John Kleinhans, who was executive director of the Connecticut Republican Party, and Andy Arens, former New England regional director of American Israel Public Affairs Committee, have launched Octagon Strategy Group, a partnership with Cashman + Katz Integrated Communications, which is based in Glastonbury in the Nutmeg State.

The bi-partisan firm will handle political strategy/ consulting, grassroots/community organizing, coalition development, issue advocacy, voter registration, referendums and campaign management and strategy.

Kleinhans also advised politicos in Vermont and did a stint as AIPAC's national field officer.

Arens worked statewide campaigns in Florida and dealt with policy matters at the Truman National Security Project in Washington.