NEWARK, NJ — A U.S. Army veteran is enjoying his new role as a local business owner in Newark.

Ken Tays served for 11 years in the military, a time he recalls with pride. But after earning a degree in financial services and working as a federal bank regulator and for companies such as Citibank for more than a decade, Tays decided to embark on a new mission: to be his own boss. He eventually found his chance when Holly Kaplansky, who owned the Minuteman Press franchise at 20 Clinton Street in Newark for 15 years, decided to retire.

After making the switch and taking over the helm of the print shop, Tays isn't regretting his decision, he says. "Work-life balance," Tays replied when asked about the biggest reward of owning his own business. "That is something I feel like I have even though I am working hard and always on. I love the challenge of running my own business and being responsible for everything. I spent a lot of time in corporate America making money for other people and I wanted to do this."

"There are ups and downs, but it's on my time," Tays said. The new business owner offered some advice for people looking to take the same path he did.

"I looked at a lot of businesses," Tays said. "Find something that is a good fit for you, and find a franchisor that has what you're looking for. I spent several months doing my due diligence, and once you make that decision, you have to be committed."