Starting on Saturday, January 6th, 2007, Green Bay Score began publishing a series of article for a new business column in the Green Bay Press Gazette.  Score volunteers serve as authors of these articles.  Copies of the articles can be read and printed by clicking the titles below.  As they are not listed until at least a week following their publication, you may wish to check back periodically to see the topics covered.  Other items may also be added from time to time.

• Tax and Accounting Issues for Businesses, August 5, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Having sold many small businesses, I’ve come across quite a few owners who don’t have a financial handle on their operations.  Often, there is no profit and loss statement, no balance sheet.............
• Legal Issues for Businesses, July 29, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Do I really need an attorney?  That’s a question often asked by participants at SCORE seminars where a section is devoted to legal issues. According to Jonathan Olson, Green Bay attorney and SCORE volunteer..........
• Insurance Basics, July 22, 2010  by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Insurance costs and needs tend to be one of the most misunderstood areas in SCORE counseling sessions. For new entrepreneurs, there is often the impression that business insurance is covered under a homeowner’s policy. 
• Marketing Basics, July 15, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt When teaching business marketing at SCORE seminars, Robert Jahnke, owner of Top Hat Marketing and a SCORE volunteer, likes to ask questions. 
• Finding Funding, July 8, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  “It is probably as difficult to get a loan today as it has ever been.”  This comment was made by KaraLynne Moore, SCORE volunteer and senior analyist at Community First Credit Union, at a recent SCORE meeting.
• Writing a Business Plan, July 1, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Over the next several weeks, this column is going back to the basics, and featuring the topics covered at SCORE seminars.  “How do I write a business plan?” is probably the question most asked by SCORE clients.
• Back to Basics, June 24, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  For the next several weeks, this column will be going back to the basics.  At SCORE seminars, held throughout the year at the Business Assistance Center, the focus is on the general information that an aspiring entrepreneur needs. 
• Father and Daughter Businesses Compliment Each Other, June 17, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Lee Mothes grew up in Sunset Beach, California, one block from the Ocean.  He spent his childhood watching and photographing the mysteries of the water, and was inspired to paint.
• Quitting and Starting Again, June 10, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Last week, this column began following the journey of Mary Wolff, owner of Honest Pet Products.  Having seen her pet Yorkies get excited about a fabric coaster, she developed an eco-friendly line of cat and dog toys. 
• Business Idea Came From Pets, June 3, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt About a year ago, Mary Wolff of Green Bay flung a fabric drink coaster across her living room.  Like a Frisbee, it sailed toward her two Yorkies, Willie and Sophie.  As her pets excitedly played fetch, Wolff was amazed.
• Crowdsourcing is Effective Strategy, May 27, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt When a SCORE client needed a business name, students of Paul Lotto, a SCORE volunteer and Marketing/ Business Teacher at Ashwaubenon High School, put together a list of creative possibilities. 
• Build Loyalty with Customers, May 20, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Many businesses spend their marketing budgets on advertising for new customers.  That’s an important part of the plan, but given the cost of attracting new customers, doesn’t it make sense to spend some of the budget on building loyalty among existing customers? 
• New Business Presents Business Opportunity, May 13, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt A SCORE client has developed a business that will help other entrepreneurs start their own business.  Working with SCORE counselors in Marinette, a branch of the Green Bay SCORE Chapter, Scott Pristel of Peshtigo has launched Self-DJ (www.self-DJ.com), a portable touch screen jukebox.
• Learning Business from Mom, May 6, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Passion.  Integrity.  Courage.  Loyalty. These are just a few of the words that Valentina Nikolaides uses to describe her entrepreneurial mother, Angelina Cervantes of Angelina Restaurant in Green Bay
• Tips from a Success Coach, April 29, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt In last week’s column, Barbara Jordan, a new SCORE counselor, talked about the goals and advantages of coaching.  She said that entrepreneurs benefit by learning how to juggle the myriad of different tasks that face small business owners. 
• Get Coached into Success, April 22, 2010  by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt The newest SCORE counselor, Barbara Jordan, knows stress.  As an entrepreneur, her business, AdvantEdge Success Counseling located in Green Bay, helps clients learn techniques that relieve stress and achieve success.
• Audits are on the Increase, April 15, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   It’s tax time, and small businesses have more to worry about than getting their tax returns filed.  Over the last five years, the Internal Revenue Service has increased the hours it spends auditing small businesses.
• Be Realistic Before Starting Business, April 8, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt There are two groups of people that I’d really like to put together.  Those who have just decided to start a business and those who have decided to end one. In SCORE counseling sessions, the difference between the two groups is about as far apart as life and death.
• Do You Know Your Market?, April 1, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt “How Green in My Appliance?  Ask Green Bay, Wisconsin.” This headline, posted on a MediaPost News site, surprised me.  When the same newsletter noted months ago that Green Bay is one of the top consumers of potato chips, it seemed like a reasonable statistic.
• Where are the Grants?, March 25, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  On the SCORE website, one of the articles discusses grants.  “Let’s get the bad news out of the way first,” the article says.  “There is no such thing as free money from the federal government to start or expand your small business.”
• 60 Days to Use Funds, March 18, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   In the past few weeks, this column has discussed the use of retirement funds for business financing.  There were two options discussed.  One called for taking a loan from an existing 401(k); the other for rolling over the funds into a new 401(k), purchasing stock in the new company, and using the money without making loan payments.
• Using Retirement Funds as Capital, March 11, 2010  by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Last year, when Jim Constine opened The Vault, a bar and restaurant located at 127 N. Broadway, De Pere, he experienced the same challenges that business owners are having today.  Lenders didn’t like loaning to restaurants.
• Using Retirement Funds as Capital, March 4, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt You might have seen the ads. The headline shouts, “Use 401(k) savings to start a business without getting hit by taxes and early-withdrawal penalties.”  
• Program Seeks to Improve Communication, Feb. 25, 2010  by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Workplace discord is a common complaint among business owners.  The conflict can result in poor employee morale and decreased sales.  Chris Elliott of Prophit Marketing, a Green Bay company, addresses this problem on a daily basis.  He directs the “About Me Card” program that is designed to break down communication barriers and workplace stress by helping employees express how they wish to be treated.
• Know Your Rights in Bankruptcy, Feb. 11, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Since writing about bankruptcy the past several weeks, I’ve had calls from concerned businessmen asking about their rights.  The ready response to questions was that I am not an attorney.  However, because Jon Olson, an attorney and SCORE volunteer, has provided information for the series, he was asked to respond. 
  Coming Back from a Bankruptcy,  Feb. 4, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Robert Jahnke is known to many as the successful owner of Top Hat Marketing and one of the founders of HBBA, a business networking group.  What many don’t know is that Jahnke is also the survivor of a bankruptcy.
• What Happens After Bankruptcy, Jan. 28, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Last week, Jon Olson, an attorney and SCORE volunteer, reviewed the steps in filing for bankruptcy.  While it will provide a fresh start for a business, he cautions that securing credit after a bankruptcy will be difficult.  Is it possible for an entrepreneur to start again?
• Filing for Bankruptcy, Jan. 21, 2010 by  Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt The decision to file for bankruptcy protection usually starts with a visit to an attorney’s office. Last week’s column looked at the warning signs for a struggling business, and what happens when it doesn’t look like recovery is a possibility.  This week, Jon Olson, a Green Bay attorney and SCORE counselor, reviews the process.
• Warning Signs for a Business, Jan. 14, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Last week’s column looked at some of the struggling businesses that SCORE has counseled and steps that should be taken to get back on track.  The big question revolves around the potential for turning the business around.  Is there a point when it’s too late and spending more money is ill advised?
• Help Me Save My Business,  Jan. 7, 2010 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Some of our SCORE counseling sessions have been very difficult in the economic downturn, as counselors have tried to assist entrepreneurs who feared losing their businesses.  Many of the stories were very sad.  We talked to broken people who were struggling to fix their businesses and get back on track.
• Quick Cash for Business, Dec 31, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt As the year draws to a close, business owners want to get on solid footing so that they can start out 2010 right.  If cash flow is an issue, Jim Fitzpatrick, CPA, retired business owner and SCORE counselor, has some suggestions.
• Modifying a Business to Succeed, Dec. 24, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   As the New Year approaches, Patrick Long is busy giving his business a new start.  He has changed his business plan and location as he applies information learned in one of the latest E-Hub Entrepreneur classes
• Did You Find Everything Today?, Dec. 17, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  DYFET.  It’s a question that clerks are taught to ask customers.  It’s also a question that few respond to.
• Ghost Tours Prove Successful, Dec. 10, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  When Timothy Freiss visited SCORE a few years ago, he wanted to know if his business idea had a ghost’s chance of success.  He already owned Tim’s Touch-up and Refinishing, but his new plan was completely different. Would Green Bay be a good location for a ghost tour?
• Cutting into a Competitive Field, Dec. 3, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt For a unique holiday gift idea, Ron Tennessen would like you to consider an egress window.  As the owner of Alliance Concrete Cutting (www.allianceconcretecutting.com), a start up company, he thinks it would make a very unique gift.  It would also help him as he works hard to establish his business in a down economy.
• From Job Loss to Business Owner, Nov. 26, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  Sometimes everything just comes together.  You have a pet that you make treats for and other people start asking for them.  You have extensive experience in sales and marketing.  Sales of pet products have doubled in the past decade and despite the recession show no signs of slowing.
• Holiday Predictions, Nov. 19, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  For some clients visiting SCORE recently, the holiday season is scary.  Many businesses, especially in the retail sector, earn as much as 75 percent of profits in the last few months of the year.  It is something they count on in to stay in business.  But this year, the predictions have been less than optimistic. 
• The SCORE Vision, Nov. 12, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  When SCORE counselors from around the state met in Stevens Point last week, the directive from the national office was clear.  It is time to think differently about every aspect of how SCORE does business.  It is time to make changes that will transform the number of people SCORE helps and our effectiveness.
• Perfect Networker November 5, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   As few weeks ago, Joyce Nelson, owner of Joyce Ventures (www.joyceventures.com) talked about dedicating her career to appreciation and relationship marketing.  Although she sees the benefit of personal, face-to-face contact, she has also become a strong advocate of building a global network of support...........
• Appreciation Tips October 29, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  After last week’s column on appreciation marketing, a business owner remarked that it was another expense that his business couldn’t afford.  It was an interesting comment given that the column tried to emphasize that it costs much less to keep customers and employees than to find new ones.
• Using Social Media for Research October 15, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  In the past few weeks, this column has focused on the importance of research.  SCORE clients are encouraged to gain solid information before starting a new business.  It is vital to know the demographics, psychographics, and spending habits of an area as an indication of whether or not there is........................
• On-Going Research Benefits  Oct. 10, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   In last week’s column, David Wegge, owner of Wegge Strategic Research, talked about the importance of research for start-ups.  What about existing businesses?  Do they need to continue budgeting for market research?”
  Beyond Demographics, Oct. 3, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt In the past few weeks, this column has reviewed the importance of demographic data in making business decisions.  While many businesses use only this type of information, David Wegge, owner of Wegge Strategic Research and operator of the Survey Center at St. Norbert College, takes research to the next level.
• Using Customer Information, Sept. 26, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Last week, Jessica Beckendorf, Associate Vice President of Economic Development for Advance, talked about the necessity of doing research prior to selecting a business location. She said that entrepreneurs should compile information both before opening and routinely through the life of the business.
• Column Finding the Right Location, Sept. 19, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt A few weeks ago, the topic in this column was the importance of making educated decisions rather than emotion-based choices.  One of the examples was of an entrepreneur who was convinced a location was great, but never reviewed hard data that might have prevented her from making a bad selection.
• Building Your Business on a Card, Sept. 12, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Jim Overly, co-owner of Cyber Works, impressed SCORE counselors when he spoke to the group aut computer systems.  Because it can be a technical subject for novices to grasp, he did his best to use understandable terms.
• Be Open to Advice, Sept. 5, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt In SCORE counseling sessions, some of the hardest clients to work with are those who already know the answer.  They are sure that their business idea will succeed and have come to SCORE for additional verification.
• SBA Loans are an Option, Aug 29, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt A client called the other day and said he was trying to get one of the new SBA ARC loans.  Despite the fact that he met the loan criteria, he had called more than a dozen lenders with no success.
• Finding Funds is Challenging, Aug. 22, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt At SCORE counseling sessions, one of the most asked questions is, “Where do I get money to start my business?”  The answer can be discouraging.
• Necessary Marketing Ideas, Aug. 15, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Jewelry stores are among those that have been hardest hit in the recession.  Likewise, upscale retailers and sellers of large ticket items like furniture have suffered.
• Necessary Marketing, Aug. 8, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  In last week’s column, it was noted that the businesses that thrive in a recession are typically those that customers consider necessary.  Knowing this, what can a business do to promote its products and services if they are considered to be wants rather than needs?
• Necessary Businesses Thrive, Aug. 1, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt After writing about the success of the Wine Cellar a few weeks ago, I received a letter from a former auto supplies store employee.  He said he wasn’t surprised that liquor sales were good.
• Adaptation Key to Success, July 25, 2009 by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Dale Olson and Mike Wagner came to SCORE a few years ago with a well-researched business plan.  As engineers, Olson and Wagner are analytical people who left no stone unturned in planning their business.
• Business Thrives in a Growing Industry  by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Lew Hinnendael looks up as the door to his Cellular Systems store opens.  “Hello, Paul,” he says.  “How’s that Motorola phone working for you?
• ”Liquor Stores Recession Proof by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - In a bad economy, consumers tend to cut down on non-essential purchases.  While that hurts many traditional retailers, most liquor stores are finding that they are benefiting from the recession. 
• Fix-it Businesses Boom   by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - In tough times, some people find that the best place to find something to wear is in their closet.  As customers cut back on the purchase of new clothing, many are opting to extend the life of their current wardrobe.
• Greener and Better by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - Start with a person who is concerned about the environment, add a group of consumers who feel the same, and come up with a business concept that will provide a great product that helps the environment.
• Back to the Basics by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - Some trend spotters call it Credit Crunch Couture.  Others refer to it by the simpler term of Back to the Basics.  It is a broad trend where many businesses are finding success. 
• Success in Construction by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - The construction sector has been one of those hardest hit by the recession.  With declines in housing starts and commercial projects along with accompanying job losses, many construction companies find themselves struggling to hang on. 
• Outsourcing Business Services by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - When Amy Eliason was operating a restaurant, she used a payroll service that she considered absolutely vital.
• Success as an Outsourcer by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt - According to Wikipedia, outsourcing is essentially a division of labor.  Businesses turn over parts of their operations to outside experts who can do it better or less expensively.
• Trend Responding by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt “If I hear the words ‘this economy’ one more time, I think I’m truly going to scream.  I’m not one to scream at the television – or talk back to the television when they are saying something I think is utter BS, but THIS…this passive victim thing we are doing to ourselves is really making me insane.
• Great Time for Starting a Business? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt “I’ve lost my job.  Maybe I should start a business.”  That thought is being voiced more and more by those who find themselves unemployed.
• Mom Creates Business to Be Home by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   Ruth Fett is a single mom with eight children ages 10 to 16.  The kids have interests ranging from drama to sports to leadership.  That means a full calendar of activities that Fett wants to attend.
• Social Media Assistance by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt As entrepreneurs look to SCORE for advice, we are finding increasingly that there is confusion regarding the utilization of these and other social marketing sites.
• Upcoming Seminars by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt “I’ve lost my job and need to buy a business,” a caller to my office said recently.  With a sense of urgency and sometimes desperation, many unemployed workers are considering a business.
• Survival Tips by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt “No doubt, the road may be hard for some time yet.  Remember, your immediate goal is survival.”
• Social Media by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt“In 30 to 45 minutes a day, I can post two blogs and add a picture to Flicker and do a Tweet that refers people back to a blog or Flicker.”
• Linking In by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Many of our SCORE clients have been asking about the benefits of online social networking for professionals.  Especially for those already in business, they’ve heard that they should be active in this area, but aren’t certain how to get started.  Now, a Green Bay couple is trying to make it easier to participate.
• Where’s My Stimulus? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt At recent SCORE counseling sessions, we’ve had several clients ask for assistance with an on-going business.  Because of the recession, some owners are finding it difficult to hang on to a business that they love. 
• Pets Needed by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Troy Pahnke and Hannah Witek need your business.  Specifically, they need your cats and dogs and horses and whatever other pets you have.  They’ve done their research, and their business, AWOL Pet Sitting Services, is open. 
• Marketing with Community Involvement by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Leesha Rieder, owner of Kids on the Move, decided early on that community involvement would be a vital part of her marketing.  Performing at various locales would serve a number of purposes. 
• Advisory Boards by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Most people like to help other people.  We find that at SCORE where experienced business professionals volunteer their time to offer advice.
• Bad Economy, New Business by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  The economy might be scaring away some potential entrepreneurs, but not Jim Constine Jr.  He fulfilled a life-long dream last week when he opened the doors on The Vault, 127 N. Broadway, De Pere.
• Anticipate Trends by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt A business owner recently defended a marketing decision based on the fact that it always worked in the past.  He was certain that the campaign was sound and he was likely a victim of bad economic conditions.
• A Business Built on Love by Tina Dettman-BielefeldtIf your Valentine’s Day includes a wedding proposal, you might be interested in knowing that a wedding for 250 people takes a minimum of 100 hours to plan.  That information comes courtesy of Seize the Day, an event planning and rental company that opened for business in April 2006.
• Accelerate Your Business by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   The news has been daunting.  Small business lending has dropped 57% and unemployment is at the highest level in 45 years.  It’s no wonder that small business owners feel pessimistic about the outlook for their business.
• On-Air Advice by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  If you have a little extra time on a Saturday morning, consider tuning into BizTalk from 9 to 10 a.m. on WHBY 1150AM.  Sponsored by the Fox Cities SCORE Chapter and the Venture Center at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, the show has been a source of information for businesses since 2002.
• Positive Networking by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  With the downturn in the economy, some business owners are finding it hard to get excited about going to work.  It’s common to hear an owner say that they’re missing their usual drive and just don’t feel like hitting the pavement in search of new business.  If there was ever a time when networking should be prescribed, it’s now.
• Not Everyone Should Go in Business by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  The Green Bay SCORE Chapter’s database from the past few years lists well over 1,000 clients.  Many are aspiring entrepreneurs who came to a counseling session with an idea or a dream.  For the majority, the meeting was the end of the process.
• Where’s the Cash? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   A business owner called the SCORE office a few weeks ago wondering what happened to his profit.  His Income and Expense Statement showed that he was making money, but he wasn’t seeing the cash.  Where did it go?
• Resolve to be Better by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   One of my favorite restaurants was bumped way down on my list last week.  In an effort to increase profit, the restaurant is charging extra for things that used to be included with a meal.  I don’t like coleslaw, and wanted to substitute a different side item. “That’ll be an extra dollar,” the server reported.  “We no longer allow substitutions unless you pay extra. And, if you want more bread, that’ll be an extra buck fifty.”
• Translating to Success by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  In SCORE counseling sessions, we occasionally encounter communication barriers.  One of the clients might not speak English, but still wants to be part of the business planning process.  In the past, clients had to bring along a translator or try to communicate in another manner.  Not any more.
• Tailgating Spurs Business When Michael Koenig met with SCORE counselor Jill Rodrian, she liked his idea so much that she placed an order from his concept drawing.  Koenig, a fan of tailgating parties, had been frustrated by the process of gathering all the items needed for a party.  In response, he developed a tailgating kit..........
• Last Minute Marketing by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Iif your business depends on the months of November and December to turn a profit, you could be feeling the stress of needing to capitalize on last minute sales.  Robert Jahnke, owner of Top Hat Marketing and a SCORE volunteer, recommends action over panic.  He says that it’s not too late to adjust your marketing plan
• Time for Price Cuts? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt   It’s one of the most difficult decisions for business owners.  Especially in this uncertain economy, how does an owner decide when it’s time to cut prices?  And, how far can prices be cut without sacrificing any profit that the store might make?
• Regular or Full Price? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  A few weeks ago, a person wrote to the Press-Gazette Opinion Page and suggested that retailers would be smart to ignore the price cutting efforts of their competitors this holiday season and sell at full price.  The author reasoned that the price-cutting stores would eventually put themselves out........
• Guerrilla Marketing by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt Holiday shopping has started in earnest, and small businesses are looking to attract as much of that business as possible. Al Lautenslager, author of Guerrilla Marketing in 30 Days and a SCORE seminar presenter, believes that effective marketing is the key to success.
• Holiday Sales to Climb by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt It’s not hard for small businesses that depend on holiday sales to feel scared this year.  An abundance of reports predict a tough year and slow economic recovery.  But, how bad will it really be?
  Make Your Business Better by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  Learning how to make your business better is important even if you’re already recognized as a good business.  The Better Business Bureau has added educational opportunities to meetings, and as a result, has forged a relationship with SCORE to provide programs
• Is it Feasible? by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  When an entrepreneur has an idea for a business, there is uncertainty.  Is there a need for the business?  Is there a market for my product?  Can I make a living if I quit my job?  Asking these questions is a vital part of the process and a step that Andrew Clark, manager of NWTC’s Center for Entrepreneurship..
• A One-Man Band by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  The one-man band is an impressive sight.  Juggling numerous musical instruments simultaneously with use of hands, feet, and limbs, the expert musician will somehow make all of the sounds come together perfectly.  The difficulty of doing so many things at once is a task that is often faced by business owners.
• Positive Direction by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt "With all of the bad news being reported in the media, an entrepreneur can get swallowed up in the negativity.  Richard Roberts, a SCORE counselor and owner of Certified Inspections and Consulting, knows what it like.  He also knows what to do about......." 
  Local Shopping; On-Line Buying by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt "When visiting Olson Sales in Green Bay recently, I remarked to Dan Gussert, one of the owners, that he seemed to be very busy.  He was quick to point out that being busy doesn’t necessarily mean that business is booming........."
  Growing Your Business by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt "Janet Thibert believes that new business owners sometimes need to take a step backward before going forward". 
• SCORE Seminar Planned by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt "Jim McCormick, SCORE volunteer and past Chapter Chair, thinks that planning and research is the best........"
• Responding to a Breach - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  ("The past few weeks have dealt with the problem of identity theft and how businesses can protect personal information by developing a solid security plan.   What happens if, despite your best efforts, a breach occurs?")
• Securing Customer Information - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  "Last week’s column focused on the growing problem of identity theft and the responsibility of business owners to secure personal information collected from customers.  Failure to comply with laws governing the way businesses secure information could result in huge fines........."
• Safeguarding Your Customers - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt ("Consumers are growing increasingly cautious about providing personal information.  Identity theft has become a staggering problem with a new victim every three seconds.  To date, statistics estimate that there have been 10 million victims with estimated losses totaling $50 billion.")
• Pick a Business You Love - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  ("Recently, a couple visited SCORE to talk about starting a new business.  They were planning a service business and wanted to learn how to write a business plan.")
• SCORE Seminar Planned - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  ("Jim McCormick, SCORE volunteer and past Chapter Chair, thinks that planning and research is the best way for a new business owner to be successful. “The only entrepreneurs that can skip this important step are those that can afford to fail,” he says.")
• A Matter of Security - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  ("When Jerry and Janet Stephani started their business, Security Shredders, 12 years ago, the first challenge was to prove a need for their services.  They had read an article in the business section of the newspaper featuring a company from California that was doing shredding and were impressed.")
• Treat Employees with Respect - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (“Everyone wants to be treated with respect.  When anyone sees someone else being treated disrespectfully, you automatically sympathize with the person getting yelled at, regardless if they deserve it or not,” says Paul Lotto, a SCORE volunteer and Marketing/ Business Teacher)
• A Matter of Security - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt-(“It was hard to convince people in 1996 that disposing of secure information was vital in order to protect a business,” Janet noted.  “This was before identity theft and the need to recycle become major concerns. We were the first business in Northeastern Wisconsin to offer on-site shredding.”)
• Should I Do This? - By Christine Harkness (Thinking about starting your own business?  Here are some things to consider.)
• Back To Basic (Part I) - By Christine Harkness (Starting a business? Look at the who, what and where.)
• Back To Basic (Part II) - By Christine Harkness (Starting a business? Look at the when, why and how.)
• The Devil is in the Details- by Christine Harkness (Why do I need a business plan?  What is it anyhow?)
• Walk With Me- By Christine Harkness (The benefits of workshops.)
• Understanding Business Entities -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (The business entity is an important decision. Here's help.)
• Improve Cash Flow with These Simple Steps - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Steady flow of cash is vital to survival.)
• Build Your Business Partnerships Carefully - By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Lots of issues to considered in a partnership.)
• Sources of Financing for Your Business -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Finding financing is difficult for starting business.)
• A Guide to Inventors -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (You've have an idea or invention.  What is the next step?)
• What's My Age Again? -By Chistine Harkness (With age comes experience and with experience comes opportunity.)
• Budgeting Your Time Talent and Treasure -by Chistine Harkness (establish a budget as part of your overall business plan.)
• Ya Win Some, Ya Loose Some -by Christine Harkness (When I’m in control I’m responding and when I’m not, I’m reacting.)
• Don't Wait to Deligate- By Christine Harkness (The concept of working “smarter not harder” is the premise of delegating.)
• Rules are Rules -By Christine Harkness (Guidelines, rules, laws policies and procedures are not all the same.)
• To Franchise or Not to Franchise -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (91% of franchises are in business after seven years.)
• Protect Your Business from the Unexpected -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Things happen.  Are you ready?)
• What Does the Bank Want From Me? -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Go prepared, do your homework, develop a plan.)
• Keep Your Best Employees -By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (... make your employees feel valued)
• Communications, More Than Just Words- Part 1 -By Chistine Harkness (Create an environment where your customers can be comfortable)
• Communications, More Than Just Words- Part 2 -By Christine Harkness (Get people IN and keep them coming BACK)
• Communications, More Than Just Words- Part 3 - By Christine Harkness (Communication doesn’t just happen)
• Fathers Day Tribute -By Christine Harkness (What happen's when dad and son are in business together?)
• Two Sides To Every Story  -By Christine Harkness (Listen with your head and your heart)
• Creating a Network- By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt  (view as html)[pdf]   (view as html)(Networking includes a variety of activities and oganization possibilities.)
• Going Global -By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (There are many worldwide opportunities to expand small businesses into other countries.)
• Use Your Business Plan -By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Mach IV's business plan has been a valuable asset through the start-up phase.)
• It Takes More than a Loan  -By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Work closely with your lender to ensure that your business utilizes all the appropriate services.)
• Avoiding Frivolous Lawsuits -By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (There are a variety of actions and insurance that can reduce your risks.)
• Customer Service Part I (First of Three Part Series)-By: Christine Harkness (Not all “senior citizens” are named “sweetie,” “hon” or “dear.”)
• Customer Service Part II What are consumers looking for? By: Christine Harkness ( Quality, respect and service...  and more.)
• Customer Service Part III: The role the customer plays…By: Christine Harkness (Too many customers think they are somehow entitled to behave poorly..)
• From who’s the boss to you’re the boss…By: Christine Harkness (Business ownership included lessons in patience and perseverance, but nothing could compare with having employees.
• Thank your employees…By: Christine Harkness (Contributions workers make to the strength, prosperity and well-being of your company entitles them to your respect.) 
• Inheriting a Business By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt ("I’ve learned .... there are no problems, only solutions. We’ve turned the business around...")
• Full-time Job; Part-time Business By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (If you don’t really love what you’re doing, you’re going to burn out fast)
• Pre-paid Legal or Personal Attorney? By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (... if you’re looking for limited service, prepaid legal could be a good option for your business.)
• Minority Businesses Should Get Certified By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (.... you’re wondering what and where the advantages are. ....   You’re qualified, but you aren’t on the list.)
• Taking a Business to the Next Level By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (It's a small business on the side ... then ..  it becomes a decision.  Can I quit my job and make a living at my business?)
• Learn From Business Mistakes:  Part I  By: Christine Harkness (Each mistake is an opportunity to learn, to make adjustments and to be given another chance.)
• Learn From Business Mistakes:  Part II  By: Christine Harkness (Being wise means thinking outside the box and admitting to mistakes.)
• Learn from Others: PART I By: Christine Harkness (“What drives people to take on the challenge of starting up or continuing a business?”)
• Learn from Others: PART II  By: Christine Harkness (See more of the survey results.  What drives people to take on the challenge of starting up or continuing a business?)
• Ambition…Where it starts… By: Christine Harkness (Key words .....  found to be factors in leading to personal business success.)
• Loans For Vets  By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (SBA has a new loan program to assist vets who have an entrepreneurial spirit. Known as the Patriot Express it has higher bank guarantees and streamlined paper work.)
• You have a business to run By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Christine Harkness[SCORE member & Author] has published a book entitled Don't Just Stand There -- You have a business to run! Tina higlights the books wisdom in her review)
• Conserving Energy By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (There is more to conserving energy than turning down the thermostat.  With energy cost being one of the top 5 business expenses it is an opportunity waiting to happen)
• Seven Steps to Selling By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (In every business a goal is to increase the sales of the business but the most important skill to do this is not actually taught to employees. Selling is a learned skill.)
• Act at the First Sign of Business Weakness By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Waiting until the business is experiencing significsnt losses and accumulating debt is often too late.  Good business practices dictate immediate action.
• Gifts that keep on giving  By: Christine Harkness (... greatest gifts my parents gave me were the love of learning, the confidence to take risks and endless opportunities to play.  What experiences ..  traits ... set you apart?)
• Don't stop believing By: Christine Harkness (... they are more than capable of closing the gap between .. dream and reality. ... faith in what they can accomplish and believe ..are not given a dream without ... the power.. )
• Interviewing and Hiring By: Christine Harkness (I developed a four step interviewing process ... an informed decision regarding each applicant.  .. time consuming ... a combination of ..phone and face to face interaction)
• Practice Practice Practice By: Christine Harkness (Practice is the opportunity to work on and refine our skills. Practice is the preparation for actual competition.  On game day you anticipate seeing the results of that work.)
• All’s well that ends well By: Christine Harkness ( Remember when we won the Super bowl in ’97 and the banners throughout town read, “The Journey is the Reward?”  They weren’t kidding…what a ride it’s been!)
• Obtaining a Grant By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Where can I get a grant to start my business?”.... it’s one of the most common questions asked. .... his answer isn’t what the client wants to hear.)
• Working with the Family By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (We often hear about the difficulties of being in business with family members, but when the dynamics are right, it can be a very positive experience.)
• Promoting Valentine’s Day By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Valentine’s Day ..... presents a challenge for small business owners who sell untraditional gift items.)
• Seek Advice and Listen By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Listen to others,” .... “People are more than willing to talk if you’re willing to listen.”)
• Buying into a Business By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Buying a part of an existing business isn’t always a straightforward process.  ... This wouldn’t be a traditional partnership.)
• S.O.S. – SCORE Can Help By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Business people would like to attend seminars, but don’t have .  To meet this need, the Green Bay SCORE Chapter has developed S.O.S., SCORE on Saturdays.)
• Volunteer Your Skills By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (The pay is great. It won’t do much for a 401K, but will do wonders for mental health.  We work hard at for-pay-jobs and gain business knowledge that benefits others.)
• Numbers Are Important By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Oh, so you’re one of THOSE people, You’re just looking for an easy sale.  The numbers are a small part of the value of this business.  It has great potential.)
• Define the Unique By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Consultant would ask, Do you have a unique selling proposition (USP) for your company? A USP is the quality that makes your company unique over your competition.)
• Take your time when naming new business By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (When chosen well, a name can be one of the most important assets of your business. There are numerous considerations. Where do you start?)
• Protecting Your Name By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (You want to make sure that the names aren’t being used by another company, and that your choice will be protected.) 
• The 5 C’s of Credit By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Lending institutions want to lend money because it’s the way they make money.  However, they only want to lend money to a borrower who is able to repay the loan on time and in full.)
• The Value of a Customer By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Often advertising is targeted to new markets without much thought of how much of the marketing budget should be spent to obtain a new customer.)
• Inspired by Mom By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Yolanda Hernandez officially started her business, YoGrafix, in February of this year, she didn’t wonder what had inspired her to this personal milestone.)
• Recession Proofing Your Business By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Kiedinger thinks it’s time for an attitude change.... shake up businesses and challenge them to excel. )
• Coping with Downturns By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (... gather ... discuss “best practices” ... talk is upbeat ... about the success ... share ideas, and discuss the challenges of staying strong during an economic downturn). 
• Continually Fine-Tune Your Business  By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (“Amazingly enough, I’m busier than I’ve ever  ... offer a way for businesses to reach out to customers, attract attention, develop relationships)
• Add Unique Services By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (... sales are up over 50% compared to last year. ... It looks new and fresh and exciting.  It is part of the reason why Linssen has been successful.)
• Doing something you enjoy with someone you love! By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (.... outlining each person’s responsibilities so that there are no surprises later.  ... talk openly, but not all the time.)
• It’s a Team Effort By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Stay on top of what is happening ..... 5 P’s – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. ...relies on her team for innovative ideas)
• Facing Your Creditors By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (... you’re getting further behind each month, and have started getting nasty calls from creditors.  What should you do now?)
• Facing Your Creditors Part 2 By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (There are creditors who will write-off a debt or be very cordial .... There are others who will demand payment now and threaten to turn the debt over to a collection .... ) 
• Disaster Assistance by Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (This was a bad year for weather related disasters,… one of the many Wisconsin counties declared as federal disaster areas by FEMA, there are programs available to assist.)
• A Disaster Plan By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (Many … owners may be wishing that they had plans for a potential disaster …. businesses … in flood hazard areas but did not have flood insurance will not be eligible for SBA loans.)
• Help Existing Business By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (This column is dedicated to these business owners with a plea to municipal leaders to consider the effects on existing businesses before backing new developments.)
• How’s the Competition? By: Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (.... a distraught business owner .... was lamenting a downturn in sales.  “Is the decrease ... an industry trend?”... “How’s your competition doing?”  The questions were greeted with silence.)
• Seminars on Your Schedule. By Tina Dettman-Bielefeldt (www.SCORE.org, .. has 26 on-line courses.. seminars are free in 3 topic areas and 2 languages:  Starting Your Business; Managing Your Finances, and Foundations of Marketing.)  

Upcoming Articles to be posted soon