Submitted by Brooke Parker, Legislative Aide.
From Norm Needleman, State Senator:
In addition to my work as a State Senator and First Selectman, I have worked as a business owner for more than 40 years in my career. This first-hand experience has taught me the importance of the connections between small businesses and the towns and cities they belong to. Businesses and communities have a relationship unlike many others – the local town supports the business, while the business gives back to the community in response. They rely on each other and benefit each other.
That is why I am introducing a new award I hope will shine light on all the good work done in our communities, with my “Best in Business Award.” This designation will recognize the owner, manager and employees of a small business located in our Senate District. As long as the business itself is located in one of our 11 towns of Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Hampton, East Haddam, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland or Westbrook, it is eligible for this award.
There are many great aspects small businesses bring to communities, and we are seeking to recognize them for reasons including involvement in the community, investing in education and training, company culture, policies supporting parents and caregivers, excellence in a given field, innovation in products, service or training, history in a community, utilizing renewable energy or making commitments to protecting the environment, supporting community relationships, outstanding customer service or products made in Connecticut.
To make nominations for this award, please visit my Senate office page. Nominations will require individuals to submit their names and contact information and information about the small business itself, including the nominator’s relationship to it, the business’s manager or owner, the number of employees it has and a description of why the business should be recognized. Nominations including that information can also be sent to matthew.reich@cga.ct.gov.
Small businesses play a vital role in our communities, which is why I’m excited to award the first-ever BIBA in the coming months. If you know a local business helping its hometown, please don’t hesitate to make a nomination.
