FELIZ NAVIDAD: Looking to break from American...

FELIZ NAVIDAD: Looking to break from American Christmas fare? Try taking in one of the candlelight processions called posadas, yuletide celebrations popular in Mexico (F1A). . . . Beginning Saturday, townsfolk will reenact the story of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. . . . Several free or low-cost events are scheduled around the county, including one at the San Buenaventura Mission. “We’re trying to rebuild a custom that has not been practiced in some time,” said Father Joseph D. Pina.

LATIN ROCK: It was nearly 25 years ago that Tierra, Malo and El Chicano first laid down their hybrid sound--a blend of smooth vocal harmonies and Latin rhythms. . . . The Chicano rock masters will bring that sound Saturday to the Ventura Theatre (F1A). Their music evolved in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s out of the Chicano consciousness-raising movement. . . . “It definitely strikes a chord,” said Francisco Dominguez, head of El Concilio del Condado de Ventura. “It was very much a part of the social justice movement.”

PUSHING THE LIMIT: If the weather cooperates, transportation workers will boost the speed limit Sunday on four Ventura County roadways. . . . Signs will change to 65 mph on the Ventura Freeway, from L.A. to Ventura; the Moorpark Freeway; California 33, from the Ventura Freeway to Casitas Vista Road; and California 126, from the Ventura Freeway to Hallock Drive. . . . However, rain could prevent the new limits from being posted Sunday. If so, 55 mph will still rule the road. “Motorists must be aware,” said Margie Tiritilli, Caltrans spokeswoman. “They must drive the posted limit.”