Hi. My name is Allison, and I am killing the economy.

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

Money doesn't grow on trees. It's true. That quarter I planted a few weeks back? Nothing. And, because of that, I've found myself doing what I can to save money. A coupon here, a home-cooked meal there, a close look ...

The other side of storms

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

Hurricane Irene is still barreling her way toward the United States and, in addition to the traditional "stock up on supplies" stories and "here's how the evacuations are going" tidbits, I've been intrigued by the business stories that are developing. ...

Storm season: are you prepared?

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

As Hurricane Irene swirls her way through the Caribbean, it's more than marine life feeling effects of the oncoming storm. I'd imagine bottled water, canned goods, cleaning supplies and more are flying off store shelves. Families are probably mapping out ...

Keep on (food) truckin'

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

The food truck is nothing new. It really isn't. Think back to your childhood and, I'd imagine, you'll recall at least one instance of an ice cream truck making its jingly way down your street. But foodies nationwide have taken ...

The marvels of modern technology: the search for a home

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

If you live in the Crossroads and have paid attention to the news (or, OK, just the buildings around you) you probably know that rental space is at a premium. Whether apartments or homes or short-term rentals, they're going quick. ...

I saw the sign ... or, at least I'm looking for it.

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

For those Crossroads residents who might not have gotten the memo, it's hot. Like, really hot. And dry, too. Not news to you, you say? Yeah, I know. But it's still the truth. And some landowners have taken the problem ...

On diverse portfolios and senses of humor

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

That roller coaster ride that is the New York Stock Exchange definitely has more than a few people evaluating their portfolios - myself included. I'll admit, as someone who's new to the world of the 401(k), it's a bit disconcerting ...

What businesses would you like to see make their way to Victoria?

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

With oil and gas industry increases, an incoming Caterpillar plant and a variety of business expansions, it seems the Crossroads is on the brink of its very own mini-boom. And area growth isn't just taking place at plants. I've noticed ...

Tax-free weekend is just around the corner

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

As business reporter, I get the chance to spend a fair share of time visiting with local retailers, checking out the stores that come to town and covering whatever consumer trends are pertinent for a given time of the year. ...

Your Money, Your Business - a chance to tell your story

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

If there's one thing I've learned from my four years as business reporter here in Victoria, it's that small-business owners have some great stories. I've heard everything from opening day rushes that took owners by surprise to ... um ...

Foundation issues = summertime blues?

By AllisonMiles in Business Notebook

The record-breaking temperatures, the browning grass, that inexplicable urge for a dip in the pool – all effects of a sweltering South Texas summer. But other hints at the summer heat – hairline cracks near windows, uneven floors and the ...