November 2016, Vol. 12 No. 4

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INSIDE Mendiola Recognized as ASBDC State Star PAGE 2 Meet WIB Speakers: Tricia Oftana and Michelle Rohr PAGE 6 Meet WIB Speakers: Amber Word and Michelle Pier PAGE 7 Meet WIB Speaker: Angelica Paulino PAGE 8 Meet WIB Speakers: Laura Cepeda and Flora-Rose Weakley PAGE 9 Fizz and Co. Opens in PAGE 10 Discover Managing Personal Credit for Business Related Financing PAGE 13 Through the Ambassador Program

By: Jane Ray and communities, it gave her a more marketing, media and public rela- Business Advisor/ profound appreciation for what she is tions, and eight years in the Tourism Training Program Coordinator doing today. and Hospitality industry. So when the (Guam SBDC) Hara has been the Managing Direc- founder decided to sell the company, it The Pacific Islands Small Business tor for LIMA Corporation dba Discover only made sense to Hara to purchase Development Center is a program artha Hara was born in Na- Guam since October 2009. In her ten- the business but she just did not know supported by the U.S. Small Busi- tional City, California and ure, she managed the airport and tour how. She has always worked hard for ness Administration under a coop- Mhad lived abroad-wherever operations, managed contracts for var- other people, but this was her first op- erative agreement and extended to her father was stationed-throughout the public on a non-discriminatory ious clients, and oversaw the general portunity to own a business and grow basis. SBA cannot endorse any her childhood. She moved to Guam, management of operations. Hara has with it. products, opinions, or services of her father’s birthplace, in 2007 to start over 35 years of business operations Hara had several business associ- any external parties or activities. a new journey. Through those travels and project management experience, This material is based on work sup- and experiences with different cultures ported by the U.S. Small Business over 15 years in sales, advertising, continued on page 3 Administration. Any opinions, find- ings, conclusions or recommenda- tions expressed are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Miliani’s Expands Product Offerings

By: Ltelatk Fritz ani’s has been doing really well with Miliani’s turned to Palau SBDC to help Director/Business Advisor clothing and accessories, especially with its expansion in projecting reve- Editorial/Production Staff (Palau SBDC) on special seasons and occasions. nue streams for their new product line Rindraty Celes Limtiaco, In 2015, the mother & daughter and its refinancing loan package. President, G.P.I. ameline Singeo and her mom, entrepreneurs realized an emerging Over a period of six months, Palau Pacific Islands Laverne Merep, came up with niche created by the boom in Palau’s SBDC worked with Ms. Merep pro- Small Business Development Van idea to upgrade the fash- tourism industry. The lodging and ac- viding financial training in building Center Network, ion options in Palau. In August of 2013, commodations grew exponentially Miliani’s historical financial statements Editorial Miliani’s was opened on main street with the influx of tourists visiting Palau. for its current line of products, as well Jae Fermin James, Koror to provide name brand apparel They wanted to introduce a new line of as projections for its new line of hotel Advertising Director and accessories focused primarily for products to its portfolio—hotel ameni- women. For the past three years, Mili- ties. For this new business venture, Continued on page 11 Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ pacificsbdc.com Pacific Business Partners Officers, Staff and Board Members MENDIOLA RECOGNIZED AS 2016 ASBDC STATE STAR he ’s was held on Monday, September Pacific Islands Small 19th in Orlando, Florida at the TBusiness Development Hyatt Regency in conjunction with Center (SBDC) Network Direc- America’s SBDC’s 36th Annual tor Casey Jeszenka announced Fall Conference. America’s Small -Pacific Islands Small Business that Denise Mendiola has been Business Development Center Development Center Network Location: University of Guam, UOG selected as the 2016 State Star (ASBDC) Network is a partner- Station of the Pacific Islands SBDC Net- ship uniting private enterprise, P.O. Box 5014, Mangilao, Guam 96923 Telephone: (671) 735-2590 • Fax: (671) work (PISBDCN). government, higher education 734-2002 “I am delighted to make this and local nonprofit economic de- Website: www.pacificsbdc.com announcement, and to recognize velopment organizations. It is the Casey Jeszenka, Network Director Ms. Denise Mendiola for her ex- Small Business Administration’s [email protected] Pamela Peralta, Ed.D., Associate traordinary contributions to the largest partnership program, pro- Network Director work at the Guam SBDC and to viding management and techni- [email protected] Nicole Tesiro, Network Program As- the small businesses on Guam cal assistance to help Americans sociate and around ,” said start, run and grow their own [email protected] Casey Jeszenka. businesses. With nearly 1,000 Guam SBDC Denise Mendiola is the Senior SBDC service centers across the P.O. Box 5014, Mangilao, Guam 96923 Telephone: (671) 735-2590 • Fax: (671) Business Advisor at the Guam nation, America’s SBDC network 734-2002 SBDC as well as the Bank of last year provided business con- Denise Mendiola, WIB Program Coordinator/Senior Business Advisor Guam Women in Business sulting to approximately 200,000 Jane Ray, Business Advisor (WIB) Program Coordinator at businesses, training to 275,724 Lorie Sablan, Administrative Assistant the SBDC. Denise was chosen entrepreneurs, other forms of Chuuk SBDC by the PISBDCN for being an management and technical assis- P.O. Box 1604 Weno, Chuuk FM 96942 Telephone: (691) 330-5846 outstanding performer for her Denise Mendiola, 2016 ASBDC State Star, represent- tance to approximately 500,000 Email: [email protected] work in assisting clients, her in- small businesses and aspiring Ketsen Haregaichig, Director/Business ing the Pacific Islands SBDC Network takes a photo at Advisor volvement in business related the State Star Reception held at The Hyatt Regency in entrepreneurs all helping to cre- Cassandra Dereas, Office Manager community organizations and se- ate 17,207 new businesses and Orlando, Florida in this September 20, 2016 photo. Commonwealth of the Northern curing grant funding for the Bank 98,660 new jobs! Learn more of Guam Women in Business program. Bank of Guam, resource partners and about the America’s Small Business (CNMI) SBDC our PISBDCN team of professionals, to Caller Box 10007 CK Saipan MP “I am honored and humbled to be the Development Center (ASBDC) Network 96950 recipient of the state star award this whom I am especially thankful. I look at www.americassbdc.org or about the Telephone: (670) 664-3018 · forward to continuing my work to assist Fax: (670) 664-3067 year, “Mendiola stated. She continued to University of Guam’s Pacific Islands Email: [email protected] say, “The work that we do at the SBDC small businesses start or expand and SBDC Network in Micronesia at www. Orrin Pharmin, Director/Business most importantly, help them succeed!” Advisor would not be possible without the sup- pacificsbdc.com. Lorie Pangilinan, Office Manager port of the SBA, University of Guam, A special awards reception honoring the America’s SBDC 2016 State Stars Yap SBDC P.O. Box 1171 Colonia, Yap FM 96943 Telephone: (691) 350-4801 · Fax: (691) 350-4803 Email: [email protected] James Limar, Director/Business Guam SBA Seeks 2017 Award Nominations Advisor Michael Gaan, Business Advisor Geraldine Mitagyow, Business Advisor he Small Business “SBA’s Annual Awards con- The 2017 SBA award categories include: Lona Garayol, Office Manager Administration (SBA) tinues to generate interest Palau SBDC Thas opened the nomi- and excitement in Guam and • SBA’s Small Business Person of the Year P.O. Box 816 Korror Palau 96940 nations for the prestigious the CNMI because we dis- Telephone: (680) 587-6004 · • Entrepreneurial Success Award Fax: (680) 587-1549 SBA Small Business Awards cover great stories of innova- • Family-Owned Business of the Year Email: [email protected] for 2017. The SBA honors tion, creativity and teamwork Ltelatk Fritz, Director/Business Advisor • Small Business Exporter Alfia Alfonso, Administrative Assistant continue to be one of the most focused on excellence. It is in- • Young Entrepreneur of the Year competitive, comprehensive spiring to learn about the pos- Kosrae SBDC • Minority Small Business Champion Award P.O. Box 577, Tofol Kosrae State FM and visible awards presented itive, proactive measures that • Women in Business Champion Award 96944 to small businesses on island. many small business owners Telephone: (691) 370-2751 · • Veteran Small Business Champion Award Fax: (691) 370-2066 With a record of recognizing and entrepreneurs are taking • Financial Services Champion Award Email: [email protected] excellence in small business to sustain and grow their busi- Skiller Jackson, Director/Business • Home-Based Business Champion Award Advisor for more than 26 years, past nesses, particularly with the • Small Business Journalist of the Year Award Sepe Tolenna, Office Manager SBA winners have included economic buildup on Guam PISBDCN Advisory Board outstanding small companies and the CNMI, “said Kenneth Any individual or organization may submit a nomination Lee Webber, Chairman (Guam) such as, Cars Plus, Qual- Lujan, SBA Branch Manager. Mike Ady, Member (Guam) for an SBA Small Business Award. The required nomina- Phillip Reklai, Vice Chairman (Palau) ity Distributors, Kloppenburg “This year, we will be recog- tion forms with detailed information for each of the eleven Casey Jeszenka, Secretary (Guam) Enterprises, Global Food nizing and honoring Guam James Gilmar, Member (Yap) award categories can be downloaded from the web at the Fred Skilling, Member (Kosrae) Services, Benson Hardware, and CNMI entrepreneurs and Pacific Islands Small Business Development Center Net- Mason Fritz, Member (Chuuk) National Office Supply, Secu- champions who have played a Dr. Anita Enriquez, Member (Guam) work site, http://www.pacificsbdc.com/services/announce- Christine Quichocho, Member (Guam) rity Title, Prestige Auto, PROA major role in the development ments, in the Announcement Section. Completed forms Christina Garcia, Member (Guam) Restaurant, Jamaican Grill of their respective economies Dr. Annette T. Santos, Member (Guam) should be submitted to the SBA Branch Office at FHB Ken Lujan, Ex-Officio (SBA) and most recently, ASC Trust and the small business com- Bldg., 400 Route 8, Ste. 302 by 4:00 p.m. on November Corporation. munities.” 30, 2016. For more information, call SBA at 671-472-7419. Discover Lima Corporation dba Guam Discover Guam Location: 392 Pale San Vi- Continued from page 1 tores Road #5, Tumon Guam (Across GVB) Hours of Operation: Airport ates that she approached regarding Ambassador Program – 24/7 investment, but each asked if she Private & Custom Tours – Flex- had a business plan and financial ible, but usually 7am – 6pm projections. As she had never been in Contact Information: Office this position before, Hara sought as- 671-649-TOUR (8687) sistance from the Guam Small Busi- After Hours: 671-685-8687 ness Development Center (Guam Airport Ops: 671-686-8687 SBDC). Hara met with business ad- Website: www.discovergua- visor, Jane Ray, who guided Hara mtours.com with preparing the business plan and Email: marte.discoverguam@ financials required to submit for an gmail.com SBA commercial loan. Her biggest challenge was that she did not own Martha Hara, third from left, takes a photo with the WWII Pearl Harbor Survi- any assets or have a strong credit vor & author of PEARL HARBOR CHILD, Dorinda Makanaonalani Nicholson, dustry. They offer an Airport Ambas- background since her move back to second from left. Guam. Since she could not qualify for sador Program and are available for an SBA loan, Hara had to go through goal for Discover Guam, she plans to Japanese cultures here on Guam. As private and custom tours. For more applying for commercial loan with a involve her children in the business a certified tour guide, I take pride in information, visit www.discovergua- business partner who could offer his so they can continue to represent sharing our island’s history, culture, mtours.com or contact their office at assets as collateral. Discover Guam with the Hafa Adai and beauty with our visitors.” 671-649-TOUR (8687). Hara looks forward to expanding spirit. Hara stated, “Being Guama- Discover Guam is 27 years old, To inquire on the SBDC services, Discover Guam’s tour markets in the nian, Japanese ethnicity I enjoy the debt free, and has earned an award contact their main office at 671-735- short term. As for Hara’s long term environment of both Chamorro and winning reputation in the tourism in- 2590 or visit www.pacificsbdc.com.

Guam SBDC Training Schedule Save your seat & Register Today!

Wednesday, November 16th (8:30am – 11:00am) need to understand how the numbers affect a business. visor/WIB Program Coordinator *Registration deadline 11/15/16 This training will provide a foundation on both the finan- Fee: $20 per person “Fundamentals of Building a Website” cial reports and methodology to develop the numbers for Location: UOG Leon Guerrero SBPA Bldg. Room#148, Presented by Andrea Camacho-Felder, Venture Guam those reports. First Floor Fee: FREE of CHARGE Synopsis: This seminar will cover all of the elements to Synopsis: This session will teach small business owners Friday, December 2nd (8:30am – 11:00am) be included in a business plan, & explain with examples how to take control of their website development using *Registration & payment deadline 11/30/16 at what is required in each section. The focus of the seminar proven DIY methods. It will also run through website 12noon will be the three M’s – Money, Management & Marketing. optimization standards as well as how to utilize content “Intro to Financial Statements” Participants will also be provided with a sample business marketing for organic growth. Presented by Jane Ray, Business Advisor/Training Pro- plan, sources of industry research information, and intro- gram Coordinator duced to online business planning tools that are acces- Thursday, November 17th (8:30am – 11:00am) Fee: $20 per person sible at any time through an internet-enabled PC. *Registration & payment deadline 11/15/16 at Synopsis: This seminar introduces non-accountants to 12noon basic financial accounting concepts, tools and techniques All workshops will be held at the UOG Leon “How to Prepare a Financial Plan” needed for an understanding of an entity’s financial state- Guerrero SBPA Bldg. Room#148, First Floor Presented by Jane Ray, Business Advisor/Training Pro- ments, the importance of timely, accurate financial state- gram Coordinator ments for your business, the basics of how to read each TO REGISTER log onto http://pisbdcn.ecenterdirect.com Fee: $20 per person financial statement, which leads to effective financial con- TO MAKE PAYMENT online log onto your eCenter ac- Synopsis: A financial plan is the heart of any startup or trol plus interpretation of the health of the business. count and click PAY NOW existing business. It is a culmination of the income state- Cash, check (payable to University of Guam) & major ment, the cash-flow projection and the business’ balance Friday, December 16th (8:30am – 11:00am) credit cards (AMEX, Visa, and MasterCard) accepted. sheet. The financial plan is a way to look at a business **Registration & Payment deadline 12/14/16 at through a financial lens, which is the view most inves- 12noon tors or bankers prefer. When preparing a financial plan, “How to Write a Business Plan” it is not mandatory that you be a mathematician, but you Presented by Denise M. Mendiola, Senior Business Ad-

We provide FREE one-on-one, confidential business counseling. Just click “Request for Counseling” on our website (www.pacificsbdc.com) to schedule an appointment. For more information, please visit our website at www.pacificsbdc.com or call the Guam SBDC Office at 735-2590. DISCLAIMER: The Pacific Islands SBDC Network is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Requests for reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. For arrangements, please contact Nicole Tesiro, P.O. Box 5014 Mangilao, Guam 96923, Tel: (671)735-2590, or Email [email protected]. Services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis.

Meet the WIB Speakers: Tricia Oftana, Oftana Solutions

ricia Oftana is a certified Bakeshop. She has streamlined public accountant (Virginia, Oftana Solutions the businesses’ operations and TUSA 2004) and a certified Owner(s): Tricia Oftana cross-trained staff for efficiencies, fraud examiner (2008). Prior to Type of Business: which have resulted in increased opening Oftana Solutions, Tricia Managed Operations, Labor revenues across the companies. held various roles in an auditing Broker An experienced auditor, fraud ex- and financial accounting oversight Location: Cebu City, aminer and chief executive, Tricia capacity. She audited large and hopes to provide some insight that small U.S.-based corporations Hours of Operation: 24/7 can be utilized in your operations. during her time in the metro Wash- Contact information: Oftana Solutions is an on-demand, ington, D.C. area and in Guam with [email protected] permanently staffed, outsourcing several national accounting firms. www.oftanasolutions.com solution. They provide cost-effec- She also served as the financial tive professional services to small controller for Atkins Kroll, Inc. Dur- and medium sized businesses. ing her time with the State of Ha- Guam, she grew up in family busi- They are currently staffed with a waii, Tricia oversaw performance ness, having worked as a cashier, team of accountants, a graphic de- and management audits of govern- cake decorator, administrative staff, signer, a web designer, an autocad ment entities. She is well-versed and other positions as needed for drafter, and virtual assistants to in Generally Accepted Account- Guam Bakery. Tricia has spent the help fill client needs. ing Principles (GAAP) and Gener- last four years heading her fam- ally Accepted Auditing Standards ily’s corporations in the Philippines. (GAAS). They include Oftana Suites, Oftana Born and raised on the island of Building, and Gold’n Fresh Café &

Meet the WIB Speakers: Michelle Rohr Secret O.W.L Society

ichelle Rohr started her year before. personal business jour- Mney few years ago when Secret O.W.L. The Secret O.W.L. Society started she realized that she had just Society out as a blog where Rohr shared lived the same year twice and Owner(s): Michelle Rohr her personal journey toward tak- that it was a mediocre year. This Type of Business: ing 100% responsibility for her was not okay with her and at that Graphic Design life. This mission has grown into Location: Virtual moment she became determined products and courses that help Hours of Operation: 24/7 to make every year 10x more Contact information: other people do the same. Her amazing than the last by taking 671-788-0450; most popular product is the Ulti- 100% responsibility for her life. [email protected] mate Life Binder that she created Rohr started a blog called the to help people design the life they Secret O.W.L. Society where she want to live and take action daily shared her progress. That blog to make it happen. also allowed her to live her life has grown into products, courses, on an upward spiral so that every and services that have allowed year is truly 10x better than the her to help other people. It has Meet the WIB Speakers: Amber Word, Blue Amber Trio and The Guam Art Boutique

Blue Amber Trio and The Guam Art Boutique Owner(s): Amber Word Type of Business: Lifestyle Brand (Retail Store) Location: Units 144 & 145 Chamorro Village Hours of Operation: M, Tu, Th, Fri, Sat 10am-6pm, W 10am-9pm, Sun - Closed Contact information: blueambertrio@ gmail.com (guamartbouotique@gmail. com), (671) 998-0560 , @blueambertrio (@guamartboutique)

mber Word (a. sories and stationery. focusing on the theme of community, Blue Amber word) is an art- In March of 2015 she “Systems”, in order to find Trio’s Nina’i Collections Aist and entre- opened The Guam Art ways to streamline the on- give a portion of pro- preneur; her passion Boutique, a brick and line presence for her busi- ceeds to Guam-based for dreaming up and mortar location that nesses and looks forward nonprofits. opening creative and inno- features Guam-made to sharing that journey vative businesses began items at Chamorro with all of you! The Guam Art Bou- as a hobby in the 3rd Village. Community tique is a made/designed grade, and has launched building and collabora- Blue Amber Trio spe- on Guam wearable art into a full time endeavor tive pursuits have long cializes in unique gemstone store and gift shop, fea- in recent years. Currently, been central to Word’s vision and jewelry, accessories and stationery turing a plethora of items, from post- Amber is the owner and lead designer the Guam Art Boutique is one such featuring healing rocks and iconic cards and Guam-specific baby items of Blue Amber Trio, a lifestyle brand manifestation. In the fast-paced mod- images from the beautiful island of to handcrafted jewelry and original that features gemstone jewelry, acces- ern-day, Word has spent the last year Guam. In an effort to give back to the fine art pieces.

Meet the WIB Speakers: Michelle Pier, Creative Indeed Art Studio

ichelle Pier taught herself to draw and Mcreate things at a Creative Indeed Art very young age and has always Studio had a strong creative spark. Owner(s): Michelle Pier She paints with thick flowing Type of Business: Original textures, layers of metallic and acrylic paintings on canvas, art colorful scenery, sometimes prints and abstract and always full of merchandise, as well as a variety of workshops, programs energy. She has taken some and events focused on the art classes at the University creative arts industry on Guam. of Guam, as well as the City Location: 324 W Soledad Ave., College of San Francisco, but Suite 202, Hagatna, GU 96910 mostly she loves to learn by Contact information: experimenting. She started a Website: http://CreativeIndeed.net business in 2009 creating and Phone: (671)777-1284 selling art, and holding classes Email: [email protected] as well as large community events.

Michelle Pier takes a photo in front of some of her paintings during her soft opening of her art studio in Hagatna in this October 1st, 2016 photo. Meet the WIB Speakers: Angelica Paulino, Kottura Innovations Pushing Creativity to New Heights

enneth (Ken) and An- equipment and software, and gelica (Angel) Paulino copyright/trademark registration Kwere born and raised on Kottura Innovations work. Guam. With his family in the Owner(s): Kenneth & Angel Through the help of Denise military, Ken had left Guam at a Paulino Mendiola from the SBDC, Angel young age. Meanwhile, Angel Type of Business: Creative and Ken were able to identify graduated from Academy of design firm (services), e-com- their core areas for capital, growth Our Lady and went straight merce and expansion. Rather than try to to college in Pace University, Location: kotturainnovations. fund the business in its entirety, NY. She later transferred to com (ecommerce); GUMA Denise helped them to develop Cal State University to study Store, Chamorro Village a phased-approach to build up communications and pre-law. Hours of Operation: 10am- the company as they go. Denise Shortly after Angel met Ken in 6pm (M-Sat) provided sound advice for them college, they got married and Contact information: angel@ as a business mentor and friend, in 2010 returned to Guam to kotturainnovations.com or ken- keeping them focused on mak- raise their three sons Noah, [email protected] ing the business sustainable and Kyle and the newest member Facebook: https: //www.face- maintaining a healthy balance of to the family, Inapu. book.com/kotturainnovations business and family life. Denise is At first, the Paulino’s just Instagram: kottura_innovations a great mentor for them and she wanted to create their own sto- continues to nurture them in so ries as a spin-off of CHamoru many ways whether through new legends to be able to expand “The dynamic between the business development opportuni- the storytelling experience two of us is synergistic,” Angel ties or community partnerships. She with their kids. Angel stated said. “When we’re on, we’re on.” keeps them on their toes and they that watching their boys have They take time to listen to each appreciate her commitment to seeing such big imaginations and other, think things through, and them through success. seeing the way they interact Kottura Innovations owners Angel and Ken Paulino prototype which allows them to For the short-term, they are cur- with games, pop-up books, are shown here after taking the Hafa Adai pledge. build upon each other’s ideas. It rently working with GUMA to get their and traditional books was what is the secret sauce to many of products in at the Guam Museum gift inspired them to meld their marketing. Ken’s background is in pro- their projects and how they’ve shop and also have an interactive ex- skills together. By using the traditional gramming, mobile/web development, made it this far. She continued to say hibit for kids in the Guam Museum. As and creative mechanics of storytelling motion graphics, 3D modeling, digital that she likes to think that they bring they continue to build and create more combined with tech tools, gamification, strategy and theater. So it’s a natural the best out of one another. So when content, they are also looking to build and multimedia elements, they were fit for the two of them to come together people get one of them, they really get out their creative team and open their able to create a holistic experience. to develop a product that compliments both of them. own retail location hopefully in the next They wanted to create something for both of their strengths. In 2014, they Ken and Angel have funded the 3-4 years. This place will be a great everyone to enjoy based on different ran a successful crowdfunding cam- business through a variety of ways: destination hub for families to be able types of learning styles whether it be paign for the de- self-funding, to try out their products, experience in- visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. Kottura velopment of crowdfunding, teractive story hour with their kids, and was created as a means for them to “Outsmarting project grants, see firsthand the creative process that push the boundaries of creativity to Manet: How the and reinvestment goes into these cool projects. use the technology available to them Maidens Saved of the revenue Angel shared some advice to future in practical ways to help them enhance Guam.” This was from the services entrepreneurs. She said, “Building a their imaginative experiences. a test for them to side of the busi- company does not happen overnight. From casual mobile games to aug- bring their idea to ness into their It’s not a roll of chance or luck that mented reality to interactive e-books, the community to products. They yields great success. It’s a matter of Angel and Ken want people to be able gather feedback received grant making time to put in the work. Thank- to access these tools instantly and and was the de- funding from fully, here at home we have access to anywhere in the world. They saw this termining factor CAHA for the amazing resources such as business as an opportunity to connect with fam- if their model development of training, grant opportunities, and ac- ilies and give them the option to be could be sustain- one of their proj- cess to a powerful network of intelli- able to take a little piece of home with able. They’ve ex- ects, “Hayi Mas gent and experienced experts who are them to share wherever they go. One perienced some Metgot: The Tale always willing to lend an ear. This is of their main goals is to also eventually bumps along the of Malaguana & why there’s no other place we’d rather get these materials into their schools way finding sup- Gadao” which de- be to start a business. Their commu- to offer teachers additional options to pliers and printers, but with the help buted during FestPac. Just recently, nity brings a unique level of care, sup- keep students engaged. and support of our family, friends, they received a grant from the Guam port, camaraderie, and the willingness Angel’s background is in creative sto- mentors, and those they’ve met along Unique Merchandise and Art (GUMA) to provide any help to all local busi- rytelling, story/character development, the way, they’re slowly getting the program which now provides the com- nesses.” graphic design, creative strategy and hang of things. pany with much needed inventory, Meet the WIB Speakers: Flora-Rose Weakley and Laura Nelson-Cepeda, Neni & Me

aura Nelson-Cepeda children), and other small and Flora-Rose Weakley retail outlets. Her experi- L decided to open Neni & Neni & Me ence gained from these re- Me after becoming keenly Owner(s): Laura tail stores has provided her aware of the lack of affordable Nelson-Cepeda & with knowledge of how high- and fashionable merchandise Flora-Rose Weakley leveled competitors manage available on Guam for expect- Type of Business: to remain at the top of their ing mothers and their children. industry. Her education in- Being mothers themselves, Retail cludes a Bachelor’s in Busi- they anticipated the potential Location: Sagua Ma- ness Administration and a and importance of providing nagu Birthing Center Master’s in Secondary Edu- products on Guam tailored to Hours of Operation: cation. expecting and breastfeeding Mon-Fri 9-5pm, Sat Neni & Me began as an on- mothers and children. 10-1pm line web-based business Laura (Founder/Director of Contact information: and pop-up shop in 2012. Marketing & Business De- Through social media outlets velopment) is a passionate (671) 969-2229 the company gained its clien- entrepreneurial spirited indi- tele and slowly integrated into vidual. She has experience a physical location at Sagau in retail, research and devel- retail, finance, customer ser- Managu in 2014. opment, marketing, branding similar product offerings as cludes a Bachelor’s Degree in vice, and education. As a su- Neni & Me is a local, women efforts, finance, government, aforementioned. Marketing and a Professional pervisor for customer service owned retailer of maternity non-profits, and grant-writing/ Laura’s involvement in the Masters in Business Adminis- she was trained by mainland and child products that in- management for federal, pri- community has proved to be tration. corporate companies that clude but are not limited to; vate, and local entities. Retail beneficial and has helped her Flora-Rose Weakley (Found- thrive on the vitality of provid- clothing, breastfeeding sup- experience includes specialty create a network of diverse er/Director of Finance & Op- ing exceptional customer ser- plies, nursing bras, organic shops and the popular baby/ individuals all across the erations) is an enthusiastic vice which she in turn trained skin care and teas, baby children’s store Gymboree board. The connections she’s entrepreneurial individual that her employees. carriers,stroller/car seat sys- which provided her with the established is useful to the found passion in children and Flora’s experience in retail tems, accessories, supplies, necessary skills and insight success and marketing of the their educational develop- includes GapKids, Inc., Fan- and customized gifts. needed to open a shop with business. Her education in- ment. She has experience in tastic Shots (exclusively for 2016 Hackathon: Disrupt Guam By: Andrea Camacho novative, and Most Potential Felder, Venture Guam Revenue. Award plaques cre- ated by Guam Makerspace n October 1, 2016, founder Tommy Wooley were with the support of the then given to the winning OBank of Center teams. for Entrepreneurship & Inno- While the production of mo- vation, University of Guam, bile prototypes was definitely Guam Small Business De- an admirable feat the greater velopment Center, Docomo win is the relationships and Pacific, Guam Bakery, Pika’s ideas that develop during Cafe, MidPac, Papa John’s these type of events. It’s no Guam, Jason Salas, Rachel secret that technology is an Esteves, Rocko Banque Nar- emerging local market on our vios, and Ileane Smith, we island. According to Valentino hosted the first Disrupt Guam Perez with the Bank of Hawaii Event. The purpose of the Center for Entrepreneurship event was multifaceted but & Innovation, “The innovative- and greet followed by a cre- tunities that would not other- three disruptive local apps at its core we endeavored to ness of this young group was ative team problem-solving wise exist. Hackathons break emerged: The Guam Survival inspire people to use technol- astounding. Their connection exercise. The exercise re- the “Crab Bucket.” Mentality in Guide, Affordable Real Es- ogy and collaboration to build of technology to revenue gen- quired two teams to create pursuit of collaboration for the tate Listings, and FunRazr a innovative commerce. erating products shows great the tallest and most expan- prosperity of all. This is the fundraiser app with a pretty Picasso once wrote, “Inspira- promise for their future.” sive shape possible using Inafa’maolek spirit that our ingenious revenue model. tion exists, but it has to find As we continue to evolve and one item they each had on culture is so intimately famil- Attendees we’re also briefly you working.” This quote de- grow our hope is that events hand and a piece of nylon iar with. moved into a non-productive scribes the essence of a dis- and communities such as rope. At the end of the 15 The event required teams to argument on a 2 potential rupt hackathon. You see, at its these will help create an ac- minute session, yarn and ex- identify a market to disrupt app that did not exist. Throw- core - Hackathon events en- celerative and safe space for tension cords hung “safely” and create a solution in the ing opinions around as to why courage participants to jump people on our island to cre- off the SBPA 2nd floor bal- form of a mobile app. Then this “non-descript” app should into problem-solving and ate, innovate, and inspire oth- cony, definitely a sight to be they had to create an innova- or shouldn’t exist, a classic quick prototyping. The cere- ers to do the same. Remem- had. The exercise was meant tive revenue model using the hackathon scenario. bral energy and collaborative ber all great things began with to help participants see how application and create a pro- Once all apps were presented spirit is highly charged and of a single idea and the willing- the same mission can yield totype of what the app would the participants were finally course the coffee is available ness to pursue it courageous- different outcomes. More im- look like as well as how it will tasked to vote amongst them- in excess. ly. We hope to see you at the portantly, it illustrated how operate. selves to identify which app The event began with a meet next event! collaboration brings oppor- At the end of the event, was Most Creative, Most In- Fizz&Co Owner(s): LeAnn&Robbi Crisostomo Type of Business: Restaurant Location: Rt 4 Hagatna & Agana Shopping Center Hours of Operation: 11-3 at the Rt4 location & 10-8pm at the Agana Shopping Center Contact information: 477-3499 Rt4, 922-3499 ASC Instagram and Facebook: fizzsodashop Fizz and Co. Opens in Agana Shopping Center An Interview with LeAnn Crisostomo, Co-Owner

Please tell us about your- because they provided our internal operations so we Q: self and your family. guidance every step can always provide quality Grew up in Talofofo, Mar- of the way. What also customer service and care A:ried to Robbi Crisostomo, 5 helped us through was while our long term is to open daughters, 4 grandsons and 1 grand- networking with other en- a third location. daughter & this is our first business trepreneurs and sharing venture as a family. experiences and support. Please list some of It’s amazing! Q: your products/ser- Why did you decide to vices and popular items. Q: start your own business? What were Burgers, fries, Hot- Fulfillment! Freedom! Legacy! Q: some of the A:dogs, Panini, shakes, A:I wish I started sooner. I fi- factors in deciding to floats & handcrafted sodas. nally faced my fears and made up my open a second location mind to push forward no matter what. and how did you decide What advice would with Agana Shopping Q: you give to others What experience do you Center? who want to start a busi- Q: have in this type of busi- With the success ness at this time? ness? A:of the current If your heart is taking Aside from being a waitress location we wanted to A:you in that direction, at 17 and almost 3 years with expand our menu and a get over the fear and do it! A: menu. Learning the in-depth require- the first location in Hagatna (across good friend recommended the Agana Don’t be afraid. Lots of amazing sup- ments and systems was a challenge Bank of Guam), I did not have much Shopping Center. port out there. Surround yourself with with those improvements in our new experience in this industry. positive people. location. What were some of the “Don’t fear failure so much that you How did the Small Busi- biggest challenges you refuse to try new things. The sad- Q: What are your short-term ness Development Center experienced in opening a second dest summary of life contains three Q: and long-term plans for and other resources help you? location? Q: descriptions: could have, would have your business? SBDC gave me the list of We upgraded by purchas- and should have” Short term is to develop an requirements to start a busi- ing a hood which allows us ~Unknown A: A: efficient system to streamline ness. Having SBDC was comforting, to offer more options to add to our A: Miliani’s Now Provides Hotel Amenities for Customers

continued from page 1 products are now available for purchase at Miliani’s retail amenities. QuickBooks was shop located along Koror’s used in the financial training main road in Idid hamlet. Tour- for the client and used in re- ists and locals can purchase producing the historical finan- the products in-store or make cial statements, because the arrangements for delivery of client had used QuickBooks bulk purchases. Miliani’s are during their start-up year. open daily from 10 am to 10 Miliani’s was able to get the pm. loan from National Develop- ment Bank of Palau to expand For more information on how its product mix to include hotel the Palau SBDC can assist amenities, with the assistance you, call 680-587-6004 or visit provided by Palau SBDC. The www.pacificsbdc.com.

Palau SBDC Training Schedule

Tuesday, November 15th (9:00 am – 11:00 workshop will show the basics of managing a am) **Registration & payment deadline bed & breakfast and marketing strategies to bet- TO REGISTER log onto http://pisbdcn.ecenterdirect. 11/14/16 at 12noon ter understand your target market. We will look com “How to Start a Livestock Farm in at cost structures and pricing strategies. Palau” For more information, please visit our website at www. Presented by Ltelatk H. Fritz, Business Advisor Tuesday, December 13th (9:00 am – 11:00 pacificsbdc.com or call the Palau SBDC Office at 587- Fee: $ 5 per person am) **Registration & Payment deadline 6004 Location: Palau SBDC Training Center 12/12/16 at 12 noon Synopsis: Learn how to convert your subsis- “How to Start a Business” DISCLAIMER: The Pacific Islands tence farming into a small commercial enter- Presented by Ltelatk H. Fritz, Business SBDC Network is funded in part prise and help increase Palau’s food security. Advisor through a cooperative agreement This workshop will show best practices and rec- Fee: $ 5 per person with the U.S. Small Business Ad- ommendation by various experts shared during Location: Palau SBDC Training ministration. All opinions, con- the previous Agriculture workshops. Learn how Center clusions or recommendations to raise hens to lay eggs or start a piggery. It is Synopsis: Starting a business expressed are those of the a great business opportunity for anyone who is can be intimidating and over- author(s) and do not neces- invested in learning how. whelming when you don’t have sarily reflect the views of the the right information to begin with. SBA. Requests for reasonable Tuesday, December 6th (9:00 am – 11:30 am) In this workshop, we will help indi- accommodations for persons **Registration & payment deadline 12/02/16 viduals learn about managing and with disabilities will be made at 12noon taking risks to start a business. if requested at least two weeks “How to Start a Bed & Breakfast in We will also cover the basics like in advance. For arrangements, Palau” choosing a location, and research- please contact Alfia Alfonso, c/o Presented by Ltelatk H. Fritz, Business Advisor ing the market, and government NDBP P.O. Box 816, Koror, Palau Fee: $ 10 per person regulations such as tax requirements 96940-0816, Tel:(680)587-6004, or Location: Penthouse Hotel Conference Room and employee benefits. This work- Email [email protected]. Services Synopsis: Whether you have a spare room shop will provide a wealth of informa- are extended to the public on a non-dis- or considering starting from scratch, learn the tion to better prepare small business criminatory basis. basic requirements of running a B&B. This start-ups. Kosrae SBDC Bids Farewell to Business Advisor

By: Skiller Jackson Center Director/Business Advisor (Kosrae SBDC) he Kosrae SBDC and the Network would like to express their sincerest Tappreciation and congratulations to the outgoing Kosrae SBDC Business Advisor. Mr. Julian B. Abraham joined the Network about a year and a half ago and was very enthusiastic and willing to learn. During his tenure with the Kosrae SBDC, he has contrib- uted a lot to the services of the Center. The Kosrae SBDC would like to take this time to acknowledge and appreciate the ser- vices that Mr. Abraham has done. The Kos- rae SBDC would also like to congratulate Mr. Abraham in his new job in the U.S. military and wish him all the best and good luck in his new endeavor.

Pictured: Kosrae SBDC Center Director Skiller Jackson (left) presents former Busi- ness Advisor Julian Abraham (right) a Certif- icate of Appreciation for his work in assisting the Kosrae small business community along with office manager Sepe Tolenna (center).

Kosrae SBDC Training Schedule Friday, November 18th (10:00am “Sales Forecasting” SBDC Network is funded in part through a co- Presented by Kosrae SBDC operative agreement with the U.S. Small Busi- – 12:00pm) Fee: NO FEE ness Administration. All opinions, conclusions “Record Keeping” Location: Kosrae SBDC Training Room or recommendations expressed are those of the Presented by Kosrae SBDC Synopsis: Learn how to determine the eco- author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views Fee: No FEE nomic viability of the business through making of the SBA. Requests for reasonable accommo- Location: Kosrae SBDC Training Room assumptions to develop financial projections. dations for persons with disabilities will be made Synopsis: Learn how to create your own re- if requested at least two weeks in advance. For cord keeping format and decide what informa- Friday, December 9th (10:00am – arrangements, please contact Sepe Tolenna, tion your business should keep record of. This P.O. Box 577 Tofol, Kosrae State FM 96944, training will also discuss on how to use records 12:00pm) Tel:(691)370-2751, or Email sepe@pacificsbdc. to fill out financial statements and when these “Financial Statements” com. Services are extended to the public on a records are needed. Presented by Kosrae SBDC non-discriminatory basis. Fee: NO FEE Friday, November 25th (10:00am Location: Kosrae SBDC Training Room Synopsis: Knowing what financial statements – 12:00pm) are commonly used in the business arena “Business Plan Development” and what information are used to create these Presented by Kosrae SBDC statements and where the information come Fee: No FEE from. Be able to learn how to prepare and read Location: Kosrae SBDC Training Room your own financial statements. Synopsis: The training will focus mainly on the pricing the business will use or how much the TO REGISTER call Kosrae SBDC @ 691- business will charge customers, if there is al- 370-2751. ternate pricing and if so, based on what. What is break-even pricing? What will be the mark- For more information, please visit up percentage? our website at www.pacificsbdc. com or call the Kosrae SBDC Of- Friday, December 2nd (10:00am fice at 691-370-2751. – 12:00pm) DISCLAIMER: The Pacific Islands Managing Personal Credit for Business Related Financing

By: Jane Ray for Security Freeze or Fraud Business Advisor How long does negative information remain on alert on your credit report to Guam SBDC my credit report? prevent any unauthorized access. Before selecting ometimes having either of those options it is a great business Types of Information Duration important to understand that idea isn’t enough Security Freeze and Fraud to bring your dream Accounts paid as agreed 10 years from the date of last Alert will prevent creditors into reality. There activity from accessing your credit areS factors such as the 5 Cs of reports unless you have Credit that will affect your busi- Accounts not paid as agreed 7 years from the date the provided the authorization. ness’s ability to get the financing Sometime it can also delay that it needs. One of those Cs is account first became the loan application process credit score. Credit score is an past due if you have forgotten that you important factor that can have a placed one of those options significant impact on your quest Late or missed payments 7 years onto your credit report. to financing. Your credit score reflects how you have handled your personal credit in the past Collection accounts 7 years Where can I find and predicts the likelihood of how information about you will handle it in the future. Judgements (paid or not) 7 years credit? That three digit number can re- Have realistic expectations flect your character as a business Paid Tax Liens / Unpaid Tax Liens 7 years / Indefinitely and be aware that paying owner and also demonstrate how past due payments or ad- you have handled your own per- Bankruptcy - Chapter 7 / 11 / 13 dressing delinquent collec- sonal finances. The way you non-discharged or dismissed 10 years from date filed tions will not immediately manage your personal finances improve your credit score. It can demonstrate how you are takes time to improve your going to handle your business Bankruptcy – Chapter credit after financial difficul- finances in most cases. There- 13 (Discharged) 7 years from the date filed ties or hardship. There are fore it is imperative that you, as many online resources that a business owner, should know Credit Inquiries 2 years can help you if you are in your personal credit score and need of financial education. credit history before reaching out Source: Moogalian, Diane (2010, May 10). FAQ: How Long Does Information Stay on My Credit Each credit bureau has an to lenders. Report? Retrieved from October 17, 2016, from http://blog.equifax.com/credit/faq-how-long-does- educational center that dis- information-stay-on-my-credit-report/ cusses credit related top- How do I check my ics. Other web sites, such credit score? rate information is reflected on each of as Credit Karma and Nerd Wallet, have features on comparison Generally, you can retrieve your those reports. Some financial institu- How to dispute when shopping on different credit products personal credit report from one of tions only obtain a single credit report there is an issue? and credit report monitoring services the three credit bureaus; TransUnion, from the credit bureau with which they If you identify errors or issues on that are available to you. If your finan- Equifax, and Experian. As a con- work directly when reviewing loan ap- your credit report, you can dispute the cial issues come from poor financial sumer, you are allowed to obtain a plications. It is crucial to check credit information with the credit bureau the habits, seeking professional help from free copy of your credit report through reports from all three credit bureaus. information is coming from. You can a financial counselor or financial pro- all three of the credit bureaus every either dispute the information online, fessional might help you address the year. The credit reports will allow you Personal credit scores range from 300 to 850. Credit scores vary be- by telephone, or by mail. It is helpful root of the issue. to check your personal information; to have a copy of the credit report with name, social security number, and tween credit bureaus; each bureau the incorrect information when disput- If you are currently in business, or address. You should also check your has its own scoring models. Gener- ing; each report has a specific num- are planning to go into business, you account history, account information, ally, credit score is computed based ber identifying when it was generated. will require funds to start or to expand late payments, collections, and tax on the following components: pay- This credit report number can assist your business. Do not circumvent or liens. It is recommended to check for ment history (35%); capacity (30%); the credit bureau in finding the incor- work around adverse credit issues any unexpected errors or surprises. length of credit history (10%); types rect information faster. You should or you may miss a once in a life time This will allow you to correct any er- of credit used (15%); and new credit also provide any supporting documen- opportunity. It is better to address it rors and address any issues such as (10%). Paying bills on time is one of tation if you have any. It is not recom- now rather than wait until later when collections prior to applying to a finan- the most critical parts of maintaining mended to send the original document you are in urgent need of financing. cial institution. a good credit score while avoiding ex- cessive use of lines of credit and credit however a copy of the document will Once you miss the opportunity, you be adequate. Expect a 30 to 45 day won’t know when the next one will Since financial institutions are not cards is another way to not adversely timeframe for processing as the credit arise. Being financially responsible required to report your activities to all impact your credit. Any usage over bureau will contact the source to ver- with your personal credit will prepare three credit bureaus, some information 35% of the credit limit is considered ify, correct, and update the databases. you to achieve your financial dreams can appear in one bureau but not the excessive; therefore keeping track of what you spend on your credit card is If you are experiencing identity theft or by being your own boss. other. It is best to check with all three other credit issues, you can request credit bureau reports to ensure accu- good financial practice. Cycle 22 Completes SBDC PIMI Microcredit Training Program

he Guam SBDC and Pacific Graduates: Islands Microcredit Institute David Bean, AJ T Microcredit Training program Toves, Beaudy announces Group 22 participants Camacho, Elea- successfully completed the 36-hour nora Phillip, Ki- microcredit training program and a antae Laguana, micro business plan on October 26, Roberta Perez 2016. Special thanks to PBS Guam and Michelle for filming the workshops that will be Lane. aired on PBS and www.pacificsbdc. com.

Yap SBDC Training Schedule

Tuesday, November 8th Presented by TBA Fee: No FEE (9:00am – 11:00am) Location: Yap SBDC Training Room #113 “Setting Price Using Total Cost” Synopsis: This workshop introduces partici- Presented by James Limar, Yap SBDC Direc- pants to the basics of QuickBooks as an ac- tor/Business Advisor counting software. Fee: No FEE Location: Yap SBDC Training Room #115 Seating is limited to 25 participants per Synopsis: This workshop introduces partici- session. Schedule is subject to change with- pants to price setting using total cost as the out prior notice. denominator. TO REGISTER call Yap SBDC @ 691-350- Wednesday, November 9th 4801/2 (9:00am – 11:00am) “Setting Price Using Variable Cost” For more information, please visit our web- Presented by James Limar, Yap SBDC Direc- Business Advisor Geraldine Mitagyow (center) conducts site at www.pacificsbdc.com or call the Yap tor/Business Advisor a workshop at the Yap Small Business Development SBDC Office at 691-350-4801/2. Fee: No FEE Center Training Room. Location: Yap SBDC Training Room #115 DISCLAIMER: The Pacific Islands SBDC Synopsis: This workshop introduces partici- Network is funded in part through a coopera- pants to price setting using variable cost as the Tuesday, December 6th tive agreement with the U.S. Small Business denominator. (12:00pm – 3:00pm) Administration. All opinions, conclusions or “Using Live Plan to Grow your Busi- recommendations expressed are those of the ness” Thursday, November 10th author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the Presented by James Limar, Yap SBDC Direc- views of the SBA. Requests for reasonable (9:00am – 11:00am) tor/Business Advisor accommodations for persons with disabilities “Setting Price Using Fixed Cost” Fee: No FEE will be made if requested at least two weeks Presented by James Limar, Yap SBDC Direc- Location: Yap SBDC Training Room #114 in advance. For arrangements, please contact tor/Business Advisor Synopsis: This workshop is an introduction to Lona Garayol, P.O. Box 1171 Colonia, Yap FM Fee: No FEE Live Plan and how it can be conveniently be uti- 96943, Tel:(691)350-4801/2, or Email lona@pa- Location: Yap SBDC Training Room #115 lized to expand one’s business venture. cificsbdc.com or [email protected]. Services are Synopsis: This workshop introduces partici- extended to the public on a non-discriminatory pants to price setting using fixed cost as the Wednesday, December 14th basis. denominator. (9:00am – 11:00am) “QuickBooks”