volume four issue six
DiRhodescover Island The Business of Tourism
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from the founder Culture Shock We often hear stories about how cool it is to work at companies like Google and Apple. From the way their offices are constructed to how they treat and motivate employees, companies like this have built a strong culture that send a positive message to their employees. It’s also a big part of why they’ve become so innovative and successful. So how can your business follow suit? Here are 6 keys to building a successful culture within your organization. DEFINING YOUR CULTURE The first key to developing a culture within your organization is defining what you actually want that culture to be. We view technology startups as having a fun, busy, energizing environment that promotes regular interaction between employees. This same culture however, wouldn’t necessarily work for a law firm or an accounting practice. We need to carefully align our culture with who we are, who our staff is, who are clients are and what type of work we perform. SHARING YOUR VISION Having a clear picture in your mind of where you want to take your company is great. It’s important to have a clear vision and set strong goals. But it’s just as important to share that vision and those goals with staff. Letting everyone know what you’re working towards and what expectations you have for the company will be sure to get your staff excited to come to work each day. HIRING THE RIGHT PEOPLE It’s important to have competent staff in positions to get the job done well, but it’s equally important to have people that fit in with your culture and will work well with others. There is a difficult balance between teamwork and talent, but finding the right mix is critical to forming a strong culture. INCLUSION In companies with strong culture, everyone feels like they
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are part of the success of the company. This is a key factor in motivating employees to perform their best and it helps to ensure their loyalty to the company. Holding regular meetings where everyone can provide feedback and updates on what they are working on, along with the company sharing how all of those pieces fit together will help with this. NURTURING LEADERSHIP While many people like the comfort of coming to work and performing similar tasks each day, others are looking for a more active role. The opportunity for growth within an organization is what fuels many of us. Look to some of your key staff for their interest in growth and opportunity, and put them in positions of leadership. Allow them to run meetings, train other staff and be part of big picture strategic discussions. Empowering organizational leaders will help with building and maintain your culture. DO SOMETHING FUN All work and no play makes a company boring. Give your employees something to look forward to outside of work. This will allow staff to bond with each other, as well as allowing you to get to know them all on more personal level. Start by having quarterly social gatherings at a local restaurant or do something fun like play pool or go bowling. These outside of work activities are sure to make your staff feel valued and allow them to get to know each other even better. Developing a strong culture takes time, but it is an important part of building a successful company. We don’t all need video games and hammocks at our office, but finding what works best within your organization will lead to a happier, more productive team.
Gil Lantini Founder Ralph Coppolino Co-Founder Mike Casale Senior Designer Amanda Repose Managing Editor Interns Lauren Bansbach Yadira Campos Andrea Canavan Marcella Giacoman Autumn Harrington Katherine Hickey Caitlin Williams Contributing Writers Mark Aramali Chris Barnett Blackstone Valley Tourism Council Michael Britto Discover Newport Ted Donelly Sara Emaus Mayor Jorge Elorza Larry Girouard Secretary Of State Nellie M. Gorbea General Treasurer Seth Magaziner Sally P. McDonald, Esq Mary T. O’Sullivan Matthew R. Plain, Esq. Patricia Raskin Rhode Island Hospitality Association Tim Sullivan South County Tourism WaterFire Providence Kristen M. Whittle, Esq Melissa Woods
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Upcoming Events
Networking & Workshops
Corner Bakery Cafe Capital City Connection Networking 8:00 am - 9:00 am Garden City Center 160 Hillside Dr., Cranston
JUNE 18
Center for Women & Enterprise Marketing Intensive 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 132 George M. Cohan Blvd., Providence
JUNE 19
Mesa Cafe SBR Cranston Rainmakers 11:45 am - 1:15 pm Rolfe St., Cranston
North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Friday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
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Chelo’s Restaurant Business Networking - Referral Pros 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 1275 Reservoir Ave., Cranston
JUNE 30
Chelo’s Restaurant Business Networking - Referral Pros 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 1275 Reservoir Ave., Cranston
Rough Point Rough Point Landscape History & Garden Tour 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 680 Bellevue Ave., Newport
Corner Bakery Cafe Capital City Connection Networking 8:00 am - 9:00 am Garden City Center 160 Hillside Dr., Cranston
Corner Bakery Cafe Capital City Connection Networking 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Garden City Center 160 Hillside Dr., Cranston
JULY 3
Mesa Cafe SBR Cranston Rainmakers 11:45 am - 1:15 pm Rolfe St., Cranston
JULY 1
Big Train Farm Raise Better Vegetables with Chickens in Crop Rotations 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm 35 Pippin Orchard Rd., Cranston
Rhode Island Society of CPA’s Realizing Your Dreams 8:30 am - 10:30 am 40 Sharpe Dr., Unit 5, Cranston JUNE 25
JUNE 17
Kirkbrae Country Club Eggs & Issues Breakfast with Lieutenant Governor Daniel J. McKee 7:45 am - 9:30 am 197 Old River Rd., Lincoln
JUNE 26
Chelo’s Resaurant Business Networking - Referral Pros 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 1275 Reservoir Ave., Cranston
JUNE 24
North Kingstown Chamber Business Consulting: Tuesday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
Mesa Cafe SBR Cranston Rainmakers 11:45 am - 1:15 pm Rolfe St., Cranston North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Friday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
Center for Women & Enterprise Marketing Intensive 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 132 George M. Cohan Blvd., Providence
North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Tuesday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Friday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
Chelo’s Restaurant Business Networking - Referral Pros 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 1275 Reservoir Ave., Cranston
Veterans Park, by the Historic Towers Narragansett Art Festival 9:00 am - 7:00 pm 35 Ocean Rd., Narragansett JUNE 27
JUNE 16
Monday, June 22nd from 5:30 to 7:00pm, at the Public Utilities Commission, 89 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick, RI Email: info@ritaskforce.com
North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Tuesday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
Rough Point On the Lawn at Rough Point: Clayfest 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 680 Bellevue Ave., Newport
JULY 7
Health Insurance Small Employer Taskforce Public Comment Event
JUNE 23
Featured Event
North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce Business Consulting: Tuesday’s at the NK Chamber 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 8045 Post Rd., North Kingstown
Rough Point Rough Point Landscape History & Garden Tour 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm 680 Bellevue Ave., Newport
For More Events Visit:
www.risbj.com
contents
volume four issue six
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
6 Events 8 Small Business News
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12 Message from the General Treasurer 13 Real Estate News 14 Message from the Secretary of State 16 Summer In The Ocean State 18 Capital City 19 An Industry of Opportunity 20 Blackstone Valley: A Visitor Destination 22 Deregulation Of The Travel Industry in Rhode Island 24 South County Tourism Council 26 WaterFire Providence 27 Explorers Welcome To Rhode Island 28 Tourism Authority Anticipates Promising Start 30 Reinventing, Reinvesting and Rediscovering 33 Professional Coaching 34 Proving Kevin O’Leary Wrong 36 Would You Know What To Do If You Lost Your Job? 38 10 Ways To Boost Health And Activity At Work 40 Personnel Practices: Non-Compete Agreements 43 The Wealth - Health - Wealth Connection
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ON THE COVER volume four issue six
45 Real Estate News 47 Helping small business thrive From Our Backyard 48 A 30,000-Foot Business View
DiRhodescover Island The Business
of Tourism
Featured Discover Rhode Island The Business of Tourism
51 To Move Or Not To Move, That Is The Question 52 Local Small Business Directory www.rifitmag.com | volume one issue one
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47 www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS
NEWS
Johnson & Wales University Chosen as First New England Site for The Kauffman Foundation’s “One Million Cups”
PROVIDENCE, RI - Johnson & Wales University (JWU) will hold a kickoff event to celebrate their choice as The Kauffman Foundation’s site for its “One Million Cups” (1MC) program for entrepreneurs. The program will take place in the Larry Friedman International Center for Entrepreneurship located at 10 Abbott Park Place, Providence. JWU is the first Kauffman 1MC site in New England, joining 72 other sites throughout the United States.
After they apply and are accepted, presenters prepare a six-minute educational presentation and engage in twenty minutes of feedback and questioning.
1MC is a way to engage entrepreneurs in communities around the world. Each week, the 1MC program offers two local entrepreneurs an opportunity to present their startups to a diverse audience of mentors, advisors, and entrepreneurs.
These presentations take place every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. at all of the 1MC sites around the country, including JWU’s, and, are open to the public. For more information, visit their website: http://www.1millioncups.com
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Entrepreneurs gain insight into possible ways they can improve their businesses, gather real-time feedback, connect with a community that cares about their progress, and walk away feeling like they have advanced their business.
SMALL BUSINESS
NEWS
Eight Panera Bakery-Cafes in RI D o n a t e $ 9 , 8 1 7 t o F e e d i n g A m e r i c a P a r t n e r, R I C o m m u n i t y F o o d B a n k
PROVIDENCE, RI - Through Panera Bread’s partnership with Feeding America®, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief agency, all eight of its bakery-cafes in Rhode Island (Cranston, East Greenwich, Lincoln, Newport, Providence, Smithfield, Wakefield and Warwick) announce a donation of $9,817.99 to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, a Feeding America® member food bank based in Providence. All total, $19,466.93 in donations have been collected as part of the cafes’ ongoing Panera Cares Community Breadbox™ Program which gives customers the opportunity to provide cash donations at the register with half designated to help fund Panera soup procurement for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and the other half donated as cash to support the Food Bank’s efforts to provide quality, nutritious food to Rhode Islanders in need. The eight participating Panera Bread bakerycafes are owned and operated by Panera Bread franchisee, Howley Bread Group, LTD based in Lincoln, Rhode Island. “We truly appreciate Panera’s continued commitment to assist us in addressing food insecurity in Rhode Island,” said Hugh Minor IV, Director of Communications for RI Community Food Bank. “This latest donation of funds and soup by Panera will go directly to neighbors in need who are struggling with hunger each and every day.” Rhonda Wheaton, Marketing Manager for Panera Newport, helped present the check to Minor. “As someone who sees people eating and enjoying food on a regular basis due to working here at Panera, it’s inspiring that our company is similarly focused on the food insecurity problem that is also all around us. Thanks to Panera’s relationship with Feeding America, we are doing our part to help the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and their partner organizations provide food to those who are not as fortunate as ourselves.”
Feeding America is a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks that leads the fight against hunger in the United States. Through its network, Feeding America provides food to more than 46 million people through 60,000 food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters in communities across America. Feeding America also supports programs that improve food security among the people it serves; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. The Rhode Island Community Food Bank, a member of Feeding America, is an innovative leader in solving the problem of hunger. In partnership with its member agencies, as well as government and community leaders, it works to try and ensure that no one in
Rhode Island goes hungry. Since 1982, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank has solicited, purchased, stored and distributed surplus food and grocery products to qualified member agency programs that serve Rhode Island’s hungry. Last fiscal year, 9.9 million pounds of food were distributed to the community through its network of 169 member agency food programs at 214 sites across Rhode Island. Howley Bread Group, LTD based in Lincoln, Rhode Island is one of Panera Bread’s top franchises in the country. The franchisee owns and operates a total of 28 bakerycafes in Rhode Island, Southeastern Massachusetts and Greater Hartford/ Eastern Connecticut markets.
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SMALL BUSINESS
NEWS
Winners Named in 2015 Rhode Is PROVIDENCE, RI - A team led by a woman who came to Rhode Island to study and continued to work on her business idea after finishing as a semi-finalist in the Rhode Island Business Plan Competition two years ago, this evening was named the top winner in this year’s competition, sharing $200,000 in prizes with six other winners and finalists.
HMSolution, which provides water treatment equipment to remove arsenic and other toxic chemicals at significantly lower cost than competitors, was named the Entrepreneur Track winner today in the 2015 Rhode Island Business Plan Competition. The company received $66,200 in prizes – $15,000 in cash and $26,200 in professional and consulting services as the Entrepreneur Track winner, plus a $25,000 bonus cash award. Margaret Lengerich, CEO of HMSolution, who came from Chile to earn a Master’s degree in innovation management and entrepreneurship at Brown University, co-founded the company with her sister, both of whom now live in Providence. “HMSolution is a for-profit company generating a social impact,” Lengerich said. “Our mission is to protect cities, communities, and homeowners from the health effects of toxic contaminants, such as arsenic and other chemicals, by providing a cost-effective solution and easy-to-operate system.” Also named were teams that won the Student Track and the Technology Award, each of which received $41,200 in prizes comprised of cash and professional and consulting services. Winner of the Student Track was Bounty, led by Noah Fradin
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of Brown University, which is creating automated visual content-recognition software that links to an online advertising marketplace, connecting brands with visual content creators.
NGS Imaging, which is developing a scintillator that will increase image resolution and overall detector efficiency of X-ray equipment used to diagnose and screen for disease indicators, was the Technology Award winner. The team, which entered in the Student Track, is led by Linghan Xing, of Brown University.
“Good ideas for new companies are flourishing in Rhode Island, and we look forward to watching and working with many of this year’s competitors to help them grow,” said Competition Co-chair Peggy Farrell, partner in the law of firm of Hinckley Allen. Noting the critical role of sponsors who support the competition, Co-chair Anthony Mangiarelli, partner with the Providence-based accounting firm of KLR, said, “Rhode Island is better off because our sponsors are willing to invest in emerging companies that will create jobs and ultimately advance the economy.” Nearly 30 past Rhode Island Business Plan Competition participants that are currently operating have created about 270 jobs and are buying services from Rhode Island suppliers.
IN ADDITION TO THE WINNERS, FINALISTS IN THE ENTREPRENEUR TRACK WERE: CloudContacts is developing a web-based address book that self-updates as friends, family, and colleagues change contact information. Principal applicant: Michel Mullen, Providence.
SMALL BUSINESS
NEWS
sland Business Plan Competition The Compost Plant is creating a commercial compost system that diverts organic material from landfills, producing high-quality compost while providing customized organics collection. Principal applicant: Leo Pollock, Providence.
FINALISTS IN THE STUDENT TRACK WERE: EquiTrue is an advanced stability assessment system that can detect and quantify specific balance and proprioceptive impairment caused by concussions. Principal applicant: Dan Giovacchini, Brown University. UnSync is using unsynchronized structured lighting and multifrequency phase shifting techniques to power 3-D scanners at significantly lower cost than is currently available. Principal applicant: Leo Liu, Brown University. Finalists in both tracks received $5,000 in cash and services valued at $7,850. A total of 82 applications were received this year – 48 in the Entrepreneur Track and 34 in the Student Track. The Technology Award is given to an applicant in one of the two tracks.
SPONSORS OF THE 2015 COMPETITION Supporting this year’s competition are 56 sponsors, including banks and investors; colleges and universities; foundations; construction, insurance, health-related, software, and other businesses; professional firms; services organizations; and a former participant. Lead sponsors of the 2015 Competition are
Cumulus Media-Providence, Embolden, Focus Vision Media, Hinckley Allen, KLR, Locke Lord, and the Providence Journal Charitable Legacy Fund. Also supporting the Competition are Ava Anderson Non Toxic, Bank of America, Brown University, Bryant University, Center for Women and Enterprise, Envision Technology Advisors, FM Global, Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, Hatch Entrepreneurial Center, Johnson & Wales University, Providence Business News, Roger Williams University, Slater Technology Fund, University of Rhode Island, and Utilidata. Additional supporters include Bank Rhode Island, Business Development Company, Care New England, Centreville Bank, Cherrystone Angel Group, Citizens Bank, Deepwater Wind, Delta Dental of Rhode Island, Dimeo Construction Company, Gencorp Insurance Group, Gilbane, GTECH, The Moore Company, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Navigant Credit Union, Nortek, Rhode Island Student Loan Authority, Santander Bank, ShapeUp, Teknor Apex, The Washington Trust Company, and Ximedica. Additional support is provided by AAA Southern New England, Bank Newport, Betaspring, Biomedical Structures, Community College of Rhode Island, CVS Health, Freedom National Bank, Hayes & Sherry Real Estate Services, InsureMyTrip.com, Rhode Island College, Starkweather & Shepley, and Tech Collective. Complete competition information, including rules, application procedures, guidelines, and business plan resources, is available at www.ri-bizplan.com.
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GENERAL TREASURER | Seth Magaziner
A message from Rhode Island General Treasu
The Rhode Island In by General Treasurer Seth Magaziner
In these difficult economic times, we who hold public office must commit ourselves to advancing new ideas that will put Rhode Islanders back to work. With this in mind, our office has developed a common-sense proposal to establish the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank. This plan, if enacted, will put hundreds of tradesmen and women back to work making our buildings more energy efficient. In addition to bringing much-needed construction jobs to our state, the Infrastructure Bank will help businesses, homeowners and municipalities save on utility costs. I am very pleased that Governor Raimondo has included this infrastructure bank proposal in her economic package, and that the plan has earned the support of business, labor and environmental leaders across our state. Rhode Island’s unemployment rate remains among the highest in the nation, and no sector of our workforce has been hit harder than the building and construction trades. Rhode Island lost approximately 8,000 constructions jobs during the depths of the recession, and has since gained back less than one quarter of the construction jobs lost.
At the same time, Rhode Island businesses and families remain burdened by high energy costs. As of January, the average cost of electricity for commercial users in Rhode Island was the second highest of any state, and a whopping 73% higher than the national average. Rhode Island’s average electricity price for residential users was also among the highest in the country, and 46% above than the national average. High energy costs also weigh on Rhode Islanders indirectly, through taxes: the Office of Energy Resources estimates that Rhode Island municipalities spend more than $50 million annually, just to keep the lights on. The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank will address both our high unemployment and our high energy costs by putting people back to work making our buildings more energy efficient. Building on the strong track record of the Clean Water Finance Agency, which helps cities and towns fund storm water, drinking water, and road and bridge projects, our proposal will rename this agency the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank (it already funds more than just water projects) and add new programs devoted to improving our state’s energy efficiency. The first new program will fund energy retrofits for public buildings. By taking advantage federal funds for energy
I am very pleased that Governor Raimondo has included this infrastructure bank proposal in her economic package, and that the plan has earned the support of business, labor and environmental leaders across our state. 12
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Seth Magaziner | GENERAL TREASURER
urer Seth Magaziner
nfrastructure Bank efficiency projects, to which Rhode Island is entitled but has not used, we will be able to establish this program at a minimal cost to the state. An extensive energy retrofit to a building can provide energy savings as high as 20-30%, and every dollar a municipality saves on energy costs can be redirected to fixing roads, improving education or providing tax relief for hard working Rhode Islanders. In addition to a retrofit program for public buildings, the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank will administer a new energy efficiency program for commercial and residential property owners as well. We propose using the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) model, which has been successfully financing energy efficiency projects in other states for years. Under the PACE model, Rhode Islanders will be able to access affordable bank loans for energy efficiency upgrades to their buildings that will allow them to realize net energy savings right away. Should the building change hands, the new owner, who will assume the benefits of the lower energy costs, will also assume responsibility for the loan. This is a simple concept that has been implemented in many states, but not yet in Rhode Island. PACE
relies primarily on private capital from banks, with minimal taxpayer cost. The Connecticut Green Bank has been facilitating more than $20 million of PACE loans to commercial property owners annually since the inception of their program. PACE is working there, and Rhode Islanders deserve no less. We cannot wait any longer to take bold action that will put Rhode Islanders back to work and repair our economy. The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank will do exactly that. This proposal is based on proven models from other states, will be funded almost entirely by private capital and federal funds, and will put hundreds of people to work, while helping Rhode Island save millions on energy costs.
Let’s get started. Seth Magaziner is General Treasurer of Rhode Island, having taken office in January of this year.
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SECRETARY OF STATE | Nellie M. Gorbea
Transparent and Effective Government
i s
g o o d
f o r
by Secretary Of State Nellie M. Gorbea
After weathering a prolonged and challenging recession, Rhode Island is poised to enter a new era of economic growth and opportunity. As I speak with small business owners across the state, from Bristol to Burrillville, I hear a renewed sense of optimism and confidence that we are finally turning the corner. Business owners also tell me that they want their government to run effectively and transparently, and that it offers a level playing field for everyone. That is why I have made reforming our lobbying system a top priority. Rhode Island’s current lobbying laws are well-intentioned, but lack the clarity that’s needed for compliance and enforcement. Furthermore, our lobbying laws need reasonable penalties to deter improper activity and the authority to enforce the law. Earlier this month, I presented legislation that will strengthen and clarify Rhode Island’s confusing and cumbersome lobbying laws while ensuring full transparency in government. The Lobbying Reform Act of 2015 (S 904 and H 6178) will accomplish this by clarifying the definitions of lobbyist and lobbying.
I am working to improve the way businesses interact with government and working to clarify and strengthen the state’s lobbying statutes to ensure transparency.
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b u s i n e s s
For example, a business owner who goes to the State House to represent her or his own company’s interests at a legislative hearing or at an executive agency meeting will not be considered a lobbyist. However, if the business owner hires an attorney or consultant to lobby regarding a proposal, that company’s lobbyist needs to register that relationship, and the contract’s value, with the Department of State within 7 days. This makes it clear that anyone who is being paid to lobby or who is the engaged representative of another person must register as a lobbyist. The legislation was developed with input from a diverse task force of experts and citizen advocates. It replaces existing legislative- and executive-branch lobbying statutes with a single comprehensive statute. This enables us to simplify the reporting requirements – cutting red tape for compliance with the law. The proposed legislation will also provide a solid framework for investigations and hearings, granting the Secretary of State the same subpoena power currently available to other state agencies that regulate industries – such as the Department of Environmental Management and Department of Business Regulation. Finally, it will strengthen penalties to reflect the severity of the violations. In short, it provides the tools necessary to ensure that Rhode Island’s lobbying laws are taken seriously. I am deeply appreciative to the legislative leaders that have sponsored my lobbying reform proposal: State Senators Erin P. Lynch and Maryellen Goodwin, and State Representatives Robert B. Jacquard, Jared R. Nunes, Raymond A. Hull, Arthur J. Corvese and Anastasia Williams. These legislators have joined me in making sure that Rhode Island strengthens, clarifies and ensures transparency around lobbying. Businesses, particularly small businesses, need effective and transparent government in order to succeed. This legislation is a critical and necessary step in that direction. I urge you to contact your legislators and ask them to support and pass the Lobby Reform Act of 2015. Let’s make Rhode Island known nationally as a place that values transparency and effective government.
Discover Rhode Island | SMALL BUSINESS
DiscoverRhodeIsland
A Guide To Travel and Tourism in the Ocean State
42,160 JOBS
direct and indirect – were created by travel & tourism economic activity in 2009.
Tourism generates
$3.88 BILLION for the state’s economy each year.
If tourism didn’t exist, each RI household would pay
$1,349 MORE
in taxes to maintain the current level of state and local tax receipts.*
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No Rhode Islander has more than a
30-MINUTE DRIVE
It takes only this many visitors to pay for one Rhode Island public school student for one year.*
to the ocean or Narragansett Bay.
EVERY 163 VISITORS creates a new RI job.*
* Acco rd i n g t o a 2 0 0 9 st u d y by G lo b a l I ns i g ht , I nc . www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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Newport Mansions
Joe T., Age 44, Cranston
Newport Mansions Local Beaches
Kathleen M., Age 27, Boston
Roger Williams Park
Kathleen M., Age 27, Boston
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Bob S., Age 58, Cumberland
McCoy Stadium
Hong C., Age 28, Providence
Waterfire
Ted D., Age 44, Providence
Local Farmers Markets Angelo M., Age 25,Warwick www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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CAPITAL CITY | Addressing Providence’s Abandoned Properties What Clams Me About SMALL Manage A Remote Worker or Office SMALL BUSINESS BUSINESS || How Dear To Mom: A Taught Letter Home From ALeadership One Day Warrior
PROVIDENCE
AS AN ARTS DESTINATION by Mayor Jorge Elorza
Tourism is one of the largest industries in Providence. Here in the Creative Capital we have so much to offer visitors. There are many wonderful things to enjoy and explore throughout our diverse neighborhoods. Music, art, culture and cuisine are in our DNA. From international film festivals to concerts in the park, gallery openings to the world- renowned magic of WaterFire Providence— you will find that there is truly something for everyone here. We are proud to have hosted the first ever Providence International
Arts Festival this month in downtown Providence. Over the past few months, the City’s Department of Art, Culture + Tourism and FirstWorks has worked with local artists of all disciplines, arts organizations, cultural associations, and community groups to create a can’t miss spectacular experience for all. Artists and guests from all over the world gathered here in Providence to create, play, sing, and explore our Creative Capital. With the large imprint of this festival, it brought a major economic boost for participating and surrounding vendors while showcasing the talent and creative nature of our residents.
ARTISTS AND GUESTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD GATHERED HERE IN PROVIDENCE TO CREATE, PLAY, SING, AND EXPLORE OUR CREATIVE CAPITAL. 18 18
RISBJ | rhode island small RISBJ | rhode island smallbusiness businessjournal journal
We had 18 participating venues, 500 artists including international guests and locals and 30 public art projects for visitors to enjoy. The festival was truly something to remember. Creative place making intentionally uses arts and culture to bring crosssector partners together to transform places. This festival used the city’s neighborhood as its stage and the creative culture as here as a market to draw in thousands of visitors from across the globe. My vision for this festival is that it becomes an annual phenomenon for visitors and residents to enjoy for years to come.
An Industry of Opportunity
by The Rhode Island Hospitality Association
The hospitality industry is an economic cornerstone in the State of Rhode Island. In 2014, the industry provided more than $189.9 million dollars to state coffers in the form of meals & beverage taxes, tax on food service and hotel tax. One of the largest employers, more than 70,000 folks from college students working part-time, to those who make a career in our industry, choose hospitality as an industry of opportunity and advancement. The RI Hospitality Association represents more than 600 foodservice, hotels, vendors and hospitality members in the state of Rhode Island and has been the voice of the hospitality and foodservice industries in the state since 1982. Its mission is to develop and provide programs, services and support to members by protecting their interests, promoting industry partnerships, and provide education and leadership so that members receive a definable value for their investment. Each year, the Association hosts an impressive schedule of events, meetings, seminars, training and education classes, and website communications targeting the hospitality industry. Through its educational arm, the RI Hospitality Education Foundation and Association develops, supports, and promotes career growth opportunities within the hospitality industry to benefit students, organizations, and the economy. It achieves this mission through its focus on career awareness, providing work-readiness training, and offering occupational skills training for youth, unemployed adults, and incumbent employees.
An Industry Of Opportunity | SMALL BUSINESS
This year to date, the RI Hospitality Education Foundation has trained more than 672 students and adult-learners. In its history, this number has reached more than 3,500 students who have taken advantage of classes that span from Hospitality Training, to ServSafe Food Safety Training, ServSafe Online Classes and myriad partnership programs with community organizations. The RI Hospitality Association membership benefits reach beyond training to include an extensive array of cost-saving measures, such as a natural gas and electricity buying program. These offerings have helped save members thousands of dollars annually on their utility bills. Lastly, and perhaps most valuably, members have access to one of the most astute Government Relations teams in the business. Each year, the Association monitors up to 300 bills per legislative season that have the potential to impact the industry and lobbies on its members’ behalf. Deploying a team of government affairs experts, the RI Hospitality Association is constantly on the pulse of impending bills and works to ensure the economic strength and future vitality of the industry. The hospitality industry has been an engine of growth for the nation’s employment recovery for the last several years. Restaurants have been the third largest privatesector job creator since the employment recovery began in 2010. Employers operate under a business model that has encouraged growth and created jobs and has provided the state with a steady and growing revenue stream, and the RI Hospitality Association is proud to be a part of that growth. www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | A Visitor Destination
Blackstone Valley A Visitor Destination by Blackstone Valley Tourism Council
Since its creation in 1985, the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (BVTC) has been a leader in transforming Rhode Island’s Blackstone Valley into a visitor destination – a strong, vibrant region for visitors and residents. Working with local communities, state and federal governments, and like-minded nonprofits and businesses, the Council has not only increased the number of visitors and enhanced their visitor experience, but strengthened the region’s economy, created a stronger, cleaner environment, and improved the quality-of-life for the Blackstone Valley. Through the Council’s efforts they have been awarded several global tourism awards including the coveted Ulysses Prize from the United Nations World Tourism Organization and the Tourism for Tomorrow Award from the World Travel & Tourism Council. No other tourism organization in the United States has been awarded these recognitions. The key to the Council’s success has been quality planning, collaboration, and the use of sustainable tourism principles that encourage historic preservation and responsible destination development aimed at enhancing the environment,
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culture, aesthetics, heritage, and well-being without compromising the Blackstone Valley for future generations. With no mountains or ocean beaches, the Council built on many of the assets existing in the region prior to the Council’s creation: a rich, cultural heritage and historic legacy, ethnic diversity, a robust authentic restaurant scene, the scenic Blackstone River, many parks and recreational facilities, and existing attractions.
The Council’s mission is to create positive change with regard to community values by developing and promoting coordinated, responsible and sustainable tourism in Rhode Island’s Blackstone Valley communities. Recently, the Tourism Council has had special attention on working with the City of Central Falls. The natural, cultural and historical assets of the city, which includes the site of America’s earliest chocolate mill, are deeply woven throughout the community. In reality, Central Falls is the smallest and lowest-income city in Rhode Island, often viewed with negativity and unfavorable preconceptions. Central Falls is a very densely populated and largely low-income community that has had to struggle through local government
corruption, crime, and a poor education system. To assist in overcoming these, BVTC has helped uncover and highlight the numerous assets available, create resources like River Island Campground and Chocolate Mill Overlook, and work to enable the city’s residents to increase stewardship and civic pride. Over the last five years, projects such as these have changed the landscape and outlook of the Central Falls. Now you will see the opening of new and exciting restaurants, cleaner streets and parks, frequent community festivals and events, and the relighting of Cogswell Tower - symbolizing a beacon of hope for the future.
The Council’s crowning achievement, which will lead our region into the future, is the newly enacted Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park – Rhode Island’s only National Park. Through a tenacious effort with several community partners, proper planning, and attention to preserving Blackstone Valley’s historical significance, this sought-after designation – an idea that began in BVTC’s office - was attained in December, 2014. The National Park will continue to come into place over the next few years, bringing in tens-of-thousands more visitors, increased visibility of the region,
A Visitor Destination | SMALL BUSINESS
With no mountains or ocean beaches, the Council built on many of the assets existing in the region prior to the Council’s creation and additional funding opportunities to support further preservation and community projects that will highlight the richness of the Blackstone River Valley. An aspect that people often overlook is the variation in types of tourism management. Similar to a product life cycle, R.W. Butler created the “visitor destination lifecycle”, where a destination’s position on this curve dictates what actions are taken. Some destinations around New England are in the “mature” stage where they can focus with great attention on promoting the tourism assets in place. Blackstone Valley, on the other hand, is a post-industrial area that has had to overcome severe environmental damage and poor public perception. For reasons such as these, Blackstone Valley is more so in the “development” stage. This means that organizations like Blackstone Valley Tourism Council has needed to concentrate on illuminating, preserving, and creating assets; restoring the environment to become recreationready, and shifting residents’ and visitors’ view to one that recognizes Blackstone Valley as a richly cultured and unique destination. We are very proud that international companies like CVS Health and Hasbro have their headquarters in Blackstone Valley, as well as Hope Global and Berroco who keep manufacturing alive in the Valley. Twin River Casino and McCoy Stadium are two of the top visitor destinations in our State, a fact that not everyone may be aware of either. With regard to food, Blackstone Valley has many great culinary treasures like chicken family-style at Wright’s Farm, the Dynamite sandwich (a Woonsocket specialty), coffee milk, maple treats from Chepachet Farms, and the abundance of delicious authentic ethnic restaurants in Central Falls that includes La Casona and Budare Grille.
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Deregulation Of The Travel Industry In Rhode Island – A Win For The Home Team?
Deregulation Of The Travel Industry in Rhode Island
A win for the home team? by Sally P. McDonald, Esq.
“WE NEED FOUR TICKETS,” my mother stated firmly. And then she said it again, and again. My mother is nothing if not determined, and the stakes were high. But although the people she was speaking to were well aware we needed four tickets, they only gave us two. It was 1994 and my parents, sister and I had traveled to Pasadena, California to watch our beloved University of Wisconsin Badger football team play in the 80th Rose Bowl Game. The last time Wisconsin had made it to the Rose Bowl was 1963. Badger fans flocked to California in droves for a chance to see history made once again, this time led by hometown hero Coach Barry Alvarez, who had breathed new life into our college team. In spite of the fact that the opposing team, the UCLA Bruins, played their regular season home games at the Rose Bowl Stadium, Coach Alvarez had assured his kids that so many Wisconsin fans would make the trip that it would feel as if they were playing a home game. And he was right. Tickets were in incredibly high demand for the place he named “Camp Randall West.” Like many others, my family booked our trip with a travel agency. It was a package deal including a flight, hotel and four tickets to the game. Or at least that is what was promised. It was not until after we had made the long trip out that we discovered our travel agency did not have enough tickets to the game for the entire group it had brought to California. The available tickets would be distributed by lottery. “Travel crisis” is a relative term to be sure, but this sure felt like one to four die-hard Badger fans. As an attorney, I found it interesting to learn that only a handful of states, known as “seller of travel” states, have registration programs and financial security requirements for travel companies, travel agencies and tour promoters. Right now,
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there are less than ten “seller of travel” states, but the list does change from time to time. For example, Rhode Island used to be a “seller of travel” state, but no longer is. At one time, Rhode Island had what some considered the most stringent law in the country regulating travel agents, which included a licensing exam, disclosure requirements and a bond requirement. The bond requirement was available to damaged consumers after all legal remedies had been pursued. However, this law was repealed by House and Senate bills and Governor Donald Carcieri in 2008. At that time, the Governor issued a Commercial Licensing Bulletin, entitled “Deregulation of Travel Laws,” stating that “Travel Agencies, Managers and Agents no longer require a license or bond to conduct travel business in the state of Rhode Island.” Whether that is a good or a bad thing depends on who you ask. Critics of “seller of travel” laws argue that the laws do nothing to protect consumers, but do a lot to discourage people from exercising the freedom to create their own jobs. The old Rhode Island law required a $10,000 bond, which may have been out of the reach of some would-be travel agents. On the other hand, should the entire industry be totally unregulated by Rhode Island law? Thankfully, my family’s travel story had a happy ending. In the parking lot of the Rose Bowl stadium, we found a student selling two tickets in the UCLA student section. Surrounded by UCLA students, my dad and I watched the incredible fourth quarter running touchdown by Darrell Bevel which sealed the deal. Wisconsin won 21-16 and we were there to see it… “Crisis” averted. If you have questions or would like to speak to a member of the PLDW Team, please call Attorney Sally P. McDonald at 401-824-5100 or email smcdonald@pldw.com. Sally P. McDonald, Esq. Attorney Pannone Lopes Devereaux & West LLC
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | South County Tourism Council
South County T The South County Tourism Council (SCTC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated bringing voice and visuals to inspiring visitors to vacation in the destination South County which includes the townships of Charlestown, Coventry, East Greenwich, Exeter, Hopkinton, Narragansett, North Kingstown, Richmond, South Kingstown, West Greenwich, and Westerly. We are a natural environment versus a built environment, positioned as a leisure travel destination. Tourism is economic development and the vast majority of the tourism industry is supported by small businesses in the
southern portion of Rhode Island. South County has some of the largest forests and agricultural area that spill down to 100 miles of coastline, featuring 20 public beaches, 15 museums, 17 public golf courses and endless hiking and biking trails. Unlike tourism offices representing a large or mid-size city, many of our businesses heavily rely on vacationing visitors – especially in the high summer season – producing an integrated marketing campaign. South County Tourism Council is the official agency dedicated to marketing our hotels, businesses, non-profits, and beaches during this high season, as well as creating the only exclusive South County
Overnight visitors spend twice the amount of money as day-trippers; inspirational marketing of the region as a vacation destination is our passion.
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South County Tourism Council | SMALL BUSINESS
Tourism Council Bridal Show in January dedicated to South County bridal vendors – in addition to creating programs that are cross generational in the off season. Much of our programs are based upon solid marketing research. Which in turn produce our award winning publication South County Style a 100-page vacation guide; a year-long media advertising campaign directed to our leisure tourism market; targeted sales efforts; public relations strategy; participation in numerous trade shows; and a comprehensive website/social media campaigns. The SCTC also assists travel professionals including media, tour operators, and travel agents, aid in planning a meeting or corporate event, as well as providing information to the travelling public enjoy our destination. Additionally, the SCTC operates a Visitors Information Center, offering maps, brochures, and information of the humankind. Overnight visitors spend twice the amount of money as day-trippers; inspirational marketing of the region as a vacation destination is our passion. SCTC is funded by the hotel tax in 1986 with the purpose of bringing visitors from beyond a 50 mile radius into our 449 square mile region, showcasing our range of accommodations, events and restaurants, in a naturally beautiful environment is our passion. Small businesses may be aware the programs run by SCTC to market them do not require that they be dues paying members.
PLAC ES TO VISIT W HEN IN SOU TH COUNTY
The Ocean House: The Ocean House is a luxury Rhode Island hotel in Watch Hill. The Weekapaug Inn is the sister hotel to the Ocean House.
Tomaquag Museum: A unique collection of over 20,000 cultural objects along with hundreds of thousands of pieces of archival materials focusing on the Native peoples of New England and Rhode Island. Purple Shell: Traditional Wampum and Native Crafts Tilted Barn Brewery: Rhode Island’s first farm brewery, brewing small batches of hand-crafted beer made with ingredients grown right on the farm.
Theatre by the Sea: Professional level live theatre presented in a Historic Barn Theatre. Operating during the summer months Memorial Day thru Labor Day.
Matunuk Oyster Farm: Matunuck Oyster Farm supplies the Pond to Plate concept for the restaurant, Matunuck Oyster Bar, with fresh oysters harvested right off the waterfront patio in the pond.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory: A 19th Century farmyard shopper’s paradise and international bazaar. A Rhode Island landmark and National Treasure in Charlestown, RI since 1968. Open year round.
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SMALL BUSINESS | WaterFire Providence
WaterFire by Sara Emaus and Melissa Woods
This season marks the 20th year that WaterFire has been positively impacting the city of Providence, individuals from Rhode Island, and visitors from all over the world.
WaterFire Providence is an independent, non-profit arts organization whose mission is to inspire Providence and its visitors by revitalizing the urban experience, fostering community engagement and creatively transforming the city by presenting an open, collaborative art piece in the heart of downtown Providence for all to enjoy. Beginning shortly after sunset, the event involves lighting fires in braziers on the surface of the Woonasquatucket, Moshassuck and Providence Rivers flowing through the city center, accompanied by diverse performances and cultural activities across the installation. WaterFire events draw over 1 million people each year to the city of Providence, encouraging international cultural tourism and helping fortify Providence’s brand as “The Creative Capital.” According to a recent federal agency economic impact report, WaterFire is credited with creating over $114 million in revenue for local businesses every year, while also generating more than $9 million in tax revenue for the State of Rhode Island and supporting nearly 1,300 jobs in the greater Providence community. Every WaterFire event is completely free and open to the public. Each event has various performing artists, ranging from African drummers to ballet dancers, historical reenactors and
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Providence
WaterFire’s signature fire dancers. Visitors can also explore the WaterFire Arts Festival Plaza, a marketplace and showcase for local artists and craftspeople. Living statues, mimes and gargoyles are also popular attractions that come to life shortly after the braziers are lit. While at WaterFire, be sure to visit one of the festival’s many guest stations where you can learn more about the event and what goes on behind the scenes at this remarkable non-profit organization. Almost 90% of WaterFire’s funding comes from private or corporate donations, so please consider making a contribution to help keep the fires burning! Finally, WaterFire is embarking on an exciting new project in the building of the WaterFire Arts Center, the organization’s first permanent home. A multi-use arts center unlike any other in the region, it will host events, exhibitions and performances, and will house both an education center and a visitor’s center. Like WaterFire itself, the WaterFire Art Center will contribute to creative activity within the City of Providence, bolstering tourism and the local economy. For more information and to stay up to date with this exciting venture, visit www.future. waterfire.org. We hope you will join WaterFire at one of our full fires this season. Visit www.waterfire.org/schedule to see the list of this season’s events and more information. Sara Emaus and Melissa Woods Interns WaterFire
All Who Wander Are Not Lost…Explorers Welcome To R.I. | SMALL BUSINESS
All who wander are not lost
E X P L O R E R S
W E L C O M E by Michael Brito
Since I am a lifelong resident as well as a very loud and proud cheerleader of the Ocean State; I would be remiss if I failed to mention that tourism and hospitality is the key to for survival of our little state! So, as this publication’s minority business contributor, I will begin with some fun facts: we now have a population of well over one million, out of which over one hundred thousand firms are in operation! Of those one hundred thousand, over forty percent are owned by minorities; Black, Indian, Asian, Hispanic and women businesses! Yes, that’s forty percent-that’s notable! So what does that mean for the visitors to our little paradise? They have many choices, choices unmatched almost anywhere else in the country! We, as minority entrepreneurs, bring from our root countries, through our vast cultures, an amazing variety of tastes, ideas, languages and foods - Oh, the foods! There are over 3,500 restaurants in our state. How many are ethnic? How about all of them, every one business represents a taste from another land with that special Rhode Island twist. Almost half of the businesses are owned and operated by its original family. That’s pretty amazing since again, half of those
We, as minority entrepreneurs, bring from our root countries (through our vast cultures) an amazing variety of tastes, ideas, languages and foods
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are into their second generation! Our state’s immigrant heritage has been lauded over and over from Italian, Portuguese, African, European, Caribbean and other worldly origins and for good reason-- Rhode Island. The state has an amazing ability to welcome all cultures! We all live and work together and extend our love for small business to those from outside our state; a love that morphs into pride for our products and services. If you’re reading this magazine with any regularity than you know what a resource it is for your growth potential as well as how it helps bottom line of your business. Is this the reason you started your business in the first place? You desired a better way and personal expression of what you believe could be? When my wife and I travel to other places we often deliberately seek out smaller hotels and restaurants and speaking with “locals”. This allows us to not just see a new place, but to really “feel” and experience it for all the beauty it has to offer! The holiday that we should be most proud of as Rhode Islanders has to be the Fourth of July. Since we have the oldest, continuously celebrated parade in the United States, we should be happy to welcome people from across the country and experience the offerings of this amazing state right along with them-- some of us for the first time! The Fourth of July is a celebration of our political and religious freedom and the rights we continue to fight for and should never take for granted. This summer, find a small, minority owned business and support them! And please, enjoy the beauty of the state we all call “Home”! Michael Brito Team Member, Managing the Road Ahead www.managetheroadahead.com
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Tourism Authority Anticipates Promising Start To Summer Travel Season
Tourism Autho Anticipates Promising Start
Summer Travel Season
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Tourism Authority Anticipates Promising Start To Summer Travel Season | SMALL BUSINESS
Discover Newport’s Evan Smith cites increased consumer confidence, rising national employment rates and low gas prices as encouraging signs for a prosperous season ahead. As Memorial Day weekend has recenlty passed by, travelers far and wide are pulling out their luggage for the summer travel season ahead. Evan Smith, president and CEO of Discover Newport, the regional destination management organization for Newport and Bristol Counties, is excited about the many renovations and improvements found throughout the region that will enhance the visitor experience. “We’re all still riding high from the wildly successful Volvo Ocean Race and the many investments completed in advance of the event, including the Newport Marriott’s $35 million renovation, the Hyatt Regency Newport’s $9 million renovation, the $3 million renovation at the Museum at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the multi-million dollar expansion at Newport Vineyards and the many pedestrian and traffic improvements around the city that have our destination looking better than ever,” said Smith. Travel agency AAA predicted that the unofficial summer season kickoff event, Memorial Day weekend, saw the highest travel volume for the holiday
in 10 years. The agency projects 37.2 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home over the weekend, a 4.7 percent increase over 2014. Launching the summer driving season, 33 million travelers will be driving to their destinations. AAA also states that most drivers will likely paid the lowest gas prices over Memorial Day weekend in at least five years. “This is excellent news for our destination as a majority of our visitors arrive by motor vehicle and nearly 35 million people live within a 200-mile radius of Newport,” said Smith. “Last week, ABC News named Newport among the ‘Eight Most Adorable Beach Towns’ in the country, and earlier this year, Fodor’s Travel declared Newport the ‘Top U.S. Destination on the Rise.’ These accolades, in addition to a rising consumer confidence index, improving national employment and what looks to be the lowest gas prices over Memorial Day in at least five years, all lead me to believe Newport and our surrounding communities will have a very successful season ahead.”
Photo Credits: Onne van der Wal - Photo of Coastline_Cliff Walk_The Breakers and Wal_Newport Harbor Jennifer Balch - Photo of Bowens Wharf www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Reinventing, Reinvesting and Rediscovering
Reinventing, Reinvesti
Newport Readies for the Summer Season
The official start of summer is just a short time away and Newport and Bristol Counties is welcoming the busiest time of year with new accommodations, restaurants and experiences. See below:
Attractions: Audrain Automobile Museum: With the vision of becoming
one of the most highly regarded automotive museums in New England, the Audrain collection is comprised of over 112 of the rarest and most remarkable vehicles in history. 222 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, audrainautomuseum.org
International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum: This icon of
Open Oyster: A Newport-based traveling oyster bar. openoysterri.com The Plank: The Newport Marriott’s lobby bar featuring a sculptural reference to prohibition-era. 25 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport, marriott.com/hotels/travel/pvdlw-newport-marriott Rhode Island Red Food Tours: A three-hour neighborhood walking tour combining local history and culture with food tastings. rhodeislandredfoodtours.com The Skiff: A restaurant and bar with spectacular waterfront
views. 25 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport, marriott.com/hotels/ travel/pvdlw-newport-marriott
Newport has just unveiled a $3 million renovation. Multimedia technology is the highlight of the new museum experience highlighted by a hologram of Roger Federer talking about why he loves tennis. In addition to over 1,900 artifacts of tennis history displayed throughout the exhibit galleries. 194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, tennisfame.com
Washington Square Cafe & Baking Company: Serving breakfast and lunch. 22 Washington Square, Newport.
Food & Drink:
Lodging:
Bar 31: A tapas styled bar. 29 State Street, Bristol, bar31ri.com
Gilded: A boutique experience by Lark Hotels offering a modern, irreverent take on Newport’s Gilded Age. Located just off Bellevue Avenue near Broadway. 23 Brinley Street, Newport, gildedhotel.com
Boru Noodle Bar: 36 Broadway, Newport, borunoodlebar.com Bristol Oyster Bar: 448 Hope Street, Bristol, bristoloysterbar.com Chipotle: 11 East Main Road, Middletown, Chipotle.com The Corner Bakery Café: 11 E. Main Road, Middletown,
cornerbakerycafe.com
CRU Café: Purveyor of craft café dining.1 Casino Terrace, Bellevue Plaza, Newport, crucafenewport.com Fatulli’s Bakery & Deli: Newly renovated. 909 E. Main Road, Middletown, newportvineyards.com/fatullis
Hope Food & Spirits: A hip eatery. 10 Broadway, Newport, hopenewport.com
Lil Clam: The smallest’s state’s “littlest clam shack.” 190 Thames Street, Newport. Newport Food Tours: A two-hour tour of Newport restaurants where you will taste a range of high-quality, modern American cuisine with a twist. nptfoodtours.com
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Thames Street Burger Boys: Burgers, wraps, fried dough, dessert and more. 404 Thames Street, Newport.
Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa: The Goat Island resort has completed a $9 million renovation which extends to the property’s 257 guestrooms and suites which now invoke a contemporary, coastal chic aesthetic. 1 Goat Island, Newport, newport.hyatt.com
Reinventing, Reinvesting And Rediscovering | SMALL BUSINESS
ing and Rediscovering
n with New Businesses and Experiences Newport Marriott: A newly revealed $35 million renovation
included all 320 rooms and suites, common areas and function spaces. 25 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport, marriott.com/ hotels/travel/pvdlw-newport-marriott
Retail Stores:
The Sand Dollar: Nautical home décor and gifts, jewelry, accessories, glassware and small furnishings. 54 State Street, Bristol.
Spas & Wellness:
Aqua Boutique: Gifts, Jewelry, and Bags. 295 Hope Street, Bristol.
The Bodhi Spa: New England’s premier hydrotherapy day spa offers therapeutic water treatments, massage and more. 654 Thames Street, Newport, thebodhispa.com
A Christmas to Remember: Christmas comes alive at this store
Inspired Living: A boutique-style retreat center with a focus on
where ornaments, lights, collectibles, and unique treasures all celebrate the season. 172 Thames Street, Newport.
L’OCCITANE en Provence: Natural beauty skincare products. Long Wharf, Newport, loccitane.com lululemon athletica Newport Pop-up Shop: Athletic wear. 106
William Street, Newport.
Marc Allen Fine Clothiers: Luxury clothing and accessories for men. 142 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, marcalleninc.com The North Face: American active wear and outdoor gear company. 64 Thames Street, Newport.
Run Newport: Performance footwear and apparel store. 16 Long Wharf Mall South, Newport.
holistic leadership principles honoring the mind, body and spirit. Located within the Bristol Harbor Inn. 259 Thames Street, Bristol, startlivinginspired.org
The Retreat at Castle Hill by Farmaesthetics: Treatments featuring the acclaimed, 100% natural skincare line that is made locally, loved globally, with organically grown herbs, many harvested from local Rhode Island farms. 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, castlehillinn.com/the-retreat-at-castle-hill-inn-byfarmaesthetics
Tours: 4 Faiths, 4 Landmarks: Experience four of Newport’s historic houses of worship in one comprehensive walking tour. Tickets available at the Newport Visitor Information Center (23 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport) and Bowen’s Wharf Pilot House. 4faiths.org Cliff Walk Trail Markers: Rhode Island’s most visited attraction, the Cliff Walk, now features 16 new smartphone-friendly trail markers along the 3.5-mile path with information on sites along the way including mansions and landmarks.
Return to Camelot: Jacqueline Bouvier and then-Senator John F. Kennedy married at St. Mary’s Church in Newport on Sept. 12, 1953. 80 Memorial Blvd. at Spring Street, returntocamelot.org
Rhode Island’s most visited attraction, the Cliff Walk, now features 16 new smartphone-friendly trail markers along the 3.5 mile path. www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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Take Control with Professional Coaching Looking for Balance in your Work, Relationships or Business? Stuck in the Past? Unsure of your future? Hitting a Brick Wall in Your Business or at Work? Recognize barriers to your profession and career development Discover the advantages of making a change Gain confidence, transform your career and take action
You are ready to take control if you like challenges, are committed, willing to try something new, and ready to accept honest feedback. Mary T. O’Sullivan
MSOL Professional Coach
Encore Executive and Professional Coach Can Help 401-742-1965 Lafayette Mill Complex, North Kingstown, RI
EMPLOYER DRIVEN EDUCATION The Center for Technology and Industry at New England Tech can assist your organization with customized technical training, making your company more efficient, productive and profitable. Graduate resumes and referrals are also available to employers by contacting our Career Services Office.
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To learn more visit CTI.NEIT.EDU or call 401.739.5000 x3345
One New England Tech Blvd., East Greenwich, RI 02818-1258
Professional Coaching | SMALL BUSINESS
P rofessional C oaching by Mary T. O’Sullivan
Hassled by an uncertain and complex work situation? Learn about professional coaching and how it can benefit you. Executive and professional coaching is a process of asking questions that uses plausible suggestions without telling you what to do. Professional coaching is a partnership between you and the coach to help you creatively think through real solutions to real issues, as you define them. The coach’s job is to assist you in the process of self-determined and self-directed problem solving or change, through a process of dialogue between you and the coach. The coach’s role is to: • Encourage your process of problem solving • Elicit self-directed solutions and strategies • Help develop realistic, achievable outcomes How can you determine if coaching is right for you? To determine whether you can benefit from coaching, start by summarizing what you would expect to accomplish. When you have a fairly clear idea of the desired outcome, a coaching partnership can be useful for developing a strategy for how to achieve that outcome with fewer obstacles in your way. Since coaching is a partnership, ask yourself whether collaboration, other viewpoints, and new perspectives are
valued. Also, ask yourself whether you are ready to devote the time and the energy to making real changes. If the answer is yes, then coaching is the right path for you. How is coaching distinct from other service professions? Professional coaching focuses on setting goals, creating outcomes and managing personal change. Professional coaching is not therapy, or consulting. It is the process of uncovering creative solutions to achieving specific goals and outcomes. It is a fluid, inquiry based process.
What are some typical reasons someone might work with a coach? You may choose to work with a coach for many reasons, including but not limited to the following: • Something urgent, compelling or exciting is at stake (a challenge, stretch goal or opportunity) • A gap exists in knowledge, skills, confidence or resources • A desire to accelerate results • A lack of clarity with choices to be made • Success has started to become problematic • Work and life are out of balance, creating unwanted consequences • Core strengths need to be identified, along with how best to leverage them Love your job again with the help of a professional coach. Mary T. O’Sullivan Business Consultant and Professional Coach, Encore Executive Coaching
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Proving Kevin O’Leary Wrong
P R O V I N G
K E V I N
O ’ L E
RI Startup BedJet’s Success Sinc Recently, Rhode Islander Mark Aramli made an appearance on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank to offer investors a chance to partner with his company, BedJet. BedJet is an air-driven climate control machine for your bed. A small motor is used to send hot or cool air under the covers of your bed so that you can sleep at the temperature you find comfortable. If you and your spouse like to sleep at different temperatures, they also offer a Dual Zone system that allows you to set separate temperatures. You can even set the system to blow cool air in the morning to wake you up! So how did Aramli come up with the idea for BedJet? Aramli said he had been thinking about the idea for over 12 years, and finally decided to act on it when his mother was stuck in bed for a couple of weeks after having surgery. His mother
lives in a 100-year-old drafty house, so he said they had difficulty keeping her perfectly comfortable. They tried electric blankets, space heaters, and heating pads, but everything was too hot or too cold or left too many wires in her bed. At that moment, Aramli said he realized he needed to bring his idea to life, and he certainly had the experience required to set off on the right foot. Aramli had been working in the startup industry for years as a consultant, helping companies create new products and bring their businesses to the marketplace. He also worked on space suit climate control for astronauts as an engineer at NASA, which facilitated the design process of BedJet. According to Aramli, the hardest part of starting up his company was finding the money to open his company and still
he realized he needed to bring his idea to life, and he certainly had the experience required to set off on the right foot. 34
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Proving Kevin O’Leary Wrong | SMALL BUSINESS
A R Y
W R O N G
nce Appearing On support himself. “I had to spend every penny of my life savings, borrow every penny that I could, and still work a full-time job along the way. It was a huge gamble, and if the business failed, I would’ve had a mountain of debt,” said Aramli. Luckily, many people were willing to help BedJet get its start. Aramli created a Kickstarter campaign and was able to raise almost $60,000 to fund his company. The Kickstarter campaign was also the reason BedJet was offered the chance to appear on Shark Tank. Producers had found the campaign and reached out to Aramli to see if he would be interested in applying to the show. Aramli applied and flew out to California to present his business plan to the investors. Unfortunately, the investors didn’t make an offer. Aramli says it’s because they didn’t know enough about the industry: “It’s really important to be pitching your product in front of investors who understand your product and market, and it was clear the sharks didn’t understand the mattress or sleep industry.” Aramli might have walked away from Shark Tank without an investment, but since the show was filmed six months ago, he has proven that he didn’t need one to pave a pathway to success. During the filming of Shark Tank, BedJet was pre-
production, but now the company is beginning to roll out their product to some of the biggest brands in the country, including Mattress Firm, the #1 largest mattress retailer in North America, Brookstone, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Berkshire Hathaway Furniture Group, which is the parent company of local furniture company Jordan’s Furniture. “Sales on the website are fantastic…Six months after filming, our valuation is probably five times what it was in front of the sharks,” said Aramli. “I’m pretty confident we are on track to be the Shark Tank losers that laugh all the way to the bank.” As a consultant to startups and a startup founder, Aramli has a lot of advice to offer entrepreneurs. His number one piece of advice? Put off using other people’s money for as long as you can. “The further you can go and the more progress you can demonstrate, it’s less of the company you have to give away for money,” said Aramli. Aramli said it was a blessing that they didn’t give away a big piece of their company to the sharks when they were preproduction because now they are worth so much more. He says the company looks forward to making a profit this year and will be hiring in-state at its Newport headquarters. www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Would You Know What To Do If You Lost Your Job?
WO U L D YO U K N OW W H AT TO D O I F YO U
Lost Your Job? Tips to help you prepare for an unexpected career crisis. by Ted Donnelly
We all know how important it is to be prepared for a fire, flood, or other type of emergency. What about something that seems less dramatic, but can be equally devastating, like unemployment? You can’t dial 911 or stop, drop, and roll, but you can take steps to help minimize some of the fallout from losing your job. 1. STAY POSITIVE. It’s important to remember that the decision was probably based on the economy or other external factors. 2. BE PROFESSIONAL. If you handle yourself with decorum, your employer may be willing to serve as a reference, recommend you to vendors, and even provide assistance with interviewing and résumé building. Plus, as the economic situation continues to improve, who’s to say they won’t hire you back? 3. ACCOUNT FOR EVERY PENNY. Review your terms of employment and claim any money owed to you from bonuses, commissions—even unused vacation. Also, find out if you are
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entitled to a severance package. If not, file for unemployment benefits right away since it may take weeks to process. 4. REPLACE LOST BENEFITS. If your spouse works, see if you can add yourself to his or her health care plan. If not, you can apply for COBRA coverage within 60 days of termination and extend your health care benefits for 18 months. Similarly, you may want to purchase an affordable term life insurance policy to help replace your workplace coverage. 5. EVALUATE YOUR RETIREMENT PLANS. While some employers allow you to leave your 401(k) in place, it may not always be the right move. Have a financial expert look the plan over and see if you are better off rolling over the funds into a traditional IRA or Roth IRA. 6. NETWORK-NETWORK-NETWORK. You never know where your next job will come from, so take advantage of every networking opportunity. Also, be sure to use social media platforms like LinkedIn to help connect with people online and let them know you’re looking. Ted Donnelly, Agent New York Life Insurance
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10 Ways to Boost Heal SMALL BUSINESS | 10 Ways To Boost Health And Activity At Work
In a widely publicized study earlier this year, scientists reported that people who sit for long periods every day have a higher risk of dying from all causes than people who stay active. Very sedentary people, even those who do some regular exercise, have higher death rates from Heart Disease, Cancer, Type-2 Diabetes, and Dementia, to name just a few. Chances are good that you, whether you are an employee or the employer, are in this at-risk category, since 50% to 70% of Americans spend at least 6 hours a day sitting. For office workers, this is particularly challenging because the traditional office is designed around sitting at a desk. The biggest trend in changing our sitting habits is changing what we sit on. We talked about ergonomics in a recent blog post; however, the newest seating options go far beyond the traditional ergonomic chair with its adjustable back and arm supports. Here are the most common alternatives to an office chair:
EXERCISE BALL
That big oversize ball from the gym can give you a
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workout while you work. Staying balanced on the ball keeps your core, abs and lower back muscles active all the time. You can use a standard exercise ball, or upgrade to ball chairs that have bases and backrests.
ACTIVE STOOL
The active stool usually rests on a central support with a seat that can move in any direction. Like the exercise ball, it forces you to sit actively and balance with your feet.
SADDLE STOOL
This stool opens your hips and drops your thighs as you straddle it like a saddle, encouraging better posture and core muscle use.
10 Ways To Boost Health And Activity At Work | SMALL BUSINESS
lth and Activity at Work STAND-UP STOOL
•
Get up, stretch and move around for several minutes every half hour. Many apps are available to remind office workers to take a break. Pick one for yourself, or encourage your employees to get one and use it.
KNEELING CHAIR
•
Have walking meetings; instead of sitting while you’re on the phone or having a conversation with a fellow worker, take a walk while you talk.
•
Get a pedometer or activity monitor. Counting your steps and calories burned every day starts a natural competition with yourself to boost that count every day. You can even start friendly office competitions to encourage more activity.
A stand-up stool has a cushion to lean your hips on as you work standing up. This takes some of the weight off your feet and gives you a change of position. The kneeling chair is more of a posture correction than a genuine sitting alternative, as it distributes your weight between your hips and shins it aligns your lower back more correctly. However, it does gives your abdominal muscles more exercise than a traditional chair.
STANDING DESK
A standing desk takes sitting out of the equation entirely by putting your whole work area at standing height. As an added benefit, many people find that they are more energized, concentrate better, and are more productive when they work standing up.
TREADMILL DESK
The ultimate anti-sitting workstation incorporates a walking treadmill that keeps you not just standing, but strolling through your day’s activities. For any of these active options, you’ll probably want to keep your old chair around at least for a while, so you can gradually build your stamina for active sitting and standing. And if that’s not enough, here are a few more steps you can take to help yourself and your employees get moving:
Keeping yourself active can help reduce stress and improve your overall health. Helping your employees keep active can improve their productivity, reduce both absenteeism and turnover, and make your business a better place for everyone to work. Rob Levine & Associates specializes in Personal Injury throughout Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, as well as Social Security Disability and Veterans Benefits throughout the country. As “The Heavy Hitter” Rob Levine not only works hard on your case, but also believes in making a positive impact in the communities he serves. Through internal resources, education and volunteerism, Rob Levine & Associates strives to help prevent accidents, as well as raise awareness around the needs of our elderly and returning Veterans.
Chances are good that you, whether you are an employee or the employer, are in this at-risk category, since 50% to 70% of Americans spend at least 6 hours a day sitting. www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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SMALL BUSINESS | Personnel Practices: Non-Compete Agreements
Personnel Practices N O N - C O M P E T E by Matthew R. Plain, Esq. & Kristen M. Whittle, Esq.
When engaging sophisticated employees who will have access to confidential information or trade secrets, many employers require the execution of a Non-Compete Agreement. Such agreements generally prohibit the employee from working for a competitor for a period of time after separation from employment. Non-compete agreements can be powerful tools to guard against disclosure of confidential information and loss of customer good will. But if not implemented properly, they may be considered unenforceable.
Non-compete agreements are generally disfavored in the law because they restrict free trade and commerce, as well as an employee’s ability to work in his or her chosen profession. When challenged, courts will
A G R E E M E N T S scrutinize these agreements to make sure that they are reasonable. If a court finds a non-compete agreement to be unreasonable, it may reform certain parts of the agreement, or strike the entire agreement altogether.
When determining whether a non-compete agreement is reasonable, a Court will look at the following factors: 1.
Whether the agreement is narrowly tailored to protect the employer’s legitimate business interests, such as the protection of confidential information and good will.
2. Whether the agreement is reasonably limited in activity, geographic area and time. Rhode Island courts will typically permit non-compete agreements that remain in effect for one year or less after separation of employment. The geographic scope of an agreement will be considered on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, a 50-mile radius may be considered reasonable, such that an employee may be prohibited from working for a competitor in the State of Rhode Island for a period of time after separation. In other cases, a 10-mile radius may be more appropriate. 3.
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Whether the employer’s interests are outweighed by the potential hardship to the employee. Rhode Island courts will look to whether the agreement strikes a
Personnel Practices: Non-Compete Agreements | SMALL BUSINESS
In the context of a non-compete agreement, the employer receives the benefit of the employee agreeing not to work for a competitor. balance between the employer’s need to protect its good will and confidential information and the employee’s need to earn a living. 4. Whether the agreement is likely to injure the public. For example, Rhode Island courts will analyze whether such an agreement will overly restrict the public’s access to certain products.
Continued employment is generally considered sufficient consideration for a non-compete agreement. In order for an agreement to be enforceable, each party must receive “consideration”—meaning that each party receives something in return. In the context of a non-compete agreement, the employer receives the benefit of the employee agreeing not to work for a competitor. In exchange for this promise, the employer must provide the employee with some benefit, such as a cash payout (this usually occurs when executing the agreement upon separation) or an agreement to continue to employ the employee.
In some cases, a confidentiality agreement and/or a nonsolicitation agreement may be more appropriate than a non-compete agreement. Rather than restricting a former employee’s ability to work for a competitor, an employer may opt for an agreement prohibiting the employee from using or disclosing confidential information gained during his or her employment for a period of time after separation. The employer may also require the execution of a non-solicitation agreement, prohibiting the employee from soliciting the employer’s customers and other employees for a period of time after separation. Although Rhode Island courts will also look carefully at these types of agreements, courts may favor them as less restrictive than non-compete agreements. As a practical matter, if an employer wishes for an employee to enter into any of these agreements, it may be best to do so at the outset of the employment relationship, so that there is no dispute about them upon separation.
THIS IS YOUR HEALTH BENEFITS EXCHANGE. YOU SHOULD KNOW HOW IT’S GOING. Be a part of Year Two. Buy your health insurance through HealthSource RI. 1.855.840.HSRI HealthSourceRI.com
Matthew R. Plain, Esq. Partner, Barton Gilman LLP
Kristen M. Whittle, Esq. Associate, Barton Gilman LLP
HealthSource RI is the official healthcare portal for the state of Rhode Island. Copyright ® HealthSource RI logo is the trademark and service mark of HealthSource RI.
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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The Wealth - Health - Wealth Connection | SMALL BUSINESS
Health- Wealth Connection
The Wealth -
by Tim Sullivan
Try saying that five times back-to-back! There is no direct correlation between health and wealth. The title of my article is meant to point out the overlooked contribution that financial instability can have on stress levels, which can lead to diminishing health and wellness. Workplace wellness programs often overlook financial health when evaluating and assisting their employee population. There are some who believe that providing health insurance alone will improve physical health, but a recent study published in the May 2, 2013 edition of New England Journal of Medicine measured the health effects of expanding Medicaid. Among their key findings Medicaid: • •
• • •
Had no significant effect on measures of hypertension or high cholesterol, or on the rates of diagnosis or use of medication for these conditions. Increased the probability of being diagnosed with diabetes…by 3.8 percentage points and increased the use of diabetes medication by 5.4%...but had no effect on glycated hemoglobin (a measure of diabetic blood sugar control). Reduced rates of depression by 9% (compared to the 30% of the control group screening positive for depression) and increased self-reported mental health. Virtually eliminated out-of-pocket catastrophic medical expenditures and reduced other measures of financial strain. Increased health care use, including use of physician services, prescription drugs, and preventive care.
Some of the results were good, but the signs clearly show that health insurance alone does not solve health and wellness problems alone. There are some wellness programs that have taken on the task of integrating an analysis of financial wellbeing into their programs. One of the goals is to demonstrate to employees that good health can be financially rewarding. A simple economic analysis shows that a reduction in activities such as smoking, recreational drug use and excessive alcohol consumption can definitely lead to immediate cash savings that had previously been spent on those activities. A good grasp on a person’s finances can relieve the stress of wondering what the future portends for them, which will lead to lower stress, and will improve their outlook on work, home and life in general. One such wellness program I have run across is StayFit Plan, which offers employee education, motivation and support with both financial health as well as physical health. Companies who successfully integrate programs such as theirs see their employee populations become more productive, as well as healthier. A healthier, more stable workforce can’t help but have a better outlook on the workplace and improve the atmosphere in general. “Employers need to incorporate a shared value incentive approach that uses personal economics (financial wellness) to motivate behavior change and to ignite a progression toward a productive workforce and a successful business!” Lisa Holland, RN, MBA, CCWS, and President Simplicity Health Plans/StayFit Plan Wellness.
Tim Sullivan Life-Panel www.well-track.com
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According to Levesque “We are proud to further our commitment to the State of Rhode Island and offer our customers even more services due to the strong financial resources that Home Point enjoys. We intend to be a major player in the mortgage industry not only in Rhode Island, but throughout Southern New England and beyond”. For More information contact 800-259-3050 or visit them online at www.homepointfinancial.com.
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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Helping Small Business Thrive In Our Backyard | SMALL BUSINESS
Helping
small business thrive F
r o m
O
u r
by Chris Barnett
The Rhode Island Foundation is giving two entrepreneurs in Our Backyard $300,000 grants over three years to pursue their bold ideas for launching new business. The 2015 Rhode Island Innovation Fellowships are made possible through the vision and generosity of philanthropists Letitia and John Carter.
B
a c k y a r d
This is the fourth time the Foundation has awarded Fellowships. Previous rounds generated more than 950 applications. Last year’s recipients were Amy Bernhardt and David Dadekian. Bernhardt is about to launch Colorfast, a state-of-the-art research and manufacturing pilot facility for the design and production of digitally printed fabrics.
John Haley will manufacture a cord seeded with blue shell mussel larva that will enable Rhode Island’s shellfish industry to harvest mussels year-round rather than having to rely on annual natural spawning.
Dadekian is working on the Eat Drink Rhode Island Central Market, which will house a number of food- and drinkrelated businesses, including a public market and commercial production and processing facilities.
“Commercial production of the cord and creating multiple harvests every year will lead to steady employment for many Rhode Islanders, careers for others and recognition of our state as a leader in a modern, environmentally responsible shellfish cultivation industry,” he said.
The Innovation by Design project by 2013 recipient Adrienne Gagnon is helping foster the next generation of Rhode Island innovators. She is designing a set of fun, hands-on learning activities that will help children tackle any challenge they’ve identified,
We envision the Cinematheque as a regional leader in media arts that will enhance Rhode Island’s reputation as an arts and culture innovator The husband and wife team of Daniel Kamil and Emily Steffian will launch the Providence Cinematheque, Rhode Island’s only multi-screen exhibition space and educational facility focusing on first-run, independent film programming; repertory series; film festivals and a curriculum in film history and media literacy. “We envision the Cinematheque as a regional leader in media arts that will enhance Rhode Island’s reputation as an arts and culture innovator,” said Kamil.
in any subject, using the same process that designers use in their work. Three years after receiving one of the first Fellowships, Soren Ryherd has launched three online stores: Felix Chien, a retailer of upscale fashion for dogs; Urbilis, a concept built around high-design garden-inspired home goods; and Slumbersome, which offers an array of bedding, masks and other products for people with insomnia. Chris Barnett Senior Public Affairs Officer, Rhode Island Foundation
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A 30,000-fo SMALL BUSINESS | A 30,000-Foot Business View
W H A T
D O
by Larry Girouard
I had the opportunity to be the after dinner speaker at the monthly Project Management Institute dinner last month, which was held at CVS headquarters in Woonsocket. At a time long, long ago (which means the 1960’s), I was involved in project management as a young mechanical engineer for the DuPont Company in Newark, Delaware. In preparing my 60-minute presentation, I tried to relate my experiences back then with the market penetration work I currently perform for my clients. I challenged clients to look at their businesses from the 30,000-foot vantage point, a concept that is over-discussed and under-used in today’s business rhetoric. What does the 30,000-foot view have to do with project management; a discipline with the foundation of Pert Charts, Gantt Charts, timelines, critical path scheduling, accountability, and so on? Customers see and experience what comes out of the corporation. We as marketers affectionately call this the “Value Proposition.” While customers, other than in retail, visit plants from time to time, non-retail customers do not need to visit the plant/office to utilize corporate services. This is true for organizations like manufacturers, contracted services; plumbers, electricians, building contractors and the like. When customers visit retail businesses, such as restaurants or pharmacies, the value proposition is a more intimate because they are in the plant, but rarely visit the kitchens or the administration offices of these service establishments. OK, so what goes on in these companies that the customer does not see? This is where the 30,000-foot view comes into play because it
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A 30,000-Foot Business View | SMALL BUSINESS
oot business view
O E S
I T
R E A L LY
is these internal activities that support the value proposition, which frames the customer experience. While our businesses are run by employees, in reality business is simply a series of integrated processes driven by these employees. If you look at a business in its simplest form, much like some of the early case studies we were assigned in school, these studies challenged us to think more strategically and conceptually as we brainstormed various business options. By taking out the human element for a moment and viewing your business as a series of mechanical processes, you are able to get a different perspective of the operation. Everything we do in our daily work is a process of some kind. The chart above details a few of these processes. The efficiency of these processes, when integrated together, form the foundation for the quality of the value proposition. The great thing about processes is that each one can be quantified in some manner, shape or form. By quantifying a process using time, money, quality or some other metric, you can measure any improvements to that specific process and also measure its impact on the resulting value proposition. The quality of the value proposition is directly linked to the efficiency of each of the companies processed. The “cause and effect” alignment with the value proposition is direct. Circling back to project management I suggested to the 130 attendees that they consider looking at “corporate value proposition optimization” as a project and set up the same project methodologies that are used for any other project.
M E A N ?
This would include quantifying the current state of the value proposition and then, through internal process optimization, measure the improvement impact on the evolving value proposition. Relating to that old time-tested adage, if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it, quantifying process improvements both validates the work and provides sales/ marketing with a better basis for differentiation. Project implementation has two caveats when dealing with the behavior changes that must accompany process improvement. First, employees need to be empowered to make the changes to the processes that they are responsible for because a top down “command and control” culture will present a very high risk where changes will not be sustainable. Second, any efficiency project (which this would be) must have a job security element attached to it. Better said, management must convey to employees that, as long as they are “on the bus” in supporting process improvement, no one will lose their jobs. Trust in management is the glue that will hold this approach together. The thesis is straight forward: quantifiably improve the value proposition and this will lead to increased market penetration (sales). As you grow, because of the improved efficiency you do not add employees at the same rate. This will drive up the sales/employee and profit/employee ratios, making monies available that will allow management to reward employees for the “gift of efficiency” the employees have worked hard to develop. Larry Girouard Business Avionix Company, LLC
While our businesses are run by employees, in reality business is simply a series of integrated processes driven by these employees.
www.risbj.com | volume four issue six
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To Move Or Not To Move, That Is The Question | SMALL BUSINESS
To Move or Not To Move? T
H
A T
I
S
T
H
by Patricia Raskin
Buying a commercial space, office building or single home for your business is a big decision. The answer in real estate has been said to be in three words: location, location, location! But, there are several other factors to consider in your assessment as well. Here are 20 short questions to ask yourself before you embark on your search: 1. Why are you looking to move the business? 2. Will moving help you gain more space, find a better location or is it a good investment? 3. Will the move bring you more comfort, ease, peace of mind, security, etc.? 4. Is this a sound financial investment? Your real estate and financial brokers can help you determine that. 5. Is this the right time for a move?
The answer in real estate has been said to be in three words: location, location, location!
E
Q
U
E
S
T
I
O
N
6. Are you at a place in your business where having a bigger space will help you grow? 7. Is this the right location to move on? 8. Can clients find your business easily? 9. Is parking accessible? 10. Do you have good business neighbors? 11. Are they friendly? 12. Could you help each other with leads? 13. Will your office provide an inviting environment to meet with clients? 14. Is the space comfortable, warm and uncluttered? 15. Can you see yourself in this new space for at least three years? 16. Will the space provide you with new growth for your business? 17. Do you feel totally positive and comfortable with this investment and new office space? 18. Is this more than just a good business decision? 19. Will this business move improve the quality of your life? 20. Would you be able to love the space you’re in? Your agents and brokers can provide you with sound advice. They will do a lot of the homework for you but after all is said and done, it is only YOU who can say yay or nay. So, take in all the information from your wise advisors, then have a heart-toheart talk with yourself and listen to the answer. Patricia Raskin Raskin Resources Production
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SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Local Small Business Directory BUSINESS SERVICES
DISASTER RECOVERY
The Business Develoment Company www.bdcri.com Peter Dorsey 40 Westminster Street, Suite 702 Providence, RI 401-351-3036
Lynch’s Cleaning & Restoration www.lynchsrestoration.com Shawn Lynch 25 Starline Way Cranston, RI 401-464-8937
Lyoness America (Local Loyalty Partners) www.lyoness.net/us Ernie Pitochelli 130 Darwin Street Woonsocket, RI 401-368-6911
COACHING & CONSULTING Redwood Environmental Group www.redwoodenv.com Contact: Gary Kaufman 10 Elmgrove Avenue Providence, RI 401-270-7000
PuroClean Disaster Restoration www.purocleanri.com Terri Abbruzzese 5 Minnesota Avenue Warwick, RI 401-633-5565
ENERGY Super Green Solutions www.supergreensolutions.com Robert Cagnetta 300 Quaker Lane, Box # 6 Warwick, RI 401-932-1985
FINANCE
The Growth Coach www.thegrowthcoach.com/dmarantz Daniel Marantz 33 Urso Drive Westerly, RI 401-612-4769
J.P. Matrullo Financial www.jpmatrullofinancial.com Jonathan Matrullo 10 Orms Street, Suite 410 Providence, RI 401-276-8788
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Morgan Stanley www.morganstanley.com Rick Bellows 1 Financial Plaza, 19th Floor Providence, RI 401-863-8400
Butler Realty www.butlerrealty.us Jeff Butler 655 Main Street East Greenwich, RI Scotti & Associates www.scottirealestate.com Peter Scotti 246 Hope Street Providence, RI 401-421-8888
DESIGN & MARKETING Artinium, Inc. www.artiniuminc.com Darren Marinelli 5 Division Street, Building D, 2nd Floor Warwick, RI 401-729-1997 Big Fish Results www.bigfishresults.com Tony Guarnaccia 5 Division Street Warwick, RI 401-484-8736
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The Ameriprise Financial Planning www.ameripriseadvisors.com/Eric.Coury Eric Coury 1 Citizens Plaza, S. 610 Providence, RI 401-996-7660
HEALTH & WELLNESS Aflac Allen Miller 29 Crafts Street Newton, MA 02458 617-658-1820 www.aflac.com
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Thrive Networks www.thrivenetworks.com Kevin Ellis 836 North Street, Building 300, S. 3201 Tewksburry, MA 978-243-1432
TIMIT Solutions, LLC www.timitsolutions.com Tim Montgomery 100 Randall Road, Unit 93 Wrentham, MA 02093 774-307-0652
INSURANCE Allstate Benefits www.allstate.com Jeff Davide 98 Hollis Avenue Warwick, RI 401-500-3748
PAYROLL Paychex www.paychex.com Andy Pachomski 501 Wampanoag Trail Riverside, RI 401-663-6677
RENTALS Ocean State Rentals www.oceanstaterental.net Jim Baldwin 530 Wellington Ave Cranston, RI 401-941-4002
SIGNS AA Thrifty Signs www.aathriftysign.com Linda Iannotti 221 Jefferson Boulevard Warwick, RI 401-738-8055
TELECOMMUNICATIONS Wireless Zone www.wirelesszone.com Jason Sorensen 76 Gate Road N. Kingstown, RI 401-886-8484
TRANSPORTATION A Airlines Express Limousine & Car Service, Inc. www.aairlineexpresslimousine.com Virginia Coulley P.O. Box 222 Saunderstown, RI 401-295-4380
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Better ambiance keeps guests coming back. From heating and cooling to lighting, our specialists can suggest energy saving solutions that will cut costs and improve your restaurant’s ambiance.
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RISBJ | rhode island small business journal These programs are funded by the energy efficiency charge on all customers’ gas and electric bills, in accordance with Rhode Island law.