Latest news with #California-specific
Time Business News
11-08-2025
- Automotive
- Time Business News
Automotive Care Industry: An Old Industry in a New Digital-First Market
For over a century, the automotive care industry has hummed along, a vital part of our transportation infrastructure. From dusty garages offering oil changes to sprawling dealerships with state-of-the-art service bays, the core of the business has remained largely tangible: hands-on work on physical vehicles. But in today's rapidly evolving digital-first market, this established industry faces both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. Here in California, and across cities in the United States, we're seeing this shift firsthand. Consumers, accustomed to instant information and seamless online experiences in nearly every other aspect of their lives, are now bringing those expectations to how they care for their cars. The old ways of relying solely on word-of-mouth or Yellow Pages listings are no longer enough. The Digital Disruption is Here: The internet has empowered car owners like never before. They research repair options, compare prices, read reviews, and even try DIY fixes armed with YouTube tutorials. They expect online booking, transparent pricing, and digital communication. Over 70% of car owners now search online before choosing a local auto shop or smog check station. For automotive care businesses, ignoring this digital transformation is no longer an option – it's a path towards becoming obsolete. As platforms like Vehicle Care Network emerge, offering professional car care services with a focus on efficient solutions and skilled technicians, the industry is clearly moving towards a more accessible, digital-first approach. Similarly, for California-specific needs like smog checks, services like Smog Check Network are revolutionizing how drivers find and book certified stations, offering online payments, appointment management, and upfront pricing. This not only benefits the consumer but also provides powerful tools for stations to thrive in a competitive online environment. The automotive care industry faces several significant challenges in today's digital-first market, starting with reaching the modern customer who spends more time online than physically searching for a mechanic. This necessitates finding effective ways to cut through digital noise and attract new clients. Another hurdle is building trust online in an industry where credibility is paramount; businesses must find ways to establish relationships with customers they haven't met in person, with online reviews and digital testimonials are becoming critical for demonstrating reliability and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, transparency in pricing is now non-negotiable, as customers demand clear, upfront explanations and costs for services, pushing traditional businesses to adapt profitably. This shift also requires adapting to new technologies, from online scheduling systems to digital vehicle inspections, all of which demand significant investment and training. Finally, the rise of online retailers and DIY culture has empowered many car owners to order parts online and access repair information, enabling them to tackle more maintenance themselves. Despite the challenges posed by the digital-first market, significant opportunities abound for automotive care businesses willing to adapt. A robust online presence can dramatically expand reach, attracting customers from a broader geographical area than traditional marketing methods. Digital communication tools, email marketing, and social media offer enhanced customer engagement, fostering stronger relationships and building loyalty. Operations can be streamlined through online booking systems, digital record-keeping, and automated reminders, leading to improved efficiency and reduced administrative burdens. Moreover, tracking online activity and customer interactions provides invaluable data-driven insights for understanding needs and optimizing services. Building a strong brand reputation is also a key benefit, as online reviews and testimonials, often highlighted on platforms like Vehicle Care Network, become powerful tools for building trust and attracting new customers. Finally, the digital space facilitates specialization and niche marketing, enabling businesses to target specific customer segments and effectively promote their unique expertise, such as electric vehicle maintenance or specialized European car repair, while platforms like Smog Check Network, demonstrate how online tools can simplify compliance and transaction management. For automotive care businesses in California and beyond to thrive in this new era, a strategic approach to digital transformation is crucial, encompassing the establishment of a professional online presence through a user-friendly website, active social media profiles, and listings in relevant online directories like VehicleCareNetwork and SmogCheckNetwork. This also involves embracing online booking and communication by offering convenient online scheduling and utilizing email and text messaging for appointment reminders and updates to enhance customer experience. Prioritizing transparency is key, with businesses providing clear pricing information and digital vehicle inspection reports, as exemplified by SmogCheckNetwork's upfront listing of prices and California Certificate fees. Furthermore, actively soliciting and responding to online reviews is vital for managing online reputation and attracting new customers, while investing in digital marketing, online search optimization, and targeted online advertising can significantly increase visibility. Finally, continuous adaptation and learning are paramount, as the ever-evolving digital landscape necessitates staying informed about new technologies and best practices. The automotive care industry may be rooted in tradition, but its future lies in embracing the digital-first market. By strategically leveraging online tools and technologies, as demonstrated by the innovative approaches of Smog Check Network (available at and Vehicle Care Network (available at businesses can not only survive but thrive in this exciting new landscape, ensuring that they continue to serve the transportation needs of communities like ours for generations to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Miami Herald
27-06-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
Fourth of July barbecues will cost more in California. Here's a breakdown
Fireworks aren't the only thing accompanying Californians' Fourth of July celebrations this year - higher grocery prices will as well. A California cookout for 10 guests will cost $90.06, compared with the national average of $70.92 and Western regional average of $73.50, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation's annual "marketbasket" survey. California-specific costs were included for the first time this year. The survey uses data collected by volunteer shoppers across the country, including Farm Bureau members and others, from stores in every state and Puerto Rico to give consumers a snapshot of food costs. This year's national average of $7.09 per person for a cookout, marks the second-highest cost since the survey began in 2013. California shoppers face steep premiums on cookout staples. Ground beef costs $14.33 for two pounds - $1 more than the national average. Chicken breasts run $12.48 for two pounds versus $7.79 nationally, while three pounds of pork chops cost $19.30, compared with $14.13 nationwide. Even basic items carry higher price tags in California. Hamburger buns cost $3.42 per package ($1.07 above average) and cheese runs $3.87 per pound (33 cents more). Fresh strawberries cost $6.14 for two pints versus $4.69 nationally, while two and a half pounds of homemade potato salad totals $4.92 compared with $3.54 elsewhere, the American Farm Bureau Federation said. Ice cream, cookies and lemonade also cost more in the Golden State. "Inflation and lower availability of some food items continue to keep prices stubbornly high for America's families," said Samantha Ayoub, associate economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation. Several factors account for the higher costs in California and nationwide. Trump administration tariffs on Mexico and Canada, two of the biggest suppliers of fresh produce, have increased import costs, which most retailers pass on to consumers. In March, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on most goods from Canada and Mexico. The American Farm Bureau Federation's assessment focuses mostly on food and drink items primarily grown and produced in the U.S., making it challenging to determine the full tariff impacts. However, steel and aluminum tariffs have increased costs for canned goods such as pork and beans. "Market uncertainty remains a challenge for many California producers, but we are hopeful the announcements of several recent trade deals is an indication that the administration is making progress on this front," Matthew Viohl, California Farm Bureau director of policy advocacy, said in an emailed statement. Reduced cattle availability and recovering chicken populations hit by avian flu also pushed prices higher. Additionally, ICE raids across California have created widespread fear among agricultural workers, disrupting farm operations and potentially threatening food production. Workforce disruptions could threaten the state's ability to supply healthy food, drive up grocery prices for all Americans and jeopardize California's position as the nation's agricultural leader, said Bryan Little, senior director of policy advocacy for the California Farm Bureau. Higher grocery costs, however, don't benefit farmers, who receive only 15% of each retail food dollar while facing rising expenses for labor, transportation and taxes. Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
Los Angeles Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Fourth of July barbecues will cost more in California. Here's a breakdown
Fireworks aren't the only thing accompanying Californians' Fourth of July celebrations this year — higher grocery prices will as well. A California cookout for 10 guests will cost $90.06, compared to the national average of $70.92 and Western regional average of $73.50, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation's annual 'marketbasket' survey. California-specific costs were included for the first time this year. The survey uses data collected by volunteer shoppers across the country, including Farm Bureau members and others, from stores in every state and Puerto Rice to give consumers a snapshot of food costs. This year's national average of $7.09 per person for a cookout, marks the second-highest cost since the survey began in 2013. California shoppers face steep premiums on cookout staples. Ground beef costs $14.33 for two pounds — $1 more than the national average. Chicken breasts run $12.48 for two pounds versus $7.79 nationally, while three pounds of pork chops cost $19.30 compared to $14.13 nationwide. Even basic items carry higher price tags in California. Hamburger buns cost $3.42 per package ($1.07 above average) and cheese runs $3.87 per pound (33 cents more). Fresh strawberries cost $6.14 for two pints versus $4.69 nationally, while two and a half pounds of homemade potato salad totals $4.92 compared to $3.54 elsewhere, the American Farm Bureau said. Ice cream, cookies and lemonade also cost more in the Golden State. 'Inflation and lower availability of some food items continue to keep prices stubbornly high for America's families,' said American Farm Bureau Associate Economist Samantha Ayoub. Several factors account for the higher costs in California and nationwide. Trump administration tariffs on Mexico and Canada, two of the biggest suppliers of fresh produce, have increased import costs, which most retailers pass on to consumers. In March, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on most goods from Canada and Mexico. Strawberries, potatoes, and lemons — all cookout staples — may cost more as a direct result of these tariffs. The American Farm Bureau Federation's assessment focuses mostly on food and drink items primarily grown and produced in the U.S., making it challenging to determine the full tariff impacts. However, steel and aluminum tariffs have increased costs for canned goods like pork and beans. 'Market uncertainty remains a challenge for many California producers, but we are hopeful the announcements of several recent trade deals is an indication that the administration is making progress on this front,' Matthew Viohl, California Farm Bureau director of policy advocacy, said in an email statement. Reduced cattle availability and recovering chicken populations hit by avian flu also pushed prices higher. Additionally, ICE raids across California have created widespread fear among agricultural workers, disrupting farm operations and potentially threatening food production. Workforce disruptions could threaten the state's ability to supply healthy food, drive up grocery prices for all Americans and jeopardize California's position as the nation's agricultural leader, said Bryan Little, senior director of policy advocacy for the California Farm Bureau. Higher grocery costs, however, don't benefit farmers, who receive only 15% of each retail food dollar while facing rising expenses for labor, transportation and taxes.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
United States Congressional Candidate Peter Coe Verbica Unveils 25-Point Federal Plan to Help Make California Affordable Again
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. and SAN JOSE, Calif. and SANTA CRUZ, Calif. and MONTEREY, Calif., June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- US. Congressional Candidate Peter Coe Verbica, author of Hard-Won Cowboy Wisdom and a CFP® professional, releases a comprehensive plan outlining 25 federal initiatives to combat California's growing affordability crisis. Verbica is running for US Congress, California District 19, which includes Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties. While many of the cost drivers (such as housing, gas, utilities, and insurance) are the result of decades of restrictive state policies, Candidate for Congress Verbica emphasizes that federal lawmakers still have powerful tools to ease the burden on California families and businesses. "California's affordability crisis is pushing out teachers, nurses, firefighters, small businesses, and young families," states Peter Coe Verbica. "While Sacramento bears responsibility for many of these cost pressures, if elected, I will focus on delivering federal solutions that can provide real relief." STATE POLICIES AT THE ROOT OF THE CRISIS US. Congressional Candidate Verbica notes several long-standing California-specific issues that have contributed to the affordability problem: Housing shortages caused by decades of underbuilding and abuse of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Gas prices inflated by abnormal fuel blend mandates and layered state taxes; Utility rate hikes driven by wildfire liability and lack of infrastructure modernization; Water scarcity and costs worsened by failure to build new dams or reservoirs in over 50 years, despite voters approving Proposition 1 which allocated $7.5 billion to water infrastructure in 2014; Insurance market instability due to rigid regulatory frameworks like Prop 103; Punitive labor laws such as the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), making it riskier to hire workers; An overall anti-business climate marked by overregulation and litigation threats. 25 ACTIONS A FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVE CAN TAKE TO HELP Despite these state-level challenges, Candidate for Congress Verbica lays out 25 actionable federal strategies aimed at reducing costs and improving conditions for California residents: Housing Tie the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funding to local zoning reform and faster permitting. Expand Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) allocations. Reform the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to streamline federal land development. Repurpose federal surplus land for housing. Fund scalable modular housing technology. Pilot CEQA-exempt housing projects on federal land. Create federal grants for local governments that & Transportation Standardize clean fuel blends nationally. Request EPA waivers to allow broader gasoline availability. Investigate fuel market manipulation. Expand EV charging networks in low-income areas. Incentivize remote work through federal tax & Wildfire Resilience Increase Federal Emergency Management (FEMA)/ Department of Energy (DOE) grid-hardening grants. Launch a federal wildfire reinsurance or bond market. Fund fuel reduction on federal forest land. Modernize interstate grid connectivity through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).Water Infrastructure Fund critical storage projects like Sites Reservoir. Invest in desalination and recycling initiatives. Direct United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)/Interior support to agriculture efficiency. Reform federal Environmental Species Act (ESA) water-use rules to balance & Business Climate Consider the preemption of harmful labor regulations for interstate commerce. Establish a federal "safe harbor" employment category for startups, gig workers, and agricultural employees. Hold hearings on the economic impact of PAGA. Provide tax incentives for reshoring California manufacturing. Expand Small Business Administration (SBA) legal and compliance resources for small businesses. A FEDERAL PARTNER IN STATEWIDE REFORM "The cost of living in California shouldn't be a reason to leave," US. Congressional Candidate Verbica adds. "We can't solve everything in Washington, but we can be a strong partner in turning things around. This plan is just the beginning, and we look forward to the very real possibility of working in cooperation with a Republican governor in California." US. Congressional Candidate Verbica plans to introduce or support legislation aligned with these recommendations, while coordinating with local officials, stakeholders, and agencies to ensure federal support is targeted where it's most needed. Incumbent politicians had their chance, and they refused to structurally fix social security for current and future generations. They are not the solution; they are part of the problem. Vote for Peter Verbica for Congress. Peter Coe Verbica is a fiscal conservative running for United States Congress, California District 19. The district covers Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties. Verbica grew up on a cattle ranch and graduated from Bellarmine College Prep, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara University School of Law, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Peter Verbica is a CFP® professional and a Principal and Managing Director at Silicon Private Wealth. He has four adult daughters. He and his wife enjoy hiking, playing tennis and horseback riding. His family donated the heart of Henry Coe State Park, the largest state park in Northern California. For more information on the campaign, please visit Paid for by Verbica for Congress. Contact:Peter Coe Verbica***@ Photo(s): Press release distributed by PRLog View original content: SOURCE Verbica for Congress
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Rachel Maddow: As Trump melts down over L.A. protests, Americans prep for nationwide 'No Kings' rallies
This is an adapted excerpt from the June 9 episode of 'The Rachel Maddow Show.' What is the most important story in the country right now? In this moment, there is no question of what the United States is up against. The intentions of Donald Trump are not a mystery. There's no suspense. There's no ambiguity. We know exactly who he is and exactly what he wants. It's as plain as day. But the question we are contending with, the real black box, the real drama, the story that does need to be dug up and told in our country because it is as yet undecided, is this: Will he succeed? Will he get what he wants? That question will be answered not by Trump or his actions, but by the people of this country. And so the most important story of our time is this one: What is this country going to allow him to do? This is an attempted authoritarian overthrow of the United States Constitution and the U.S. government. This is the attempted imposition of a dictatorial regime. The question now is whether it will work. The answer won't come from the White House; it will come from the streets, the courts, the states and in Congress. The strength of the movement against Trump is what will determine our fate as a country. Because what we're seeing over and over again is that organizing against him works. Fighting him in court works. Pushing back works. Protesting in the streets works. On Friday, large-scale protests broke out in Los Angeles over the administration's militarized immigration raids. By Saturday, Trump was fulminating against those protests and announced he would federalize the National Guard, the first time a president has done that against the wishes of a state's governor in 60 years. (When it was done 60 years ago, it was to protect protesters, not to threaten them with military force.) The response of the American people to that move is exactly what you would expect: In Los Angeles, bigger protests than ever, and across the country, solidarity protests in Atlanta; Baltimore; Boston; Chicago; Tampa, Florida; Raleigh, North Carolina; and in Washington, D.C., outside the Justice Department headquarters. There is nothing California-specific about what is going on here. When Trump issued his order to federalize the National Guard this weekend, it was not specific to Los Angeles, and it was not specific to California; he could use that order to send National Guard troops anywhere. On Monday, Trump took things a step further and announced he's sending 700 Marines to Los Angeles. That is a portrait of weakness. That is what you get when you have a supposed leader who cannot figure out how to get the support of his people, and knows it. That is what you get when you have a weak and unpopular president, who sees the people against him and can't defend his actions. But, despite what Trump wants, the protests won't stop. In fact, this coming Saturday, we will likely see the largest protests yet against Trump and his administration. As the president holds his military parade in Washington, people across the country are set to take part in what organizers are calling the 'No Kings Day of Defiance.' More than 1,800 rallies are planned nationwide — peaceful, organized and united. Trump already can't handle the number of protests against him, and it's about to increase exponentially. What we are seeing right now in California is a president panicking. Since polling began, we have never in the history of the U.S. presidency seen a president who is less popular than this one at this point in his presidency, and we have never seen a president less politically equipped than this one to turn that around. Someone convinced Trump that attacking immigrants would work for him, that the American people would love it; that the crueler he was, the more political capital he would accrue. Instead, the opposite has happened: In town after town, school after school, city after city, it has run him into a wall — and he has no idea what to do. Remember, in Trump's first term, when he reportedly suggested nuking hurricanes to stop them from hitting the U.S.? Now in his second term, he's trying the equivalent: Trump has no idea what to do with the sustained, growing, intractable and indomitable protest and opposition of the American people against him, so he's decided to try to stop it by using the Army. What we're learning, now more than ever, is that the movement against Trump is unstoppable. This article was originally published on
