A fuzzy investment: Santa Ynez Valley duo deals in llamas and alpacas
Small BusinessAt Alpacas at West Ranch, hundreds of long-necked, fuzzy creatures frolic about and doze under shady trees on a sweltering summer day in the Santa Ynez Valley. Alpacas are often described as just another agribusiness bubble, like emus, llamas, Shetland ponies and tulips before them. But at this Los Olivos ranch, the charm and the Read More →
Flying small: Private jet company grows even in recession
UncategorizedSanta Barbara may have lost its San Jose flight connection, but a start-up charter jet company is getting off the ground and looking to new heights. Santa Barbara-based Silver Air, founded by president and owner Jason Middleton in early 2008, focuses on transporting business and private travelers around in light, fuel-efficient jets. “Most charter companies Read More →
Sale of State St. building second-largest this year
UncategorizedSanta Barbara’s State Street saw its second largest retail sale this year as the former home of Left at Albuquerque was sold. Although the terms of the sale were not disclosed, the 5,753-square-foot building at 700 State St. was listed for $4.1 million. Broker Michael Chenoweth of Radius Group represented the owner and Mike Heisheima Read More →
Ventura College sues contractor on new science wing for $12M
ColumnsThe Ventura Community College District is suing the architect and contractor for its new Ventura College health and science complex for breach of contract and professional negligence, asking for damages of about $12 million. According to a complaint filed June 25 in Ventura County Superior Court, the college hired Omaha, Neb.-based engineering and design firm Read More →