End of an Era

After 20 years' covering small business for the Los Angeles Times, Businessweek and Bloomberg, I'm moving on in 2015.

Starting Monday I'll be on staff at the San Fernando Valley Business Journal, which won first place in its category last year in a national competition sponsored by the Alliance of Area Business Publishers.

I'm sad that Bloomberg is phasing out its small business coverage in 2015, but I will always be an advocate for small businesses. I'm excited to start something new and I'm also very glad to continue in journalism, which is becoming an endangered profession at a time when we need it more than ever.

Happy New Year!

Six Tips

For effectively using mobile marketing this season.

Customer Service

It's what small biz does best, and it's crucial at holiday time.

No Dumping

Employers can't send sick workers to Obamacare exchanges. Loophole closed.

Sensible Advice

Why is it so many small biz owners don't want to hear it? Wait until you're ready - then expand.

How to Beat Amazon

Make a product people love, in small batches, with great service.

Immigration Reform

How will it affect biz startup rates? Positively, a new study says.

Cheating on Contracts

New report says 40% of "women-owned biz" are actually ineligible for government contracts.

Experience Counts

Companies that offer products and experiences appeal to millennials.

A Little Bit of Luck

Swiss entrepreneurs say luck has little to do with their success. Credit goes to hard work and education.

Obamacare

Signups for 2015 start Saturday. Here's a guide for the self-employed.

Cyber Monday?

I prefer Free Shipping Day, Thursday Dec. 18. More than 500 retailers; no minimum purchase.

That's Sick

Employee sick leave is now mandatory in some places. Where does your company stand?

Personal Guarantee

Can you get a loan without one? Maybe, maybe not.

Holiday Sales

Eight tips for increasing your company's revenues this Nov/Dec.

Get Lucky

A scientific understanding of biz luck includes flexibility, optimism and persistence.

Make It!

You need funding for a prototype. Here's where to find it.

Subtract, Don't Multiply

Having many locations doesn't mean you need many bank accounts.

New Restaurant Loan?

Not very likely. Some alternative funding choices to consider.

Hanging It Up

Small biz owners finally able to retire? BizBuySell reports market recovering.