Op/ed: Unproductive Congress hurts bankers and borrowers
By Rodney Brown Members of the California Bankers Association annually travel to Washington, D.C., to speak with our elected representatives about some of the major legislative issues that are a priority for our industry and our customers. On our fall trip this year, we learned firsthand how truly gridlocked this Congress is, and the unfortunate Read More →
Op/ed: The leadership of Pope Francis
By R. Scott Turicchi Much has been made about the style of Pope Francis — specifically that he doesn’t act like a pope. So, what in fact is leadership? In his book, “An Integrative Theory of Leadership,” Martin Chemers defines leadership as “a process of social influence in which one person is able to enlist Read More →
Tough talks can help you root out the real problems in your business
By Esther Bleuel We live in a world where conflict is inevitable and unavoidable. It can’t be escaped, and ignoring it can cause great harm and distress. One of the biggest challenges is that most people fear having difficult conversations or “tough talks.” Why? The consequences of a conflict gone wrong may damage or actually Read More →
Letter: Measure P is a step toward a greener future
Dear Editor: This letter is in reference to your Sept. 12 editorial, “Santa Barbara County takes big green step with Cuyama solar approval.” The first sentence in the first paragraph has a false and inflammatory statement: “(…) Measure P, the proposal that could ban most oil and gas production in the county (….).” Measure P Read More →
Dubroff: Teague chose family over politics, and Ventura County prospered
Well-dressed, tall and affable, Alan Teague was a board chairman right out of central casting. The Limoneira Co. chairman had a politician’s gift for remembering names and faces. He had a welcoming way with strangers that complemented his ambition and drive. He was pretty much the most important person in Republican Party politics in West Read More →
Op/ed: It pays to show gratitude in business relationships
By Scott Harris “We were very impressed and pleased with the work your team did with the video. The results were truly amazing! We know that it took a huge effort (extra effort) on the parts of many, and we would like to honor the folks who made critical contributions with a small recognition gift. Read More →
Dubroff: Mozilo is in denial, government grabs for cash and we pay the bill
An unrepentant Angelo Mozilo remains a key figure at the center of the housing collapse and financial crisis. Interviewed by Bloomberg News from his home in Montecito in early September, the former Countrywide Financial Corp. Chairman said he had no regrets about the wild ride that transformed the Calabasas firm from a small mortgage company Read More →
