Friday, September 12, 2025
Business Spotlight: Long Beach Marina
In season, a high-octane fuel dock is available at Long Beach Marina directly on Sebago Lake, with late model pontoon boat rentals, a boat launch, moorings with onsite parking, shuttle service during open hours, a dinghy during off hours, and family service like no other provided on the lake.
“Our commitment is to provide stress-free boating services, guided by a principle of treating every customer with dignity and respect,” said Sam Minervino. “Through exceptional service and seamless operations, we aim to provide an unparalleled boating experience for all of our customers.”
Long Beach Marina originally opened in 1947 and the original dock that was on the property when purchased by the Minervino Family in 1986 was just replaced this year as they continue to provide regular upgrades to the infrastructure at the site that help to ensure its use well into the future.
“In 2026, we will celebrate 40 years of family ownership at Long Beach Marina,” Minervino said. “Our father, Henry, and his son, Sam, were presented with the opportunity to purchase and run a very small marina at the time just doing gas, renting aluminum fishing boats and providing some minor boat service. The family’s background is varied having worked and owned car and boat sales, an ice cream shop across from the now SeaDogs stadium, and several other small business ventures.”
Providing year-round service and devoted to delivering exceptional customer care, Long Beach Marina remains a four-generation business and continually upgrades its services on behalf of the boating community.
“We're constantly improving and growing to provide the best experience for our customers, and we support our local communities throughout the year,” Minervino said. “These are the family values we strive to continue for our family’s legacy.”
Recent improvements to Long Beach Marina include a 24,000-square-foot Boat Rack Storage Building allowing for greater capacity for indoor boat storage and a knowledgeable service department featuring highly skilled and capable marine mechanics and technicians who treat your boat with expertise and care.
The marina maintains and upgrades its premier rental fleet of pontoons on a regular basis, providing safe rental experiences for boaters.
Complete end-of-season services are provided by Long Beach Marina and feature expert winterization services, shrink wrap, bottom washing, and storage. Start-of-season service is also offered including spring commission, quick clean and launch with no requirement for a truck or trailer.
The facility is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week during boating season and features timely preseason and postseason hours each spring and fall.
Reviews posted online are simply outstanding.
“The staff working here are absolutely delightful. They throughly explained everything we needed to know. The boat was well maintained and had all the things you would need including Bluetooth, vests, and lots of space. There wasn’t a wait, and the boat was ready when we arrived. I would highly recommend them. Again, the young people working there made the experience even better from the first phone call to the moment we left.” Diane G.
“Everyone has been extremely nice and accommodating from the rental to the return process could not ask for a better experience. The owner and staff are helpful with great prices and very honest we had a situation with a bent propeller they could have gouged the price but did not. I highly recommend this marina with 10 stars.” Susan N.
“LBM is the best marina on Sebago Lake hands down. The service and gas is unbeatable. The crew is the friendliest on the lake and always have a smile on their faces. The rental boats are top-notch being beautiful and brand new. I highly recommend to rent or fill up at Long Beach Marina! You won’t regret it!” Kayla Smith
Visit longbeachmarina.com or call 207-787-3908 to get a quote for service or storage for your particular boat or to make an appointment. Find them on Facebook under Long Beach Marina <
Friday, September 5, 2025
Business Spotlight: Free Your Mind Massage Therapy
“At Free Your Mind Massage Therapy, my main goal is to allow clients to let go of the outside world while caring for their mind, body, and spirit,” Margaret said. “I have a thorough approach when working the muscles of the body and feel that much of our internal trauma can become trapped inside. I place a high priority on listening to my clients to better guide them toward an experience that nurtures their emotional and physical wellbeing.”
Margaret sets high standards for herself, and the quality of her work is thorough.
“I take the time to listen to my clients and their needs in order to customize each treatment plan,” she said. “I do my research and tweak things along the way. Many clients have said I have magic hands that are warm and gentle yet strong. I have worked with clients experiencing deep grief and they have expressed such gratitude during our time together. Knowing they feel safe in my presence means the world to me! It gives me great satisfaction to provide pain relief for the body, mind and spirit. I couldn’t imagine myself doing any other job, I just love it.”
With affordable pricing that is fair and a reflection of her work, Free Your Mind Massage Therapy draws customers from throughout the Lakes Region of Maine and the Greater Portland area.
“It is important to me to establish a relationship of trust with my clients. I want to become familiar with their lives so they can feel seen and heard,” Margaret said. “My studio is clean and orderly yet serene and inviting. I maintain a relaxing tone to my space to promote relaxation and comfort. When you walk through the door, I want you to feel welcome, accepted and heard. I love coming up with treatment plans and assessing progress whether physical, mental or emotional. We will have open communication, and the client will set the pace. Above all, I want people to feel a sense of trust and know they are in a very safe environment.”
Open in Windham since June, Free Your Mind Massage Therapy is open Wednesdays and Sundays and later this month will expand to three days a week with more to come in the very near future.
Margaret says that she’s been interested in holistic wellness for many years.
“After I began receiving body work, I learned just how deeply grief and trauma can be held inside us,” she said. “It was then that I decided to become a massage therapist so that I could bring that relief to others and 12 years ago, I graduated from New Hampshire Institute for Therapeutic Arts.”
After working many years in the Greater Portland area, she felt the time was right to open her own studio.
“Teaching people to feel comfortable in their own skin, to feel in control of their own body and mind, and to provide pain relief and all-around balance in life is a passion of mine,” Margaret said. Touch is very powerful and extremely healing in many ways. “I am a compassionate professional providing a high-quality service. My client list has grown through word of mouth. I am proud of the work I do and the feedback I receive.”
To learn more about Free Your Mind Massage Therapy or to make an appointment, send a text to 207-523-0577 or visit Free Your Mind Massage Therapy on Facebook or at https://www.vagaro.com/freeyourmindmassagetrherapy or https://mvaillancourtlmt.amtamembers.com. <
Friday, August 29, 2025
Business Spotlight: Wheels & Deals Auto Repair Sales and Service
For the past 40 years, Wheels & Deals Auto Repair Sales and Service of Windham has been a trustworthy resource for reliable auto sales and repairs in the Lakes Region of Maine and that tradition of exceptional customer service continues to this very day.
“We do our best to provide top tier service,” Justin Villacci said. “We are your one-stop shop for all your auto needs with ASE-certified technicians, affordable car repairs and body work, storage, sales, and alignment for all cars including foreign, domestic, hybrid, and diesel.”
“Our mechanics are ASE certified, which means they have completed the necessary training and achieved the status of Automotive Service Excellence Certified Master Technicians,” Justin Villacci said. “This certification ensures that your vehicle is serviced by highly skilled professionals with proven expertise, offering a level of knowledge and competence that is hard to match.”
Auto repair services available at Wheels & Deals include new tires, tire rotation, tire alignment, wheel balancing, oil changes, state inspections, undercoating, tune-ups, brakes, computerized diagnostics, exhaust systems, steering and suspension, factory maintenance schedules, air conditioning service, and general auto mechanical repairs.
“We use advanced diagnostic technology to ensure that your vehicle is repaired and serviced accurately on the first attempt,” Anthony Villacci said.
Along with sales and service, Wheels & Deals also offers auto body work for minor accidents, scratches, dents, or rust repair. They can also assist with fender repairs, tailgate repairs, precise paint matching and headlight replacement. Wheels & Deals handles scheduling and ordering parts to complete autobody repairs, ensuring that your vehicle is inspection-ready and back on the road quickly in a cost-effective way.
If all of that isn’t enough, Wheels & Deals also offers light marine maintenance, handling such tasks as changing your boat’s engine oil, lubricating fittings, checking the battery and fuel stabilizer, and inspecting the prop shaft by removing the propeller. It can help to avoid breakdowns when launching a boat after a long winter with general maintenance to ensure it's ready for the water.
“Our commitment is to offer diverse options and exceptional service to meet your needs,” Anthony Villacci said.
At Wheels and Deals Auto Repair they’re proud to offer quality pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs to fit every budget and lifestyle whether you’re looking for a reliable commuter car, a rugged pickup truck or a family friendly SUV, their team works hard to match you with the right vehicle at the right price with honest service, flexible financing options and a commitment to make the buying process stress-free. Wheels and Deals is a trusted local destination for drivers across the Lakes Region and beyond.
Their auto loan terms are flexible no matter what your financial status may be, and the Wheels & Deals team specializes in securing the financing you need and can assist with building or rebuilding your credit.
“We do all that we can to get you financed so that you can start driving the car of your dreams as soon as possible,” Justin Villacci said.
“Trust our experience and personalized approach to find the perfect vehicle for you,” Anthony Villacci said.
During the fall, Wheels & Deals can perform winterization, shrink-wrapping, and secure storage for your boat and a one-stop shop for all of those services at one convenient location.
The business also has abundant indoor and outdoor storage space for all sorts of vehicles, perfect for storing your camper, car, truck, boat, RV, or trailer.
To learn more about Wheels & Deals Auto Repair Sales and Service, visit them online at wheelsanddealsautoinc.com/ or call 207-892-0800. Find them on Facebook under Wheels & Deals Auto Repair Sales & Service. <
Friday, August 22, 2025
Business Spotlight: Wallace Home Improvement
Based in Gray and led by Dave Wallace, Wallace Home Improvement is committed to using its specialized skills and expertise to provide the best exterior remodeling services available in the Lakes Region of Maine. Through masterful workmanship and dedication to exceptional customer service, Wallace has the experience to handle any project superbly.
“We’re here to offer you the best service at an affordable price,” Wallace said. “We are one of the longest standing roof companies in the area and have an awesome reputation.”
“Established in 1991, we're a family-owned company dedicated to using our knowledge and hands-on know-how to help you get the most out of your home. From siding contractors to roofers to gutter contractors, our team is here to offer competitive pricing and skilled craftsmanship,” Wallace said. “At Wallace Home Improvement, our goal is to ensure you get the great products and quality workmanship you deserve.”
Wallace Home Improvement’s siding installers can assist in converting a home’s drab and faded appearance to look newly restored through exterior low-maintenance vinyl siding. If your old gutters have finally given out or you’re installing them for the first time, Wallace’s expert installers have the experience and hands-on knowledge to efficiently and effectively install a new gutter system while using quality seamless gutter products to provide excellent performance.
Known for its fast quality residential roofing, Wallace Home Improvement offers free estimates and delivers peace of mind, quality roofing service and top-notch installation.
“We believe in mutual trust,” Wallace said. “When we are at your home, you trust us to do as promised, and we trust you to pay when the project is complete.”
Wallace has been in the home remodeling business for more than 36 years and started doing seamless gutters that turned into one of Maine’s largest residential roofing companies.
Reviews posted online are simply outstanding.
“Exceptional work! I don’t think there are enough complimentary words in the dictionary to convey the quality of Wallace Home Improvement. In addition to using great materials, they have an amazing crew that are not only knowledgeable but professional and courteous. Our roof was old and involved more than was expected, but it was no challenge for the Wallace Team. They did a fantastic job!”
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The goal of Wallace Home Improvement is to ensure its customers receive great products and the quality workmanship they deserve. COURTESY PHOTO |
“I was confident when I signed the contract with Dave and his wife that I had made a good decision, after looking at several options for roofers/siders. They were able to answer all my questions and put together a great plan and solutions that I didn't know how to solve. But when the crew showed up, to say I was blown away would be an understatement! They stripped my house, siding and roofing in a matter of several hours. By the end of the day, they started laying new stuff on. The crew worked efficiently and did high quality work until it was complete. Work ethic of days gone by. I am so happy and grateful that I chose Wallace Home Improvement.” Artemis B.
“I am completely amazed at the job Wallace Roofing has accomplished with a work crew that did not stop. In one day laying ice and water shield for the entire house and garage, laying 30 squares and they were done! The fact that I don’t have a dent in my relatively new seamless gutters and you can’t find a spot of debris or a nail in my hedges, flower garden or anyplace around my home. It’s like someone waved a magic wand, and in one day, I have a new roof. His crew moved everything that needed moving and it was placed back in the same location when they left. I can’t thank Dave and Dana and his crew enough. They put me on a priority list because of some leaks I had with all this Maine rain, and I will be good for many, many years! Thanks again and I highly recommend Wallace Roofing for those in need.” George C.
To learn more about Wallace Home Improvement’s full line of roofing, gutter, and siding installation and other services, call 207-756-0969 or visit wallaceroofingmaine.com. Find them on Facebook under Wallace Home Improvement. <
Friday, August 15, 2025
Business Spotlight: J. Wolfe Electric and Phoenix Integration
“We are tailored to the needs of our customers,” said John Wolfe, a master electrician and the owner of J. Wolfe Electric. “We’ve been doing Phoenix Integration smart home upgrades for the past four years and have found it can seamlessly integrate all aspects of your life through one centralized system.”
He says Phoenix Integration systems assist in enhancing a homeowner's experience by creating a seamlessly integrated smart home environment. That can include linking entertainment, lighting, blinds, heating and air conditioning and security all through one centralized access point.
“We believe with home automation and with it your possibilities are endless,” Wolfe said. “Our company takes an enormous amount of pride on our reliability, our ability to communicate effectively, our integrity, and in performing quality work.”
The benefits of adding smart home services through J. Wolfe Electric are designed to improve daily life and provide a user-friendly interface for numerous daily tasks. It can automate lighting systems for ambiance, energy efficiency, and convenience or install or integrate security cameras, alarms, and access control systems for enhanced safety and peace of mind. Smart home features can be extended to outdoor living spaces, including outdoor TVs, sound systems, and lighting. Integrating smart thermostats and other energy-efficient technologies can help reduce energy consumption.
Users can monitor their home or business remotely and receive alerts for potential security breaches. Or they can optimize energy consumption through use of automated lighting, temperature control, and other smart devices.
No matter what the needs may be, J. Wolfe Electric can create a home automation system that provides increased convenience to control all your home systems from one place, whether through a wall panel, touch screen, or mobile app on your cell phone. The installation of smart home features can also make residential or commercial properties more appealing to potential buyers.
With combined experience of more than 50 years among J. Wolfe Electric staff members, they possess the knowledge and experience required to handle any task and offer solutions to the most challenging situations.
“It’s a unique business and we also handle all of the Town of Windham and RSU 14 school systems and fire alarms,” Wolfe said. “We offer free project estimates, and our customer relationship is first and foremost to us as without our customers we would not be successful. We are one of the only electrical contractors in the State of Maine who truly offer fire alarms, security, access control, and video surveillance systems all designed, installed and programmed by us. Unlike many other contractors who bring in a sub-contractor to design and commission the system, when we install a system you stay with us even after commissioning with all service, inspection and monitoring needs.”
According to Wolfe, the mission of J. Wolfe Electric is simple yet profound.
“We aim to deliver unparalleled electrical solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability,” he said. “We strive to exceed expectations in every project, and to contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the communities we serve.”
Online reviews for J. Wolfe Electric are exceptional.
“These guys came out and worked in the dead of cold in the winter in an old barn and got the job done. It was of great value. John has a good crew of people working with him and they'll get the job done. This was a 100-amp to 200-amp upgrade with a sub panel and electric car charger install.” Jon D.
“Excellent customer service. Excellent workmanship. I will definitely use this pro in the future.” Andy S.
“John took care of all my needs. Super personable and reasonably priced.” Kathleen V.
To learn more about J. Wolfe Electric and the unique services it offers, call/text 207-632-8799 or visit jwolfeelectric.com and phoenixintegrations.com. Find them on Facebook under Jwolfe Electric. <
Friday, August 8, 2025
Business Spotlight: Tu Casa
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Tu Casa in Raymond offers families of children ages 2 to 5 a great sense of community and collaboration in providing quality Early Childhood Education to young learners. SUBMITTED PHOTO |
“We believe children should be in charge of their unique learning path through risk taking, experimenting and problem solving with adult guidance and care,” said Grace Emery-Freyre, Tu Casa owner. “We believe mixed ages, and mixed approaches to learning through private and public education makes learning relevant to the child’s life and creates a greater sense of motivation, freedom and joy around learning.”
“Tu Casa started as Tu Casa Childcare however, we are just calling ourselves Tu Casa, Emery-Freyre said. “On the logo we have added Tu Casa Early Childhood Education. This change is because of our public-school partnership. Changing the word ‘childcare’ to quality 'Early Childhood Education’ helps combat the stigma that early childhood education programs are just another form of babysitting. We are Early Childhood Education professionals.”
Families can enroll their child in a public Pre-K program within RSU 14 at a local early education center.
“In our case we are not a center, we are an in-home family childcare program. We are actually the only family childcare program partnered with a public school system in the state of Maine,” Emery-Freyre said. “This partnership is designed to provide a developmentally appropriate early care and education experience for children, ensuring a seamless and supportive transition between settings. All public Pre-K programs, regardless of setting, meet the same Chapter 124 standards as required by Maine’s Department of Education.”
Those standards include:
“Private families that enroll in our program are usually families with children under the age of 4 because they are not old enough to enroll in public Pre-K,” Emery-Freyre said. “Private families pay out of pocket a weekly or monthly fee.”
Emery-Freyre had been working in education for several years before starting Tu Casa.
“I really wanted to create the space on my own because I strongly believe that the environment does most of the work for the child’s learning,” she said. “In other work settings, I didn’t have the opportunity to create my own philosophy – so creating Tu Casa was a passion project, which is why I believe it has been so successful.”
Tu Casa’s hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and it follows public school scheduling and observes all holidays, vacation weeks, and snow days as RSU 14.
“The most significant aspect of what we do would be a great sense of community and collaboration to provide quality programming for young children,” Emery-Freyre said.
Enrollment for the new school year is now underway for students ages 2 to 5.
To learn more about Tu Casa, call 207-396-0256 or visit www.tucasaschool.com <
Friday, August 1, 2025
Business Spotlight: Wildcats Gymnastics
Wildcats Gymnastics offers a wide range of services including gymnastics instruction, summer and holiday camps, birthday parties, open gyms, competitive and recreational teams, and seasonal community events. Their programs cater to children in Cumberland County and surrounding communities, with an emphasis on keeping activities affordable and accessible to families of all income levels.
Saloga describes Wildcats as a social enterprise. “We opened our Community Gymnastics Center for the benefit of the kids stuck on long waitlists elsewhere,” she said. “Our mission is to create more access to the sport we love.” Wildcats plans to launch a financial aid and scholarship program in the near future to further expand access, especially to underserved populations.
The center’s unique offerings include session-based classes, which Saloga says improve consistency, commitment, and measurable progress. Another standout feature is the children’s “Show Team”—a non-competitive group that performs at local parades, school assemblies, and community festivals. The Show Team is designed to give children a performance outlet without the pressure of competition.
Classes are structured around progressive weekly lesson plans, ensuring that students develop foundational skills before moving on to more advanced techniques. Parents receive regular updates, and are invited to observe classes, emphasizing Wildcats’ belief in open communication and family involvement.
“Gymnastics teaches kids resilience, leadership, and self-confidence,” said Saloga. “It also supports academic achievement by building neural connections between physical and intellectual learning. We’re not just building athletes—we’re helping raise well-rounded young people.”
Devon Saloga discovered her passion for gymnastics at age 12, going on to compete, teach, and eventually manage Boulder, Colorado’s renowned gymnastics program. Her career has taken her across the country, influencing programs of all sizes. Now, with her sons by her side – both former athletes and experienced coaches themselves – she’s channeling that lifelong passion into Wildcats Gymnastics.
Fall registration is now open, with classes beginning Sept. 2 for children of all ages, starting at walking age. Programs include parent-child introductory classes, beginner and advanced recreational levels, tumbling, summer and non-school day camps, teams and more.
For more information or to register, visit wildcatsgymnasticsme.com, email Info@WildcatsGymnasticsME.com, or call 207-899-8015. Follow Wildcats Gymnastics on Facebook and Instagram. We look forward to seeing you at Wildcats! <