SCORE WESTCHESTER

Pamela Cucinell is the owner of Sunburst Oasis Gift Shop and Wellness Center at 237 East Main St., Mt. Kisco, NY. Ms. Cucinell had been building a practice in astrology in Mt. Kisco when she had the opportunity to purchase Sunburst. a retailer of crystalline minerals, aromatic scents, and unique jewelry. Sunburst's sales had stagnated, but Pamela Cucinell sensed its potential. However, she had never managed a store, and had limited capital to finance the venture.

She had heard about SCORE, and how it helped prepare novice entrepreneurs to start their own businesses. Working with SCORE's Murray Maizner, a retired highly successful manufacturer and retailer of ladies' gloves and accessories, she explained her desire to create an enticing environment at Sunburst that would retain loyal customers and attract new business as well. Ms. Cucinell described the store's history and its selling price. Mr. Maizner recognized the potential and projected realistic figures for growth and provided ideas on achieving it. He also gave her concrete guidelines to negotiate the buy-out. Most importantly. Murray Maizner emphasized the importance of writing a business plan and gave her the format for creating it. In June 2002 she took over the business and implemented a complete makeover. Mr. Maizner pointed out the importance of window display, so with her artist's eye, Ms. Cucinell brought color and a story to the former lackluster displays.

Since she acquired Sunburst Oasis almost two years ago, the business has grown steadily. Ms. Cucinell continues to build sales volume by sponsoring workshops on aromatherapy and energy and spiritual healing. She attests to the invaluable assistance that SCORE and Murray Maizner provided in making her venture successful.