Guest commentary: Why now is the right time to switch to an electric vehicle
Tia Kordell Community Environmental Council It’s official: when it comes to protecting us from the growing threat of a climate crisis, the federal government is not just asleep at the wheel — it’s driving us in reverse. Regressive climate policies, funding rollbacks, and the purge of environmental agencies threaten to permanently set the climate movement Read More →
Guest commentary: Tricky legal issues involving employee bonuses and commissions
By Jonathan Fraser Light Bonuses and commissions continue to be a troublesome topic because employers often enter into these arrangements without thinking about collateral issues. DISCRETIONARY VS. NON-DISCRETIONARY BONUSES An employer sets up a bonus system for employees based on productivity measurements, such as key performance indicators (KPIs). For hourly workers, this could mean a Read More →
Our view: Coastal Commission hurts Central Coast future as space hub
When the California Coastal Commission voted 11-0 against a proposal to double the number of SpaceX Falcon 9 launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base, it knew its actions were useless and subject to a U.S. Department of the Air Force override. And that’s exactly what will happen. The Commission’s logic was that SpaceX is a Read More →
Guest commentary: CHROs take the lead in shaping America’s business future
By Vlad Vaiman California Lutheran University The year 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most disruptive and consequential years in the history of modern work. Business strategy, talent and technology disruption are colliding in a way that positions chief human resources officers (CHROs) not just as partners for change but as true Read More →
Guest commentary: A financial checklist for entrepreneurs
By Jason Bietz Bank of America It may still be summer, but for many entrepreneurs, the fall season is fast approaching and marks a key transition point that can set the tone for year-end performance. The fall is a crucial time for business owners to assess their finances and prepare to capitalize on upcoming opportunities Read More →

Our view: Michael Morris left his mark on San Luis Obispo business
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Guest commentary: Santa Barbara’s Coastal Intelligence is redefining tech community
By Starr Hall In a world where most AI conversations occur behind screens, in data centers, or on Zoom calls, a new wave of collaboration is quietly unfolding in Santa Barbara, marked by handshakes, laughter, and genuine eye contact. Coastal Intelligence, founded by longtime community builders Jim Sterne, Mark Sylvester, and Mike Wald, is creating Read More →