Water fight puts property rights on trial
ColumnsVentura County property owners have won at least a partial victory in their ongoing battle to preserve some measure of rights. Going all the way to the state water board, the Building Industry Association won a re-hearing of new rules that could sharply have increased the cost of compliance with laws governing stormwater — the Read More →
A new Santa Barbara can lead rebound
OpinionAmong the region’s larger cities, Camarillo probably has the strongest retail environment — and a much better-than-average fiscal position. Oxnard, Santa Maria and Paso Robles probably have some of the best long-term growth prospects, thanks to affordable housing and a pro-business attitude. San Luis Obispo has a dynamic new city manager with a laser-like focus Read More →
Special Comment: Remembering Fess Parker
Opinion[Editor’s note: Business Times Editor and Chairman Henry Dubroff takes a moment to remember Fess Parker business owner to business owner.] I’ve always felt there was a special bond between Fess Parker, the Pacific Coast Business Times and the pioneering spirit of entrepreneurship that’s a hallmark of this region. The man who played Davy Crockett Read More →
Good bugs
UncategorizedFull-on bug wars may soon be breaking out in a vineyard near you. After decades of supplying beneficial insects that help protect Ventura County’s citrus and avocado crops, Santa Paula-based Associates Insectary is now launching a wasp to help protect California’s grapevines. The vine mealybug, discovered in Santa Barbara County in 2000, is a formidable Read More →
Business of culture
Small BusinessIt’s been open for just over a year, and already Live Culture in Santa Barbara has its eye set on the national stage. Owner-operators Darin Fiechter, Sierra Falso and Rebecca Klarich opened the chic eatery, wine bar and music venue in the Paso Nuevo mall last March. Now they say they’re ready to take the Read More →
Affinity refinancing paves way for recovery
UncategorizedWith new financing in place and a recovery brewing in the recreational vehicle industry, Ventura-based Affinity Group could be back on the road to black ink. Affinity Group owns a nationwide network of discount clubs for RV owners, along with the 75-location Camping World chain of retail stores and a stable of niche magazines targeted Read More →
