Rhode Island Small Business Journal

SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION free volume two issue four

2013 Salute to Small Business

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Welcome to the first special edition of RISBJ, featuring the SBA 2013 Rhode

from the founder

Island Salute to Small Business award winners. The Salute to Small Business is a weeklong celebration that highlights the success of many small businesses here in Rhode Island along with a series of free workshops to help business owners on a variety of topics such as time management, understanding financials, creating brand loyalty and hiring strategies. This year’s workshop series is presented by Rhode Island SCORE, RISBDC, CWE and the SBA. The small business week activities will be highlighted by the annual awards luncheon at the Alpine Country Club on Wednesday June 12th. This event will acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of nine Rhode Island small business owners. Four of this year’s award recipients will be honored as New England winners, an accomplishment that clearly shows Rhode Island business owners can be equally or more successful than those in states that are labeled as more “Business Friendly”.

Working with the SBA on this special edition was a perfect fit for RISBJ because it speaks to the success of many businesses and entrepreneurs in our state. That has been the focus of RISBJ since our inception in February, 2012. The Salute to Small Business truly shows recognition and appreciation for those business owners that are leading the charge for a better Rhode Island. Their success helps to motivate those of us who work night and day to build thriving companies in our home state.

I would like to personally congratulate this year’s winners for their accomplishments and inspiration. ·

Brenda Brock, Founder/CEO of Farmaesthetics

·

David MacDonald, Founder/CEO of The Children’s Workshop

·

Gerald Barry, Chairman of the Board for MEDfx

·

Robert Mancini, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Society of Certified

·

Public Accountants

·

Dr. Drew Carey, Principal of CoastalVision, LLC

·

Antonio Fonseca & Vincent Fonseca, Owners of Packaging & More, Inc.

·

Elizabeth Yuill, Owner/President of Brown & Hopkins Country Store

·

Jeshua Zapata, President of Xzito Creative Solutions

·

Jeanne Salisbury, Owner of Minuteman Press

·

Gary Ezovski, Owner of Lincoln Environmental Properties

·

Ronald Caniglia, Owner of STAND Corporation We hope you enjoy reading each of their stories on how they achieved their level

of success. Just make sure you set aside plenty of time because with 96 pages, this is the biggest issue of RISBJ yet!

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Gil Lantini President, Founder Ralph Coppolino Vice President, Operations & Business Development Danny Angeli Account Executive Stacy Ambroziak Account Manager James Pardee Jr Creative Director and Design Editor Mike Casale Graphic Designer Aaron Cadieux Video Production Manager Contributing Writers Richard Austin Peter D. Conopask Greg Enos Peter George Jessica Granatiero Adam Harvey Steven J. King, PE Kristin Carcieri-MacRae Ivan Misner Secretary Of State Ralph Mollis Bob Salvas Dr. Ronald G. Shapiro Chris Sheehy Lisa Shorr Mari Anne Snow Sabrina Solares-Hand Tim Sullivan Mayor Angel Taveras Robert L. (Mr. X) Xifaras JD

www.facebook.com/risbj twitter.com/risbj 401 831 7779 info@risbj.com www.risbj.com ŠMMXIII Rhode Island Small Business Journal

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

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table of contents 2013 Salute to Small Business 08 09 10 11 12 14 16 18 20 23 24 25 26 28 30 32 34 36 37

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Message from Mark S. Hayward Message from William Welsh Small Business Person of the Year Joseph G.E. Knight Award Rhode Island SBA District Director Award Entrepreneurial Success Award Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year Microenterprise of the Year Award CWE Provides Visioning to Owner of Martial Arts Studio SBA Microloan Helps North Scituate Plumbing Business Expand Family-Owned Colombian Restaurant Grows with Help from the RISBDC Woonsocket Salvage Yard Uses RISBDC Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year SBA Rhode Island Participating Lenders Financial Services Champion of the Year Rhode Island SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year Is Government Contracting Right for Your Business?

Small Business Government Contracts

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

SBAC Works to Improve Government Relations Networking and Workshops Turning Your IT Philosophy from “Reactive” to “Proactive” Disorganized Offices Promoting More Transportation Options at Quonset Protect Your Business From A Cyber Attack Export Rhode Island Secrets to Successful Corporate Events Why Did You Ask That Question?

Skin To Win Two Most Important Networking Skills Real Estate Best Time To Invest Top 6 Tips for Blog Commenting Multitasking As a Part of Life Referral Marketing In Tribute to our Military and Veterans Social Media Is Two-Way Communication Can Businesses Get Any Yield on Their Cash?

Penny On The Ground GoLocal The Rhode Island Commercial & Appraisal Board Of Realtors ® Community Corner

38 39 40 42 44 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 63 66 68 70 72 74 76 80 82 87

Featured Chamber North Central Chamber of Commerce

64

Featured Nonprofit Adoption Rhode Island

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

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7

2013 SBA WINNERS

Message from Mark S. Hayward District Director U.S. Small Business Administration

to Small Business Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, June 12th, at the Alpine Country Club in Cranston. This gathering of small business owners, entrepreneurs and their advocates represents the shared success and accomplishments achieved over the past year.

This year we will honor nine entrepreneurs and champions. Their accomplishments and dedication to small business are exceptional.

Among them are two regional winners.

I extend my congratulations to Brenda Brock, owner of Farmaesthetics, the 2013 Rhode Island Small Business Person of the Year. Once again, Rhode Island is pleased to honor four regional award winners: David

The stories about these outstanding honorees are truly inspiring. Please take the time to read them in this special supplement

MacDonald, founder and CEO of The Small businesses make up 96 percent of

Children’s Workshop, the Entrepreneurial

the Rhode Island’s private sector employers.

Success Award winner; Gerald Barry,

Their continued growth and success

chairman of MEDfx Corporation, the

remain a key component to our state’s

Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year;

economic recovery.

Dr. Drew Carey, principal of CoastalVision, the Microenterprise of the Year, and Robert

The Rhode Island Salute to Small Business

Mancini, executive director of the

celebration held this year from June 10th

Rhode island Society of Certified Public

through June 14st, provides the opportunity

Accountants as the Financial Services

to recognize the contributions of our small

Champion of the Year.

business entrepreneurs and appropriately recognizes those small businesses and

The stories about these outstanding honorees

champions who have distinguished

are truly inspiring. Please take the time to

themselves as what I believe are the

read them in this special supplement.

“best of the best.”

I also want to acknowledge those businesses I especially want to thank Bill Welsh, chair of

and organizations that have supported the

the Joseph G.E. Knight SCORE Chapter for

co-sponsorship of this year’s event. Without

making this important celebration possible

their help and dedication, this annual tribute

by co-sponsoring the Rhode Island Salute

to the small business community would not

to Small Business. Bill and his team of

be possible.

small business mentors counsel hundreds of small business owners and would-

Whether you have an existing business or

be entrepreneurs each year. Their vast

are a would-be entrepreneur, the SBA and

experience and professionalism has resulted

our resource partners: SCORE, the Rhode

in the creation of countless small businesses.

Island Small Business Development Center

SCORE certainly recognizes the importance

at Johnson & Wales University and the Center

of our annual salute to the state’s small

for Women & Enterprise are ready to assist

business community.

you in developing or updating a business

These small business owners and champions

obtaining access to capital. I urge you to take

will be honored at the Rhode Island Salute

advantage of these services.

plan, creating financial projections, or

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

2013 SBA WINNERS

Message From The Rhode Island Salute to Small Business Co-Sponsor

William Welsh, Chair Joseph G.E. Knight, Score Chapter 13 The Joseph G.E. Knight SCORE Chapter 13

our outstanding business owners, but also to

It is their continued commitment that allows

is honored to co-sponsor the 2013 Rhode

reach out to the small business community in

us to recognize the accomplishments of the

Island Salute to Small Business celebration

the state via a series of free workshops that

Rhode Island small business community.

with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

will be offered throughout Small Business Week (June 10-14).

On behalf of the over 40 SCORE volunteers throughout Rhode Island, I would like to join

SCORE is a national volunteer association that has been a partner of SBA for 49 years.

If you have ever contemplated

the small business community in extending

The Rhode Island chapter was founded in

starting your own small business, or thought

my congratulations to our Small Business

1964 and was one of the first in the nation.

about getting some advice from experts in

Person of the Year, Brenda Brook, owner of

SCORE volunteers have counseled countless

the business community, I strongly urge you

Farmaesthetics in Newport. I would also

clients over the years that have dreams

to attend one or more of these workshops.

like to congratulate our four New England

and aspirations of owning their own small

Our counselors have years of experience

regional winners. They are outstanding contributors to the Rhode Island small

business, as well as to existing

in the business world as executives and

entrepreneurs seeking to expand or

entrepreneurs. They are all successful

business community, and are all extremely

revitalize their business model.

business people who are ready and willing

deserving recipients.

to share their knowledge with you. All I particularly want to congratulate Jeanne

counseling sessions are offered at no cost,

Salisbury, owner of Minuteman Press in

and are completely confidential. To schedule

Pawtucket, as this year’s recipient of the

your session with a SCORE counselor, call

Joseph G.E. Knight Award for

(401) 528-4561 or visit our website at

Entrepreneurial Excellence.

www.ri.score.org.

The 2013 Rhode Island small business

Last fiscal year, our counselors trained and

honorees are outstanding examples of the

mentored over 2,500 clients in one-on-one

entrepreneurial spirit thriving. Their hard

settings and our no or low-cost business

work and perseverance in business are an

workshops are excellent avenues for small

inspiration to us all. Each winner has their

business owners and those looking to start

own great story of how they rose to success,

a small business to receive invaluable

and I extend my sincere congratulations

guidance from experienced professionals.

and offer my deepest admiration to the champions who advocate on behalf of the

I would also like to extend my deepest

small business community.

appreciation and thanks to our corporate partners. Without their support and

The Rhode Island Salute to Small Business

contributions this great annual event

gives us the opportunity to not only honor

would not be possible. www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

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2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 RI Small Business Person of the Year

Brenda Brock turned her passion for farming into a successful small business Brenda Brock (right) on the Martha Stuart show

ABC-TV daytime drama One Life to Live. She

Farmaesthetics products were a big hit

CEO of Farmaesthetics, is the daughter of

was nominated twice for a Daytime Award as

with her customers. Brenda realized there

a seventh generation farming family from

Best Actress.

Brenda Brock, founder, formulator and

Brenda capitalized on her experience and

was a year-round demand. So she took her “recipes” to dermatological laboratories and

Texas with roots steeped in herbal traditions.

Despite her acting success, Brenda longed

successfully re-formulated her products for

training to launch her company, which

for her rural roots. She gave up acting,

large batch production while retaining their

creates, designs, produces and

moved to Rhode Island, restored an old

100 percent natural status and achieving a

wholesales 100 percent natural, fine

Victorian farmhouse, and began growing

certified two-year shelf life.

herbal skincare products.

herbs and flowers and making skincare preparations. She put into practice a life-

Brock clearly recognized that she had a

Brock’s technical background in chemistry

long passion of using the rural traditions

business opportunity. She originally raised

stems from her pre-nursing studies and her

of American “kitchen chemistry,” to create

seed capital from friends and family but soon

employment while in school at the University

a full line of proprietary formulations that

realized she needed professional guidance to

of Texas at Austin. Her love of folklore,

also include the sophisticated science of

take her passion for natural, herbal skincare

storytelling and writing led to a change of

cosmetic manufacturing.

products to a successful business operation.

majors and a move to New York City, where she studied and enjoyed a 10-year career as

Brenda sold her first herbal products

Brenda admits she didn’t know what she was

a produced playwright and actress.

during the summer of 1999 at her friend’s

getting into and needed help figuring out her

organic farm stand in rural Rhode Island.

costs and where to store her products. She

If her name is familiar to some, it may be

She created a seasonal line using pristine

turned to the Rhode Island Small Business

because she enjoyed a four-year role on the

organic harvests from ocean-side farms.

Development Center for assistance. An

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Joseph G.E. Knight Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence

RISBDC consultant met with Brenda and her husband Bill to develop Farmaesthetics’ first business plan. She learned about cost of goods sold and financial projections.

With a solid business plan in hand Brenda confidently met with potential investors and eventually received a loan from Citizens Bank that was guaranteed by the SBA. Brock admits that the assistance she received from the RISBDC helped her move the business from her kitchen to 250 square feet of space in an old trolley barn in Newport.

Farmaesthetics has since received additional funding backed by SBA to help Brenda grow her business. Today, the business is located in 2,500 square feet in the same old trolley barn in Newport and is the company’s “World Headquarters.”

Brenda’s achievements include being named

SCORE Guidance Helps Pawtucket Printing Company Grow Jeanne Salisbury grew up in a family that

document reproduction, and graphic

had a strong work ethic. She was taught

design services.

at an early age that you had to work

Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People

hard to get what you want. Don’t wait

The first few years were challenging.

and Ideas Behind Green Design in Beauty,”

for a handout. Words that, decades later,

The economy began its nosedive and

and one of the “Five Entrepreneurs at the

Jeanne continues to live by.

with it went her sales. Jeanne hired salespersons, but they didn’t work out.

Forefront of the Natural Beauty Revolution” by Luxury Spafinder. Farmaesthetics products

While her five children were in school,

made the cover of Cosmetic/Personal Care

Jeanne worked part time at her sister-

Packaging Magazine for their leadership

in-law’s printing company in North

position in “green” packaging design.

Financially her business hit rock bottom

Providence. Over the 14 years that she worked there, Salisbury learned a lot

Farmaesthetics has also been named to

about the printing business. In 2006, after

Women’s Wear Daily’s “It List” of “The Green

battling health issues, she bought into a

Brands Defining Organic Skincare.” Brenda

Minuteman Press printing franchise and

is a repeat guest on “The Martha Stewart

opened her business on Central Avenue

Show,” including “The Entrepreneur Show,”

in Pawtucket.

and has been named one of Martha’s “Natural Beauty Gurus.”

Minuteman Press is a full-service printing company that not only specializes in

Farmaesthetics products are sold in the

printing services, but also copying,

finest spas and independent retail stores in the USA. The company is now poised to expand their distribution and bring the Farmaesthetics brand to the global market.

For her demonstrated success and growth potential, the U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to honor Brenda Brock, CEO of Farmaesthetics, as the 2013 Rhode Island Small Business Person of the Year. www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

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2013 SBA WINNERS

Gary Ezovski Ronald Caniglia Rhode Island SBA District Director Award Each year the Rhode Island SBA District

the group to make a difference, after almost

Director recognizes an individual or

two years of trying to drive that issue forward

new committee discussions and actions.

individuals who have made a positive

frustration over the lack of action

To increase the strength of the effort the

contribution to the state’s small business

resulted in belief that futility was the only

committee reached out to people with broad

community. Gary Ezovski and Ronald

probable outcome.

past and present experience in all of those

Caniglia have done exactly that as advocates for regulatory reform.

approvals became the central focus of

processes. Ronald Caniglia, owner of In late 2009 however, Gary’s experience

STAND Corporation in Warwick, volunteered.

pursuing a building permit for a minor

His enthusiasm and commitment to

In 2007 Ezovski, owner of Lincoln

renovation of a commercial property gave

the project led him to being named the

Environmental Properties in North Smithfield,

rise to a new focus for the Regulations

committee’s vice chair.

was named chair of the Regulations

Subcommittee. The building permit process

Subcommittee of the Rhode Island Small

in Rhode Island was identified as an

Caniglia’s life long experience in building residential and commercial structures

Business Economic Summit. Twenty years of

impediment to economic development and

experience guiding businesses, homeowners,

an area of regulation that required discussion

became extremely valuable to the

and government agencies through

and change.

committee’s work. Since that time legislative

environmental challenges made him a good fit for the committee leadership.

and/or regulatory actions have been taken The process related to building permits,

to reduce the time allowed for processing of

fire department permits and DOT curb cut

building, fire and DOT permits. While that in

The focal point of discussion was making

itself was encouraging to say the least, the

an effort to move the Regulatory Flexibility

pursuit of those issues has stimulated actions

Act from paper concept to regulatory reality.

by legislators to support initiatives such as

Though there was steely determination within

moving Rhode Island to a computerized statewide permitting system and a complete review of every regulation in the state.

As those matters developed, Gary and Ron emphasized that the committee’s target of getting Rhode Island government to move at the speed of business wasn’t to be achieved through a decline in public safety or reduced environmental protection.

Every expectation was that a better system would allow better code compliance through reduced waste and friction in the many systems that guide the development

Ron Caniglia (left) and Gary Ezovski (right)

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

process. The goal has

constantly been to get Rhode Islanders

in late 2009 and 2010. Jeanne couldn’t

and several on-call part timers, including a salesperson.

to work on good projects in the hands of

pay her bills and it looked more and more

responsible developers. The target continues

like bankruptcy was a real possibility. She

to be toward achieving a system where

wasn’t going to go down without a fight.

Jeanne Salisbury’s business is curtained

She had invested too much time and

primed for future growth. This August

projects in the ground and good people to

money into establishing her own small

will mark her seventh anniversary as a

work. However, they realize there are no silver

business. She needed some guidance

business owner. She recognizes the

bullets to solve these economic challenges.

and turned to the U.S. Small Business

significance of moving beyond the

“knowing a guy” isn’t necessary to get good

Administration for help. expanded beyond the permit process into

“start-up” phase of her business and is confident that she will celebrate many

The scope of the committee’s work has SBA Rhode Island District Office referred

topics that have been recognized as those

her to the local SCORE chapter for

that stigmatize Rhode Island as a difficult

counseling and assistance. SCORE

place to do business. Gary and Ron have

is a non-profit, volunteer organization

consistently encouraged change in labor

dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs

management issues like the “only in Rhode

seeking guidance in starting and growing

Island” requirement to mandate payment of

their businesses. The counselors are

wages on a weekly basis for a broad array of

experienced, successful business

employees or the only state in the country to

owners and managers who want to give

mandate celebration of Victory Day.

back to the community.

Gary and Ron have consistently encouraged change in labor management issues

Steve Gareau, a counselor at the Providence SBA office, was assigned to meet with Jeanne. Their first meeting

more business anniversaries in the future.

Within two months her sales had doubled and have grown over 600 percent since that first meeting with Steve Gareau

lasted three hours. He shared some creative ideas that Jeanne used to improve her business operations.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to join with the Rhode Island SCORE chapter to honor Jeanne F.

Gareau said he helps entrepreneurs

Salisbury, president of minuteman

figure out what they want to do. Focus,

Press of Pawtucket, with the 2013

stick to the plan, and be diligent he

Joseph G.E. Knight Award for

tells them. Gareau calls it the “funneling

Entrepreneurial Excellence.

effect.” Ideas are dumped into an imaginary funnel and what comes out is

The Joseph G.E. Knight Award for

a more focused view of the direction that

Entrepreneurial Excellence was created to

should be taken.

honor the memory of Joseph G.E. Knight, who

In July 2012, Ezovski was appointed to

passed away in October 2005 at the age of

the SBA’s Region I Regulatory Fairness

He believes what the entrepreneur feels

96. Mr. Knight was one of the founders of

Board by Administrator Karen Mills. In that

in their heart and mind is the strength of

SCORE in 1964. He served as the association’s

capacity, he serves as a local resource

their direction.

for small businesses, trade groups and

national chair in 1977 and 1978. The Joseph G.E. Knight SCORE Chapter 13 in Providence

other entities to address regional concerns

Jeanne said Gareau’s “pep talk” lit a fire

is the only SCORE chapter in the nation named

regarding federal regulatory enforcement and

under her. She adopted his suggestions

in honor of an individual.

compliance issues.

For their demonstrated commitment to

that she hire a salesperson, improve the storefront’s signage, ramp up marketing

Mr. Knight dedicated more than 35 years to

and extend her hours of operation.

helping countless entrepreneurs realize their

regulatory reform for the Rhode Island small

dream of business ownership through his sage

business community, the U.S. Small Business

Within two months her sales had doubled

mentoring and expert advice. This award is

Administration is pleased to present Gary

and have grown over 600 percent since

presented annually to an entrepreneur

Ezovski and Ronald Caniglia with the 2013

that first meeting with Steve Gareau.

who has exemplified the highest ideals of

Rhode Island SBA District Director Award.

Jeanne now has three fulltime employees

business achievement.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

13

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island and New England Entrepreneurial Success Award

the Children’s Workshop Provides Early Childhood Education and Daycare at 19 Locations David MacDonald embodies the term entrepreneur. In fact, he

building in an East Providence industrial park, an ideal location for a

is a classic “serial entrepreneur,” always on the lookout ¬for new

child care center.

opportunities and needs in the marketplace.

As the first center in Lincoln flourished, MacDonald soon realized that A Boston native, Dave founded and successfully operated and

the demand was greater than he had anticipated. In 1994, a second

managed several mortgage banking and brokerage firms for

center was opened in Smithfield and shortly afterwards a third center

nearly 30 years. During that time he noticed that his employees

was opened in East Greenwich.

would leave the company to start a family. Many wanted to return to their jobs but found it difficult to find reliable, quality child care.

Growth continued in Rhode Island though the 90s and into the early

MacDonald recognized another opportunity to serve an important

2000s. However it was becoming apparent that the company had

need in the community. In 1990 he partnered with two women, Karen

to expand beyond Rhode Island. Dave looked to Massachusetts

Annotti and Dr. Maryann Shallcross-Smith, who were both very

for expansion. Between 2004 and 2012, the company acquired or

experienced in early childhood education and founded a company

opened seven locations in the Bay State.

that in the early days was called Child Care Connection. It started with one location in Lincoln, RI.

In 2002, an experienced manager was hired to oversee the day-today operations while Dave focused on his other business ventures

The company grew steadily over the next two decades. Today, the

while remaining chairman of the company. Like most businesses, the

company has 19 locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. In

recent economic downturn had an impact on their bottom line.

2010 the company changed its name to The Children’s Workshop and now serves over 1,500 children in 19 communities, supporting hundreds of working families.

In 2010 MacDonald resumed the role of president and CEO. He helped initiate a campaign to reinvest heavily into the facilities, curriculum, and programs offered. As a result, of these changes, The

The firm’s first facility in Lincoln was financed in part by an SBA 504

Children’s Workshop is stronger than ever.

loan through the Ocean State Business Development Authority. A second 504 loan through OSBDA was made in 2002 to purchase a

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Child care is certainly not a new concept; it is a necessity for busy,

In 2010 the company changed its name to The Children’s Workshop and now serves over 1,500 children in 19 communities, supporting hundreds of

Freedom National Bank congratulates the 2013 Rhode Island Award Winners and in particular our affiliated relationships with the following three recipients.

working families Financial Services Champion of the Year Rhode Island and New England Robert Mancini, Executive Director R.I. Society of Certified Public Accountants dual income, working families. What makes The Children’s Workshop unique is the company’s commitment to families and serving their needs. TCW offers flexibility so a parent can choose a schedule that best meets their needs. They offer convenient hours and also provide transportation to and from local schools for their school age program.

Communication between home and school is open and easy so families can be as involved as possible in the education and care of their child.

The centers offer hot, nutritious meals through a wholly owned catering company that operates out of their Central falls facility. MacDonald

Rhode Island District Director Award Gary Ezovski, Owner Lincoln Environmental Properties, LLC North Smithfield Women-Owned Small Business of the Year Elizabeth Yuill, Owner/President Brown & Hopkins Country Store Chepachet

understands that busy families don’t always have the time to prepare nutritious lunches before school every day. In some low income communities, some children were not receiving any nutritious food at all. As a result, Dave prioritized meals and explored many options but decided having his own catering company was the best solution. The company now has a fleet of vehicles that delivers hot meals to their centers every morning so no child goes hungry and the parents have one less chore to worry about during the hectic morning routine.

For his demonstrated success and potential for continued growth,

BE A

BIG FISH IN A LITTLE BANK ...that’s helped build some of Rhode Island’s most successful businesses.

the U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to honor David B. MacDonald, founder and CEO of The Children’s Workshop, with the 2013 Rhode Island and New England SBA Entrepreneurial Success Award.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

15

2013 SBA WINNERS Gerald Barry is a well-regarded entrepreneur who has successfully founded, financed, operated, and expanded companies for nearly 30 years. He has nearly 36 years of experience in various capacities in the healthcare industry and the delivery of healthcare services. He is a Pawtucket native who graduated from Tolman High School and is a U.S. Army veteran.

Barry founded what is now MEDfx Corporation in 1985. The Warwick-based company, which has 49 full-time employees, provides the highest quality health information systems. Aside from his interest in health care technology, Gerald has maintained a longstanding vocation in journalism, serving as an occasional sports reporter for several newspapers. He actively maintains his interest in social welfare and has been working on a volunteer basis with several agencies that serve urban youth.

MEDfx was originally founded to assist grant funded Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) to automate their organizations and to build electronic data interchange connections. Within five years the company became nationally recognized as a leader in providing health information technology resources to FQHCs, and then built upon that platform to collaborate with several national companies developing software for the healthcare industry.

Barry maintains the company in sound financial condition, and cash generated from operations has fueled its significant growth. As a contingency, the company maintains a revolving line of credit from BankRI and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

2013 Rhode Island and New England Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year

Warwick Veteran Owned Business is a Nationally Recognized Health Information Technology Provider 16

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

By 1995, MEDfx became established as one of the largest value added resellers for physician practice management, ultimately serving thousands of physician practices nationwide and receiving awards for its nationwide and customer support services.

Seven years later, realizing that the Internet could revolutionize technology for the healthcare industry, MEDfx adapted its products to an Internet based platform that would support the vision of a national healthcare data exchange.

Given its expertise, MEDfx, under Barry’s leadership, provided engineering and architectural consulting services to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology as it developed standards for a national health information network.

Focused on Helping Rhode Island Businesses Grow and Succeed

In 2010, MEDfx and its premier health information exchange customer, MED Virginia, jointly announced the first community health information exchange with the Virtual Lifetime Electronic Health Record. This collaboration

How We Can Help?

between the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, and civilian health systems connected the health records of active duty military personnel and veterans.

● Financing and Business Incentives

MEDfx continues to build health information exchanges

● Regulatory and Permitting Assistance

and is developing Population Health Management products to continue its role as an innovator in healthcare information technology.

Today, health information exchanges and physicians using MEDfx services impact over three million patients. Access to healthcare has been accelerated and the outcome of medical care delivered has been improved because of the products at Barry’s company deliver real time information that has helped doctors make better informed decisions about their

● Site Selection ● Export Assistance ● Government Contracting ● Business Development Resources ● Workforce Development

patients’ treatment.

The philosophy of the company has not changed in its 28 years. It has continued to support improvements in healthcare by providing information technology and systems that enhance the delivery of medical care. Under Barry’s leadership, MEDfx empowers doctors and their patients, entire medical communities, health information exchanges, and federal agencies, including the Social Security Administration, the DOD, and Veterans Affairs to securely communicate and share patient data to improve healthcare cradle to grave.

To learn more about our programs and services:

www.riedc.com or 401-278-9100

The U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to honor Gerald T. Barry, and MEDfx, as the 2013 Rhode Island and New England Veteran-owned Small Business of the Year. www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

17

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island and New England Microenterprise of the Year Award

Coastalvision Provides Marine Scientific Consulting Services to Commercial Firms, Federal and State Agencies

Dr. Drew Carey is a marine scientist with over

issues. Prior to forming CoastalVision, Dr.

firms, and public interest groups. Initially

thirty years’ experience in marine science,

Carey was a senior scientist at Science

the company provided this support through

environmental monitoring, and marine policy.

Applications International Corporation in

subcontracts to large businesses with prime

He is a recognized expert on assessment of

Newport. Prior to that he taught at Wesleyan

contracts with federal and state agencies. This

environmental impacts on marine ecosystems

University where he conducted scientific

model provided financial success but soon

and a highly experienced facilitator.

In addition to his technical work, he

research on marine ecology and developed

proved to be highly dependent on the success

a curriculum in Ocean policy, Law of the Sea,

and generosity of the large businesses.

and Ocean Resources.

Armed with advice from the Rhode Island

began designing and leading stakeholder meetings and working groups to address

In 1999, Dr. Carey formed CoastalVision,

Small Business Development Center, SCORE

environmental management issues for a wide

LLC in Newport, and applied his technical

mentors, the Rhode Island Procurement

variety of ocean and policy issues. He has

expertise to regional issues. The company

Technical Assistance Center and colleagues,

led national meetings and broad stakeholder

provides marine environmental technical

Dr. Carey decided to compete directly for

meetings with challenging and complex

support to government agencies, commercial

prime government contracts.

18

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

In order to compete, a small business must

contracting and diversification has led to

successfully procure federal small business

show that it can perform 51 percent of the

doubling of the company’s average

set-aside contracts.

labor required on the contract. For a new

annual sales and support of a diverse

microenterprise, this prospect was daunting;

part-time labor force which averages four

how to scale up quickly to demonstrate this

full-time equivalents.

The informal network shares work and professional capabilities between over fifteen small businesses, HUBZone and women-

capacity without work in hand? Dr. Carey had the experience and technical knowledge to

CoastalVision has established projects

owned businesses throughout the country.

compete, but he did not have the workforce

compiling data and performing assessments

Each business is independent and solicits

for coastal management of dredged material

work either individually or as part of the ad

or resources to build capacity.

In 2004, the RISBDC and RIPTAC helped

disposal, offshore energy development,

hoc teams designed for the specific project.

pipeline placement, port development,

As work needs arise, the network is used to

guide him to form a joint venture of small

hydrodynamic modeling, fisheries

level workloads and expertise between each

businesses capable of competing for prime

management and water quality improvement.

small business.

CoastalVision has mentored small

CoastalVision has grown to support 1099

prime contract with the U.S. Army Corps of

businesses in New England and developed

contractors with its small staff of 4 full-time

Engineers. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina

a collaborative business model that relies on

equivalent employees.

and the Iraq War forced the drawdown of

small businesses to share resources

Army Corps of Engineers resources and the

and workload. This business model

For their demonstrated success and potential

contract was underfunded.

has taken two distinct forms: the first

for continued growth with limited resources,

utilizes a pool of small businesses to provide

the U.S. Small Business Administration

Dr. Carey met with the RISBDC and

professional collaboration in an informal

is pleased to present the 2013 Rhode

small business contracts; in 2005, the joint venture was awarded the first $1 million

developed a business plan to diversify in

network sharing staff and resources; the

Island and New England Microenterprise

emerging areas of offshore energy and

second has led to the formation of two

of the Year Award to Dr. Drew A. Carey and

marine policy. The combination BusinessLoanAd 5/23/13 of prime 11:30 AM

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pcu.org www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

19

2013 SBA WINNERS

CWE Provides Visioning to Owner of Martial Arts Studio

Candace Rushton had always dreamed of opening her own Jiu Jitsu school where she could combine her Jiu Jitsu knowledge and skills with her background in Human Services working with children and families. Candace knew that those experiences would be a valuable part of her foundation, but she delayed pursuing her dreams because she felt she lacked strong business knowledge and was unsure how her business would fair having no previous business experience or education. In the fall of 2007 Candace was approached by a friend who offered her space to open and run her own school. After much contemplation, Candace finally made the commitment and opened a small Jiu Jitsu school. In February of 2008, InnerStrengths was opened and Candace went in search of small business education and support.

Candace had started InnerStrengths as a private club, but was not sure of what direction she wanted to take her business in.

She knew that she wanted to share her passion for Jiu Jitsu and most importantly provide a warm, friendly and safe training atmosphere for students. She believed that the students would benefit most from fostering their skills thus empowering them and building character and self-esteem. Initially her main focus was to work with children and women but, after several requests, she opened her classroom up to include men.

Candace struggled with how to move forward from a private club to opening as an official business, until she came across the CWE website and reviewed some of the free introduction classes that were being offered. She called the Providence office and was directed to the right classes. Candace registered for a “Visioning” workshop than later registered into the 14 week Business Planning course, “Business Planning Getting Started.”

The course helped Candace to get her vision for her business onto the right track and gave her the structure to look at her business from all angles and evaluate what it needed to succeed.

Initially she was reluctant because she was not quite sure how she would balance her already busy schedule with evening courses, but the support Carmen Diaz and Sandra McNamara gave her while taking the business course, along with their help and guidance in writing her business plan was instrumental in turning her school, InnerStrengths, into an official business.

Everything Candace had invested into InnerStrengths has come directly from her own financing. In April of 2010 Candace opened her business. Candace openly expresses how grateful she is that CWE was here to assist her through the process. She feels CWE played a major role in how InnerStrengths continues to be in existence today. Candace still uses CWE as a valued resource; coming into the two hour “Building Your Business” classes on a variety of different topics; marketing and social media, and the Center continues to support her in her endeavors.

20

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

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22

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

2013 SBA WINNERS

SBA Microloan Helps North Scituate Plumbing Business Expand Mary Beth and David Barlow started Barlow’s Plumbing and Well

Community College of Rhode Island Campuses, the Rhode Island

Systems, Inc. in North Scituate, R.I. in 1992 and their business has

State Police, the Attorney General, the Rhode Island Department

been thriving ever since.

of Mental Health and Community Living and Support group homes,

The Barlows came to the South Eastern Economic Development

Administration, Rhode Island Department of Health, Rhode Island

(SEED) Corporation, the SBA Microloan Intermediary for Rhode Island,

Veterans Cemetery, and Zambarano Hospital.

Rhode Island Services for the Blind, Rhode Island Department of

in 2012. They wanted financing to expand their business by adding rooter services to complement their existing plumbing services.

David holds a Master Plumber’s License and New England Water Works and Backflow Prevention License. Mary Beth manages the

They received a $20,000 SBA Micro Loan through SEED for working

bookkeeping as well as assisting her husband on job sites. Currently,

capital and to assist with the purchase of equipment and a used van

she is working on her Journeyman Plumber’s License and backflow

for their plumbing and well maintenance company.

prevention license.

As a full service plumbing company, the Barlows specialize in well

David Barlow graduated from East Providence High School in 1974.

repair and maintenance, water treatment and filtration systems. In

Following graduation he served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

addition, the company provides backflow prevention services, a

He ventured into the plumbing industry in 1986 when he began

component that most plumbing companies do not offer.

working as an apprentice. Mary Beth, David’s wife and business partner, graduated from Tolman High School in 1976. She attended

Barlow’s clients include a variety of commercial and residential

the Community College of Rhode Island, completing numerous

customers as well as the State of Rhode Island. Barlow’s maintains

accounting courses. Mary Beth worked in the accounting department

contracts with all the University of Rhode Island campuses, the

at Ocean State Steel in 1986.

the company provides backflow prevention services, a component that most plumbing companies do not offer www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

23

2013 SBA WINNERS

Family-Owned Colombian Restaurant Grows with Help from the RISBDC The Tabares family relocated to Central Falls,

wanted guests to walk in the door and

work with La Casona. Most recently the

R.I. from Colombia ten years ago. Pedro

immediately be transported to Colombia

consultants helped La Casona establish

and Gloria Tabares moved here with their

through the aesthetics and décor. While

an online presence with the design of a

three sons Christian, Adrian and Geovanny.

RISBDC consultants worked on that project,

web site featuring their menu, hours and

In 2006, Gloria’s experience as a chef in

the opportunity developed to purchase their

an interactive page where visitors can add

Colombia led them to open La Casona, a

own building two doors down from their

comments about the menu and service.

restaurant specializing in Colombian food

present location.

and classic Colombian desserts in a small leased space on Broad Street in Central Falls.

The new location would enable La Casona to seat 90 guests, doubling the size of their

Gloria’s excellent home-style cooking from

existing location.

the native land at bargain prices was a success from day one. The restaurant

The family purchased the building and

served breakfast, lunch and dinner seven

immediately began working on creating that

days a week. La Casona opened with four

ambiance that they asked the RISBDC to

employees, all family members.

create. The Tabares brothers refurbished the

In 2009, The family turned to the Rhode

new La Casona held its grand opening.

interior themselves. In December 2012, the Island Small Business Development Center at Johnson & Wales University to help

Owning their building rather than renting

Gloria’s excellent home-style cooking from the native land at bargain prices was a success from

them with a branding overhaul. RISBDC

made good business sense. Once La Casona

consultants and students took on the project

started being profitable, the brothers quit

and designed a new logo, menu, and created

their other jobs and worked exclusively at the

stationary and business card designs.

restaurant. They also added six employees.

Two years later, the Tabares brothers

La Casona is now a multi-dimensional

Pedro Tabares is the “delivery man.” Delivery

approached the RISBDC again. This time

business. In addition to the restaurant, La

service accounts for 25 percent of La

they needed an updated business plan

Casona features a bakery with classic

Casona’s business.

including financial projections that would

Colombian desserts. The building also has

be appropriate for approaching a lender

space for the addition of a small market that

The Tabares family is proud of their business

with the goal of purchasing a building to

will sell Colombian food and wares.

and look forward to continued growth with

develop a plan for an interior design that

Since 2009, the RISBDC has assigned

Central Falls area, each operated by one of

would create a particular ambiance. They

seven consultants and two students to

the Tabares brothers.

day one La Casona also has delivery service. Owner

the dream of having three restaurants in the

house La Casona. They also wanted to

24

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

T E K C O S WOON S E S U D R A SALVAGE Y O T C D B S I R ORGANIZE FINANCES, DEVELOP MARKETING STRATEGY

2013 SBA WINNERS help customers locate hard-to-find parts nationwide.”

Although the Privilege Auto Parts is a well-organized salvage yard, it still must buy inventory to keep its client base growing. In 2010, the economic downturn and subsequent loss of financing led to a decrease in sales for the business until BankRhode Island approved refinancing.

“Thanks to financing we were able to buy inventory and keep our business going strong,” says Doug Fleurant.

Doug Jobling, Northern Rhode Island Regional Director for the Rhode Island Small Business Development Center, contacted the company as part of an overall outreach campaign in Woonsocket. He was particularly interested in supporting Privilege and similar companies that have been part of the economic backbone of the city for so

Privilege Auto Parts is growing into one of

When the three men first purchased the

long. After meeting with the owners he

Rhode Island’s top salvage yards.

company, they quickly realized the previous

worked with them to develop a plan of action

However, it has taken a lot of reorganization,

owner had never used a computer for

that included overall assessment of the

financial support and hard work to keep it

accounting, customer management or

company’s financial position.

going strong.

– the obvious – keeping track of inventory.

“That was the biggest challenge along with

In 2000, brothers-in-law Doug Fleurant and

learning a whole new industry,” says Doug

Once financing was in place, RISBDC consultant Peter Girouard recommended

Dwayne Disautell were on the hunt to find a

Fleurant, who had never worked in the auto

that they expand their marketing budget to

business opportunity with promise. At the

business. “Our computer system helped. It

reach a variety of new customers through

time, Doug’s brother, Denis Fleurant, was

not only tracks our inventory,

different media. A restructuring and ability to

also considering entrepreneurship. Dwayne

but we can sell parts all over the country.

cross-promote their parts with other dealers

worked at a body shop and noticed an

I just made a sale to Nebraska. We can also

nationwide has enabled the Privilege Auto

increased demand for used car parts

Parts business to prosper.

resulting in a strong profit margin. When a salvage yard in Woonsocket was put up for sale, the three men jumped at the chance to take it on.

Despite the challenges of securing financing and dealing with an antiquated inventory tracking system, the salvage business started to grow. Today, Privilege Auto Parts, located in Woonsocket, boasts a large inventory of used cars and parts.

The company has implemented a national locating computer software service for car parts enabling stock inventory to be sold nationwide. It is considered a Woonsocket landmark with a great reputation.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

25

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year

Fonseca Brothers Guide Central Falls Business to Continued Growth Antonio S. Fonseca founded Packaging

variety of muffin and cookie packaging, and

& More, Inc. in Central Falls 20 years

numerous other items.

company full time in 2003. He primarily handles purchasing and is the main contact to Packaging & More’s vendors and

ago. Packaging & More is a food service

manufacturers. His strength lies in attention

packaging distributor, paired with forty

In the past few years, Packaging & More

manufacturers and serving about 50

has expanded beyond its core business of

to detail and an overall understanding of the

customers. Those customers are located

local grocery stores by adding independent

packaging industry. Vincent’s knowledge

throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts

coffee shops, locally-owned hotels, and

of products, manufacturers, and the market

and Connecticut. He started the company

well-known Rhode Island institutions like

costs for materials are unparalleled.

by scraping together his savings, while also

Wright’s Farm and Veda Ravioli to their

receiving three small loans from immediate

customer list.

Tony Fonseca joined the company full time

Packaging & More has 14 employees that

personally handling many of the outstanding

About 70 percent of the company’s

include office workers, warehouse personnel,

relationships the company has with its

customers are local independent grocery

and sales staff.

customers. Tony’s photographic recollection

in 2005. He principally oversees sales,

family members.

of pricing, product lines, and instant recall

stores such as Dave’s Marketplace, Eastside Marketplace, Clements’ Marketplace

By 2005, founder Antonio Fonseca began

of conversations endears him to the

and others. Those independent grocers

turning over operation of the business to

company’s clientele.

represent the very foundation Packaging &

the family’s second generation, his two sons

More was built upon.

Tony and Vincent. Antonio began to scale

Tony believes building a growing company

back his day-to-day involvement in the

requires supportive employees. As the

Examples of the products Packaging & More

company and today serves as an advisor to

company grew he didn’t hire additional staff.

provides to their customers include roll bags,

his sons.

That doesn’t necessarily result in making distribution and customer service more

trash liners, foam trays, catering bowls for cut fruit, wicker baskets for displays and

Vincent Fonseca oversees the company’s

efficient. Greater efficiency came from asking

retail, cake containers, pie boxes, and a

day-to-day operation. He joined the

employees to do more and do it efficiently.

26

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

For example Tony said he asked the office staff to work smarter and solve issues faster. He believes that taking five seconds off every task saved minutes per day and eventually hours every month. Embracing the concept of anticipating problems that may occur tomorrow, but may have a solution today, would permit the company to think like a large business, while reacting like a small business. Tony has made it his

PERFECT HARMONY

responsibility to hire the right person for every job in the company.

about 70 percent of the company’s customers

BroadSign added this FREE GOGOMOBILE DEAL OR AD from

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are local independent grocery stores Incremental growth is a fundamental philosophy to the company’s success.

The first few weeks of customer setup, streamlining the order entry process, learning someone’s delivery procedures, all while developing synergy, takes time. At one point these procedures involve nearly every company employee. Addressing the smallest details in the beginning allows the company to keep a customer happy for the long term.

Everyone at Packaging & More constantly works on keeping their product knowledge current. Warehouse workers have to know the inside of the box as well as they know the outside. Customer service representatives have to know the part numbers. Tony’s philosophy is that the company’s service, knowledge, communication, and delivery

INTRODUCING AMERICA’S #1 ADVERTISING DUO, ABSOLUTELY FREE!!!! in GoGo Cast’s New Rewardingly Addictive App, GoGoDeals Well, for the next 90 days you can get a deal or an ad placed Advertise on or own a BroadSign and/or a GoGo-Screen?

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from 6 August 12:01 AM to 6 Oct 11:59 PM from

Any of their 30,000 screen

FREE GOGOMOBILE DEAL OR AD

The Rhode Island Business Journal is excited to introduce our newest media partner, GoGo Cast. This Rhode Island based organiation is a leading on-demand, location based digital media company providing real-time HD digital news, information and advertising displays in hundreds of high traffic retail locations across the state. (GoGo Screens) In addition, RISBJ and GoGo Cast are proud to present GoGo Cast’s newest rewardingly addictive mobile platform, GoGo Mobile. GoGo Mobile provides business with a unique promotionl solution that delivers real-time highly relevant information directly to ther consumer when they want through a mobile BroadSign added this

application. GoGo Mobile complements GoGo Screens marketing solution by providing them with the ability to extend their reach from within the store, directly to the consumer. Businesses can easily create ads and deals on both the app and the screens, easily supply them to a market audience and/or target locations, and redeem all the benefits from advertising on these two advertising powerhouses.

This partnership will provide RISBJ with additional reach in the digial media market statewide.

have to be special.

For their commitment and demonstrated

POWERED BY

success as a family-owned small business, the U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to present the 2013 Rhode Island Jeffrey Butland Family-owned Small Business Award to the Fonseca family owners of

SEE YOUR PRODUCTS IN:

Packaging & More in Central Falls. www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

27

2013 SBA WINNERS

SBA Rhode Island Participating Lenders Admirals Bank

Business Development Company

First Niagara Bank PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP

Navigant Credit Union EXP/PX/EWCP

815 Reservoir Avenue

of Rhode Island EXP

225 Park Avenue, 2nd Floor

1005 Douglas Pike

Cranston, Rhode Island 02910

40 Westminster Street, Suite 702

West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089

Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917

James Beckwith, Vice President

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Gary M. Besser, Vice President

Jeffrey P. Cascione, Vice President

(800) 556-6600 ext. 433

Peter C. Dorsey, Jr., President

(413) 747-1395

(401) 233-4716

jbeckwith@admiralsbank.com

(401) 351-3036

gary.besser@fnfg.com

jcascione@navigantcu.org

pdorsey@bdcri.com First Trade Union Bank

New England Certified 504

1 Harbor Street, Suite 201

500 Edgewater Drive, Suite 555

1218 Main Street

Boston, MA 02210

Wakefield, Massachusetts 01880

West Warwick, Rhode Island 02893

Anina Butler,

Nancy Gibeau, Loan and Investment

(401) 845-8731

Lisa Reid, Senior Vice President, Lending

Vice President, SBA Lending

Officer

dhanson@banknewport.com

(401) 821-9100 Ext. 244

(617) 728-7320

(508) 254-7891 cell or (401) 450-0047

lreid@centrevillebank.com

abutler@ftub.com

ngibeau@bdcnewengland.com

111 Westminster Street

Citizens Bank PLP/EXP/PX

Freedom National Bank PLP/EXP/PX

NewportFed

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

One Citizens Plaza

584 Putnam Pike

100 Bellevue Avenue, P.O. 210

Kevin P. Tracy, Senior Vice President

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Greenville, Rhode Island 02828

Newport, Rhode Island 02840 Gregory C. Skoutas, Commercial/

BankNewport EXP 500 West Main Road

Centreville Savings Bank

Middletown, Rhode Island 02842 Douglas Hanson, Vice President

Bank of America PLP/EXP/PX

(401) 278-5520

Diane Bolusky, Director, SBA Programs

Bill Beauchene, Senior Vice President

kevin.p.tracy@baml.com

(401) 282-2027

(401) 949-1600 Ext. 101

Consumer Loan Manager

diane.bolusky@RBSCitizens.com

bbeauchene@freedomnationalbank.

(401) 847-5500

com

skoutasg@newportfederal.com

Bank Rhode Island PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP One Turks Head Place

Coastway Community Bank

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP

Greenwood Credit Union EXP

Ocean State Business

Manny Barrows, Senior Vice President

One Coastway Plaza

2669 Post Road

Development Authority 504

(401) 574-1604

Cranston, Rhode Island 02910

Warwick, Rhode Island 02886

155 South Main Street, Suite 403

mbarrows@bankri.com

Russell Gaston,

Holly Pettis, Vice President,

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Scott Lajoie, Vice President

Commercial Lending Manager

Commercial Lending

Henry Violet, President

(401) 574-1657

(401) 330-1600

(401) 562-2784

(401) 454-4630

slajoie@bankjri.com

rgaston@coastway.com

hpettis@greenwoodcu.org

budv@osbda.com Antonio A. F. Moura, Vice President

Bay Colony Development

Columbus Credit Union

Home Loan Investment Bank, FSB

(401) 454-4560 aafmoura@osbda.com

Corporation 504

560 Main Street

PLP/EXP

1601 Trapelo Road

Warren, Rhode Island 02885

1 Home Loan Plaza, Suite 3

Waltham, Massachusetts 02451

Doris Doyle

Warwick, Rhode Island 02886

Pawtucket Credit Union EXP 1200 Central Avenue

David King, Managing Trustee

(401) 245-3800

Don Armstrong, Senior Vice President

(781) 891-3594

ddoyle@columbuscu.org

(877) 337-3757

Pawtucket, RI 02861

dking@baycolony.org

Linda Prevost

darmstrong@homeloanbank.com

Joseph Silva, Vice President

msprevost@columbuscu.org

Daniel Murphy, Vice President

(401) 729-4092

(800) 223-1700 Ext. 435

joseph.silva@pcu.org

215 Armistice Boulevard

Coventry Credit Union EXP/PX

dmurphy@homeloanbank.com

Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02860

2006 Nooseneck Hill Road

Bristol County Savings Bank

People’s Credit Union EXP

Timothy Chaves

P.O. Box 4004

Independence Bank PLP/EXP/EWCP

858 West Main Road

(774) 226-1921

Coventry, Rhode Island 02816

1370 South County Trail

Middletown, RI 02842

timothy.chaves@bcsbmail.com

Maureen Jendzejec,

East Greenwich, Rhode Island 02818

Peter Murray,

Patrick Carey, Senior Vice President

Senior Vice President

Robert A. Catanzaro, President

Business Relationship Manager

(401) 722-8845

(401) 397-1900 ext. 2314

(401) 886-4600

(401) 846-8930 Ext. 1273

Patrick.carey@BCSBmail.com

mjendzejec@coventrycu.org

rac@independence-bank.com

pmurray@peoplescu.org

28

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

SBA Rhode Island Participating Lenders | Small Business

Rhode Island Community

Sovereign Bank New England

Wave Federal Credit Union

Investment Corporation 504

PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP

480 Greenwich Avenue

2843 South County Trail

One Financial Plaza

Warwick, RI 02886

Suite C-9

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

David Duprere,

East Greenwich, Rhode Island 02818

Stephen J. White,

Executive Vice President

Jim Roche,

SBA Project Manager

(401) 781-1020

Rhode Island Manager

(617) 953-9135

david@wavefcu.org

(401) 398-0167

swhite@sovereignbank.com

jroche@cradvisors.us

504:

SBA 504 Certified Development Company – Fixed rate loans for real estate and/or M&E purchase or improvement EXP:

SBAExpress Lender –

Webster Bank PLP/EXP/PX

Expedited loans up to

TD Bank PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP

100 Westminster Bldg.,

Rockland Trust PLP/EXP/PX

180 Westminster Street

50 Kennedy Plaza, Suite 1110

288 Union Street

Providence, RI 02903

Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Rockland, Massachusetts 02370

Dave Ferreira, Vice President

Anthony Capuano,

Michael Savage,

Small Business Relationship Manager

Senior Vice President

Senior Vice President

(401) 489-5620

(401) 228-2042

(781) 982-6546

david.m.ferreira@@tdbanknorth.com

acapuano@websterbank.com

$350,000

Direct loans from $2,000 to $35,000

Bob Polito, Jr., Senior Vice President,

michael.savage@rocklandtrust.com UPS Capital Business Credit

Government Guaranteed Lending

PLP/EXP/EWCP

(860) 612-5433

Development Corporation 504/

35 Glenlake Parkway, NE

rpolito@websterbank.com

Microloans

Atlanta, GA 30328

80 Dean Street

Jack Mello, Senior Policy Credit Officer

Westerly Community Credit Union

Taunton, Massachusetts 02780

(877) 263-8772

EXP/PX

Maria Gooch-Smith,

jmello@ups.com

122 Granite Street

South Eastern Economic

mgoochsmith@seedcorp.com

The Washington Trust Company

Michael Lynch,

Laurie Driscoll,

PLP/EXP/PX/EWCP

Vice President, Lending

Commercial Loan Officer

23 Broad Street

(401) 596-7000 Ext. 2116

ldriscoll@seedcorp.com

Westerly, Rhode Island 02891

mlynch@westerlyccu.com

(508) 822-1020

Carl Amaral, Senior Vice President

Brita Gobitas, AVP Lending

Tamarah Bacon,

Retail Lending

and Business Development

SBA MicroLoans

(401) 348-1301

(401) 596-7000 Ext. 2107

tbacon@seedcorp.com

cmamaral@washtrust.com

bgobitas@westerlyccu.org

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MicroLoans:

active duty military, and spouses EWCP:

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155 South Main Street Providence, RI 02903 401 421 2710 www.thebravergroup.com

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www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

29

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401 351 3036

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

atmosphere and energy for the RISCPA members, resulting in a 32 percent expansion of the society’s membership

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island and New England Financial Services Champion of the Year

Robert Mancini is a Champion for the Small Business Community Robert Mancini has served as the executive

Mancini has been successful in reigniting

director of the Rhode Island Society of

the society’s brand, creating and sustaining

Certified Public Accountants since 2006. The

a vibrant atmosphere and energy for the

RISCPA is a non-profit organization of 1,900

RISCPA members, resulting in a 32 percent

CPAs, many being small businesses who

expansion of the society’s membership.

work directly with small businesses.

Robert maintains a strong commitment In his role as executive director, Mancini

to the community. He has served as

regularly uses advocates for the small

a volunteer to a number of charitable

business community. Through his leadership,

organizations throughout his career. He

the RISCPA has supported legislation that

currently serves as secretary of the

would improve the state’s economic climate

Gateway Real Estate Board, is

for the small businesses. Examples include

co-chair of the St. Jude Children’s Hospital

improving the state’s overall tax structure,

corporate executive committee, and is a

helping to eliminate binding arbitration and

member of the Freedom National Bank’s

advocating for meaningful pension reform.

business advisory board. Mancini has

Mancini believes CPAs remain critical in

also been recognized by Johnson & Wales

providing financing and taxation guidance

University for his contribution and support

and to small business owners.

of the University’s College of Business.

Robert certainly has demonstrated a passion

In 1996, he was appointed by

for promoting a good business environment

Governor Almond to the Rhode Island

and is well respected throughout the

Lottery Commission. He served on that

community for his fine efforts.

board until 2005.

As an added means of promoting an overall

Mancini holds a Bachelor of Science degree

theme of business development, RISCPA

in Business Administration from Providence

hosts two large networking events each year.

College and has earned a certificate from

They draw more than 500 attendees. These

the New England School of banking at

robust forums provide professionals from

Williams College.

accounting, legal and financial communities the opportunity to mingle with the goal of

For his efforts in championing financial

creating new business opportunities. Strong

services for the small business

relationships with the lending community

community, the U.S. Small Business

result from Mancini’s professional history

Administration is pleased to present the

as a banker with the former Fleet Bank and

2013 Rhode Island and New England

Citizens Bank.

Financial Services Champion Award to Robert Mancini, Executive Director of

Through his numerous relationships in the

the Rhode Island Society of Certified

banking and financial services communities,

Public Accountants

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

31

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Young Entrepreneur Helped to Create Cutting-Edge Digital Capabilities for Hundreds of Clients In 2004, Jeshua Zapata and his brothers

Juan and Jairo Gomez, founded Xzito

Creative Solutions. They began with a vision

of creating a cutting-edge creative agency focused on progressive digital capabilities.

Xzito is a clever respelling of the Spanish word Exito, which translates to the English word success. The name was selected based on the firm’s commitment to its clients’ brand success, visibility and profitability online and offline.

An entrepreneur from the outset, Jeshua is every bit the classic executive. Sharp and driven, creative and tech-savvy, he drives the workflow at Xzito, constantly pushing the team to exceed expectations for the company’s growing list of clients.

His career began with MetLife Auto and Home Insurance. There he established the project management, process review and information technology skills that laid the foundation for his role as president of Xzito.

Xzito has won numerous awards, including a Gold Award for Excellence in Web Design from the American Association of Web Masters and the Hispanic Business of the Year from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The company has worked with over 300 organizations from non-profits and startups to Fortune 500 companies to produce engaging, unique and intelligent online and offline marketing strategies.

Xzito employees include artists, web designers, entrepreneurs, soccer enthusiasts and motorcyclists. They are intelligent, fun-

32

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

loving and energetic. But most important,

management. The prototype was accepted

Journal of World Affairs. Xzito designed and

they are dedicated to creating successful

and resulted in a solution to selling auto

developed a new web site with advance

online and offline engagements.

insurance online.

Some examples of successful client projects include a manufacturer of religious gifts wanted a partner that could help improve their brand’s unique positioning statement, value proposition, web site and online marketing.

Xzito worked with the customer on a combination of brand builders and marketing drivers that would deliver immediate results. Within three months of the program’s launch, the client achieved 10,570 new web site visitors, 116 leads from online sources, and 53 new clients.

A major property and casualty life insurance company needed to compete with other insurance providers who gave customers

he drives the workflow at Xzito, constantly pushing the team to exceed

functionality, including self-management capabilities, advance search, and multimedia.

Jeshua formerly served on the board of directors of Junior Achievement, the American Marketing Association, and English for Action.

In his spare time, Jeshua enjoys playing soccer with friends or reading motivational books. He is a graduate of Bryant University with a degree in Business

expectations for the

Administration with a focus on Computer

company’s growing

Communications.

list of clients

Information Systems and a minor in

For his demonstrated success and potential for continued growth, the U.S. Small Business Administration pleased to honor Jeshua Zapata, president of

the ability to obtain vehicle insurance quotes

Xzito Creative Solutions as the 2013

online. Xzito worked with the company’s

Brown University wanted to enhance its

e-business team to develop a working

website design, usability and functionality

Rhode Island SBA Young Entrepreneur

mock-up to gain the approval of upper

for its semi-annual publication The Brown

of the Year.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

33

2013 SBA WINNERS

2013 Rhode Island Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year

Elizabeth Yuill Owns Rhode Island’s Oldest Continuously Operating General Store Elizabeth Yuill’s retail career began at age seven when she began peddling her handmade jewelry, painted rocks and seashell mirrors to neighbors in her hometown of Lincoln, Rhode Island. Liz also enjoyed operating the calculator and writing pretend invoices in her uncle’s television repairs hop. Without a doubt, Liz was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug early in life.

Fast forward to 1988. Liz and her mom opened a small gift store, Goose Crossing Country Store, in North Scituate. They sold that business in 1994. Two years later, Liz teamed with the new owner of Goose Crossing to open G. Willakers Country Store in Wickford. She sold her interest in that business in 2003.

One year later, Yuill purchased the Brown & Hopkins Country Store in the village of Chepachet, R.I. It has been continually operating as such since 1809 and is officially the oldest store of its type in the state and one of the oldest in the nation. She is the seventeenth operator/ owner in approximately 200 years.

Liz purchased the real estate with a SBA-backed loan through Freedom National Bank. She also received consulting assistance from SBA’s Women’s Business Center in Rhode Island, the Center for Women & Enterprise.

The product mix under Yuill’s management consists of various gift items such as candles and accessories, local honey and maple syrup, New Hampshire-made fudge and other gourmet specialties, ladies clothing, seasonal décor, high quality faux florals and more. The store also features an impressive selection of home décor such as framed prints, quilts, curtains, furniture, braided rugs, and local crafts.

34

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

The store employs six part time employees. The staff is responsible for creating visually pleasing displays using the merchandise available.

Duties consist of everything from pricing merchandise to selling it; and from maintaining the cleanliness of the store to emptying the trash.

There is always something to do.

Customers are the number one priority. Brown & Hopkins offers complimentary gift wrapping, special order service and will keep customers on their “wish list” if the store is out of stock on an item, calling the customer when it arrives.

The store’s customer base is mostly from Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. There is also an influx of tourists during the summer and autumn.

Brown & Hopkins also supports the community with its “Coffee Charity Club,” where 100 percent of the donations from the purchase of

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coffee, tea or cocoa are donated to the charity of the month. Liz has

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as such since 1809 and is officially the oldest store of its type in the state and one of the oldest in the nation Each November the store hosts a “Thankful Gathering” where food items are collected for the local food pantry. Brown & Hopkins matches one dollar per item donated to the cause.

Brown & Hopkins Country Store was named the “Best Gift Store in the Blackstone Valley in 2011” by Rhode Island Monthly Magazine. It received the “Footsteps in History” award from the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council in 2009.

Liz is also very involved in her community. She serves as secretary of the Glocester Business Association and also serves on its board of directors. She has been a member of the Chepachet Candlelight Shopping Committee, and received the Joan M. Scorpio Award for Outstanding Community Service in 2010.

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The U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to honor Elizabeth L. Yuill, owner of Brown & Hopkins Country Store in Chepachet with the 2013 Rhode Island Woman-owned Small Business of the Year Award.

40 Nashua Street, Providence, RI 02904 401 272 9262 p 401 351 4002 f

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

35

2013 SBA WINNERS

Is Government Contracting Right for Your Business?

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING MYTHS & REALITIES MYTH: Doing business with the federal government is too complicated, involves too much red tape and it takes forever to get paid.

REALITY: The government uses many commercial and business-friendly practices, such as buying off-the-shelf items and paying by credit card. Payments are generally made within 15 days after submitting an invoice.

MYTH: There’s no one I can turn to in trying to obtain government contracts.

REALITY: The SBA and its network of resource partners have programs and “hands-on” assistance for small businesses contemplating selling to the federal marketplace.

MYTH: I must compete head-to-head against large businesses and multinational corporations to win contracts.

REALITY: The government has many categories of contract opportunities set aside exclusively for small businesses to level the playing field.

MYTH: All I need to do is register in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the contracts will come rolling in.

REALITY: Although SAM is a primary way federal agencies learn about prospective vendors, it’s up to you to aggressively market your products and services. Remember, agencies don’t buy, people do.

Government contracting can be a critical tool for growing your business and increasing your bottom line. While not all small businesses are suitable for government contracting, the following steps will help you determine whether government contracting is a good fit for your small business.

Evaluate Your Business for Government Contracting Define goals for your business and determine your firm’s strengths and weaknesses. Analyze the market—where are the goods and services you are offering needed in the federal government? Decide what you have to offer and target your efforts at the federal agencies that need it the most.

Finally, your business plan must be sustainable—take into consideration current economic conditions and how they may impact your business.

Don’t overlook potential opportunities with state and local government agencies as well.

Research Agencies’ Procurement Forecasts Every year, each federal agency assembles an Annual Procurement Forecast, designed to assist businesses in identifying procurement opportunities. The Procurement Forecast is meant for informational and planning purposes only, but it can help you get an idea of where to target your business to win government contracts. Access agencies’ procurement forecasts at www.acquisition.gov/comp/procurement_ forecasts/index.html. Additionally, contact each agency’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at www.osdbu.gov to see what goods and services they expect to buy.

Visit a Procurement Technical Assistance Center Congress created the procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) to help businesses seeking to compete successfully in federal government contracting. These centers provide a range of expert services at little or no charge, including assistance to businesses that want to sell products and services to the federal government. Contact the Rhode Island Procurement Technical Assistance Center at (401) 2789100 Ext. 175 or visit their web site at www.riptac.com.

Get to Know the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) When contracting with the federal government, you will be held to specific rules and regulations. The FAR establishes uniform policies and regulations for the purchase of supplies and services by all executive agencies. Specifically, Part 19 refers to the acquisition process for small business programs. You can access the FAR at www.acquisition.gov/FAR.

36

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Sm Does Your Bu a Go si ll Business C ver nes on nm s Qualify for trac en

2013 SBA WINNERS

Point of Sale Solutions

ts? t

Three Questions to Ask Yourself

3. Do you fall under a specific certification?

The SBA has outlined several specific certifications that provide businesses that

1. Are you a small business?

qualify with benefits within the procurement

Is your business:

process. These certifications are divided

•

Organized for profit

into two categories: SBA-Certified and Self-

•

Located in the U.S.

Certified. The SBA-Certified Programs were

•

Operated primarily within the

created to assist specific groups in securing

United States or making a significant

federal contracts and can only be granted

contribution to the U.S. economy

by the SBA.

We Install and Service Point of Sale Systems for any Restaurant or Retail Business.

Credit Card Services Available

through payment of taxes or use of American products, materials or labor

You can determine if your business meets the

•

Independently owned and operated

requirements of the Self-Certified programs

•

Not dominant in the field

by referring to the Federal Acquisition

of operation in which it is bidding for

Regulation (FAR). To self-certify as a small

government contracts

business, register in the System for Award

•

A sole proprietorship, partnership,

Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov. When

corporation or other legal form?

completing the General Information section about your business in SAM, self-certify that

2. What is the size standard

you meet the federal government’s definition

for your business?

of a small business. For more information,

Size standards are used to determine

visit http://www.sba.gov/content/small-

whether a business is small. Size standards

business-certification-0.

vary depending upon the industry. To determine the size standards that might

Apply for the certification programs for which

apply to your business, go to http://www.

you qualify to take full advantage of federal

sba.gov/content/table-small-business-size-

contracting opportunities. Federal agencies

standards. If your business does not exceed

have a strong incentive to fulfill specific

the size standard then you are an eligible

contracting goals for the socio-economic

small business. To find out more about

categories in addition to the overall goal

these requirements and other size standard

awarding 23 percent of all contracting dollars

information, go to www.sba.gov/size.

to small businesses.

Call 401-255-6522 for more information or visit www.POSinetPOS.com

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

37

Small Business | Secretary Of State Ralph Mollis

SBAC Works to Improve Government Relations with Small Businesses

by Secretary Of State Ralph Mollis

Just hours after House Speaker Gordon Fox rolled out his chamber’s economic development plan last month, the business leaders and government officials serving on the state’s Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC) had copies in their in-box. Gary Ezovski, who cochairs SBAC’s legislative committee with Ron Caniglia, made sure his colleagues had access to the information right away.

That’s exactly what Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts had in mind when she ramped up SBAC’s horsepower last year by inviting Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis and the R.I Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to take on leadership roles as co-chairs.

“The three agency leadership model provides a single point of contact in government, where all three offices are present to receive input from small business owners and to develop specific recommendations for solutions to their problems,” said Roberts, who chairs the council.

SBAC works to improve government relations with small businesses, provide easily accessible information for business owners, monitor and advocate on public policy initiatives affecting small businesses

Founded in 2006 to meet the complex needs of a few substantial families, we believe each client is unique and we treat them as such, with confidentiality & personal attention.

and provide the assistance necessary for small business owners to get started and grow their business in Rhode Island. It strives to create an effective working relationship with chambers of commerce, business advocacy groups and small business owners.

Our investment process focuses on risk control, and produces portfolios of lower volatility and higher cash-flow.

We cannot control global events, but we can give our clients the peace of mind that comes from preserving

“All of us are committed to making it easier to do business here. This

their capital when those events cause turbulence.

a host of services to small business including helping start-ups with

WhaleRock Point Partners, LLC. • 1 Turks Head Place, Suite 1050 Providence, RI 02903 • 401.237.6064 • Info@wrpoint.com • wrpoint.com

38

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

gives us a forum for teasing out ideas big and small that might not be aired any other way,” says Mollis, whose office already provides permitting and applications.

Sitting around SBAC’s table are small business owners like Ezovski and Caniglia, Chamber of Commerce executives like Steve Boyle of Cranston and John Gregory of Northern R.I. and government officials like Leslie Taito, who heads up the Governor’s Office of Regulatory Reform, and the SBA’s Mark Hayward.

It’s where EDC Chief of Staff J.R. Pagliarini can preview proposed changes at the agency such as creating a customer service team to reach out to small businesses or upgrading business-related legislative tracking on riedc.com.

May’s meeting featured briefings by the state’s new Director of Digital Excellence Thom Guertin as well as Statewide Planning’s Kevin Flynn.

Guertin outlined plans to create e-commerce tools that, for example, will streamline the permitting process. Flynn looked at land use trends and demographic projections that could have a dramatic effort on the way many local industries do business in the coming decades.

But, these presentations are a two-way street. Business people get a sneak peak at data and strategy while government officials get firsthand feedback on their plans.

“SBAC is a place for small business owners and advocates to tell those of us in government what they need in order to succeed.

We’ve opened our doors,” explains Mollis.

“It’s easy to plug into SBAC’s work. You can find meeting notices and

10

SCORE Workshop: Managing Yourself, Your Time Daily Planning and Getting Organized

agendas on our website at sos.ri.gov. You can even sign up for e-mail

Centerville Seminar Center

reminders that will arrive

875 Centerville Road

automatically before every

Building 2, Suite 5

meeting,” says Mollis.

Warwick, Rhode Island 10:00-12:00 PM

“We hope you’ll make your voice heard.”

Monday, June 10th

10

Tuesday, June 11th SCORE Workshop: Achieving Loyalty in a Price Conscious World Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce 6 Blackstone Valley Place Building 4, Suite 402 Lincoln, Rhode Island 9:00-11:00 AM

11

Tuesday, June 11th Newport Chamber’s Economic Update Breakfast: Health Insurance Exchange Panel Ramada Inn 425 East Main Road, Middletown 10:00-12:00 PM

11

Tuesday, June 11th North Central Chamber: Lipstick Luncheon “Stretch, Relax and Renew...15 Minutes to a New You!” The Heart Spot 700 Greenville Ave, Johnston, RI 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

39

Small Business | Breaking Old Habits

Breaking Old Habits Turning Your IT Philosophy from “Reactive” to “Proactive”

by Lisa Shorr

1. Network Monitoring = Peace-of-mind: Unless you have an IT person on staff, you do not have the time to worry about updating software and monitoring how much hard disk space you have left

What is Mother Nature up to now? That was the looming thought on

on your server and workstations. Gee – we barely have enough time

all of our minds as we anxiously tuned in to the frequent updates

in the day to fit in a short break let alone spending hours updating

on Hurricane Sandy. Quick run to the market to get milk and bread.

your network. Why add more stress to your day? Let a MSP add back

Quick run to the basement and elevate anything off the floor that can

several hours of productivity to your week by taking care of your

get water-logged. Quick prepare your office by shutting down your

network for you!

network and alerting your clients of a potential power outage. Wait – hold on – while I am confident you ran to the market and prepared

2. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery: Do you remember

your home, how about your office? Did you take care of that too?

when Y2K loomed over our heads? There was quite a bit of hustle

So many of our clients are under the false impression that “it won’t

January 1st! For many SMB’s that is the last time they planned for

happen to me.” Yes it can and will if you don’t take action! Too many

potential disaster! From Hurricane Irene and Sandy to the Blizzard

business owners are comfortable with the way they’ve always run their

of 2012 – Nemo, our state has pulled through the devastation but

and bustle around making sure our businesses would not close on

office including their IT. It is hard to break the “reactive model” of IT,

many small businesses did not. An MSP helps you coordinate an

calling your IT provider only when something breaks. This can lead

“action list” of items to ensure your business, employees and clients

to costly downtime. I encourage you to consider breaking that habit

are safe. Items include properly storing your data and shutting down

and adopting a more “proactive” approach to your IT, allowing an IT

your network, how your employees can stay productive even when

provider to monitor and maintain your network to stave off a potential

an office is unreachable, who the key contact personnel are should

network headache. Hopefully after you’ve read this article you will

disaster occur, and so much more…

have a change of heart.

A disaster recovery plan is an extension of your Business Continuity Let’s talk about Managed Services. Managed Services means the IT

plan but includes data retrieval. Most businesses can work from

service provider proactively monitors and maintains your server(s),

anywhere just as long as their data is attainable.

workstations and network 24 x 7 x 365. Think of Managed Services like an Alarm system, it is always on the alert watching and guarding

3. Put up your shield against hackers! Implement Email and

your network against predators! Typically the client and managed

Network Security: Time and again we are hearing about data

service provider (MSP) enter into a predictable monthly contract for a

breaches thanks to hackers or even human error. Having spam

flat fee with a detailed list outlining parameters of the program.

filtering installed on your network is more crucial now thanks to the

So why should you change your mind-set? Here are 3 key factors:

sophistication of hackers. Where networking monitoring is like an

40

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Networking and Workshops | Events

12

Wednesday, June 12th East Greenwich Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament at Richmond Country Club 74 Sandy Pond Rd, Richmond, RI

13

Thursday, June 13th SCORE Workshop: How to Put the ‘Cash’ Back Into Your Cash Flow West Warwick Public Library 1043 Main Street, West Warwick, Rhode Island 9:30-11:30 AM

13

Thursday June 13th East Greenwich Chamber’s Main Street Stroll: Flags, Dads & Jazz 5:00-8:00 PM

14

Friday, June 14Th Ri Small Business Recovery Program: Nurture Marketing …How To Create A Steady Stream Of New Customers Centerville Seminar Center 875 Centerville Road, Building 2, Suite 5 Warwick 9:00-11:00 AM

Alarm System, Spam filtering is like a gatekeeper scanning every email for viruses before they enter your network.

14

Friday, June 14th SCORE Workshop: How To Hire Your First Employee Center for Women & Enterprise

Every day, new viruses are introduced to by savvy hackers seeking

132 George M. Cohan Boulevard

ways to monitor your actions or steal your data. Spam filtering protects

Providence, Rhode Island

against those viruses that are already “known.” It does happen that

9:00-11:00 AM

new viruses sneak through the security gates unwittingly. This is why it is important to have an MSP monitor any updates or license renewals for your spam-filtering and other security programs to ensure that they

18

Tuesday, June 18th North Central Chamber: Meet Your Chamber Neighbor – Pollard Law

are monitoring against the latest threats.

Pollard Law Inc. 118 Danielson Pike, North Scituate, RI

Another great component to spam filtering is its important role in your disaster recovery plan. Should your organization experience a poweroutage or server crash, for example, spam filtering programs offer an alternative “emergency website” to access to view/send/receive email.

8:30-9:30 AM

20

7:50-9:15 AM

and mitigate any lost revenues to due to downtime.

20

and the key role technology plays in ensuring this flow is seamless, I

Thursday, June 20th Newport Chamber’s Brown Bag Networking Lunch 12:00-1:30 PM

your thought-process is hard, especially when dealing with how you run your business. Thanks to the demands for sharing information

Northern RI Chamber’s Eggs and Issues Breakfast Kirkbrae Country Club, Lincoln

The ability to stay connected is crucial to ensure business continuity

I know from experience running a small business myself, changing

Thursday, June 20th

26

Wednesday, June 26th Northern RI Chamber’s Networking at Night

urge you to take some time to consult with your IT consultant about

Providence Biltmore Hotel

the many benefits of managed services and how it will improve your

5:00-7:00 PM

business. Get rid of the notion “It is how we’ve always done it!” There is no room for “reactive” thinking. Your business cannot afford it…

26

Wednesday, June 26th RI Small Business Recovery Program: How To Fine Tune Your Business…A Step-By-Step Tune-Up For Your Existing Business

Lisa Shorr PC Troubleshooters www.pctrouble.com

Centerville Seminar Center 875 Centerville Road, Building 2, Suite 5 Warwick 6:30-8:30 PM www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

41

Small Business | Disorganized Offices

disorganized offices

what’s in yours?

by Kristin Carcieri-MacRae

When I see a disorganized desk, I don’t think to myself, “Wow, this is a disaster! “ I think, how I can make this person more efficient and productive and set up working organized systems that will keep them organized.

Is your workspace disorganized? People will often say that they have

I run into people all the time that say they need to get organized but

piles on their desk, but they know exactly what is in the pile. Really?

are embarrassed for me to see their space. If you are embarrassed to

How long does it take you to find that document? 5-20 minutes? You

have me come in, I wonder how you feel when potential clients,

just wasted precious time searching for a document. When we go

co-workers, or managers see your office.

through most offices, the piles end up getting thrown out because the information is no longer needed. You probably have piles sitting on

Every disorganized office that I go into, I find the same patterns.

your desk starting at you and you don’t even need the information that

Read on to see if you can relate. As you go through, highlight the

is in the piles!

ones that apply to you.

Guiding you through life’s most challenging moments.

Navigating through insurance challenges alone can be overwhelming. Gallo |Thomas is here to keep you on course. We are committed to steering you in the right direction and providing tailored insurance solutions. For over 65 years, Gallo |Thomas Insurance Agency has cultivated a timehonored reputation for quality-driven solutions that represent forward thinking, advanced product offerings, and insightful risk management.

Insure your future with Gallo |Thomas.

117 Metro Center Blvd., Ste. 1004 | Warwick, R.I. 02886 | 401.732.9100 14 Woodruff Ave. | Narragansett, R.I. 02882 | 401.792.9100

Personal Insurance 42

|

Business Insurance

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

|

Group Benefit Plans

|

Risk Management Services

Networking and Workshops | Events

27 No organized systems in place.

•

Attempts at organization that have failed.

•

Piles of paper that usually get thrown

449 Thames St, Ste. 100, Newport 5:00-7:00 PM

10

875 Centerville Road, Building 2, Suite 5 Warwick

Files in drawers that aren’t hanging, they are just thrown in the drawer.

•

Expired medication.

•

Expired food.

•

Money. Checks and cash.

•

Abundance of writing utensils. Most of them don’t work.

RI Small Business Recovery Program Centerville Seminar Center

Organizing supplies i.e., filing trays, vertical trays not being utilized in an efficient manner.

•

Wednesday, July 10th Who’s in Charge? Quieting Your Fear of Speaking

out after we go through them.

•

Newport Chamber’s Business After Hours Drupal Connect

This is what I find in disorganized offices.

•

Thursday, June 27th

4:30-5:30 PM

15

Monday, July 15th North Central Chamber: 20th Annual Golf Tournament at Kirkbrae Country Club 1:00 PM shotgun start

18

Thursday, July 18th

•

Empty file drawers.

•

Cluttered file drawers.

•

No drawer organizers being utilized.

•

Office supplies stored in all different areas.

•

Duplicate files stored in all different areas in the office.

Warwick, RI

•

Files and binders that have not been gone through

8:30-11:00 am

•

Too much work material on the desk.

•

Too many chatzkies on the desk.

•

Bulletin boards full of cluttered memos.

in years. Most get thrown out.

•

Papers taped to the wall.

•

Bookshelves full of books or binders that are no longer being utilized.

•

Credit card receipts and bank receipts

•

Take out menus in all different drawers.

•

Binders not labeled.

in all different places in the office.

•

Space not being maximized.

•

Time management skills need some tweaking.

•

Dirty, dusty desks.

•

No system for business cards.

When we are going through an office, I constantly hear “I was looking for that” or “I forgot I had that.” Can you relate? If so, you are in need of organization. You will be more efficient, more productive, less stressed, have more energy and people will have more confidence in you. Once

RI Small Business Recovery Program Speed Mentoring Centerville Seminar Center 875 Centerville Road, Building 2, Suite 5

18

Thursday July 18th Main Street Stroll: Dogs on Main Parade 5:00-8:00 PM

26

Friday, July 26th “EG Chamber PawSox Family Night” PawSox vs. Lehigh at McCoy Stadium

13

Tuesday August 13th Business After Hours at Blu 5:30-7:30 PM

22

Thursday August 22nd Main Street Stroll: A Taste of East Greenwich 5:00-8:00 PM

16

Monday, September 16th Northern RI Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament at Kirkbrae Country Club 11:30 AM registration, 1:00 PM shot gun start Dinner and awards immediately following the round

you get organized your time management skills will improve because you are able to see clearer once the clutter has been removed. When you are finished organizing your office, you will be motivated, energized, and ready to tackle another project. It will feel like you have been cleansed and have a brand new office. You will be excited to go into work the next day. Yes, really! Organize! Energize!

Kristin Carcieri-MacRae Owner Organizing In RI, LLC

be sure to visit isupportsmallbusiness.com to view all updated and current events and workshops for this month

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

43

Small Business | Promoting More Transportation Options at Quonset

promoting m re transp rtation options at qu nset

by Steven J. King, PE

for example, stops at the Gateway -- the retail section of the park, adjacent to Post Road – 33 times each day. The roundabout we constructed in the park provides a convenient turnaround for buses.

As Quonset Business Park continues to establish itself as one of

Gate Road was constructed with a bus pull-off area, which also

the Ocean State’s most successful centers of job creation, we need

includes a bus shelter.

to consider how to get 9,100 people to work every day in the most efficient way possible. And while we continue to invest in programs to

On top of the RIPTA routes, TownePlace Suites by Marriott has a

preserve open space, to enhance our bicycle path, and to make miles

shuttle service, and Electric Boat has vanpools - two initiatives that

of shoreline more accessible to the public, we also realize that public

take additional cars off the road. The Quonset Bike Path is primarily

transportation initiatives will play an increasingly important

a recreational facility but was also designed to be an option for our

role in moving people in and out of the park as employment

neighbors commuting from Quidnesett or Potowomut. Lastly, QDC

continues to grow here.

has proposed that the State Rail Plan place a commuter rail station at West Davisville, and perhaps even within the Business Park itself.

For us, increased transportation alternatives are an important benefit to our existing businesses, prospective tenants, and are environmentally sound. We recognize that the majority of the 9,100 full-time and part-time employees who work at Quonset Business Park commute each day in their own vehicles. And as time goes on, we recognize that improved public transportation will be an asset in recruiting new businesses here and to assist existing businesses to expand.

improved public transportation will be an asset in recruiting new businesses here and to assist existing businesses to expand

We have consistently worked to build and maintain a modern infrastructure, including: a multi-modal transportation system that

In addition to a commuter rail station on the Amtrak line in West

features an airport, as well as highway, seaport, and railway access.

Davisville, we also support construction of Route 95 South ramps

We also offer full service utilities, including high-speed broadband,

from Route 4, which will alleviate congestion on Division Road/Route

a water supply and wastewater treatment facility, and two on-site

2 in East Greenwich. We also believe the establishment of the Marine

substations that provide electrical power. The amenities within the

Highway system, which puts containers and other cargo on barges

park include a hotel, the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, on-site retail,

arriving or departing at the Port of Davisville, will reduce truck traffic

including Dave’s Marketplace, high-speed ferry access to Martha’s

on our highways.

Vineyard, a daycare facility, a public golf course and banquet facility, a 2.3 mile-long bike path along the waterfront, beaches, marinas, and

We are committed to improving and enhancing public transportation

the nationally acclaimed Seabee Museum.

options at Quonset Business Park. We support these initiatives because we know it is good for those who work here, for our state,

It only makes sense that we make it as convenient as possible

and for the environment.

for people to get here. And so we support efforts to take what we consider to be one of our existing strengths -- public transportation – and make it even stronger. For example, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) continues to fine tune its routes. Bus #14,

44

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Steven J. King, PE Managing Director Quonset Development Corp

We believe we are living at an extraordinary moment.

Building on amazing technologies that took decades to develop, LLS is helping to make and further discoveries that provide every blood cancer patient with safe and effective therapy.

The years people have invested in us and the funds they continue to raise are bringing healing therapies once thought impossible.

Simply put, we are closer than ever to the cures for many kinds of blood cancers. We are on the brink of historic breakthroughs that will literally change people’s lives.

The urgency is critical.

We cannot stop now.

That’s why we are committed to telling our story in the most informative and substantive ways possible. We strive to confront people with the breathtaking reality of how we are changing the landscape of blood cancer.

We call this approach Reasons to Believe. And the facts tell an overwhelming story of progress that is both inspiring and motivating to doctors, researchers, employees, donors and survivors – every individual who impacts our success.

Because of our work, blood cancer will never be the same.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

45

The Leukemia & Lymphoma SocieTy The Leukemia & Lymphoma SocieTy

C ngratulates C ngratulates R H O D EI S L A N D M A N& W O M A N O F T H EYE A R .

R H O D E I S L A N D M A N& W O M A NO FT H EYE A R .

Brian T rah an T h eC e nt e rf o r Brian T rah an P h e no me no l o gi c alL e ade rsh i p T h eC e nt e rf o r P h e no me no l o gi c alL e ade rsh i p

L o ra L o P ic c o l o Y o ga byL o ra L o ra L o P ic c o l o Y o ga byL o ra

T h eL e uk e mia & L y mph o ma S o c ie t yc o ngrat ul at e st h isy e ar’ s w inne rsand al lt h ec andidat e sw h oc o mpe t e df o rt h et it l e .T h e ir T h eL e uk e mia & L y mph o ma S o c ie t yc o ngrat ul at e st h isy e ar’ s e f f o rt sand c o mmit me nth av emadean impac tin t h es e arc hf o r w inne rsand al lt h ec andidat e sw h oc o mpe t e df o rt h et it l e .T h e ir c ure sand e f f e c t iv ebl o o dc anc e rt h e rapie s . e f f o rt sand c o mmit me nth av emadean impac tin t h es e arc hf o r c ure sand e f f e c t iv ebl o o dc anc e rt h e rapie s .

46

F o r mo reinf o rmat io no rt oge tinv o l v e d,pl e as ev is it w w w . mw o y . o rg/ rir o rc al l 0 1 9 4 38888 F o r mo re inf o rmat io no t o ge t4 inv o l v e d, pl e as ev is it

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Fifteen Local Men and Woman Raise Over $104,000 for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Rhode Island Chapter Man and Woman of the Year Campaign.

Winners of the 2013 Campaign Announced May 4, 2013, Newport - The Rhode Island Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) wrapped up its 2013 Man & Woman of the Year competition on May 4, with a Grand Finale in Newport with Lora Lopiccolo of Foster and Brian Trahan of Providence, coming out victorious in this 10-week fundraising competition.

Both the Man and Woman of the Year, Brian, the Managing Director of the Center for Phenomenological Leadership and Lora, owner of Yoga by Lora, both individually raised over $15,000 in is 10-week campaign.

Community leaders competed for the national title of Man & Woman of the Year, an honor surrounded with a great deal of fanfare, including a full-page ad in USA Today, but the most important reason candidates participated was for families like this year’s Boy and Girl of the Year, Lamar from Woonsocket, and Hannah from Portsmouth, both 10 years of age. Lamar and Hannah are local children who are survivors of blood cancers and who are sources of inspiration. Every dollar raised counted as one “vote.” The male and female candidates with the most “votes” were awarded the title of 2013 Man & Woman of the Year.

The money raised by candidates over the ten week period is used by LLS to fund research seeking cures and better therapies, and to provide information and support so that patients have the best possible outcomes throughout their cancer experience. “We are thrilled to announce our 2013 Winners. Congratulations to Brian and Lora as well as our Runners-Up Steve Pitassi, of Janney Montgomery Scott and Jennifer Cervenka of Partridge Snow and Hahn. Even though there are winners, it is the collective total of the entire 15 candidates that is truly amazing. Over $104,000 raised in RI for blood cancer research and patient services program is amazing. What a wonderful group of candidates!” said Bill Koconis, the Rhode Island Chapter’s Executive Director. “We cannot express enough how lucky we are to have such amazing volunteers associated with the LLS. We could not do any of this without them.”

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society®, headquartered in White Plains, NY, is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The LLS mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, LLS has invested more than $600 million in research specifically targeting leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. LLS has a local Patient Services Manager in 68 chapters throughout the United States and Canada. For additional information, please contact LLS at (800) 955-4572 or visit www.LLS.org.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

47

MEET THE CANDIDATES who are helping beat blood cancer!

R o be rtA s h e gh M e rri l lL y nc h ,F i nanc i alA dv i so r

E dw ard Brady V ani t yand T h eT h i rst yBe av e r,C o O w ne r

K ris t e nC o nne rs F o rme rM s.W h e e l c h ai rA me ri c a 2 0 0 6N at i o nalP re si de nt ,M s.

W h e e l c h ai r,I nc .

M ic h ae lG ro s s i M A F F EF i nanc i alG ro up,I nc . , M anagi ng D i re c t o r

S e an M c N amara T h eW i neG ro up,O nP re mi se M anage r

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N o ra S o mme rk amp T h eO c e an H o use ,D i re c t o ro fR o o ms F ash i o nM o de l

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S t e v eP it as s i J anne y ,M o nt go me ry ,Sc o t t ,L L C , M anage r/ V i c eP re si de nt

M arkC ut l e r M usi c i an

48

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

J e nnif e rC e rv e nk a P art ri dge ,Sno w& H ah n,L L P ,P art ne r

A myD iaz 2 0 0 8M i ss R h o deI sl and U SAand 2 0 0 9M i ss E art h

T h et w oindiv idual sw h orais et h emo s tf undsduring t h is1 0 w e e kc ampaign f o rT h eL e uk e mia & L y mph o ma S o c ie t ye arn t h et it l eo fM an and W o man o ft h eYe ar.

C o ngrat ul at io nt oal lo ur 2 0 1 3C andidat e s !.

Boy of the Year | Lamar 10 years old, Woonsocket, RI ALL/Diagnosed: January 13, 2010

We can see a future that is cancer free Careful planning is important to ensure that your loved ones are well cared for and your estate is not subjected to unnecessary taxes.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is at the threshold of cures for blood cancer patients. A gift in your estate plan or as a beneficiary of a retirement or insurance account is a good investment in the future and a meaningful way to create your legacy. LLS brings therapies to the patients who need them—a persuasive reason to believe that someday is today.

Lamar and his family found out about his ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia) in 2012. He had been experiencing stomach pain, bone pain, extreme fatigue and a yellow color to his skin. Their family doctor did a blood test thinking he was anemic, but instead it showed Leukemia blasts. Lamar’s mom was in shock, experiencing fear, anger and devastation. She feared her son would die. Her one question was, What can we do to make him better? So after 2 years and 2 months of chemotherapy, and numerous hospital stays, his prognosis was for a full recovery.

Throughout his treatment, Lamar was very scared, wondering why his mom and dad were crying. Through his ordeal, he came to realize, as his family stayed with him whenever he was in the hospital, that he had everyone’s full support, which helped him get through. Today he gets to play basketball, baseball and football and enjoy his favorite movies and music.

Girl of the Year | Hannah 9 years old, Portsmouth, RI ALL/Diagnosed: January 5, 2006

Hannah’s illness came on rather suddenly as she just fell off her stool and then couldn’t walk! Of course she went to the hospital and was eventually diagnosed with ALL. She has had an extremely difficult road with many rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. She developed seizures and many side effects from her treatment.

Unfortunately on February 3, 2009, Hannah relapsed, and then in June of that year had a bone marrow transplant. During her treatments, although she was sad, she was so grateful for her loving family. To date Hannah seems to be doing well, so we are all cheering her on!

Hannah is a huge fan of Selena Gomez . Even her dog Alex is named after a Selena Gomez character. Some other favorites of Hannah’s include the Boston Red Sox, dolphins and monkeys, and girls lacrosse.

Thank you to our 2013 Thank you to our 2013 Nominating Committee Members:

Nominating Committee Members:

Ralph Lawrence, Gus Manocchia, Carolyn Goldstein, Kimberly Moore Kevin Casey, Amber Loxley-Kelly, Joe Gildea, Ralph Lawrence, Gus Manocchia, Carolyn Tom Lynch, Carla Izzard, Cathy Edington, Karen Dalton, Goldstein, Kimberly Moore Casey, Christine Andrews, Tom Enright, StephenKevin Lombardi, Tim Robey, EricaLoxley-Kelly, Caliguiri, Julie Loffredi, Rick Lataille, Shelly Amber Joe Gildea, Tom Lynch, Peckham Carla Bernardelli Izzard, Cathy Edington, Karen Dalton,

Christine Andrews, Tom Enright, Stephen Lombardi, Tim Robey, Erica Peckham Bernardelli

Looking to get involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma SociCaliguiri, Julie Loffredi, Rick Lataille, Shelly ety? Do you think you know the next Man or Woman of the Year? Join our Nominating Committee!

Looking to get involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society? or Woman of the Year? Join our Nominating Committee!

Contact Elizabeth at liz.perry@lls.org or 401.943.8888 Do you think you know the next Man for more information.

Contact Ed Rodbro at legacy@lls.org or 888-773-9958 for more information.

Contact Elizabeth at liz.perry@lls.org or 401.943.8888 for more information.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four 4/21/13 10:30 AM

49

Small Business | Yes it CAN Happen to You

YES IT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU! protect your business from a cyber attack!

by Adam Harvey

Once the payment info is on your servers,

We hear about it on the news occasionally.

fancy car and eating at restaurant you

A major company’s database has been

couldn’t afford in your wildest dreams,

most current operating systems have full

hacked and sensitive information belonging

bought with the customer information you

disk encryption tools already. It only takes a

to hundreds of thousands of customers

stored in your database. These guys are

few minutes to activate the feature and it will encrypt every file and program on your drive.

has been compromised. It’s a horrible

clever and ruthless and you’ve got to protect

thing, but we really only hear about it when

yourself, your livelihood, and your customers

Local file encryption only works when you’re

it happens to a large company, leading

from these predators. Here’s how.

logged out of your computer (otherwise you couldn’t read the files yourself) so make sure

smaller businesses to believe that they’re not big enough to make it worth the effort for

Data Encryption

you log out when you’re not using it. That

a hacker to attack. But that’s not true at all.

Any important data you may be storing like

also means that viruses and malware, which

According to research done by Symantec

bank routing numbers, credit card accounts

operate with your credentials, can also read encrypted info, so encryption really

and the National Cyber Security Alliance,

or social security numbers is very enticing

cyber attacks cost small businesses an

to criminals. That’s why it’s critical to make

only covers you from “outside” attacks or

average of $188,242 a year. Even more

sure that data is encrypted while it is en

data interception.

shocking is that nearly two-thirds of the

route or in your possession. Data encryption

businesses that had been attacked went out

prevents intruders from reading private

I would even recommend that it’s best to use

of business within six months!

information. If someone does manage to

a third party processor to manage sensitive

capture a message or bit of information, they

financial data. PCI compliance is difficult to

only see scrambled, unreadable gibberish.

maintain and it requires daily server scans

Your ecommerce website that takes payment

among other things. It’s just not cost effective

Meanwhile, as you’ve lost everything you’ve

info needs to do so in an encrypted channel

for a small business to try to manage these

ever worked for, the bad guy is driving a

using a certificate.

things alone.

That’s pretty scary.

50

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Yes it CAN Happen to You | Small Business

it’s critical to make sure that data is encrypted while it is en route or in your possession

Lock down your network

Choose a nonsense word with punctuation,

Older, unpatched and unupdated

If you have a Wi-Fi network, you could

capitals and numbers in it and change it

equipment is a playground for bad guys, so

become a victim of what’s called

every few months.

be sure you’re up to date.

scanning for unlocked networks. Once they

Have anti-malware and anti-virus protection

If you’re not sure you can handle things on

find a vulnerable Wi-Fi hot spot, they can

Spam emails and harmful websites abound.

your own, don’t hesitate to hire an outside

scour your machines for passwords and

Malware is responsible for nearly half of

expert to help you. There are many reputable

financial data.

all data breaches. It installs code on your

Internet-based data-security vendors who

machine that runs in the background,

can take the burden off of you as a business

recording your keystrokes and feeding

owner and make sure you’re protected.

“wardriving.” Criminals outfit their cars with very large antennas and drive around

Of course not having Wi-Fi service at all is

Hire Security for help

the only foolproof way to protect yourself,

passwords and login information to hackers.

but if you decide you really want to have a

You get it by downloading something

This is by all means far from an exhaustive

wireless network, make sure you immediately

from a sketchy website or opening an

list of everything that you can do to stay safe,

disable the service set identifier or SSID.

email attachment from an unknown or

but it’s a starting point. If you feel like this is

It’ll create a cloaked network that is only

compromised source. Make sure you keep

beyond what you have the time or inclination

accessible to people who are authorized to

your programs and operating system up to

to handle, hire someone to help you. Don’t

use it—people who already know the SSID.

date at all times. Make sure you

let the bad guys win!

Also, keep your Wi-Fi updated to the latest

perform updates as they’re released since

encryption standards (to prevent interception

they’re designed to keep up with all the new

of data) and have a very complicated

ways hackers are getting in to do their

password (to prevent account compromise).

evil deeds.

Adam Harvey GLAD WORKS www.gladworks.com

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

51

| Export Rhode Island

One of the major focal points for

If you have not considered, or have and

defining your global business strategy as

strengthening the Rhode Island economy

decided not to explore exporting, then you

part of the overall corporate business plan.

Acknowledge international as a corporate

must be exporting our products and

need to look around at your competitors

services. Expanding overseas is your

and business partners and realize what has

responsibility with risks and responsibility

express lane to new markets, new ideas,

been happening in the Ocean State. Rhode

and allocate the appropriate resources of

a world of adventure and best of all, new

Island was one of 29 states recognized

money, manpower and production.

business opportunities!

by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration as having

Once you have the management

Consider the following:

achieved record growth in 2012, recording a

commitment, develop a strategic

•

95% of all customers and 70%

4.1 percent growth from 2011, totaling $2.4

plan that will integrate all

of the world’s purchasing power are

billion in total export value. As a driver of job

departments into the plan, initiate

outside the U.S.

growth, it is estimated that one job is created

market research, provide training

•

Nearly three-quarters of U.S. exporters

for every $200,000 in exports.

and know your responsibilities.

•

U.S. companies that export not only

Recent Rhode Island trade missions in

take upwards of 18 months to

grow faster, but are less likely

the last few years to Japan, Canada, the

plan, develop, execute, develop

to go out of business

Dominican Republic, Israel, Panama and

relationships abroad and record

than non-exporting companies.

most recently to China and Hong Kong

your first export sale.

87 % of world economic growth over

have estimates of $11 million in projected

the next five years will take place

new sales and 125 business leads resulting

The good news is that you are

outside of the U.S. (U.S.

from these missions. An additional $5 million

not alone in this journey. Besides

World Monetary Fund)

is projected in new sales from assisting

your business associates that may

companies with international trade shows.

already be exporting, the following

on average 31% to all GDP

The question facing businesses

assist you at little or no cost. Take

growth in the U.S. (Bureau

pondering globalization should not be “Why?”

advantage of these professionals

of Economic Analysis)

but rather “Why not?”

and call today!

Time is of the essence as it can

have fewer than 20 employees.

•

•

Over the past 22 years,

resources are available locally to

exports have contributed

Global business planning starts with management commitment,

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

ant e at Bry ity Univers Cente Chaffee t.edu r.bryan feecente a h .c oration w rp ww ent Co m p lo e v De dc.com conomic www.rie Island E rce Rhode Comme ment of rt a p e D de.gov U.S. www.tra istration s Admin s e in s u i Small B a.gov/r www.sb r te n e ent C evelopm D s s e rg in us bdc.o Small B www.ris global! o g and g in o g t ask . Conop rted, ge Peter D ontact for Get sta c se u nal Trad

rnatio r for Inte

Internatio

n

in ho enter ment C irector & gional D siness Develop etro Re u M B e ll c a n m e Provid Island S Rhode al Trade

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

53

Small Business | Secrets to Successful Corporate Events

Contact local chambers of commerce and similar outlets that operate/promote events that could interfere with yours. Keep note of contacts of other corporate planners/ people in nearby companies who might also be working on similar projects and reach out to see when their events are happening.

Planners have cultivated a network which can be tapped to discover this type of information.

Show you are first.

Pay attention to holidays and competing events. The event may not be in direct competition to you. However, if it attracts people with the same mindset, there is always a chance that some will opt to attend one event over another.

Be mindful about the proximity to a similar event. You would not want to premier a new car model or fashion line the same day as or identity, logo and name. In this case, it is

even the day after one of your competitors.

acceptable to build in logos of the event

Your event should not have to compete for

sponsors and host. Simple ideas include

attention. Instead, it should be the center of

Chances are you’ve attended at least one

asking the restaurant or function space to

attention and to show you were “first.”

by Jessica Granatiero and Sabrina Solares-Hand

truly amazing corporate function. The event

display your logo or messaging on a flat

flowed smoothly and attendees seemed

screen television or with a wall projection

While you may see it as an opportunity to

utterly pleased. The location was ideal and

unit if available. Yet, be conservative with

draw attention away from your competitors

the décor properly supported

logo displays.

think of it this way. Reporters writing stories

Bring in an experienced planner who

outlets may already be busy because of

can save you time and money based on

the competing event and not cover yours.

Your opportunities for coverage may be less

for magazines, papers and other news

the theme. Food and drink were abundant and delightful.

Be it the release of a new product line, a

extensive experience, industry connections,

customer appreciation event or fundraiser,

and innovative ideas. A planner will help with

because they have already filled the need for

there are many secrets to throwing a

such things as lighting to accent your event

that “type” of story.

successful event. Behind every stunning

and project your logo onto the walls - or use

event are the people who know those

colors to tie the event into your corporate

secrets. Here are a few suggestions from

brand. Think about how the overall

As you plan your “day of” schedule, there

the experts.

design of the event can subtly play on your

are many considerations.

logo elements.

•

“Day of” considerations

Make sure that the keynote speaker is scheduled to speak when guests

Aim for tasteful branding.

Every corporate event should be branded,

Timing is critical.

have already enjoyed dinner or before

yet not overly branded. The trick is to not

While “location is everything,” timing is

they are served so that distractions are kept to a minimum. Promote

overdo it. Avoid branding every tablecloth

critical. In choosing a date, it’s important to

and every napkin, while featuring custom

investigate what other events are happening

interactive speeches/panel discussions/

wine labels at the bar and posted signs

on the date of your function. Take into

presentations so that guests are more

everywhere. You want build awareness

account the demographic of your event and

likely to pay attention. A popular new

in a tasteful way.

what other things are occurring around the

technique is conducting a live poll of

same time that could affect your attendance.

the audience using wireless remotes

Often fundraisers, especially annual

Conducting an internet search for events

where guests can select options

events, have developed their own

posted online is not enough.

periodically throughout the presentation.

54

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Secrets to Successful Corporate Events | Small Business

•

•

Any dismantling of equipment that can

Devil in the details

It may seem basic, but we can’t stress

be heard in the function space

The devil is indeed in the details. Those

enough the importance of having a “tool kit”

should not happen while guests

with experience, if even just for the “day

so you’re not scrambling for a way to fix an

are being entertained.

of,” is a big help for handling both major

item: tape, scissors, twine, a glue gun, safety

Coordinate and stagger arrival of all

and minor components. For example, did

pins, etc. These items are a must because of

vendors. For example, tables need to

you remember to determine if guests have

the random things that can go wrong.

arrive before linen, linen needs to be

food allergies, such as those with celiac

placed before centerpieces.

disease? Having someone experienced

In choosing a date, it’s important to investigate what other events are happening on the date of your function

Start now Finally, it’s never too soon to begin planning.

After all, you have a lot to do between location procurement, selecting the ideal beverage and catering services, floral design and venue décor. There is guest list management, invitations, entertainment, party favors, photography, and garnering publicity if warranted. Before you find

Scheduling the day of an event is a perfectly

on the ground the day of is the most

yourself helplessly immersed in the process,

orchestrated series of happenings. Many times

important, so you are not running around

decide if you need outside support to ensure

the sequence of an event is planned with

attending to everything. Let them do that.

your event is truly amazing.

troubleshooting kept in mind. If it rains and a tent is needed, it may take the rental company at least one hour to arrive and set-up the tentwhich hopefully you have placed on hold. This means all set-up is pushed up one hour or

Jessica Granatiero Proprietor jessica@thesavoryaffair.com

Sabrina Solares-Hand Event Director sabrina@thesavoryaffair.com

earlier to avoid manic rushing for “Plan B.”

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Let’s set a seady course together! www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

55

Small Business | Why Did You Ask That Question?

Earlier this week I was paying for my merchandise at a store in Rhode Island. While checking out the cashier asked me a rather familiar question: Did you find

store

initially

feeling

somewhat

confused about why she asked the question.

Then I concluded that the question must have originated from some sort of corporate directive (since I have been asked the same question by other employees at

everything you were looking for?

that store at other stores in their chain, and at other chain stores).

I answered no. The cashier seemed to ignore my answer and changed the subject. Thinking that she did not hear me, I proceeded to tell her what I was looking for. Her response

While I can understand asking the question, asking it and ignoring the answer, or not specifically offering to do something with the information provided is obviously damaging to customer

was everything that we have is out on the shelves.

relationships. In this particular case, I can tell you that She made no attempt to do anything with the information

nothing has been lost by the chain (except that I will

I offered her such as: write down what I was looking for,

remember that specific cashier does not pay attention to the customer). I gained an anecdote for this article.

offer to order the item or offer me a rain check. I left the

Why Did You Ask That Question?

On the other hand, if I were considering working with a service oriented business doing something important for my family, my work, my home or my car I certainly would think twice about having a further relationship with them.

I’d ask that you, a small business person, think through whatever you are asking your employees to do and whatever customer service training you are providing to your employees. Are you providing directives without appropriate and complete training? For example, you might be instructing people to ask questions without thoroughly understanding why they are asking the questions, without training them to how to respond to the customers answers, and without showing them the consequence of

improperly responding to the questions.

by Dr. Ronald G. Shapiro

While it is difficult to answer the questions is some direction better than no direction and is poor training better than no training, there certainly are consequences of poor training or issuing

it is important

directives without training. I’d ask you to reevaluate whatever directives you are issuing and whatever training you are

that employees understand “why” they are instructed to ask certain questions or follow particular guidelines 56

doing, being sure that you are teaching the employees to think, and not to perform robotically. I’d also encourage you to practice whatever procedures you are training your employees to do personally and with your employees, so that they are equipped to handle expected as well as unexpected responses to whatever they may be doing.

As business consultant Dr. Margarita Posada Cossuto concludes, it is important that employees understand “why” they are instructed to ask certain questions or follow particular guidelines. By providing employees with additional background, they can better understand the big picture and be better equipped to represent the business. This will hopefully empower employees to share the corporate vision as well.

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Dr. Ronald G. Shapiro Independent Consultant in Human Factors Learning & Human Resources

Thanks to Dr. Margarita Posada Cossuto for helpful comments and suggestions.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

57

Small Business | Skin to Win

SKIN TO WIN Increased Co-Insurance and Deductibles Lowers Premiums

by Tim Sullivan

insurance coverage to 5,809 people with either no cost sharing, 25%, 50% or 95% coinsurance rates in order to gauge the health effects and usage of service effects over a long period of time.

Businesses need to make important decisions regarding health insurance, now more than ever. The implementation of the “Employer

One of the astounding conclusions that the numbers came up with

Mandate” in January 2014 is fast approaching. Not only are

was that the relative health of the participants did not vary widely

employers faced with a “provide or penalty tax” decision, they are

based on the out of pocket expense. The usage of medical services

faced with decisions regarding health insurance plan design as part

by participants rose as their out of pocket contribution to office visits

of their financial decision.

dropped, but the result of extra office visits did not yield better overall health for those participants!

Decision makers will be struggling with a situation that appears to pit “morals vs. money”, they can choose to offer health insurance to

As the cost of health care rose (in terms of out of pocket expenses),

their employees or not. Each decision carries a moral and financial

usage of medical services dropped.

price. Choosing the level of coverage can also cause a dilemma between offering the most coverage vs. the amount of coverage a

A current example that illustrates the relative costs/benefits of higher

business can afford.

vs. lower deductible/co-insurance rate health insurance programs comes from an analysis of two large insurance programs in the state

Fortunately, studies and real life examples make this decision easier.

of Nebraska.

The best example of this is the analysis of a study performed by the

On the one hand, the State of Nebraska employee health insurance

Rand Corporation called the “Health Insurance Experiment” (HIE),

program pays one of the highest average premium rates in the

which ran from 1971 to 1986. The HIE explored the ramifications

country. It is a self-funded program with an award winning model

and effects of differently designed health insurance programs on

wellness program in place, yet their health insurance premium rates

overall health of the participants. The study randomly assigned health

continue to climb. Self-funded health insurance programs reflect the

58

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

actual health costs incurred by a group as they are derived from actual past expenses plus the administrative fees from the insurance carrier.

infant • toddler • preschool ages 6 weeks to 5 years old

On the other hand, the University of Nebraska has an employee health insurance program whose annual family premium rates are $11,000 lower than the State employees plan!

An analysis of the comparative plans shows remarkable similarities of the populations in terms of both having self-funded insurance administered by the same company, average age, geographical location, number of covered employees and dependents. By most actuarial standards the health insurance premiums should be similar.

In fact, given the award winning wellness program in place for the State employees, and no wellness plan for the University, one would think that the State program should cost less than the University.

Decision makers will be struggling with a situation that appears to pit “morals vs. money”, they can choose to offer health insurance to their employees or not

learning center YOUR TRUSTED CHOICE IN CHILDCARE

401 764 0468 www.lollipoplearningcenterllc.com

There is one BIG difference between their health insurance plans.

The University of Nebraska has higher deductibles, and maximums placed on certain wellness doctor visits, and pays a percentage of a variety of emergency and hospital visits as opposed to flat copays. Over time, given the results from HIE, state employees use more health services than their University counterparts. Data is not available to compare health statistics of the different groups, but it stands to reason that the group with the highest amount of money spent on health services should be the less healthy of the two groups, all other things being equal.

Decision makers need to weigh these factors carefully, and make the decision that is best for their organizations. My suggestion is to share stories like this with employees to help them understand that a decision to involve higher deductibles and co-pays is probably better

QUALIFIED TEACHERS NURSE ON SITE DAILY DCYF CERTIFIED DHS ACCEPTED A CLEAN & SAFE ENVIRONMENT

for all parties concerned in the long run.

What remains true in both of these examples is that as the price of “out of pocket” health care service expenses rise, utilization of excess medical services drops without significant decreases in overall health.

Tim Sullivan Life-Panel www.well-track.com

NOW ENROLLING CALL TODAY! www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

59

TWO Small Business | Two Most Important Networking Skills

most important networking skills

by Richard Austin

4.

Create word of mouth and visibility for

responsive, riveted listening. You get good at

you and your business

this, you’ll be a killer networker.

5.

Develop a volunteer “sales force”

6.

Have FUN and grow as an individual

develop long-term relationships with others

Sounds good. But how to go about it, how

for mutual benefit.”

to do it right, and how to get results; those

You may ask, “Why should I network? I work

When they stop talking, your listening is not over. Now, you get to ask questions and then,

“Networking is a process where you

again, listen to the answers.

are the important questions; and as for most

Examples:

questions, there are answers.

1.

What do you like best about what you do?

hard all day – I just want to kick back at night and relax. “ If someone tells you there

Before you hit your first networking event,

2.

What got you started in your business?

are networking opportunities during the day,

you should set some goals and expectations.

3.

What do you like most

you might say “I’m too busy during the day.”

•

Increase your brand awareness

come up for not networking. Usually, the real

•

Educate others about your business

excuse is somewhere between “I don’t want

•

Educate yourself

to”, and “I don’t know how”. The first excuse

•

Develop trust and relationships

is hard to deal with. The second one, well,

•

Give referrals to others

1.

2.

3.

60

4.

What are some of your biggest challenges?

5.

How can I help you?

When it’s finally your turn, what do you tell them? What do you want them to take away

let’s talk about that.

Why network?

about what you do?

Networking, when done right, should

These are just two of the myriad excuses we

YOUR MOST IMPORTANT NETWORKING SKILL

from your conversation? There’s lots’ of different ways to approach this. Whatever way you go, you want it to be:

Maintain relationships with existing clients

What should be your most important

•

Brief

Meet new clients

networking skill? LISTENING

•

Clever (don’t shoot for “funny”)

Give and get referrals

Yes, listening. Not passive listening,

•

Memorable

(notice “give” was listed first)

waiting for your chance to talk, but active,

•

Relevant

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Two Most Important Networking Skills | Business PROFILE

For my business (communication skills and

need to hear. It’s an important distinction.

public speaking), I sometimes open with

With good listening skills, you may be able

a quote from George Bernard Shaw; “The

to pick up on this.

•

long-shot deals and obvious dead-ends) •

Harvesting ($$$)

•

Preservation (take care of the clients

Not passive listening, waiting for your chance to talk, but active, responsive, riveted listening. You get good at this, you’ll be a killer networker

.

you have) Sounds pretty simple, doesn’t it?

FINAL THOUGHTS •

is the illusion it has occurred.” It’s brief,

YOUR SECOND MOST IMPORTANT NETWORKING SKILL

•

Be a FARMER, not a hunter. A hunter goes in for the quick kill. A tasty, one-time meal.

helped a client solve a problem is always

The farmer is looking forward to the future

•

he or she needs to hear. I emphasized this because it’s important. Don’t tell them what you want to tell them. Tell them what they

Ask if you can add them to your mailing list

Finds the right field

further discuss any of this, give me a call.

(networking, research)

You know I like to talk!

Plants the seeds (listens, asks questions, learns what people need)

•

•

So, I hope this is helpful. If you want to

harvest. The farmer: •

services. If you have listened well in the beginning, you may very well know what

Offer a referral – it will come back to you seven-fold

Telling a quick story that shows how you a good choice. What you don’t want to

Set up appointments at the networking events

relevant and thought provoking.

do is verbally vomit all your products and

Follow up (email, telephone call) within a day or two

• single biggest problem with communication

Pruning (cut out the time you spend on

Puts down the fertilizer (gives referrals,

Richard Austin President The Learning Curve LLC

advice, and follows up)

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www.amazingspecialties.com www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

61

Small Business | Real Estate Best Time To Invest

Real Estate Best Time to Inv¢$t How You Can Invest in the Real Estate Market and Win

by Robert L. (Mr. X) Xifaras JD

not there, but because of the unavailability

deal. There are depressed property owners

of financing or lack of reasonable financial

with unsatisfactory credit scores who have

terms, and yet, for more than any other

extremely valuable property, who are only

There are a tremendous number of financial

reason, is that the property or business

in need of short term capital to upgrade

opportunities that currently exist which,

owners are financially in trouble and as a

their property for a better financial return or

when properly handled, could create very

result of it, they have no alternative but to

improving the marketability of their property

profitable deals, depending on the amount of

dispose of their assets at bargain prices

which in turn make investments in them safe

an investment an the risk that one is willing

or work special deals with investors. That

investments for investors. Again this is why

to make.

is why hard money lenders are out there

hard money lenders are loaning money on

lending money where the banks are not

these kinds of properties and are doing so

All investments have a certain amount of

lending, and doing very well. These lower

well. I am not saying that you have to be a

risk. Some are very great as in “futures, puts

property values are temporary. There is

hard money lender.

and calls”; and some at no risk (assuming

no question that with time, property values

they are government guaranteed issues

will climb to their true values. For these

The fact is that there are many good and

which is now debatable. Yet those that are

reasons now is a great time to get into the

safe deals that are in need of lenders

guaranteed, have low rates of return and

entrepreneurial mode and invest.

investors. The situation is not that the properties are distressed properties but

may even have lower-end values because of inflation which is bound to happen.

Real estate is limited and does not grow.

that the properties are owned by distressed

And some are risky, as in cases of the

Real estate is scheduled to sky rocket in

people. Some of these people with the

devaluation in the stock market that occurs

value in the future. Why? Simple. Less land

availability of little financing would be tickled

periodically. Presently, I do not have much

and increasing population which means

pink to do a joint venture with a investor

faith in the stock market despite the fact that

more people looking for land or property.

still providing the investor with a very good

it is presently doing well which I believe is

What makes profitable deals is by seizing the

return or equity. Then there are deals whose

going to be a short run. The question is how

opportunity by buying now and selling later

values are long term. For example of land that presently has little value because of its

long will it do well especially with the fiscal

i.e. buying at a lower price and selling at a

cliff that is yet to come. With a seventeen

higher price or holding on the investment

location but over an extended period of time

trillion dollar debt deficit, you can bet on it.

bringing in a continuous net income far

will clearly be of much greater value. These

superior to bank savings. A great source

kind of deals are ideal where one wants to

As is commonly known, banks, have either

of making profitable deals is by providing

provide for their children. Simply putting

just about shut down their loan operations

secured financing to “creditworthy” property

the property in a trust to mature at an age

owners or prospective qualified buyers

when they would need it most; e.g. going to

unrealistically restrictive, thereby causing

therefore making a good return on the use of

college or buying a home. What a gift!!!

many properties to be sold at a much lower

your money and the use of their property to

price than their true values. These assets

mutual advantage. Our definition of “credit

have become much less valuable not

worthy” is not based on credit scores alone

because the true value of the property is

but on the security and the viability of the

or have set up loan standards that are

62

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Robert L. (Mr. X) Xifaras JD President Wincorp Entrepreneurial Services

Top 6 Tips for Blog Commenting | Small Business

spam! While I cannot for certain point to any

TOP 6 TIPS

of these comments as having come from low-quality blog commenting services, each of these shared common traits suggesting that they did: single commenter posting multiple nonsensical responses, often using

FOR BLOG

COMMENTING

multiple personas and email addresses, profiles are backlinking to a sales-intensive website, profiles lack detail (optimization), didn’t use an image within their profile, and their use of the English language indicates their free translation tool is miserably failing them.

So is there really a marketing value in commenting on blogs?

There sure is – and to that end, here are my top 6 tips for blog commenting that can spread some SEO awesomesauce for both the blog writer and commentator.

1.

Be sincere – if you are commenting on a blog post for the sole purpose of getting some SEO juice for your business, you’re doing it for the

by Chris Sheehy

•

wrong reason.

“Thanks for your personal marvelous posting! I truly enjoyed reading it, you

2.

Make sure you have a fully optimized

will be a great author. I will make certain

profile on the blogging platform you

Commenting on blogs is a great way to

to bookmark your blog and will come

are commenting on (including your

show appreciation for someone’s work

back very soon. I want to encourage

name, business name, address, phone

and give your website an online visibility

one to continue your great writing, have

number, website URL, and a picture of yourself – no egg-head bio pictures).

a nice morning!”

boost at the same time.

•

“What’s up, all is going perfectly here

3.

Make sure you are commenting on a

If you are a high-frequency commenter and

and of course every one is sharing

blog that has a higher PR value than

have ever researched into blog commenting

facts, that’s really fine, keep up writing.”

your website or the blog listed in your

as a marketing strategy, you have likely

•

really a good for me to go to see this

commenting as a service.

web page, it consists of priceless •

“Blog Commenting Services” yielded a little over 77-million results.

“Ahaa, its fastidious dialogue concerning

is catching on doesn’t it?

Make sure your Author Rank code is verified.

•

5.

If you intend to drop a link into your

this post here at this website, I

reply – be certain it is of substantial

have read all that, so now me also

value and not just a cheap plug.

commenting at this place.”

It sounds like everyone

benefit of a SEO boost.

4.

Information.”

This is quickly becoming big business – so big in fact, that a recent Google search for

profile if you are looking for the mutual

“What’s up to every single one, it’s

come across businesses offering blog

6.

Be sincere (did I mention that already?)

“Howdy! I simply wish to give an enormous thumbs up for the nice data

Practicing safe blog commenting is sure

I suppose the true litmus test would be

you might have here on this post.

to be mutually beneficial for blogger and

to read some of the comments that these

I might be coming back to your blog for

commentator alike.

services offer. For me, that’s a straight line

extra soon.”

to my blog to read the comments pending approval – here are some of the best ones

Not what you were expecting was it?

that came in last month.

As it turns out – blog commenting is rife with

Chris Sheehy Sidewalk Branding Co. www.sidewalkbranding.co

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

63

Featured Chamber | North Central Chamber of Commerce

F E AT U R E D

Deborah Ramos President 255 Greenville Avenue Johnston, RI 401 349 4674 www.ncrichamber.com

The North Central Chamber of Commerce is

Our Mission is to develop business

We are committed to providing education

proud to say that we have been

partnerships to enhance the climate of our

to our members and the entire small

representing the small business community

region for business growth and quality of

business community through our new

for over 30 years! We feel strongly about

life, and to deliver the key ingredients for a

“Business Boosters” Series. The Chamber

business to succeed: Growth, Education

recently hosted a “Branding Your Business”

supporting Businesses”; after all, isn’t that

and Networking, and additionally –

Workshop to show members the importance

what it’s all about!

Chamber Advocacy.

of branding and making them understand

The North Central Chamber of Commerce

The North Central Chamber of Commerce

Media” Workshop will offer our members

proudly serves the small business

offers many growth opportunities to our

and such the opportunity to be educated on

community in the towns of Johnston, North

small business community – from monthly

the importance of social media in today’s

Providence, Smithfield, Scituate, Foster and

networking events, complimentary “Friday

business world.

Glocester. The Chamber currently

Frenzy” promotional opportunities and newly

has a membership of approximately 225

added – complimentary “Business Spotlights”

As many business owners and business

small businesses.

on our website for our members.

professionals know – networking

“Businesses supporting Community

branding in general. Our upcoming “Social

is essential. Our various networking events offer wonderful opportunities to build relationships. We not only create

Newest Members:

opportunities for networking, but we also act as liaisons assisting our members build relationships day-to-day. The North

Verizon Wireless

Sovereign Bank – Greenville

Johnston, RI

Greenville, RI

Chamber Neighbor” Networking events –

www.verizonwireless.com

www.sovereignbank.com

zoning in to particular “neighborhoods” with

Reflexology & Holistic Wellness Studio LLC

Sovereign Bank – Johnston

Johnston, RI

Johnston, RI

that intimidation factor; we are often told our

www.reflexologystudio.webs.com

www.sovereignbank.com

networking events are very casual

Chelsea Ann Photography

Gentiva Hospice

Central Chamber is now offering “Meet Your

the hopes of building relationships within those neighborhoods. We strive to remove

and comfortable.

Providence, RI

Warwick, RI

The North Central Chamber of Commerce

www.chelseaannphotography.com

www.gentiva.com

is a proud member of the Rhode Island

64

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

What’s New | Chamber Chat

Central Chamber

Chamber of Commerce Coalition, which

Business Booster – David Lucier

represents the voices of over 12,000

Six Steps to Small Business Success

Lauren E.I. Slocum, President/CEO

businesses in the State of Rhode Island.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

3288 Post Road, Warwick, RI

Through the Coalition, the North Central

11:30 – 1:30 pm

401 732 1100 | www.centralrichamber.com

Chamber has and will continue to provide

North Central Chamber of Commerce

advocacy for our small business community.

255 Greenville Avenue, Johnston, RI

Our current Legislative Agenda includes supporting the following:

June Shredding Event Saturday, June 8, 2013

We are thrilled to work collaboratively with the Rhode Island Chambers of Commerce on the Chamber Block Party to be held in August. www.ChamberBlockParty.com The Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce

•

Responsible budget and taxation policy;

9:00 am – 12:00 pm

•

Responsible changes to state and local

Johnston Senior High School

and business-to-consumer operations of

employees retirement and benefits

345 Cherry Hill Road, Johnston, RI

our members. The Central RI Chamber

system laws; • •

•

strives to foster the business-to-business

advocates for the interests of our members both economically and legislatively through

Advocate for equitable, consistent and

Lipstick Luncheon “Stretch, Relax and

reasonable government regulation;

Renew...15 Minutes to a New You”

the Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce

Advocate for legislative and regulatory

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Coalition. To continue to bring our members

reforms ensuring RI businesses and

11:30am – 1:00 pm

employees to have access to affordable,

The Heart Spot

quality health care; and

700 Greenville Ave, Johnston, RI

Responsible measures to protect the environment of the State of Rhode Island.

Meet Your Chamber Neighbor

top-tier service, we are spearheading innovative changes to our website and socialmedia outlets. By working closely with our members, the Chamber can continue to be a positive influence on the Rhode Island economy.

Pollard Law We welcome small business owners within

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

New Members

our communities to learn more about the

8:30am – 9:30 am

Ace Medical Billers LLC

North Central Chamber of Commerce and

Pollard Law Inc.

AT&T Company Store

its value. We also offer, including but not

118 Danielson Pike, North Scituate, RI

Dr. Day Care Learning Center

limited to, advertising, bulk mailing, energy

A light continental breakfast will be

Ethan Allen

and payroll discounts. We like to think we

provided. This is a FREE Event!

are more than just your typical Chamber

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott - Coventry Filta Environmental Kitchens Solutions Home Depot Warwick

of Commerce; we are hands-on, working

20th Annual Golf Tournament

every step of the way with you…..to help

Monday, July 15, 2013

you grow your business! We believe our

1:00 pm Shotgun start

Cuddy

Chamber membership is a group of

Kirkbrae Country Club

Original Bradford Soap Works, Inc

honest, hardworking, hands on, “real”

197 Old River Road, Lincoln, RI

Pamfilio’s Italian Deli & Catering

we want to help YOU. Remember, small

Enjoy a spectacular day at Kirkbrae Country

Rhode Island Catholic

business stimulates the economy; the North

Club! Tournament will include lunch, goody

Home Loan And Investment Bank Merrill Lynch Wealth Management - Peter

Preferred Sportswear Inc

people struggling to make ends meet;

Central Chamber of Commerce is committed

bags, complimentary GIFT per player, dinner,

to working diligently to assist our members in

awards and raffles! It’s a great day! And if

stimulating the economy, so that it may come

you don’t golf, plan to join us for dinner!

back to them tenfold.

Rhode Island Telephone Travel Plus Williams & Stuart Real Estate

Cranston Chamber

Registration begins at 11:30am The

Stephen C. Boyle, President

On behalf of the Staff and Board of Directors

Tournament will begin at 1:00pm with a

150 Midway Road, #178, Cranston, RI

of the North Central Chamber of Commerce,

shotgun start-”scramble” format. Registration

401 785 3780I | www.cranstonchamber.com

we would like to encourage everyone to

is due by July 8 and the cost per player is

support the small businesses within our

just $150; $600 for a foursome

communities; buy small, buy local! Support

On Tuesday, May 28th the Cranston Chamber of Commerce launched its first of two Cranston 500 membership race drives at

small business, support each other! Again,

Check out our website at www.

at the North Central Chamber of Commerce,

ncrichamber.com or call (401) 349-4674 for

it’s all about “Businesses supporting

more information and to register for any of

is the first of two races designed to bring the

Community supporting Businesses!”

these events!

membership to 1000 members. The drive is

Bonefish Grill with over 120 people attending.

Stephen C. Boyle, President stated that this

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

65

Small Business | Multitasking As a Part of Life

by Greg Enos

Can we really increase our productivity by

Leadership firm. “I question the validity of

trained to focus on one customer situation

juggling multiple tasks simultaneously.”

at a time, using multiple computer screens

So why is the multitasking term used

to display relevant data simultaneously.

so frequently ?

With three or more screens, for example, employees can see critical customer

multitasking ?

“I think people are trying to increase their It is an interesting concept that sparks

self-worth,” says Jacob Belt, president of

passionate debate and raises questions

Sandler Training/Sales PHD, who has seen

about what our brains really can do.

an increase in the use of the term during the

data, real time photos of equipment, and related email.

The process works. Vibco has become an

14 years that he has trained thousands of

industry leader in shipping commercial

Multitasking involves one person doing two

Rhode Island professionals. When people

vibration equipment on the day an order is

or more tasks simultaneously that requires

try to multitask, “they increase mistakes and

placed, focusing on one thing at a time.

higher-level brain activity. Eating and

become less productive.” Focusing

watching television at the same time is not

on one task at time is the best approach,

multitasking. Driving a vehicle and talking on

he suggests.

Research Results Recent research has given us valuable

a cellphone simultaneously is multitasking.

Karl Wadensten, president of a New England

insight into multitasking.

While multitasking might seem glamorous

manufacturing company, agrees that

and intriguing, is it realistic ?

attempts to multitask frequently lead to

Ground breaking research by Dr. Marcel Just

high error rates, incomplete work and a loss

and his Carnegie Mellon University team

of focus.

does conclusively prove that an individual’s

“We are most effective when we focus our

driving ability is impaired when they try to

attention, even for a short period of time, on the most significant task,” claims Jamie

Based on a belief that “we can see faster

talk on a cellphone and drive simultaneously.

Millard, executive partner of the Lexington

than we think,” Wadensten’s Vibco staff are

Magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

What’s New | Chamber Chat

used to study participant brain activity to reach their conclusion.

Dr. Jim Taylor, a partner and technology

tied to the first organized paved oval track

expert with the Trium Group (www.

race in the United States which was held at

triumgroup.com) and author of multiple The Just study gives us a glimpse at how

books, explains that multitasking requires

the human brain is affected by attempts to

different types of brain processing. Reading

complete multiple tasks simultaneously.

a book while listening to music might appear to be the completion of two things at once. It

the Narragansett Speedway which is the site of the Stadium residential plat. The streets are named for the cars of that era which include Fiat, Packard, Jordon, Chandler and Cadillac. Boyle stated that we are embracing our racing heritage and spirit in this effort

As a result of the study, some pundits

is really one higher level task (reading) and

by introducing an $100 introductory

claim that a vehicle operator engaged in a

one repetitive task (listening to music).

membership offer to all businesses

cellphone conversation is more dangerous

regardless of size.

than a drunk driver. Fortunately, legislators

He also claims that multitasking is a myth

have taken action to improve highway safety

that “has been promulgated to make overly

New Members

scheduled and stressed out people feel

Trans-Link, LLC

after seeing the results.

productive and efficient.”

What Is Really Happening ?

Brain Rules author Dr. John J. Medina

Ronald Shapiro, PHD. Exit Realty Innercity Recycling Davis & Lentz, LLC

So what is really happening with interpreters

says: “To put it bluntly, research shows that

for the deaf, classroom teachers and

the attentional spotlight in our brains can’t

broadcast professionals ? They appear to be

multitask. We are biologically incapable

Eagle Cornice Co., Inc

doing more than one thing at a time.

of processing attention-rich inputs

Amazing Specialties

when people try to multitask, “they increase mistakes and become less productive

simultaneously.”

A.W. Bucci Associates, Inc.

ProMail, Etc. Twin Vending Service, Inc

So, if we cannot multitask, why are some people able to work so fast ?

Part of the reason that interpreters, teachers and broadcasters can quickly process so much information is because we all have unused brain capacity. Most of us only use

Corvus Technology Resources, Inc. RI Telephone Atelier LKS Bucklin Human & Administrative Resources Greco Real Estate Local Loyalty Partners Astute Home Services

25-percent of our brain when listening. So

New England Promotions

unless the speaker is talking at 500 words

Bonefish Grill

per minute, we can handle it.

Meridien Benefits ADT Security Solutions

Many times people accomplish significant

The overwhelming evidence is that our

results (mothers with children, for example)

brains use higher level cognitive processing

because they have refined the way they

to focus on one task. Frequently it looks like

get things done. Smooth operations are the

a person is doing more than one thing at a

result of focused attention to detail.

time. In fact, like an accomplished juggler, they are only touching one ball at a time.

Tasca Automotive Group

Gavopoulos Group LLC Sierra Pacific Mortgage McCardle Chiropractic and Wellness Center, LLC Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Aflac-Steven Philips Ronald Kashmanian, Inc.

Discussions about multitasking will continue and extraordinary claims about

East Bay Chamber

A new word has been created to explain

multitasking prowess will continue to be

what is happening --- switch tasking.

made. While some will believe that they are

Mark G. DeVine, CPA, Chairman

great at multitasking, most of us will

16 Cutler Street, Suite 102, Warren, RI

Switch tasking occurs when we

accept the premise that we are best doing

401 245 0750 | eastbaychamberri.org

simultaneously move between two or more

one task at a time.

tasks. Often it is done so quickly, people

foundation for community growth and well-

believe that they are multitasking, according to author Dave Crenshaw. In his book, The Myth of Multitasking, he suggests that they are doing one thing at a time.

Our mission is to promote businesses as the

Greg Enos Certified Listening Professional www.gregenos.com

being by being the most reliable resource and leading advocate for businesses throughout the East Bay and surrounding areas. We are here to help you succeed!

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

67

Small Business | Referral Marketing

Referral Marketing Top Ten Ways Others Can Promote You – Part 1

by Ivan Misner & Peter George

Has anyone ever said to you, “If there’s

Systematic referral marketing helps you do

anything I can do to help you with your

that by determining, as precisely as possible,

business, let me know”? And, was your

the types of help you want and need. Some

response, “Thank you. Now that you mention

are simple, cheap, and quick; others are

it, there are a few things I need?” Or did you

complex, costly, and time-consuming. Here

say, “Well, thanks, I’ll let you know”?

are some examples of the ways others can promote you and your business.

If you’re like most of us, you aren’t prepared to accept help at the moment it’s offered.

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

1. Display or distribute your literature

Before you can do so, you have to make

and products. Your sources can exhibit

the connection between specific items or

your marketing materials and products in

services you need and the people who can

their offices or homes. If these items are

supply them.

displayed well, such as on a counter or a

What’s New | Chamber Chat

New Members The Mystical Grove Ledge Cottage Bed and Breakfast Rhode Island Student Loan Authority The Children’s Workshop Sayer Regan & Thayer, LLP Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation

East Greenwich Stephen Lombardi, Executive Director 580 Main Street | East Greenwich, RI 401 885 0020 www.eastgreenwichchamber.com The EG Chamber Of Commerce and its Board of Directors have introduced a new promotional campaign: The EG Chamber Sent Me, which is sponsored by

bulletin board, visitors will ask questions

their event, effectively positioning you as

about them or read the information. Some

an expert in your field.

may take your promotional materials and

Independence Bank (Member FDIC.) This program is a special “thank you” for the support of our members and as a stimulus for local businesses

display them in other places, increasing

4. Endorse your products and services.

your visibility. They can include your

By telling others what they’ve gained from

The Chamber Sent Me program is an

fliers in their mailings or hand them out

using your products or services or by

extension of that program and the Chamber

at meetings they attend. A dry cleaner

endorsing you in presentations or informal

has issued $10 gift coupons (EG Chamber

attaches a coupon from the hair salon

conversations, your network sources can

Bucks) to all members. As of this writing, we

next door to each plastic bag he uses to

encourage others to use your products or

cover his customers’ clothing; a grocery

services. If they sing your praises on a CD,

store includes other businesses’ marketing

MP3, or DVD, so much the better.

literature in or on its grocery bags or on the back of the printed receipt.

have seen significant results from some of our merchant members and we expect even more. In addition, many Chamber businesses have signed up for the Gift Certificate/EG Chamber Sent Me program as a result

5. Nominate you for recognition and

of this campaign.

awards. Business professionals and community members often are recognized

New Members

attending meetings or speaking to groups,

for outstanding service to their profession

FelMax ATM

your sources can increase your visibility

or community. If you’ve donated time or

Frankie Galasso-Artist

by announcing an event you are involved

materials to a worthy cause, your referral

Angela’s Mane

in or a sale your business is conducting, or

sources can nominate you for service

by setting up exhibits of your products or

awards. You increase your visibility both

2. Make an announcement. When

services. They can also invite you to make

by serving and by receiving the award in a

an announcement yourself.

public expression of thanks. Your sources can inform others of your recognition by

Software Made Simple- Merri Kaufman Residential Properties-Sandy Catanzaro St. Luke’s Church RTUI- Kevin Fortin Sowa Chiropractic

3. Invite you to attend events. Workshops

word of mouth or in writing. They can even

and seminars are opportunities to

create an award, such as Vendor of the

Newport

increase your skills, knowledge, visibility,

Month, to honor your achievement.

Jody Sullivan, Executive Director

and contacts. Members of personal or

35 Valley Road, Middletown, RI

business groups you don’t belong to can

(See the next five ways others can

401 847 1608 | www.NewportChamber.com

invite you to their events and programs,

promote you in the next issue of RISBJ.)

which gives you an opportunity to meet prospective sources and clients. Even better, they could invite you to speak at

Ivan Misner Founder and Chairman of BNI Peter George Director for BNI Rhode Island

To continue to encourage the Newport County communities to support local businesses, the Newport County Chamber of Commerce is kicking off a formal marketing campaign www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

69

Capital City | Providence Talks

In Tribute to our Military and Veterans

by Mayor Angel Taveras

continue to protect our freedoms - sometimes at the ultimate cost to themselves and their families, as they serve this great nation of

Late April, I had the honor of hosting a

ours.

statewide Roundtable discussion on Military employment, featuring our senior US

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RISBJ | rhode | rhode island island small smallbusiness businessjournal journal

The Job Fair grew out of a unique partnership

Senator Jack Reed and US Armed Services

between my city and that of neighboring

Committee co-chair; our Adjutant General

Cranston, which we began in late winter

Kevin R. McBride, and representatives of

to address the common problem of

the federal government and academia. At

unemployment. Hosting a series of free,

the very same time, I co-hosted a statewide

monthly industry-specific job fairs, we align

Job Fair for Military/ Veterans and their

businesses that are actually hiring employees

families, with the participation of Mayor Fung

with talented and available workers. The

of Cranston (RI) and Senator Reed, and the

Military job fair was one specifically dedicated

Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve,

to women and men in uniform and our

Hero 2 Hired, the Greater Providence

veterans and their families – who statistics

Chamber of Commerce, Workforce Solutions

show bear the biggest hurdles in finding

of Providence/ Cranston, the Rhode Island

employment. It was an opportunity for

Broadcasters Association and the RI

us to serve those who serve us so bravely

Department of Labor and Training.

all year-long.

Hundreds of people and more than 100

The policy Roundtable was a natural

vendors participated in the day-long events,

outgrowth of this job fair, and gave us a

which gave witness to our collective respect

chance to bring together the best minds on

and deep gratitude to those who have and

the issue: Senator Reed, Professor Paul

What’s New | Chamber Chat

service members making this transition in

to THINK LOCAL. Thinking Local is not

Secretary Jane Oates, Adjutant General

the next five years, we must be prepared

just about shopping but rather is a mindset

Kevin R. McBride, and others from military,

to deliver timely and effective services that

academic, business and industry and labor

lead them to the job opportunities they

backgrounds. It was a lively and informed

have earned.”

Harrington of Drexel University, US Assistant

conversation about what the issues are and how we – as a community – can give back to those who give their lives for us.

The Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard said that “Never in the history of the National

to support and invest in all aspects our local communities. It is taking pride of ownership in our businesses, our homes and our region. This Think Local campaign will strive to educate the community on the real dollar value and positive economic impact of investing in local businesses.

Businesses will be provided with Think Local

We have a solemn obligation to support our

Guard has so much been asked of our men

materials to proudly display in their business

veterans and service members – as a

and women in uniform. I am proud of their

establishments. Print, radio and social

community and as a nation. Part of this

sacrifice and the unwavering support

media will be used to spread the word on the

support includes helping our men and

they have received from their families

importance of investing locally.

women in uniform find employment when

and our state”

they return home from duty.

To demonstrate our commitment to the Senator Reed, who helped pass the VOW to

Guard and Reserve, we all were privileged

Hire Heroes Act, which provides incentives

to sign individual Statements of Support

The campaign will also create an ADOPT YOUR SPOT program where businesses will be asked to show their pride of place by taking care of their individual storefronts and sidewalks in essence “Adopting their Spot”.

for businesses to hire veterans by offering tax

for the Guard and Reserve, affirming our

Newport County Chamber of Commerce

credits, job training workshops and education

commitment to enforce the Uniformed

staff will visit businesses over the next few

and training opportunities for unemployed

Services Employment and Reemployment

weeks with Think Local promotional materials

veterans said, “Our veterans and service

Act (USERRA.)

including brooms in preparation for the kickoff Saturday Morning Sweep. On Saturday

members have valuable leadership and technical skills that will help improve our

Creating jobs and building commerce is a

workforce and economy. We want to do

fundamental goal of my administration and

June 22nd at 9 a.m., participating businesses will be asked to step outside and all together show that pride of place by sprucing up their exteriors. We encourage members to

It was an opportunity for us to serve those who serve us so bravely all year-long.

take pictures Saturday morning and forward to jane@newportchamber.com. We will be creating an on-line social collage to share with each other and our communities.

New Members Anchor Spine Annie’s Aquidneck Legal Center Artistic Wedding Films Awakenings in Newport A-Z Business Services Beach Wine & Liquors

everything we can to link them with training

helping opportunities for those jobs, building

and jobs so they can successfully transition

our workforce, tapping into the enormous

Black Goose Cafe

from military service to civilian life.”

talent and experience of our veterans and

C. Thomas Clagett Jr. Memorial Clinic &

military members will only help this nation

Regatta

Assistant Secretary Oates said “We’re

strengthen its economy and guarantee its

Caravan Connection of Newport

seeing promising signs that veterans

prowess worldwide.

Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards Debeer, Lynne

especially post 9/11 veterans – are finding and keeping jobs in larger numbers as

I know I join my colleagues who participated

our overall economy continues its steady

that day and in Memorial Day ceremonies

recovery, but the fact remains that far too

across this city, state and nation in saying,

many of our returning service members

Belcourt of Newport

“Thank you,” to the members of our Armed

struggle to make the transition from the

Forces for giving us our freedoms and this

military to a civilian career. With one million

treasured Democracy of ours.

Elan Concierge Emily Perkins Esthetics Force 4 Photography Graze Delivered Greenleaf Compassionate Care Center Hands On Home Improvement Herreshoff Marine Museum www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

71

Small Business | Social Media Is Two-Way Communication

Social Media Is Two-Way Communication

by Mari Anne Snow

There is a great bakery near my house that I visit almost daily. Food is yummy and the clientele represents my neighborhood. It’s a real local place. For the most part, I’m a big brand advocate. Today; however, after I finished my very early morning workout I stopped by for my much-deserved cup of tea and a treat. The place had just opened for the day and while there was plenty of help behind the counter, the customer line was backing up (sound familiar?). When I was finally served, I was running late and anxious to order and go. What I got was a surly greeting complete with eye rolls and the general impression my order was an imposition of monumental proportions. I’m normally pretty easy going, but the whole thing really irked me. And as I was waiting, quietly steaming, by the register I noticed the sign urging me to follow and “like” the business on Facebook. What ran through my head wasn’t very nice. Anything I had to post at that moment would hardly have been complimentary.

People are opinionated, this isn’t news. It’s also not unusual for businesses to have a bad day. But bring these two things together at just the right time on social media and business owners can get one big headache.

Businesses shouldn’t be amazed when their customers take to the internet and share their opinions about the products and services they use every day. It’s why business owners put up Facebook pages in the first place.

It capitalizes on the fact that constantly posting experiences has become part of our DNA. It’s one of the strengths of social media – visible customer feedback. The only time it’s problematic is when someone says

when you reach out to customers, don’t be surprised if they reach right back!

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

something bad about you. And don’t think you can avoid this by staying off the web; review platforms like Yelp and Angie’s List are great forums for airing grievances and sharing horror stories that you can’t rebut if you don’t have a meaningful presence online.

Don’t hide, learn the secrets and accept social media is a two-way street.

Before you ask people to talk about you online, be sure your house is in order

What’s New | Chamber Chat

If you choose to use social media for your

have made on the general buying public?

Jo’s American Bistro

business; understand that “posting” content is only half of the process. Listening and

John A. Pagliarini, Jr., Esq.

When analyzing your results, be objective

monitoring are often more important than creating a “visible” presence online. The first

Whether you like the results or not,

step to better business results online is a

comments provide insight into how

Marc Creedon Multimedia New York Life-Richard Fredrickson Ocean Ki Acupuncture Pirate Pedicab Residential Mortgage Services

bit of research. When was the last time you

consumers view your offerings. Park your

“googled” your business so you can see what

ego and review them with an eye to plan

Van Anglen

people are already saying about you online?

targeted business improvements. On a

Sea Side Sweets

If you haven’t done so in the last few weeks,

basic level, the frequency and consistency

Seven Swords Media, LLC

time to do it now.

of comments helps you identify what people

South Shore Center

Listening and

like or dislike. Take multiple comments

Stearns

about a particular product or employee

Tenth Gate Center For Yoga & Meditation

seriously. Think of this like those old fashion

Thomas B. Orr

monitoring are often

paper comment cards we used to fill out in

more important than

a pretty clear sign you need to heat your

creating a “visible” presence online. The first step to better business results online is a bit of research If you search on your business using the

Residential Mortgage Services, Inc.-Steve

restaurants. If 6 customers over a two week

Trinity Church Vero Science, LLC

period complain about cold chowder, that’s chowder. And if 6 different people over the

Northern RI John C. Gregory, President/CEO

course of a month gush about your dental

6 Blackstone Valley, 301, Lincoln, RI 02865

hygienist (she’s the nicest person EVER!);

401 334 1000 | www.nrichamber.com

take note of that as well.

The Northern RI Chamber of Commerce

Keep things in perspective – one ancient, dusty comment doesn’t make you a hero or a villain. But multiple comments might identify a fixable equipment problem or lead you to the type of personality you need to

will hold its 2nd Annual Beer, Wine & Silent Auction on Thursday, June 13, 2013 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Kirkbrae Country Club, 197 Old River Road in Lincoln. This year’s event will feature several local breweries and vineyards. There will be food, live

hire. Wherever the indicators point you, pay

entertainment and a silent auction. Join

attention and act. Most people will forgive

us for a great evening of socializing and

you for having a bad day; but repeated

networking. The event is sponsored by

bad service or consistent poor quality will

Kirkbrae Country Club and Massey and

kill you over time. Identifying customer

Associates. Tickets are $40 per person.

dissatisfaction gives you a chance to fix

Visit www.nrichamber.com to register or call 334-1000.

major search engines (Google, Bing, Yahoo

things before inviting people to comment

will get you started) and nothing comes

or “like” you online. Whereas starting an

up, don’t sigh with relief. It’s not a good

aggressive social media campaign when

thing. Roughly 8% of people use yellow

the majority of existing comments are

pages to search for stuff (and most of

uncomplimentary could create a real online

those people are over age 60). That lack

disaster.

New Members Alliance Construction Co. Allmark International, Inc. Angelo’s Palace Pizza Restaurant Blackie’s Bulldog Tavern

of internet visibility means you aren’t even

Christian Jewelers

in the game unless you cater to that aging

Thank people for their feedback and let

Chubby Chico Charms LLC

8%. If your business does show up; take

them know you heard them

Health Services Administrators

note of what pops up first. Is it accurate?

Honeywell Safety Products Lincoln Johnny Lightning Race Club

Up-to-date? Finally, are people commenting

People love a thank-you acknowledgement

on your product or services? If so, what

as much as they appreciate a sincere

do they think? Compliments are great

apology (the operative word is SINCERE).

and unflattering reviews are always a bit

The first step in starting a dialogue with

depressing. But data is data. What does the

customers online is thanking commenters

available data tell you about the impression

on their feedback. Seems so old-school,

you, your employees and/or your product

but thank-you’s and apologies give you a

New York Life Insurance Company-Lisa M. Hughes NorthPoint Mortgage Paint and Vino LLC St. Germain, Roger H., CPA Whelan Legal Clinic Whichello Entertainment Woodard & Curran

[continued on page 79]

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

73

Small Business | Can Businesses Get Any Yield on Their Cash?

Can Businesses Get Any Yield on Their Cash?

by Bradley P. Dorman

companies are not adding to headcount, nor are they seeing attractive potential Yields on safe, liquid investments can’t get

capital expenditures, and so are allowing

much lower without being negative, and the

cash to accumulate for possible strategic

current Federal Reserve policy keeping them

acquisitions and as a hedge against

there appears likely to continue. Of course,

uncertainty generally, rather than use it to

adjusted for inflation, yields already are

pay down debt completely or pay it out

negative. All the more reason to survey the

to shareholders. In this environment, it

money and shorter term capital markets for

becomes realistic for corporate treasurers

ways to earn interest without undue risk.

to keep cash on the balance sheet for more extended periods than before, and

Traditionally, corporate treasurers chiefly

so it can be prudent for them to use

have relied upon bank deposits and

slightly longer term investments with better

money market funds for corporate cash

yields to manage cash. The key factor

management. Yields now range between 0

in successfully managing cash using

and 0.19%. Money market funds’ principal

fund vehicles that take a bit more risk

attraction, a constant $1 per share Net Asset

than money market funds is a thorough

Value (NAV), is widely expected to change

understanding of the instruments the

soon by SEC regulation, making the NAV

funds hold, and the manager’s strategy

variable. This will force investors to look

and track record.

at a money fund’s management and total return, and not just yield, more closely. It

Studies have shown that companies want

also may prompt them to consider slightly

“safe, short-term and simple” investments.

longer maturity funds, so-called “ultra short”

Our experience is consistent with that.

bond funds, with yields now in the 0.70%

Moreover, when the corporate cash

range. Senior bank loan funds, featuring

investor is an insurance company or other

floating rate yields varying with a spread

financial institution, regulatory and rating

above LIBOR are also now getting attention.

agency guidelines must be considered in

Depending on quality, their yields are 2 to

managing cash.

5%. These have the virtue of adjusting yields upward if LIBOR rises, but may see NAVs

As zero interest rates give way to a gradual

vary more than ultra short bond funds. They

rise, market participants expect the effects

are best used during periods of the credit

to be felt sharply throughout the markets. For

cycle when default rates remain low, as is

those responsible for managing corporate

the case currently.

cash, it will be important to have a strategy

According to Fed data, corporate cash has

now, but that shields the investments from

built to a near record $1.7 trillion. Many

losses when rates begin to rise.

in place that not only produces better yields

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

In this environment, it becomes realistic for corporate treasurers to keep cash on the balance sheet for more extended periods than before, and so it can be prudent for them to use slightly longer term investments with better yields to manage cash.

Bradley P. Dorman Managing Partner WhaleRock Point Partners, LLC

What’s New | Chamber Chat [continued from page 77]

Southern RI

chance to Connect with customer directly.

at once – it will draw suspicious assumptions

By telling people you heard them; you also

from the review services and make it

open an opportunity to publically declare

harder for your legitimate reviewers to add

230 Old Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI

your passion for your business as well as

comments over time.

401 783 2818 | www.srichamber.com

future. You don’t have to have a big social

Once you have a handle on your online

The Southern Rhode Island Chamber of

presence to respond to comments posted –

reputation, setting up a protocol for

Elizabeth Berman, Coordinator

your commitment to customer service in the

positive AND negative. Most review services provide a mechanism for businesses to

protecting it is essential. At minimum, “google” your business name and key search

reply privately (or publically) to reviews.

terms at least once a week. There is a simple,

Yelp encourages business to reach out and

free option that will automate this process for

provides practical tips for you.

you called “google alerts”. Google Alerts are

Commerce recently celebrated its 80th anniversary at its well-attended May Business after Hours, hosted by Bistro by the Sea at Theatre by the Sea. Future monthly networking events include the June 19 Business after Hours at Tower Hill Landings Apartments, 5 to 7 p.m., and the July 12 First

created to your specifications. Once set-up,

Friday Coffee hosted by The Right Click and

Use common sense – answer in a timely

they search the web continually; emailing

RI Blood Center, 8 to 9 a.m. Both events cost

fashion; make a considered decision when

you when something is posted. You can also

$5 per person.

to contact a reviewer privately or publicly.

hire professional companies like Reputation.

Keep in mind this is a VERY public forum.

com to do it for you. Whichever path you

Never, never argue online; user retribution

choose, be sure to do something to monitor

against you will be swift and vociferous.

conversations online so you can stay in the

You can’t win. And there is no better way

know when someone is commenting about

to drawn negative attention than attacking

you or your business online.

a reviewer online. Better to be humble,

Also upcoming is the Chambers’ July 18 Southern RI Chamber of Commerce and SK Lions Club “Partners in the Community Golf Tournament and Networking Extravaganza,” hosted by Rose Hill Golf Club, South Kingstown. The tournament starts at 1:30 and costs $50 per person/$200 per foursome.

gracious and diplomatic. If a reviewer gives

Create a two-way dialogue online so you

The Networking Extravaganza, from 5 to 7, is

you an impolite response; take the high road

can build your good name over time

open to all and costs $5 per person.

and remain gracious. It’s also best in these situations to switch to a private channel

Register today! Visit www.srichamber.com

For better or worse, people are using the

or discontinue contact all together rather

internet for everything these days. As

than continue to engage with an angry

business people, we are missing out if we

person. Any reasonable person reading the

don’t use it as well. But not everything is

exchange will give you points for keeping

about creating Facebook pages, gathering

your cool but over time they will lose patience with both of you.

“likes” and posting content. Sometimes the

for more information.

New Members Centreville Bank A & B Family Appliances De La Salle Christian Brothers Flood Ford

best course of action is to start by making

Glacial Energy

sure you are part of the conversation

Kings’ Rose

Don’t be afraid to ask good customers to

happening “virtually”. It’s just like visiting

Roger Williams Park Zoo

add their comments as well

the tables in your restaurant or routinely

Sayer Regan & Thayer LLP

conducting customer surveys. You should

BNI – Wakefield

Testimonials are an age-old way for

continue these time-tested ways to stay in

Breachway Grill Graphic Innovations

businesses to utilize positive reviews. Review

touch, but now you get to add

services are no exception (with one caveat);

additional service touch points when

online review services are very sensitive to

you reach out online.

Home Healthsmith, LLC Law Offices of John R. Bernado, III

businesses “stuffing” their profiles. Yelp has an algorithm that monitors comments and

Mari Anne Snow CEO Sophaya

will punish businesses that suddenly receive a flurry of positive reviews after little to no activity. So be selective and realistic. There are no shortcuts to building a positive online presence. Take your time; personally ask a few of your trusted clients to contribute then

http://www.merchantcircle.com/answers/q/223605/Do-more-peoplesearch-for-business-services-online-or-in-the-yellow-pages

1

2

https://biz.yelp.com/support/responding_to_reviews

build up your catalog of comments over

3

http://www.google.com/alerts

time. We recommend you avoid contests or

4

campaigns that drive people to comment all

http://www.reputation.com/ *NOTE: this is an unsponsored recommendation, we have no relationship with reputation.com

be sure to visit risbj.com for all the latest chamber news & events happening this month www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

75

Small Business | Penny On The Ground

If You Dropped a Penny on the Ground, Would You Bend Over to Pick It Up?

by Bob Salvas

you are in a reasonably stable industry and you have good customer service- you may not be Disney or Nordstrom, but you have a fair price, good product, pleasant staff, and a clean, interesting place

If you dropped a penny on the ground, you might not see picking it up

of business. Your business will still statistically lose 10% of your

as worth the effort. Some might not even pick up a quarter. Would you

customers. And the chances are, you are not doing anything about it.

make the effort if it was a dollar? Twenty dollars? A thousand dollars?

Remember the parable? She lost 10% and did all she could to ‘get it back’. Why aren’t you doing the same?

It is probably safe to say that many people would pick up the twenty and most would make an extensive effort to retrieve one thousand

Even a good business person will say “What can I do? I offer a great

dollars. Yet, those same people might not make the effort to pick up a

product and exceptional service. I am fair and easy to do business

one dollar bill one thousand times. Interesting…

with. I cannot help it if a customer decides to leave.”

I was recently reminded by a pastor at my church about the Biblical

This is incorrect thinking. You must remember that the majority of

parable of the lost coin:

people who decide to stop doing business with you do not have a really good reason for doing so. They may be bored, or more often

“Or suppose a woman has ten valuable silver coins and loses one.

Won’t she light a lamp and look in every corner of the house and

than not, they feel you are indifferent towards them. A simple reaching out to the customer may be all it takes to win them back.

sweep every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her because she has found her lost coin.”

-Luke 15:8

“Use logic and emotion to keep your customers. Give them the best products and service and give great value for the money.

However, always remember, your competitors will be doing the same thing. The difference will be determined by how you

So, in the parable, the woman makes the strong effort to find what

communicate with your customers…”

was missing. While the parable in the Bible is used to teach a spiritual

Alan Fairweather, author

lesson, I think it could also be used for a business lesson.

So, how do you win customers back? Well, it all starts with finding You see, most businesses lose between 10% and 40% of their

the right customers in the first place. If you are trying to attract new

customers each year. The exact number depends on the industry

customers through low prices and discounts, you are likely to end

and how good or bad your customer service is. Let us assume that

up with customers who have values based on price. These are

76

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Penny On The Ground | Small Business

transaction buyers. The kinds of customers you want to attract are relationship buyers. Again, this runs counter to what the typical successful business person understands. They have a sale or big discount and the line is out the door. But remember, those same people in line will be down the street at the competitor’s when they offer a big discount. A much better model is to differentiate your business – you can also offer something for free (free samples are good if that applies to your business) in order to get new customers through the door. And once through the door, you need to offer a great customer experience and the more different and exceptional it is the better.

The next step is to use what I call the TAP method (Track, Analyze, and Promote). How this works in win-backs is you accumulate all the data about your customer’s buying habits. You then analyze that data to see the pattern. And when the pattern is broken, you send a communication to the client who is in danger of going away for good.

We frequently used this method when I worked with a loyalty marketing firm and it always yielded a positive result. Let’s use a restaurant as an example. John goes to the restaurant once a month, if they do not see him for a month - that is normal. But if Bill goes to the same restaurant once a week and they do not see him for a month,

William F. Charland, CPA Alfred T. Marciano, CPA Timothy J. Murray, CPA Christine M. McLacken, CPA Richard D. Morrocco, Jr.

18 Imperial Place Providence, RI 02903 (401) 331-9600 www.cm-cpas.com

something may be wrong. Bill has broken his pattern. All the ‘Bills’ (those who broke their pattern of attendance) should be sent a WE MISS YOU card with an offer (like free desert) to come back. Routinely, I have seen these types of campaigns get responses of over 20% (unheard of in regular direct mail).

The cost of doing this is an absolute bargain when you consider that it costs at least five times as much money to get a brand new customer than what it costs to keep an existing one.

So, you have customers that were ‘lost’ and now are ‘found’ and just like the parable, it is time to celebrate! The reason you celebrate is not just because you saved some customers and the revenue they give you, but you have moved them more towards the direction of becoming a relationship buyer and a loyal customer. A loyal customer is known to buy more often, buy higher priced items, are open to new products you might offer and have the capacity to give you referrals.

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It is not unusual for a saved customer to be worth twenty times what you paid to ‘save’ them. Kind of like picking up that dollar bill and discovering it is really A TWENTY! Make the effort!

www.SuccessfulTransitionPlanning.com

“An ounce of loyalty is worth a pound of cleverness.”

- Elbert Hubbard

Bob Salvas SCORE Counselor, BNI Director and Marketing Consultant Minuteman Press

RHODE ISLAND

CAMBRIDGE, MA

Bill Entwistle Bill@entwistleplanning.com (401) 782-6166

Successful Transition Planning Institute Paul@thenexttransition.com (978) 749-9546

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

77

Featured NonProfit | Adoption Rhode Island

“ I dream of a place where everyone has a family to love them, and no

information meetings to the public. These ‘no obligation’ meetings

one has to be alone.”

provide the perfect opportunity to become further informed regarding

These are the words of a child in foster care that has been waiting

state child welfare system. Adoption Rhode Island staff is always

far too long for a family of his own to love and care for him. Making

available to help families through this process, providing on-going

that dream come true is the work of Adoption Rhode Island, located

information, advocacy and support.

the adoption process, and specifically, adopting a child through the

at 2 Bradford Street, in the city of Providence. A private non-profit agency, Adoption Rhode Island is entering its 30th year of operation,

Adoption Rhode Island recruits families for approximately 150 to 180

and serves thousands of Rhode Island children and families annually.

children annually, using a variety of methods. You may have seen

Adoption Rhode Island’s mission is the same today as when it first

some of the children featured on WJAR, Channel 10’s segments

opened, almost 30 years ago… to facilitate the permanent placement

of Tuesday’s Child, or perhaps in the beautiful Heart Gallery, a

of children waiting in state care, and to promote adoption as a positive

professional exhibit of portraits displayed across the state. Most of

way to create a family. Adoption Rhode Island has proudly helped

the children served are school age, and have had unsettled pasts,

thousands of Rhode Islanders achieve their dream of a family, and

and have experienced loss beyond their years. They long to just be

has provided ongoing support to them. Adoption Rhode Island

children, and be loved and cared for by parents. Adoption Rhode

is often the first stop along the adoption journey, offering monthly

Island provides support services to them, helping them to understand

78

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

Adoption Rhode Island recruits families for approximately 150 to 180 children annually, using a variety of methods their difficult pasts and be prepared for their future. This support is combined with lots of fun, as Adoption Rhode Island strives to provide them happy childhood experiences. This might include art classes, summer camp, parties, karate, etc. They are able to do this, and more, because of the generous community support they receive.

Executive Director, Darlene Allen, states that she believes everyone has something to give to a child, and that working together we can change futures. She invites you to join the hundreds of Rhode Island businesses, community groups and individuals who have found creative ways to help. From sharing your time and talents, planning a fundraiser, becoming a visiting resource, tutoring a child, hosting

Join us for

Shave Night Thursday June 20th 5:00pm - 7:00pm Join Roosters for 30 minute shave workshops and education sessions along with free hot towel shaves and products.

Workshops are 30 minutes each and pre-registration is required. Please call (401) 398-7497 and ask for Steve.

1000 Division St. East Greenwich, RI

the Heart Gallery, etc., you can make a difference. Perhaps, the next best way to help would be to attend Rock Out For Kids on May 3rd at Vanity, located in Providence. To find out about this fundraiser, the adoption process, or other ways to help, contact Judith McSoley at (401) 865-6000, or visit www.adoptionri.org.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

79

GoLocalProv.com is the “go to” local Web experience that breaks the biggest local stories, sports, high school sports, weather, news, politics, arts, entertainment — and allows users to go as deep as they wish. Branded, credible, and respected contributors from RI create the stories and content. Information is delivered through multimedia, written, and video platforms. All at GoLocalProv.com.

Valois Confirmed as EDC Director Marcel A. Valois was unanimously

Valois served, most recently, as Vice

approved by the RI Senate. Governor

President of the Economic Development

Lincoln D. Chafee’s nominee to lead the

Foundation of Rhode Island, Inc. (EDFRI).

Rhode Island Economic Development

He previously served as Chief Operating

Corporation will begin immediately on the

Officer and Area Vice President of Penske

Governor’s agenda.

Automotive Group, a publicly traded company, where he was responsible for

Valois served previously as RIEDC director

overseeing total operations of the Inskip

under Governor Lincoln Almond.

dealer group with more than 500 employees and over $400 million in annual sales.

“Marcel Valois is a proven business leader,” Governor Chafee said. “He understands

In his previous tenure, he spearheaded the

economic development, he understands

development of a master plan for the 3,000-

Rhode Island, and he shares my

acre former Quonset / Davisville Navy Base

commitment to taking advantage of Rhode

and led the marketing efforts for the passage

Island’s assets to strengthen our economy. I

of a $72-million bond issue for investment in

look forward to working with Marcel to build

the facility; led the state’s negotiating team

a sustainable Rhode Island economy that

for the development of the Providence Place

benefits all the people of our state.”

Mall; and successfully recruited Fidelity Investments to Rhode Island, representing over $500 million in new investment and the creation of 3,000 jobs, an achievement that was cited by Site Selection magazine as one of the top ten development deals in the

successfully recruited Fidelity Investments to RI, representing over $500 million in new investment and the creation of 3,000 jobs 80

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

United States in 1996.

Prior to that Valois served as Executive Vice President of the Blackstone Valley Development Foundation, Inc., and Director of Planning & Development, as well as City Planner & Planning Analyst, for the City of Woonsocket.

Valois received his B.A., in Liberal Arts, and his M.A., in Urban & Economic Geography, from the University of Rhode Island.

Providence | golocal

Why Your Emails Are Never, EVER PRIVATE Should the Boston Marathon terrorists be

stores often make available for free - your

can read, and share, your e-mail without your

able to keep their e-mails private? No.

information can be sniffed even easier as

permission and without telling you. So can

it goes from your computer to the network.

Yahoo. Whether or not you should trust them

Should you? Yes.

Can you? No.

Using software that encrypts your e-mail,

is up to you; I’ll just point out that everyone

and only using secured wireless networks,

trusted Enron and AIG.

are ways to partially protect your e-mails but neither is foolproof.

Protect Yourself

Employers

If you have to use e-mail to send personal

about how e-mail works.

The Fourth Amendment protects you from

Security number or passwords – use

unreasonably searches of your e-mail by

encryption software and consider breaking

When you hit send, the e-mail you

only the government; it does not protect you

the information into a series of e-mails.

E-mail is the most insecure way of communicating and people with good, and bad, intentions can easily intercept it. To

information - like your date of birth, Social

understand why, you have to know a little

composed is broken down into packets of

from searches by anyone else. So if you

Neither is a perfect solution but it will

information and sent on their way through

are using a work e-mail address, or a work

make it harder for the information to be

cyberspace. The packets are passed from

computer, your employer can root around in

stolen in transit.

computer server to computer server until

your e-mail all it wants. (A group of Harvard

they all reach the recipients e-mail account

professors learned that the hard way.)

and are reassembled into a coherent e-mail message. The operator of every computer the packets pass through can open, read and store them without you ever knowing it.

If you or the recipient keeps a copy of the e-mail on a computer, for instance if either of you are running Outlook, anyone who gets access to the computer’s hard drive can fish through the e-mail. Anyone with access to your e-mail account, or the recipient’s e-mail account, can also read the messages.

Crooks

your employer can root around in your e-mail all it wants

For true protection, follow this advice from the non-digital age: Never put anything in writing you would not want published on the front page of the newspaper.

E-mail Service Providers

Most crooks hack into e-mail accounts by

Using your personal computer and your

stealing passwords. (That is how George

personal e-mail address will not protect

Bush’s interest in painting was exposed –

your information either. If you are using a

someone hacked into his relatives’ accounts

free Gmail account, Google’s computers

then posted the e-mails he sent them.) But

are already reading your e-mails and

sophisticated criminal organizations can

using the information to send you targeted

attack e-mail while it is in transit. They can

advertisements. If you have sprung for

set up their own servers to ‘sniff’ the good

a paid Gmail account, Google basically

stuff in the packets that pass through them.

promises not to snoop unless, in its sole

If you are using an unsecured wireless

judgment, it decides to. They dress it up in

network for e-mailing - like those hotels and

some legalese, but the bottom line is they

From Rhode Islanders and for Rhode Islanders: See it. Read it. Share it.

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

81

THE RHODE ISLAND THE RHODETHE ISLAND RHODE ISLAND

APPRAISAL COMMERCIAL & APPRAISAL COMMERCIAL & APPRAISALCOMMERCIAL BOARD OF&REALTORS BOARD OF REALTORS BOARD OF REALTORS

Enhance Your Business relationships with An Affiliate Membership with Rhode Island’s Commercial Real Estate and Valuation Professionals.

Join now during our

Spring Special - $110.00 through the end of the year!

Networking Opportunities Affiliate members benefit from the opportunity to forge relationships with some of the top industry professionals!

Affiliate Directory Maximize your Visibility!

Your name, company name, and contact information are compiled on our website as a resource for members and the public.

Networking Opportunities

News from the Rhode Island Commercial and Appraisal Board of REALTORS® The General Assembly in Rhode Island has been contemplating re-introducing the Historic Tax Credit to our state.

The leadership at the RI Commercial and Appraisal Board of REALTORS® lauds the efforts of House Speaker Gordon Fox, Senate President Theresa Paiva-Weed and Governor Chaffee to find a reasonable compromise that brings growth back to the Rhode Island economy.

The measures being discussed would invigorate our economy by creating jobs, revitalizing neighborhoods and expanding the tax base in our state. Our leadership at the Rhode Island Commercial and Appraisal Board of REALTORS® has urged our elected officials to consider the following: • The new Historic Tax Credit program should be tailored to be available to a wide range of projects – we support per project caps on the investment credits.

• Create a level playing field. While apprentice programs that employ and train skilled crafts people are a good idea, many of the parameters have the unfortunate consequence of hindering projects of a smaller scope or failing to recognize newer apprenticeship programs.

• To be competitive both regionally and nationally, Rhode Island must implement an historic tax credit program. Over 30 states across the country host historic tax credits, Rhode Island needs to offer an attractive investment platform to entice investment dollars that are now going elsewhere.

The Rhode Island Commercial and Appraisal Board of REALTORS® hosts a range of education and informational services for our members! Join us as an industry expert!

As House Bill 6060 and Senate Bill 733 move through the political process, we encourage our elected leaders to consider the positive impact this legislation, or a hybrid compromise, will have on Rhode Island’s future. Increased employment, a stronger tax base, revitalized communities and a competitive playing field will help build sustainable economic growth for our future.

Contact the Rhode Island Commercial and Appraisal Board of REALTORS® at (401) 274-8386 or visit us at www.ricabor.org.

Respectfully submitted, Arthur Yatsko

For more information visit us at www.ricabor.org 82

®

RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

THE RHODE ISLAND

COMMERCIAL & APPRAISAL BOARD OF REALTORS®

Peter M. Scotti & Associates, Inc.

Inside Cover C May 10 - 16, 2013

Rhode Island

New England Real Estate Journal

Visit the paper online nerej.com

PeterBrokerage/Appraisal/Management M. Scotti & Associates, Inc. BArokerage /appraisal /ManageMent Full Service Real Estate Company A full Service Real Estate Company

RETAIL CENTER FOR SALE 440 STAFFORD RD., FALL RIVER, MA

63,000 SF GROCERY ANCHORED RETAIL SHOPPING CENTER. 95% OCCUPANCY WITH GREAT HISTORIC CASH FLOW. 6 ACRE LAND PARCEL WITH SUBSTANTIAL ON SITE PARKING. PRICE: $6,500,000 JIM MOORE EXT. 14

wATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT SITE PARASCANDOLA wHARF, NEwPORT, RI 57,900 SF LAND SITE, 74,000 SF WATER- 1,000 FEET ON NEWPORT HARBOR WATERFRONT BUS zONE ALLOWS HOTEL, REST, MARINA, MUL FAM, MIX LAST WHARF DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND

AUTO DEALERSHIP FOR SALE 296 g. w. HIgHwAy, SMITHFIELD,RI

15,680 SF BUILDING WITH SHOWROOM, SERVICE, BODY SHOP, OFFICES 8.25 ACRE SITE WITH 300 CAR PAVED PARKING zONED PLANNED CORP. SELLER WILL CONSIDER OWNER FINANCING, PRICE: $1,975,000.00

INDUSTRIAL FOR SALE 20 HIgH ST., PLAINVILLE, MA 53,500 SF STEEL BUILDING ON 9.66 ACRES OF LAND 20-24 FOOT CEILING HEIGHTS, DOCK & OVERHEAD LOADING HEAVY POWER, OFFICES, PAVED PARKING 50 CARS. PRICE: $2,495,000.00

COMMERCIAL bUILDINg FOR SALE 819 wESTMINTER ST., PROVIDENCE, RI

17,100 SF TWO STORY BRICK BUILDING IN HOYLE SQUARE, ON SITE PARKING FOR 33 CARS, EXCELLENT ACCESS AND VISIBILITY, GREAT REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY. PRICE: $565,000.00

COMMERCIAL/RETAIL SITE FOR SALE 250 CRANSTON ST., PROVIDENCE, RI

18,200 SF BUILDING AREAS, 38,778 SF LAND EXPANDABLE, HIGH TRAFFIC LIGHTED INTERSECTION, CURRENT USE AUTOMOTIVE, EXCELLENT URBAN RETAIL/COMMERCIAL SITE. PRICE: $1,099,000.00

MEDICAL OFFICE SUITES FOR LEASE 49 SEEKONK ST., EAST SIDE/PROVIDENCE

2,000 - 9,400 SF SUITES WET EXAM ROOMS, LABS WAYLAND SQUARE LOCATION

AMPLE ON SITE PARKING GROUND LEVEL H/C ACCESSIBLE COMPETITIVE RENTS

Peter M. Scotti & Associates, Inc. • 401-421-8888

Peter246 M.Hope Scotti & Associates, Inc.Island • 401-421-8888 Street, Providence, Rhode 02906 Visit our web page at www.scotticommercial.com 246 Hope Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02906 Visit our web page at www.scotticommercial.com Changes

Size: full

NE NY Tel: 781-878-4540 REal EstatE JouRNal

New Proof

Proof Approved

Section: rI

crop 2”

Proof

www.risbj.com | volume two issue four

83

THE RHODE ISLAND

COMMERCIAL & APPRAISAL BOARD OF REALTORS® P RO P E RT Y F O R L E A S E

Several Prime Office Locations:

Providence, Warwick, Johnston, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, and Exeter. Call for details and address Several to choose from, Some For Sale or lease. Financing available.

Call for details.

747 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston:

Individual office space from 200 sq. ft. to 2,000 sq.ft.

Busy Pontiac Avenue location near Rolfe Square- walk to everything! Good for start up or incubator space, you can add space as you grow!

RILiving.com MLS #1031022

20 Centerville Road, Warwick:

Former school; solid brick construction. Very nice 2nd floor space; owner on 1st floor. Space plan attached. Great Apponaug location! Quick highway access and walk to Apponaug Village amenities!

RILiving.com MLS #988739

1755 Smith Street, North Providence:

Former Dunkin Donuts for over 30 years (they bought & moved across the street). Seats 30+. Has a drive-thru. Parking for 20+. GREAT for ANY fast food concept.

2000 sq. ft. $3,200/mo.

RILiving.com MLS #1028322

635 Arnold Road, Coventry:

Great location at Exit 7 near Centre of New England. 800’ front retail/office- Rear 1700’ warehouse service area with 14’W x 10’L O.H. door. Fully air conditioned!! Recently TOTALLY RENOVATED!!! Reduced to $2290 per/mo.

RILiving.com MLS #1024237

2006 Nooseneck Hill Road, Coventry:

4300 sq ft very strong retail area, next to Advance Auto, former Pet Place, great for food or retail.

Below market rent $15. psf

30 Phenix Avenue, Cranston:

74 Nooseneck Hill Road, West Greenwich:

Great office or salon/studio space in Knightsville. Handsome building with historical charm in excellent shape. Close to amenities and highway. 2 story salon=900sf. One level office=640sf. Two full baths with shower. Basement storage. RILiving.com MLS #1039958

4 Grafton Avenue, Coventry:

Free Standing Commercial Building-PRIME location next to The Centre of New England-Exit 7 on Rt95.The building has many offices,a kitchen/cafeteria area,reception,storage & IT room. 1st floor office is 1650 sf, 2nd fl. office 2,000 sf, the warehouse is 1600sf w/650sf mezzanine. Sale at $495,000 or lease at $10 psf. RILiving.com MLS #1031877

Realty Group

Commercial • Investment • Residential

401-886-7800 www.ButlerRealty.us RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

146 Granite Street, Westerly:

Class A Coventry Credit Union Corporate Office (CCU occupies entire 2nd floor). 1st floor space available from 1880-8200sq ft.

Very nice common area’s include cafeteria. Plentiful parking.

On Rt3, 1 mile from Rt95 & Exit 6. Office, medical, studio... $12 psf. RILiving.com MLS #1036614

Butler

84

577 Tiogue Avenue, Coventry:

1220 sq ft adjacent spaces (2240 sq ft total) on the second floor.

Located in a very nice building! Big picture windows in the units with waterviews! Elevator available and nice common area. Join the newest Dragon Palace Restaurant. MLS# 1032254

Great Route 3 location just ½ mile from Rt 95 exit 6, nicely appointed office or retail suite with several offices and open area,was HQ for Bess Eaton & Tim Hortons.

Fresh paint and carpets. 600-1600’, from $10 psf/yr.

RILiving.com MLS #990071

1 Brown Street, North Kingstown:

Wickford Village- Excellent location on corner lot. Visible from three streets. Big windows, good foot traffic. Larger unit (1,500 sq ft) beautifully finished, windows on two sides.

Smaller unit (1,000 sq ft) needs finishing. Can be combined.

CALL NOW! RILiving.com MLS #1030851

Many more Commercial Properties @ www.ButlerRealty.us .... or email Jeff Butler at jab@ButlerRealty.us Trusted Real Estate Service Since 1977 Looking to Buy or Lease? Call the Butler!

THE RHODE ISLAND

COMMERCIAL & APPRAISAL BOARD OF REALTORS® P RO P E RT Y F O R S A L E

400 South County Trail, Exeter:

Great location!! Design Award of Excellence. Private baths.

Centrally located 6 minutes South of Home Depot in North Kingstown. Easy access at the gateway to South County. Taxes are approximate. Assessment as unfinished. 900-4,000 sq.ft. available. From $124,000 RILiving.com MLS #995461

1801 Smith Street, North Providence:

Great little 2 unit commercial, completely rebuilt in 1982.

Could be a live-in/ office/ retail. High $100’s RILiving.com MLS # 1032623

747 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston:

Great location near Rolfe Square. Three floors of office suites from 200 sq ft and up. Good income generator or large owner occupied office. Owner keeping several suites clear anticipating a larger user to buy/occupy and have income. $800’s

RILiving.com MLS#1020960

2614 West Shore Road, Warwick:

132 Meadow Street, Warwick:

Busy Rt 117/Wildes Corner location opposite new Burger King & TD Bank,adjacent to Bennys.New roof,siding,windows,panel box,wiring,fire alarm&heat sensors. Ready for your finish. 1st Fl 2400’,2nd Fl 1200’,basement storage/walkout. Planned for Pub/ Cafe. Lease or Sale - $400’s RILiving.com MLS #1032619

Great location off Rt.117, 1 mile East of Exit 10. Office/ Mfg Wrhse combo. Great value for user. Nice, clean, bright space! This bldg has been substantially updated & is turn key ready to go. Owner can also modify to suit! Lease option available. $500’s RILiving.com MLS #1013527

65 Montebello Road, Warwick:

39 Nooseneck Hill Road, West Greenwich:

Great block building with two overhead doors, heavy power, and 2nd floor office. Great access to highway, train, and airport. Low $200’s

222 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick:

Class “a” law office includes conference room, 4 private offices, lavette, reception, storage, kitchen.

Reduced to High $100’s RILiving.com MLS #981620

Large multi-use building offers great flexibility, possible multiple tenants. The church would consider a lease-back of 10,00015,000sq ft. Additional 14 acres adjacent also available. Great Rt.3 location just a mile north of Rt.95, Exit 6. Huge Reduction! $1,200,000 Motivated Seller! RILiving.com MLS #1029643

400 South County Trail, Exeter:

Approved Development Zoned Business 17+acres.Current permitted plans for 7 office building for total of 86,000net sf.MANY POTENTIAL USES. Central Rt.2 location minutes from Home Depot/Walmart in N.Kingstown. Easy highway access-strong traffic count! Reduced $800’s RILiving.com MLS #1029590

N CTIO EDU R E HUG

111 Hopkins Hill Road, West Greenwich: ½ acre – 16 acres Very fast growing area off Exit 6A near GTech, Amgen & Centrex. Front pad is busy Dunkin Donuts, balance of site permits office, retail, warehouse & light industrial. Traffic count 15,000 and growing! Multitude of possibilities- 6 other avail. lots. From $150,000 RILiving.com MLS #855989

4 Grafton Avenue, Coventry:

Free Standing Commercial Building- PRIME location next to The Centre of New England-Exit 7 on Rt95.The building has many offices,a kitchen/cafeteria area,reception, storage & IT room. 1st floor office is 1650sf, 2nd fl. office 2,000 sf, warehouse is 1600sf w/650sf mezzanine. Sale at $495,000 or lease at $10 psf. RILiving.com MLS #1031857

Butler

Realty Group

Commercial • Investment • Residential

401-886-7800 www.ButlerRealty.us

7265 Post Road, North Kingstown:

7.82 acres on US Rt.1. Zoning permits apartments/office/medical/retail. Many possibilities!! Will build to suit, sale or lease, or land only. Great location. Dozens of acres and walking trails behind property. Adjacent 5+- acres also available.

Call For Details! RILiving.com MLS #856381

Many more Commercial Properties @ www.ButlerRealty.us .... or email Jeff Butler at jab@ButlerRealty.us Trusted Real Estate Service Since 1977 Looking to Buy or Lease? Call the Butler!

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Commercial Real Estate

PEA E OF MIND management & real estate

Now carrying a full line of...

Full Service Manager Leasing Screening Real Estate Sales Consulting NOW Serving Quality Landlords in both Northern & Southern RI

call us today

Stacy 401 829 8323 Carrissa 401 749 9420

Chain Saws Leaf Blowers Demo Saws

“so you can sleep at night” Snow Blowers, Power Washers and more...

12 Month No Interest Financing Programs Available

112 Old Pocasset Road Johnston, RI 02919 | Exit 5 off 295

401-942-8857 | www.HartfordMaterials.com

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

All The Services You Are Looking For |

community corner

All The Services You Are Looking For In One Location

COMMUNITY

E

S A E L OR

F

1173 Cranston Street Cranston, Rhode Island

At Primary Residential Mortgage we are happy to help you to purchase or refinance a home using an FHA, VA, USDA or a Conventional Mortgage.

Great Automotive Business Opportunity!

1/2 acre of land. 3 bays, drive thru, office, AC, gas heat.

Great Exposure!

We Have The Loan Product To Match Your Needs.

Call Us To Find Out About Our LOW, LOW, RATES!

Contact Ken Cesaro

Cell: (401) 641-0019 Direct: (401) 490-7123 eFax: (401) 648-0055 | Email: kcesaro@primeres.com Licensed in RI, MA, CT & NH

CNR

Near Stop & Shop, Lowe’s and Kmart.

Thousands of Cars Go By Everyday.

Call 401.837.2477 For Per Month Price

YOUR EXTERIOR CLEANING SOLUTION Danny P. DeHoney

CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CRPC®

FINANCIAL ADVISOR CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ PRACTITIONER 175 HILLSIDE ROAD CRANSTON, RHODE ISLAND 02920 877 277 0453 DANNY.P.DEHONEY@AMPF.COM CA INSURANCE #OE43144

Philip C. DiSano, Jr. RI License# 22598 | Fully Insured

Commercial Pressure Washing:

Removes Mold & Dirt! • Increases value of the location!

Saves time and money! • Improves Business Appeal

Been In A Recent Accident? How Do You Want To Be Taken Care Of?

AutoPaint RI

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTER Call (401) 943-6300 www.autopaintri.com Located at 47 Stamp Farm Road, Cranston RI

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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal

BE A

BIG FISH IN A LITTLE BANK ...that’s helped build some of Rhode Island’s most successful businesses.

Greenville (401) 949-1600 | Cumberland (401) 333-3666 | East Providence (401) 244-6691 | www.freedomnationalbank.com

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