Guest commentary: Application for SBA’s Persons of the Year are still open
By Dawn Golik & Julie Clowes Small Business Administration For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. During the first week in May, the SBA honors the best of our country’s 33 million small business Read More →
Guest commentary: Resources are available for survivors this holiday season
By Dr. Caroline Prijatel-Sutton Coalition for Family Harmony, a Ventura County-based non-profit organization, has numerous programs and activities this Holiday Season that benefit victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence. The holiday season can be difficult for victims of violence as leaving an abusive relationship and finding safety can be challenging. The Coalition offers many options Read More →
Guest Commentary: Santa Barbara’s CRE market must embrace a transformative future
Housing needs and vacant commercial space are at the forefront of policy and community discussions. With the introduction of potential housing developments, along with state housing mandates, Santa Barbara’s residential and commercial real estate market is evolving. With recent announcements from Santa Barbara’s City Council about a potential Paseo Nuevo housing project, refocused uses for Read More →
Guest commentary: Don’t let market volatility hurt your investment strategy
By Arthur Swalley This year’s third quarter saw a retreat across markets after the significant run-up of the year’s first half. The most prominent technology companies of the S&P 500, known as the “Magnificent Seven,” made up the great majority of the index’s 13.2% gain for 2023 so far. Comparatively, the Dow Jones Industrial Average Read More →
Guest commentary: Hancock and Cuesta embrace a more unitED front
Oct. 5 was a historic day for the Central Coast. That’s when Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College teamed up to launch “UnitED Central Coast” — a major campaign to provide bachelor’s degrees for students in our region. The time is right. The need is critical. And we’re ready and able to offer the bachelor’s Read More →
Guest commentary: Navigating open enrollment with ease
By Dr. Sabrina Brana Whether you’re covered through your employer’s health insurance, have opted for a Covered California plan, or are preparing to change your health coverage, it’s important to carefully assess your open enrollment needs. Choosing a health plan doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it’s an opportunity to ensure you are getting Read More →
Guest commentary: Understanding the difference between an independent contractor and employee
By Emilie Elliott Every business owner should be aware that there are two main classifications of workers: independent contractors and employees. While both play important roles in the workforce, it is important to understand the legal distinctions between the two. If you own a business, having a comprehensive understanding of the key differences, as well Read More →