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Small Business Happenings

Small Business Happenings

Privacy Policy

Last updated August 13, 2026

Small Business Happenings is a publication written by Dave Lertola. Your information is never sold or rented. This page explains what the site collects, why, and the choices you have.

What I collect

  • Newsletter signups. When you subscribe, I collect the first name and email address you enter, along with a record that you checked the consent box, including the date, time, and your IP address. That record exists so I can show your subscription was permission based.
  • Analytics. The site uses Google Analytics to understand which articles are read and how people find the site. This is aggregate traffic data such as pages viewed, rough location, device type, and referring source. I do not use it to identify you personally.
  • Spam protection. The subscribe form uses Google reCAPTCHA to block automated abuse. Google collects hardware and software information to provide that service, under Google's own terms.
  • Server logs. Like most websites, the hosting server keeps standard access logs (IP address, browser, and requested pages) for security and troubleshooting.

How I use it

The email you provide is used only to send new articles and the occasional note from Small Business Happenings. Analytics data is used to improve the writing and the site.

Who I share it with

I do not sell, rent, or trade your information. A small number of service providers process data on my behalf so the site can function: an email delivery and hosting provider to store the subscriber list and send messages, Google Analytics, and Google reCAPTCHA. Each only receives what it needs to do its job. I may also disclose information if the law requires it.

Cookies and tracking

Google Analytics sets cookies to measure traffic. You can block or delete cookies in your browser, and you can opt out of Google Analytics across all sites using Google's browser add on. reCAPTCHA may also set cookies to tell humans from bots.

Your choices

  • Unsubscribe anytime. Every email lets you leave the list, and once you do, your address is removed.
  • Ask what I hold. You can ask me to tell you what subscriber information I have about you, or to delete it. Just reply to any email you have received from Small Business Happenings and I will take care of it.

Data retention

I keep your subscriber details for as long as you are on the list. If you unsubscribe, I remove your address, though a minimal record that a subscription and later removal happened may be kept so I can honor your choice.

Children

This site is meant for adults running or working in small businesses. It is not directed to children under 13, and I do not knowingly collect their information.

Changes to this policy

If this policy changes, the new version will be posted here with an updated date at the top.

Contact

Questions about privacy? Reply to any email you have received from Small Business Happenings and it will reach me directly.