First responders are worthy of our praise
OpinionIt’s hard to say whether residents of the Tri-Counties will ever take wildfires and other disasters in stride. Nothing quite resembles being forced to evacuate a canyon home and leave most belongings behind. Some residents simply refuse to leave. But those trying to help – the first responders – have dedicated their lives to Read More →
Central Coast commercial stats underscore the economy
ColumnsIt’s official. The regional commercial real estate market is no longer safe from the greater struggle. Radius Group Commercial Real Estate in Santa Barbara recently released a second-quarter report tracking South Coast commercial real estate activity over the last six months, and the numbers aren’t good. Until now, real estate agents have remained relatively upbeat Read More →
Disasters just part of the business landscape
ColumnsOne fatal earthquake. One fatal mudslide. Four major fires. That’s the toll of natural disasters our region has endured during the past five years. Beginning with the Simi Valley fires in the fall of 2003 and the Paso Robles earthquake toward the end of that year, it seems our region entered a new and deadly Read More →
Re-using wood
Small BusinessThe 10-ton eucalyptus had towered over the original Hope Ranch near Santa Barbara for perhaps 100 years, standing sentry as the area changed form an agriculture outpost to posh neighborhood. When it came down it was destined for the landfill or the grinder. Urban trees meet similar fates every day on the Central Coast, but Read More →
New yogurt concept cools region
UncategorizedFrozen yogurt is making a comeback. But it’s not like some may remember. Enthusiasts dub it “froyo,” and the taste has changed too. No longer just a lower fat version of ice cream, the new frozen yogurt has the same soft-serve consistency, but actually tastes a little tart. It’s more like real yogurt: frozen. And Read More →
Preparation pays off
UncategorizedMany homeowners are armed with a game plan in case an emergency situation arises. The drill includes storing water and first-aid, organizing exit strategies, and maintaining a list of important items that can be packed up at a moment’s notice. Businesses should be equally prepared – if not more so – as a disastrous situation Read More →
