News & Events:
2026 Registration
January 10th 12pm-4pm
Encinitas Neighbors Turn Out to
Support Store Owner Facing Deportation
Several Encinitas community groups and our state senator joined a festive crowd at the Just Peachy market in Leucadia last Friday evening to show solidarity with store owner Norberto Ambrosio-Aguilar, who is threatened with deportation.
The Posada was a moving evening of food, music, socializing – and most importantly, purpose.
Norberto emotionally addressed his neighbors, saying “Thank you very much for coming, It means a lot to me and family, and without you I probably wouldn’t be here.”
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A crowd of Encinitas neighbors gathered outside Just Peachy in Leucadia Friday evening to show their support for Norberto Ambrosio-Aguilar and his family after they were faced with unexpected deportation threats.
Norberto’s immigration case was closed years ago, but last month he received a notice to appear at immigration court, where his supporters also gathered amidst concerns that he might be deported at the hearing. His attorney was requesting to have the removal order canceled. It was a relief when the judge gave him more time to prepare, continuing Norberto’s case until May 19 of next year.
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Enjoying the camaraderie early in the neighborhood gathering were (l. to r.) Emma Orozco, Nadia Guerrero, Just Peachy owner Norberto Ambrosio-Aguilar, Posada event coordinator Bill Sparks, Raul’s Shack owner and food provider Emma Castillo, and Encinitas Action’s Bob Ayers.
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Part of the strong and supportive turnout were (l. to r.) Norberto Ambrosio-Aguilar, his wife Guadalupe, State Senator Catherine Blakespear, Ana Lang of Somos TIAS and Encinitas Action’s Bob Ayers.
State Senator Catherine Blakespear spoke to the crowd to offer her encouragement, pointing out the absurdity of Norberto’s situation. “[California] is still a place where hard work offers opportunity, and Norberto is the perfect example of this. He worked here and then he purchased Just Peachy market after years as an employee, putting in the sweat labor.
”He and his family exemplify the American Dream, and particularly the California Dream, and they should be honored for their accomplishments. They should not be hounded for political gain.”
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Encinitas Action members who showed up to encourage Norberto, his family and employees were (l. to r.) Suzanne Stone, Marlon Taylor, Bob Ayers, Kim Piker, Bob Kent and Tony Kranz, joined by Mario Ordoñez-Calderón, Executive Director of Un Mar de Colores.
“Tonight is a snapshot of the Encinitas many of us believe in. Community, culture, and belonging,” Encinitas Action member Marlon Taylor told the throng. “People come to Encinitas for different reasons, but what keeps us here is the feeling that this is a place where you can be yourself, you can build a life, and your family is welcomed.
”Encinitas Action exists to protect that inclusive character and to broaden civic engagement so more neighbors have a real voice in the decisions that shape our city. If you care about what Encinitas becomes over the next few years, I’d encourage you to support Encinitas Action.”
We’ll keep you up to date on Norberto’s plight, as well as other crucial issues that affect Encinitas.2026 is looking to be a continuation of this year’s roller coaster ride, but there’s a also feeling of promise and optimism in the air. Please take care of yourself, your family and friends during this holiday season. We’re going to need all of our energy in the coming months!
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