Special brew: Indy coffee shops hold their own against big boys
Independent coffee shops in the Tri-Counties are thriving, despite competition with Starbucks and other big names.
Getting your name out there: Area PR gurus share their secrets
The Business Times asked two marketing experts for advice on how to thrive in a difficult economy.
Peddling fun: Rental firm builds a coast-to-coast empire
Ventura-based Wheel Fun has grown into a coast-to-coast franchising empire with more than 100 locations.
Gaining altitude: Area travel agency expands
Santa Barbara Travel is flying through industry turbulence, expanding recently with the acquisition of a rival firm.
A century of chugging along: Santa Maria Valley Railroad turns 100
The Santa Maria Valley Railroad owns only 14 miles of mainline track, but that is enough to turn a profit.
SLO launches summer Hot House for startups
Known around the state for its agriculture graduates, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo has set up a Hot House for what it hopes will be its next important crop — technology startups.
Taking the edge off: Students launch stress-relief drink
Just Chill, a stress-relief drink, was launched by a 21-year-old Santa Barbara entrepreneur.
