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From Paperwork to Productivity: Simple Tools That Transform Local Businesses
Running a local business today isn’t just about delivering products or services — it’s about creating smooth, trustworthy experiences for customers, employees, and partners. Yet many organizations still rely on outdated processes that quietly drain resources and erode credibility. This article explores how modernizing day-to-day operations can eliminate hidden costs, introduce simple digital tools that streamline workflows, and reinforce trust across relationships. The Hidden Costs of Outdated
Roto Frank of America Named a Top Workplace by USGlass Magazine
Roto Frank of America Named a Top Workplace by USGlass Magazine Roto Frank of America has been recognized as one of the best companies to work for in the Glass and Metal Industry by USGlass Magazine, the leading trade publication solely dedicated to architectural glazing. This distinction underscores Roto’s dedication to creating a workplace culture built on respect, integrity, and growth. This commitment to culture is more than a philosophy, it’s the foundation of Roto’s success. By prioritizing
Middlesex United Way’s Women United Opens 2025–2026 Grant Opportunity
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 6, 2025 Middletown, CT – Middlesex United Way’s Women United affinity group is inviting nonprofit organizations serving women and children in Middlesex County to apply for its 2025–2026 Women United Grant Opportunity. Applications will be accepted beginning Friday, October 10, 2025, through Friday, December 5, 2025. Grants ranging from $100 to $1,000 will be awarded to support programs that strengthen childhood and youth development, empower women, and advance
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Launches ''Ellafi Kind'' – A Charitable Initiative Empowering Women Throug
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Launches "Ellafi Kind" – A Charitable Initiative Empowering Women Through Financial Wellness MIDDLETOWN, CT (October 1, 2025) — Ellafi Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the launch of Ellafi Kind, a new charitable arm created to support local nonprofits and initiatives that make a positive impact in our communities. Beginning in early October 2025, Ellafi Kind will further Ellafi FCU’s mission to promote financial equity, entrepreneurship, and economic stability for
Chapco celebrates manufacturing month - achieves ISO9001:2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEChester, CT – October 1, 2025 – Chapco, Inc., a leader in precision sheet metal fabrication and contract manufacturing solutions since 1964, today announced it has achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification, the internationally recognized benchmark for Quality Management Systems. As a Connecticut-based manufacturer, serving the Northeast U.S. and beyond, Chapco plays a vital role in mission-critical supply chains across defense, industrial, medical, and commercial sectors.“This certification
Deer Lake Outdoor Center Invites Connecticut Businesses to Support Energy and Safety Projects Throug
Deer Lake Outdoor Center Invites Connecticut Businesses to Support Energy and Safety Projects Through State NAA Tax Credit ProgramSept. 2025 — For Immediate ReleaseKillingworth, CT — Pathfinders, Inc., nonprofit owner and operator of Deer Lake Outdoor Center, has been selected by the State of Connecticut to participate in the 2025 Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA) Program. As the only Killingworth nonprofit chosen this year, Pathfinders invites Connecticut businesses to support Deer Lake projects to improve
The Hidden Costs New Entrepreneurs Overlook (and How to Plan Ahead)
Starting a business is exciting — but first-time founders often underestimate the true cost of getting operations off the ground. Beyond obvious expenses like rent, supplies, or payroll, there are less visible costs that can derail cash flow if ignored. Planning for these overlooked expenses can make the difference between early struggles and long-term sustainability. 1. Insurance and Compliance Many entrepreneurs focus on product or service development but forget the need for liability, property,
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Breaks Ground on New Full-Service Branch in Middletown
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Breaks Ground on New Full-Service Branch in MiddletownMIDDLETOWN, CT (September 4, 2025) — Further strengthening its roots and long-term commitment to the Middletown community, Ellafi Federal Credit Union is developing a new full-service branch at 562 South Main Street. Groundbreaking has begun with completion expected in spring 2026. The new 1,800-square-foot branch is being developed in partnership with John DeSena of JDS Holdings (property owner), Dominick DeMartino of DFC of
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Selected for the Credit Union Times 2025 Luminaries Awards
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Selected for the Credit Union Times 2025 Luminaries Awards MIDDLETOWN, CT (September 15, 2025) — Ellafi Federal Credit Union has been named to the CreditUnion Times’ Luminaries Awards, Class of 2025. This award celebrates top industry professionals, credit unions and world-class service organizations that are changing the cooperative financial services industry for the better. Shining a spotlight on the individuals and organizations that have significantly enhanced the
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Promotes Kristen Jensen to VP of Community and Business Relationships
Ellafi Federal Credit Union Promotes Kristen Jensen to VP of Community and Business Relationships MIDDLETOWN, CT — September 12, 2025 — Ellafi Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the promotion of Kristen Jensen to Vice President of Community and Business Relationships. In this new role, she will lead efforts in community outreach, strategic partnerships, and member engagement. Formerly the Assistant Vice President of Loan Operations, Jensen now turns her focus to fostering inclusive,
Outsmart the Blank Page: Design Tricks for Non-Designers
Design can feel like a closed-door club. Between expensive tools, endless jargon, and the looming threat of “looking amateur,” many small business owners freeze before they even begin. But here’s the secret: you don’t need an art degree to build brand visuals that work. You just need a few clear moves, the right rhythm, and tools that let you think with your hands. This is for the entrepreneurs squeezing design time between client calls and school pickups — the ones doing it all, fast. Start Where You
Why Visual Storytelling Is the Edge Your Small Business Needs
In a landscape where attention spans are measured in seconds and scrolling is second nature, the need for striking, resonant content has never been more urgent. While many small businesses still default to copy-heavy promotions or generic stock images, the brands that rise above the din do so with stories told through pictures, videos, and design. Visual storytelling isn't just decoration—it’s persuasion with a pulse. It turns your products, services, and ethos into a narrative that people not only
Build the Bones First: The Smartest Investments for a New Business Owner
Before a single product hits the shelf or a service goes live, a business owner makes a hundred tiny decisions that often decide whether the venture limps or launches. Some of those choices are about branding, others about pricing or location. But the ones that truly shape the long-term trajectory often involve upfront investments—the deliberate kind, not the flashy or reactive ones. Founders who think like builders, not just dreamers, give their ventures the bones to stand upright even when the winds
Scaling the Long Road: Strategies That Actually Work for Business Growth at Every Stage
Getting a business off the ground is one kind of challenge. Keeping it alive is another. But figuring out how to grow—how to do it smartly, sustainably, and without selling out the soul of the thing—is where strategy separates itself from noise. Growth, in truth, doesn’t follow a formula. It’s a blend of experimentation, timing, instinct, and the right moves at the right stage. Here’s what smart growth actually looks like, stripped of buzzwords and rooted in what’s real. Planting with Intention:
Strategies That Keep Your Trucking Business Ahead of the Curve
Starting a trucking business is more than just hitting the open road; it’s about crafting a venture that balances freedom with financial success. The trucking industry offers vast opportunities, but it demands a strategic approach to thrive. From understanding regulatory requirements to making informed financial decisions, each step is crucial. This article delves into the essential strategies that can transform your trucking business from a mere idea into a profitable enterprise. By focusing on
