologies for the visually impaired at a Braille Institute Santa Barbara community education event titled Active Aging with Low Vision: Focus on Technology. Guests enjoyed a…
World Affairs Leader Selected for Leadership Mission to Israel
CENTRAL COAST — The World Affairs Councils of America — California Central Coast is pleased to announce that the Chairman Emeritus and Citizen Diplomat, Michael Phillip, has been invited to participate in a Leadership Mission to Israel during the first week…
The Collection at RiverPark wants shoppers to ‘Snap Up’ season’s hottest trends with new monthly promotion
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Oxnard’s premier shopping and dining destination, has introduced its new social media campaign highlighting the latest monthly fashion trends. Guests can visit www.TheCollectionRP.com the first day of each month to read the fashion-forward shopping…
Foodbank Launches Healthy Community Pantry on April 26
Foodbank CEO and community leaders will be on hand April 26 to launch Healthy Community Pantry, which provides local produce and staples, as well as nutritional education, to local families. SANTA BARBARA — The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is…
VCMRF’s Children’s Resource Program
WHY WAIT A YEAR? Protect your senses! Once a year a charitable event generously offers a free dental clinic; however, every day there is a child in pain who requires help, NOW! The Children’s Resource Program (CRP) began 31 years…
Luz Gonzalez from Robert Frank Intermediate School in Oxnard selected as the winner of the 33rd Annual California Strawberry Festival Youth Art Design Contest
OXNARD — From 1,445 entries, the “surfing strawberries” design of 12-year-old Luz Gonzalez from Robert Frank Intermediate School in Oxnard was selected as the winner of the 33rd Annual California Strawberry Festival Youth Art Design Contest. Festival representatives on April 19…
Bilingual commentary: The Vegetarian Decision
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…
Gold Coast Health Plan Gets Green Light from State to Repay County Loan
Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Plan in Strong Financial Position CAMARILLO — As a continuing sign of its strong financial performance, Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) received approval from the state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to repay a $7.2 million line…
Community Asked to Donate Vehicles to Support Channel Islands YMCA Open Doors Scholarships
SANTA BARBARA – The Channel Islands YMCA is seeking car donations through Vehicle Donation to Any Charity (V-DAC) to support the Y’s Open Doors Scholarship Program. All types of vehicles (running or not) are accepted, including: cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, boats,…
CenCal Health Welcomes Chief Information Officer Barrie Parker
SANTA BARBARA/SAN LUIS OBISPO — CenCal Health is pleased to welcome Barrie Parker as the new Chief Information Officer. Parker has more than 30 years of technology experience and 14 years of experience at the senior executive level in the…
Montecito Family YMCA Incurs $20-$30k in Property Damages from Fallen Tree
MONTECITO — The Montecito Family YMCA is facing an estimated $20,000-$30,000 in damages after a wind storm knocked a 30 foot oak tree onto the property on March 28. Fortunately, the Y was closed when the tree fell and no…
Youth and Family Services YMCA Celebrates Five Years of “My Home” Program Helping Homeless Youth Build a Path to Independence
SANTA BARBARA — The Youth and Family Services YMCA held a five-year anniversary celebration of their My Home program on April 5 at Artisan Court. My Home provides homeless youth ages 18-24 transitional housing and the tools needed to build…
Bilingual commentary: The Month of April
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…
Affordable Housing for Families Preserved in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara recently invited community leaders and partners to celebrate the renovation kick-off for the Pearl Gardens and Sycamore Gardens family housing properties with a tour of old and newly…
Open Positions at Westmont College
The following are open positions for employment at Westmont College. If you are interested in applying for any of these positions please follow the link below to our online application. Student Life Assistant Senior User Services Specialist Secretary-Communication Studies /…
City National Bank fortifies EDC-VC Loan Fund with $250,000 to help local businesses
CAMARILLO, Calif. – City National Bank presented a check for $250,000 to the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County’s Business Development Loan Fund at the organization’s 19th Annual Meeting recently held in Camarillo. This funding is in addition to $250,000 provided by City…
Guest commentary: Multicultural Mental Health — Community Defined Practices
Message Therapy: The Intuitive Touch 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.…
UCSB Student Veterans Bring Unique Experiences; Face Additional Challenges
Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation Provides Financial Support to UCSB Veterans Program SANTA BARBARA — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) is proud to announce its fourth year of continued financial support for UC Santa Barbara’s Veterans Resource Center. UCSB’s Veterans Resource Center…
Bilingual commentary: The Loss of Civility
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes…
Ventura County Public Works Agency announces nearly 40 percent drop in traffic collisions on County roads
VENTURA COUNTY — The number of traffic collisions on County roads has dropped by almost 40% in a decade, the Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) announced recently. The trend toward fewer accidents has mostly been downward since the County…
More than $7,000 in scholarships available to art students
OJAI — The Ojai Studio Artists are giving over $7,000 for art scholarships to qualifying high school and college students who are residents of Ventura County and who are pursuing a career in the field of art. Applicants are eligible to…
Grammy-nominated singer Perla Batalla to give two free concerts on April 29 at CSU Channel Islands
CAMARILLO — A Grammy-nominated vocalist, composer and arranger who first gained international attention as a backup singer for vocalist Leonard Cohen will give two free concerts on the CSU Channel Islands (CI) campus at 5 and 8 p.m. on Friday, April 29.…
MICOP to present ‘Indigenous Knowledge Conference 2016’ on April 29
OXNARD — Join us in learning more about Ventura County’s 20,000 indigenous immigrants, their lives, and how to build partnerships with the community. We look forward to seeing you! Friday, April 29, 2016 The Oxnard College Performing Arts Building 4000 South…
Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to be keynote speaker at California LULAC ‘Veterans Luncheon’ on April 29
California LULAC State Convention kicks off activities with Special Veterans Luncheon LOS ANGELES — The California State League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) announced April 19 that former Los Angeles Mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa, will be the keynote speaker at the LULAC…
El Concilio Family Services announces winners of Latino Leadership Awards. Event to be held May 6
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services in Oxnard has announced the winners of its 27th annual Latino Leadership Awards. The winners include Alejandra Castellanos, Amelia Aparicio, Dr. Ana M. Becerra, Erika Arteaga, Jesse Lamas Calvillo, Dr. Kaia Tollefson, Matilde “Mati” Sanchez…
Oxnard College Ballet Folklórico Mestizo to present Spring Dance Concert April 29-30
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Ballet Folklórico Mestizo will present its spring dance concert on Friday, April 29th & Saturday, April 30th at 7:30 pm, Oxnard College Performing Arts Building (PAB), 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard. A family friendly event. Colorful &…
Bilingual report: Conferencia para estudiantes indocumentados (DREAMer’s) el 7 de mayo en San Luis Obispo
SAN LUIS OBISPO — El Cuesta College de San Luis Obispo invita a los estudiantes, padres, maestros, y demás involucrados en temas educativos a informarse acerca de las opciones y recursos disponibles para los estudiantes indocumentados. Este simposio gratuito y abierto a todo…
Free Concerts April 29 through May 1: Latin Grammy Winners Monsieur Periné presented by ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!
¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! presents Latin Grammy Winners Monsieur Periné Latin Grammy Winners/ Ganadores del Latin Grammy Monsieur Periné Suin a la Colombiana / Colombian swing FREE concert / Entrada gratuita Friday, April 29/ Viernes, 29 de abril 7:00…
Korean War Symposium, Luncheon ‘The Forgotten War, Korea 66 Years On’ to be held May 9
Join Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) and the Channel City Club as they honor veterans of the Korean War at their Korean War Symposium and Luncheon, “The Forgotten War, Korea 66 Years On” on Monday, May 9 at the Fess Parker…
Latin Grammy winners Monsieur Periné bring “Suin a la colombiana” to Santa Barbara April 29 through May 1
SANTA BARBARA — Monsieur Periné, Latin Grammy winners for “Best New Artist” of 2015, come to Santa Barbara for free family events of art and music presented by ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Monsieur Periné will perform in free…
Santa Barbara Family YMCA to Host Free Healthy Kids Day® on April 30
SANTA BARBARA — From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 pm. on Saturday, April 30, the Santa Barbara Family YMCA is holding a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. The event features activities such…
Make plans to attend the 69th Annual California LULAC Convention and Policy Summit April 30 through May 1
California LULAC State Convention and Policy Summit April 30 – May 1, 2016 The Garland Hotel 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91602 Policy Workshop Sessions on Access to Higher Education, Chicano Studies, Chicano History, Immigration, Voting Rights, Running…
Fairy Tales Come Alive at Channel Islands Harbor – First Performance May 1: Cinderella Meets the Avengers
Channel Islands Harbor presents Gypsies in a Trunk, the all-volunteer troupe of actors who perform free fairy tales for the young and the young at heart. They will be performing “Cinderella Meets the Avengers” at 2 p.m., May 1, at…
Dog Personalities Shine During Playgroups at May 1 Open House
Community invited to free event featuring dog playgroups and fun activities for the whole family SANTA BARBARA — One year after the Santa Barbara Humane Society introduced socialization play groups for its dogs, the average length of stay has dropped from…
Oxnard College Literature, Arts & Lecture Series Spring 2016 through May 4
OXNARD — The Oxnard College Literature, Arts & Lecture Series will begin its 2016 Spring Series on February 24th, featuring Darius Wallace performing “Frederick Douglass and the Starry Road to Freedom.” Other events include: “Treasures of Spain: Song, Dance, and Guitar”…
RSVP deadline approaching for El Concilio’s Latino Leadership Awards
OXNARD — The RSVP deadline is approaching for El Concilio’s Family Services 27th annual Latino Leadership Awards. The winners include Alejandra Castellanos, Amelia Aparicio, Dr. Ana M. Becerra, Erika Arteaga, Jesse Lamas Calvillo, Dr. Kaia Tollefson, Matilde “Mati” Sanchez and…
Action Star Danny Trejo Headlines Rick Najera’s Latino Thought Makers Series at Oxnard College on May 4
OXNARD — Action star Danny Trejo will headline the season finale of Rick Najera’s popular Latino Thought Makers entertainment series live on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at 7:00pm at Oxnard College’s 400-seat state-of-the art Performing Arts Center in Oxnard, CA. The series, presented by Oxnard College Institute for Latino Performing Arts,…
Ventura County Supervisor 3rd District Candidate Forum to be held April 26
CAMARILLO — The Noontime Optimist Club of Camarillo invites the public to participate in a candidate forum for the Ventura County Supervisor, 3rd District, which will be held on Tuesday, April 26th, 2016, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. The public is…
emPower Hosts Dine & Discover Workshop at Rusty’s Pizza on April 28
In the spirit of Earth Day, emPower Central Coast will be offering advice on improving home efficiency at a free Dine & Discover workshop April 28 at Rusty’s Pizza, 232 W. Carrillo St. A program of Santa Barbara County’s Energy…
Mental Wellness Center Kicks Off 5th Annual 5K Walk for Mental Wellness
SANTA BARBARA — Hundreds of community members will go the extra mile on Friday, May 6 to show support for those affected by mental illness, by participating in the 5th annual Walk for Mental Wellness, led by the Mental Wellness…
Bilingual report: State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson — On César Chávez Day, let us remember his call for economic justice, equality
SACRAMENTO – The life of civil rights leader and labor organizer is celebrated today, on what would have been his 89th birthday. State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) released the following statement: “As we celebrate what would have been his 89th birthday,…
21st annual César E. Chávez march, celebration to be held on April 10 in Oxnard
OXNARD — The 21st annual Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice — “Overtime for Farm Workers Now!” will be held Sunday, April 10. Marchers will gather at 9 a.m. at Cesar Chavez Elementary School, 300 N. Juanita St., Oxnard, with the…
The UCSB Library’s speaker series presents Carl Gutierrez-Jones on ‘Science Fiction and Creative Self-Destruction’ on April 12
SANTA BARBARA — The UCSB Library’s speaker series will present Carl Gutierrez-Jones discussion on “Science Fiction and Creative Self-Destruction” at 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 12 at the Pacific View Room, Library, Ocean Side, 8th Floor. A reception will follow the free…
Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara Holds Open House on April 14
SANTA BARBARA — Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara is holding a Spring Open House on Thursday, April 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tour the Santa Barbara and Goleta Valley Centers and learn about 2016 programs and activities. For more…
Rick Najera to Host Latino Thought Makers’ All-Star Social Media Panel at Oxnard College on April 13
Social Media Stars & Influencers Vincent Marcus, Ana Flores & David Lopez discuss starting out and rise to Internet fame OXNARD — The Oxnard College Institute for Performing Arts presents the next installment of Latino Thought Makers featuring social media stars and influencers:Vincent Marcus, Ana…
Ventura College celebrates the county with its inaugural ‘Diversity in Culture Festival April 14-16
Free three-day multicultural festival to showcase cultures through dance, music, film, food, speakers and more VENTURA — Ventura County is a mosaic of cultures and ethnicities, with residents hailing from around the world. To celebrate the multicultural diversity of the county and…
Community Memorial Health Systems to present ‘Prediabetes / Diabetes Management Seminar & Workshops’ starting April 16
VENTURA — Community Memorial Health Systems to present “Prediabetes / Diabetes Management Seminar & Workshops” from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 16 at Community Memorial Hospital, 147 N. Brent St., Ventura, in Nichols Auditorium, 8th Floor. Future workshops to be…
CDA Cares free dental clinic coming to Ventura April 16-17
VENTURA — The California Dental Association Foundation will be hosting a CDA Cares free dental clinic April 16-17 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis with a goal of providing care to approximately 2,000…
emPower Joining Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival April 16 & 17
County’s home energy efficiency program invites homeowners to learn about home energy efficiency at festival SANTA BARBARA — emPower Central Coast will offer home energy efficiency tips, provide information on home upgrade programs and hand out 100 free energy-efficient LED lightbulbs at…
CAUSE Action Fund to present Annual Leadership Awards Reception in Santa Barbara on April 17
SANATA BARBARA — The CAUSE Action Fund will present the Annual Leadership Awards Reception from 2 to 4:30 Sunday, April 17 at the Cabrillo Pavilion Arts Center, 1118 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara. The event will honor Lifetime Achievement Awards Recipients…
Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival 2016 Highlights Announced; Mariachi and Son Jarocho Bands Take the Stage on April 17
SANTA BARBARA – The Community Environmental Council (CEC) hosts the 2016 Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival at Alameda Park on Saturday, April 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 17 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. CEC’s Santa…
Stanford University Longevity and Aging Expert to Speak at SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning Mind & Supermind, April 18
Professor Walter Bortz, M.D., Scientific Expert on Longevity and Aging to discuss Dare To Be 100: The Plasticity of Human Aging SANTA BARBARA — On April 18, SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning (the CLL) will host “Dare To Be 100: The…
Straight Up Jazz with John Schnackenberg and Cougar Estrada Sax & Keyboard next set for April 19
SANTA BARBARA —Every Third Tuesday of the month, Lovejoy’s Pickle Room presents live jazz. The groovy duo of Cougar Estrada and John Schnackenberg put out some “straight ahead” jazz on keyboards and baritone sax, respectively. They will next perform Lovejoy’s Pickle…