Business Spotlight: Tim Graham Modern Woodmen of America

As a Modern Woodmen representative, Tim Graham uses his extensive knowledge of financial products to help his members in Windham plan for a secure financial future.

Tim Graham of Modern Woodmen
of America can help Windham residents
plan for a secure financial future.
COURTESY PHOTO

Modern Woodmen is a fraternal benefit society that offers a unique blend of financial services, member benefits and community impact designed to improve quality of life for its members and the towns where they reside.

With an office conveniently located at 909 Roosevelt Trail in Windham, Tim Graham of Modern Woodmen of America helps individuals, families, and small businesses meet their financial needs with products such as Life, Long Term Care and Disability insurance and assists members to save through investments and fixed products.

“It’s rewarding to help people plan for their retirement and seeing it happen,” Graham said. “I personally work with members in multiple states as well as right here in Windham and surrounding areas.”

Modern Woodmen is a national company and was established back in 1883 and is turning 140 years old this year.

AM Best, an independent rating agency, has affirmed Modern Woodmen’s A (Excellent) financial strength rating, with a stable outlook. This is the third highest of 13 ratings, assigned to companies that have an excellent ability to meet ongoing insurance obligations.

Graham said that Modern Woodmen of America is a Fraternal Financial Services Company and not-for-profit.

“As we grow, we are able to give back more and help individuals in need and other not-for-profits in our area,” he said. “We are wholistic in our approach to planning. “It means we take risk management seriously with insurances and investments through our Broker Dealer, MWA Financial Services.”

Pricing for Modern Woodmen of America insurance products, fixed interest rates and investments offered through MWA Financial Services is highly competitive, Graham said.

“We don’t put our members in products that are not in their best interest and that don’t meet their financial goals,” he said. “We have a very high retention rate of our products issued with our members. We care about our members and the communities in which we live.”

The Modern Woodmen philosophy is that life insurance is the foundation of planning and offers affordable options for member families including plans specifically designed for children and young adults, and permanent life insurance plans that provide permanent solutions for permanent needs without permanent premiums. Available options from Modern Woodmen of America include Whole Life, Universal Life and Term Life insurance plans.

Graham has been in business for 24 years and for the past 15 years with Modern Woodmen of America.

“We currently have about 20 representatives in the state of Maine, and I manage about 10 of those people,” he said. “Each representative must complete many tasks in order to do business in the state. The Life and Health License is first and then Securities License, which consists of multiple tests in order to be ready to do business.”

According to Graham, the reasons he’s been successful with Modern Woodmen of America in Windham through the years are basic.

“Honesty, integrity, and good morals,” he said. “We believe if you do good things, good things will come around. When it comes to financial planning, we can help you meet your current needs, achieve your future dreams and plan for all stages of life.”

Graham said it’s a daunting challenge to keep up with all the new regulations while staying current with clients and all services available for Modern Woodmen of America members, but it’s something that gives a competitive edge to Modern Woodmen of America.

“We try to stay up to date on current trends and products, however each person is different,” he said. “Some people want guarantees and others want to be in the market. We ask a lot of questions so that we can understand each individual’s situation. Guarantees are popular right now, but again, everybody is different.”

For more details about how Tim Graham of Modern Woodmen of America can help you plan for a comfortable retirement, visit https://reps.modernwoodmen.org/tgraham/ or call 207-892-0302. Find them on Facebook under Tim Graham Modern Woodmen of America. <

Business Spotlight: Red City Ale House

Great food, great drinks, and great friends amount to an awesome experience each time you visit Red City Ale House in South Windham.

Red City Ale House opened in June and has
developed a loyal following for it's outstanding
food, drinks and service. COURTESY PHOTO

Located at 8 Main Street, (Route 202) in historic South Windham, Red City Ale House offers casual dining in a family-friendly neighborhood pub experience.

“We serve customers from Gorham, Windham, Westbrook and all around the Lakes Region,” said Ben Smith of Red City Ale House. “We are also happy to host anyone who is visiting from away.”

Situated in the remodeled old South Windham Fire Station, Red City Ale House is known as a warm and welcoming, family friendly neighborhood pub which features nothing but the finest in upscale American pub-style food and drinks.

Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, Red City Ale House provides a comfortable ambiance for guests in a unique building and offers the utmost in customer service that keeps guests wanting to come back again and again.

“We are able to raise the large doors to the front outside patio on nice days and we offer, weather permitting, a deck on the rear of the building which overlooks the mighty Presumpscot River,” Smith said.

Red City Ale House opened on June 1 and has two sister restaurants in Gorham, the Sidecar Pub which has been in business for two years, and Junction Bowl which has been open for four years.

Customers visiting Red City Ale House for the first time will find a generous selection of soups and salads; burgers and sandwiches; pizza; wings and chicken tenders; steak; fish and chips; wraps; shrimp; and much more. Portions are generous and Smith said the value of the meals is outstanding.

“We strive to create delicious food and drinks at a fair price,” Smith said. “Prices have gone up, and are going up, on anything and everything, so like every business we are attempting to adjust accordingly while still providing a good value.”

The menu includes an array of tasty appetizers that almost are a meal in itself such as Allagash Mussels; Chili Cheese Fries; Bang Bang Shrimp, a Mega Meatball, which is a house-made meatball covered in marinara sauce. topped with basil ricotta and served with toasted points; and Fried Cheese Curds.

The drink menu is to die for and includes popular selections such as an Apple Cranberry Mule; a Cocoa Old Fashion; a Grapefruit Pomegranate Vodka Sour; Red City Rum Punch; a Gin and Sin; a Blueberry Smash; and Lime in the Coconut Margaritas, which feature 1800 Coconut Tequila, Fresh Lime Juice, Coconut Cream, and Sour Mix shaken and topped with soda.

There’s also a kids’ menu and save some room for dessert as Red City has some of the best Peanut Butter Pie and New York Cheesecake to be found in Southern Maine.

Feedback on social media from customers is nothing short of exceptional since Red City Ale House opened.

“Great experience! Food was delicious and the customer service was wonderful!” Madison Marzul

“My son and I had the poutine, steak salad and bacon cheeseburger… all three were AMAZING!!! Great, friendly service with smiles. I love how they kept the fire station’s big doors/windows as their front wall. Nicely done! We loved it. I will be telling everyone!” Kristen Holly

“Went there tonight with my boyfriend and it was perfect! Staff is very friendly, and our drinks and food came out to us so quickly! Everything was yummy!! We will definitely be going back!" Denise Marie

“Very friendly staff and the food was delicious!!” Kelly McCafferty

“The Seafood Fra Diavolo was simply incredible! I asked if I could have it lightly spiced and the chef was able to accommodate! Fun, relaxing atmosphere! Friendly staff! We highly recommend!” Erin Poore Dupree

Smith said that Red City Ale House keeps up to date on current trends in the restaurant industry but its menu is based more on tradition than in chasing the hot new trends and that simplicity has helped the restaurant to develop a devoted local following.

“We offer simple delicious food and beverages with a smile,” he said.

For more details about Red City Ale House, visit www.redcityalehouse.com or call 207-370-6440. Reservations are welcome. Find them on Facebook under Red City Ale House. They are open everyday!

Business Spotlight: Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services

The top priority of Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting families to honor their loved ones at the most difficult of times in an authentic and meaningful way. Its mission is to care for your family as they would care for members of their own family by providing information, services and merchandise of the highest quality at competitive prices in a dignified and professional manner while acting with honesty, integrity, compassion and sensitivity.

Jeff Dobson has opened Dobson
Family Funeral & Cremation
Services, which helps families
throughout Southern Maine.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Locally owned and operated at 782 Alfred Road in Arundel, Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services offers full burial and cremation services, green burials, church services, graveside services, direct cremation, direct burials, prearrangements and specializes in international shipping to South Sudan and The Democratic Republic of the Congo. It serves all Southern Maine and parts of New Hampshire with extensive experience in Windham and the Greater Portland area.

“First, we are family owned and operated and we are very proud that one thing that is different about us is that we do not focus on profit. We truly focus more on helping each family by offering cremations and burials without all the hidden costs that many providers today charge,” said owner Jeffrey Dobson. “We are extremely transparent. We are one of only a couple funeral homes that I know of in Southern Maine that fully publish all our prices on our website. We do not hide anything, nor do we require a family to come in and see us to get the basic information they need to make informed choices.”

Dobson said their prices are on average thousands less than other funeral homes while also maintaining the highest level of service.

“We do this by keeping our overhead as low as possible. The average direct cremation in the Windham and Portland area is around $4,000. Our basic direct cremation starts at $1,285 which also includes a death certificate which no other funeral home does. They charge families for every copy of the death certificate,” he said. “We believe that providing that one copy can make a difference and help a family dramatically. We also have a direct cremation which includes an urn from a choice of five different ones. We include a memorial tribute video in that package as well for $1,985 in comparison with other funeral homes charging $4,000 not including an urn or a death certificate or a tribute video. We also provide full traditional burial starting at $6,950 including a casket and grave liner. For most funeral homes, a family would spend about $6,000 plus just for the services of the funeral home not including a casket and vault which will bring their cost up by another few grand.”

According to Dobson, he understands that everyone he serves has experienced a loss and comes to him looking for compassion, honesty and peace of mind.

“The most important thing to know about this business is that we truly care about each family and that families can obtain the services they need after a loss without the high cost that most services charge today,” Dobson said. “We want people to know that we provide the highest quality and dignified services while also offering the most affordable cost. We do this with our experience and knowledge which includes over 15 years in funeral services and 10 years licensed in Maine and New Hampshire.”

He said that the quality of the services they offer is of the highest importance to them and they will never sacrifice quality and compassion. The cost of the services should never be a factor in the quality of the services a family receives.

“I have gotten feedback from families who have reached out and have gotten an email back after hours,” Dobson said. “We respond to families 24 hours a day and families see that and they know that if they call us, we are going to be there for them. We also have a brand-new renovated facility with security cameras for the protection of families’ loved ones. Our facility is still being renovated but we are close to finishing, and we are proud to have a beautiful clean facility to care for families’ loved ones.”

Open since July 1, Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services has five employees and is fully licensed by the State Board of Funeral Services to operate a funeral establishment. All staff have been trained by Dobson, who is a dual licensed funeral director, and its funeral attendants are all licensed by the State Board of Funeral Services.

“We do stay on top of current trends, and we have designed our funeral home to be one that is ready for the future,” Dobson said. Many families today are choosing to not have the large funeral of the past and we understand that. We also see a big movement toward green burials, and we provide the lowest-cost green burial services that we can find.”

To reach Dobson Family Funeral & Cremation Services call 207-494-7583 and see their transparent pricing at www.dobsonfuneralservices.com <

Business Spotlight: Yolked Farm to Table

A new culinary oasis has emerged in the heart of Windham where husband and wife team are inviting patrons to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. Yolked Farm to Table is a dream come true for Executive chef Jesse Bouchard and his wife Mindy. The much-anticipated opening of the state's newest gem, a farm-to-table restaurant, has stirred excitement and anticipation among food enthusiasts and locals alike.

Mindy and Jesse Bouchard own Yolked Farm
to Table, now open at 868 Roosevelt Trail
in Windham. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Yolked began in 2019 as a food truck situated in rural Maine alongside NU Brewery, building relationships with local farms and producers to evolve into what it is today. The Yolked concept was born from their personal small flock of chickens and the value of knowing how your food is raised. Utilizing whole foods is the main staple of their menu and they are proud to offer it to you in their new space at 868 Roosevelt Trail in Windham.

Yolked Farm to Table is more than just a place to dine; it's a celebration of the region's bountiful harvests and a commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. As the doors swing open, patrons are welcomed into a warm, rustic ambiance that mirrors the genuine and unpretentious nature of the farm-to-table movement.

The concept of farm-to-table dining is not just a trend but a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers. Yolked Farm to Table, with its commitment to sustainability and supporting local agriculture, embodies this ethos to create a truly unique dining experience with flavor combinations you will not find anywhere else in the area.

One of the restaurant's defining features is its partnership with nearby farms, ensuring that the ingredients used in each dish are not only of the highest quality but also reflective of the changing seasons. From heirloom tomatoes plucked at the peak of summer to root vegetables harvested in the crisp autumn air, the menu is a testament to the richness and diversity of Maine's agricultural offerings.

The chef, a culinary virtuoso with a passion for local flavors, orchestrates a symphony of tastes and textures, transforming the raw bounty into culinary masterpieces. Each dish and cocktail tell a story – a narrative of our Maine land combined with flavors based on their unforgettable travel dining experiences, the hands that cultivated it, and the season that inspired it. The menu, though subject to change with the seasons, boasts a consistent commitment to creativity and excellence.

As diners savor each bite, they are encouraged to appreciate the interconnectedness of the local community, recognizing that their choice to dine at this farm-to-table establishment contributes to the prosperity of nearby farmers and the sustainability of the region. The restaurant serves as a hub for local producers, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the establishment and the community.

Five-star reviews for Yolked Farm to Table are stacking up, where patrons rave not only about the beautiful atmosphere and amazing selection of dishes but also boasting about the creative cocktail specialties and dessert that is to die for. One customer went on to say, “Upon entering the restaurant we found the decor to be warm and inviting. The food was levels above anything we’ve had at other restaurants in the area. Everything is homemade and seasoned to perfection, with large portions that will more than satisfy your appetite. We ordered a slice of Espresso Cream Cheesecake to go. Our server was attentive and it was clear she cared about making our experience a great one!”

In a world where fast-paced living often disconnects us from the origins of our food, this Maine farm-to-table restaurant stands as a beacon, reminding us to savor not just the flavors on our plates but also the stories embedded in each ingredient. It's a celebration of Maine's agricultural heritage, a nod to the hardworking farmers who till the land, and a promise to patrons that every meal is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, sustainability, and the vibrant flavors of the region.

Visit their website at yolkedfarmtotable.com to peruse their menu of food and cocktail options available now. Also follow them on Facebook to keep up with seasonal changes. They are open for dining in or take-out Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. Reservations are not required but in order to ensure a table, they are highly recommended. Reserve on their website or call 207-749-4097.

Business Spotlight: Windham Dentistry

The goal of Windham Dentistry is to make all patients feel like they are part of the family and to provide them with excellence in dentistry and compassionate care.

Windham Dentistry offers a wide variety of services ranging from general and cosmetic dentistry to full mouth rehabilitation from its convenient location at 713 Roosevelt Trail in Windham. No matter if it’s protecting, repairing, or enhancing smiles, the Windham Dentistry team delivers superior, patient-centered care at every step, using the latest advances in dental technology.

“We are proud to say that we offer same-day treatment and emergency appointments. We offer a friendly, highly experienced, and relaxed atmosphere and feature affordable in-house dental plans,” said Brandy Casey of Windham Dentistry. “The best aspect of what we do is to provide a welcoming experience for our patients. It’s gratifying to see someone who is not very confident with their smile go through the process with us and then emerge with a beautiful smile and the confidence to show it.”

The practice is in the network with three major insurance companies, including Cigna, Unum, and Delta to benefit its patients. It also accepts Care Credit with a 12-month deferred interest program for purchases exceeding $200.

“With a commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach, we strive to deliver unparalleled care to each and every patient,” Casey said.

In business for more than a decade, Windham Dentistry provides patients with accurate estimates of all treatment costs before any work is performed. It files insurance paperwork and claims for patients and can help maximize a patient’s insurance benefits.

“We use state-of-the-art technology including iTero Scanning to monitor oral health over time and reduce costly expenses in the future,” said Brittany Nixon of Windham Dentistry. “We can usually schedule new patients within two to three weeks of their call and always offer any sooner available appointments. If new patients mention this article from The Windham Eagle, they will receive an at-home whitening kit upon the completion of a comprehensive exam, x-rays and a cleaning as well as getting $500 off Invisalign or a single dental implant.”

Their extensive menu of comprehensive modern dental care services includes oral examinations, preventative programs, crowns and caps, gum treatments, bridges and dentures, dental implants, tooth whitening, pediatric dental care, fillings, veneers, and extractions, all available at its convenient state-of-the-art facility in Windham.

Patients at Windham Dentistry benefit from a stress-free dental experience, flexible scheduling, affordable services, and from the expertise of some of the most skilled dentists and hygienists in Maine who believe in building trusting relationships and treating each patient with dignity and respect.

Clear, concise, and practical explanations are given to patients for services at Windham Dentistry with no upselling.

“Our dental hygiene program is designed to help prevent new cavities, preserve teeth that have been restored and manage periodontal disease,” Casey said. “We offer instructions about how patients can improve their daily oral hygiene habits and have regular dental cleanings.”

Reviews from patients are exceptional.

“5 stars. Amazing place with amazing people. Everyone from the front desk, the dental hygienist, and the dentist were so kind and patient. They took their time and answered every question I had. So glad I found them.” – Lori

“5 stars. I had an appointment for teeth cleaning, and it was my best experience ever in a dental office. Windham Dentistry staff are very friendly. I was completely at ease, and it was painless! Thank you for looking after me.” – Valencia

At Windham Dentistry, each member of the team is enthusiastic and dedicated to providing exceptional treatment for every member of the family, quality implants, and outstanding cosmetic dentistry services. Featuring a warm and welcoming family atmosphere throughout the office, and helping to make patients feel more comfortable, the practice has a genuine caring approach that continues to earn patient trust and admiration.

With a demonstrated commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach to its mission, the Windham Dentistry team strives to deliver unparalleled care to every patient for those in the Lakes Region of Maine and beyond.

For more information about Windham Dentistry or to make an appointment, call 207-892-3200 or visit windhammainedentistry.com/ Find them on Facebook and Instagram under Windham Dentistry. <

Business Spotlight: Woodman Mansfield Company, PC

No matter how you try to understand it, navigating Medicare insurance can be a confusing process. The Woodman Mansfield Company is committed to helping individuals find strong value in affordable and comprehensive Medicare insurance plans.

Robert Woodman, left, and his daughter, Hilary Mansfield
are the Woodman Mansfield Company and help individuals
find strong value in affordable and comprehensive 
Medicare insurance plans. SUBMITTED PHOTO   

Robert Woodman and his daughter, Hilary Mansfield, make up the Woodman Mansfield Company. They are independent insurance agents who specialize in Medicare plans. They will educate you about how Medicare insurance works and why it works as it does and guide you through the enrollment process.

Their focus is on education about Medicare insurance and all available options, and their services are offered throughout the year with plan reviews and options for changes offered during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period running through Dec. 7. Their no-pressure private consultations are provided at no cost to you in their office in the Old Richardson Place at 510 Main St. in Gorham.

Whether you are looking for a Medicare insurance plan which better suits your needs, or if your personal situation has changed, Rob and Hilary can assist in bringing clarity and providing a greater understanding of what coverage is available, what is provided by different plans and how each plan stacks up against one another.

Both Woodman and Mansfield say that their goal is to be an ally for you in trying to better understand Medicare.

“We listen to their needs and goals and compare plans available in their county so that they can make an informed decision about which plan will work best for them,” Mansfield said.

For those turning 65 or looking for answers to Medicare insurance plan questions, Woodman Mansfield Company is a trusted resource available without expense to clients.

“We try to have some fun. Medicare insurance is confusing, and we are here to help,” Woodman said. “Our consultations are no-cost to our clients. We are paid by the carriers who represent the plans they choose. This is why we take the time to certify with as many different companies as possible; we want to ensure that we can find the best plan for each person.”

Mansfield said that in speaking with her clients, she’s found that the public’s perception is that people currently promoting Medicare insurance plans on television are licensed agents and that most of the plans are similar, and that’s not the case.

“We understand that choosing the right plan is a very important decision, and we understand how confusing this process can be. There's a lot of misinformation out there,” she said. “I have a background in education, and my dad has been in the industry for many years. We both enjoy working in a profession that allows us to help people every day. There's no better feeling than knowing that the work you’re doing is making someone's life a little easier. It's great to know at the end of each day we've achieved that goal.”

Woodman said that because Woodman Mansfield Company is small, it’s able to offer attentive and personalized service and pay individual attention to clients.

“We try to go the extra mile for people,” he said. “We do whatever we can to get people what they need based upon their individual circumstances, needs, and goals.”

According to Mansfield, their company continues to grow and is successful because of client referrals.

“There is no better testimonial than a client who is satisfied with the experience they had with us; so much so that they want their friends and family to have the same experience,” she said.

In addition to Medicare plans, the company also offers retirement planning workshops. Woodman said that “we have found that at the same time people are thinking about Medicare insurance they are also thinking about retirement and estate planning issues. So, we have assembled a team of financial and legal experts to offer guidance in these areas, too. Our workshops have been well received in the community, and this is just another example of how we try to go the extra mile for our clients.”

For more details about how the Woodman Mansfield Company can help you, visit https://www.woodmanmansfieldco.com/ or call Robert at 207-951-2485 or Hilary at 207-466-4929. Find them on Facebook at Woodman Mansfield Company.

Business Spotlight: One 4 All Learning Center

It’s no secret that high-quality early care and learning programs can positively impact children for years into the future and that’s the mission of the new One 4 All Learning Center.

A teacher reads to children at the new
One 4 All Learning Center in Raymond.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Having opened in August at 1317 Roosevelt Trail in Raymond, the One 4 All Learning Center is the culmination of a dream for owners Courtnee Benner and Bobby Sue Lowe, who have years of experience and expertise accumulated working in childcare and early childhood education. The facility is a childcare center serving children ages 6 weeks to 5 years and offering before- and after-care for children in Kindergarten and First Grade.

“A lot of heart has gone into making this dream become a reality. We have a combined 100-plus years of experience, and our passion for children and their growth and development is reflected in everything we do,” Benner said. “We are the only licensed childcare center in Raymond, although there are quite a few wonderful in-home childcare providers. Our building reflects our values of making children and families feel at home. We find children thrive in environments that are familiar, and we have worked hard to ensure that walking into a classroom felt like opening the front door to your living room.”

Located on spacious and safe grounds and featuring a renovated building, the One 4 All Learning Center is open from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday with meals and snacks included daily and a discount for enrolled siblings in its infant, toddler, and preschool programs. It is licensed to care for up to 49 children daily.

“We have done a couple of tours for families where we were astonished when they asked questions such as ‘do you read to the children,’ or ‘do you go outside’ because of misconceptions of childcare and what we do,” Lowe said. “Children are not a distraction from more important work, they are the most important work. We may have a play-based learning approach but play-based means so much more than just play. Play is the work of children.”

Both Benner and Lowe dispel the notion that childcare is nothing more than babysitting. They say their experience working in the childcare profession has shown them that this time in the lives of young children is crucial to learning valuable concepts such as getting along with other children, problem-solving, proper ways of sharing and socialization.

To accomplish that, the One 4 All Learning Center teachers are trained in curriculum planning, learning and development, and fostering cognitive abilities while adhering to developmental standards. It employs eight full-time teachers and one part-time teacher who share an extensive background in childcare.

“We are required to obtain a certificate of licensure through the State of Maine and DHHS. Through that process, there is a 76-page handbook outlining all of the different requirements for providing care to children in a group setting,” Benner said. “In addition, we are required to obtain a certificate through Maine’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), Rising Stars for ME. This is a system used for tracking quality care and improvements made within the program. We obtained our certificate as a four-star program in October.”

With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, personalized care and attention and a strong focus on early childhood education, One 4 All Learning Center strives to exceed expectations.

“As we prepared to open, both of us thought if we could give these families one thing, what would it be and our answer was simple – time,” Lowe said. “We then sat down and brainstormed ideas to provide working parents more time with their children, and we mapped out what a day as a parent would look like. Prepping for the next day is the first thing that came to mind, specifically meal planning. Packing snacks and lunch takes out such a chunk of every night when time is already limited to spend with your child because of the restraints of a working life. We provide two snacks and lunch, all included with weekly tuition, while following best practices in health and nutrition.”

For more details about One 4 All Learning Center or to arrange for a tour, call 207-302-0030. Visit them on Facebook page at Facebook.com/One4AllLearningCenter <

Business Spotlight: Maine State Credit Union

Maine State Credit Union Business Profile

Many spooky things happen on Halloween, but in 2022, something incredible happened. Maine State Credit Union opened its first Maine State Credit Union branch outside the Augusta/Waterville area at 25 Portland Road in Gray, in the Gray Plaza.  

 

Maine State Credit Union is a full-service credit union and a place for all Mainers' financial needs. Founded in 1935 under the stairway at the State House in Augusta, it has grown and expanded its reach. It now has over 35,000 members, and its doors are open to Mainers looking for a friendly place to help them navigate financial decisions of any size.

Beyond Basic

You can walk into any bank and credit union in Maine and find similar you achieve your financial goals and dreams. Maine State Credit Union has been voted one of the best places to work in Maine for 12 years and has been recognized by Forbes as one of Maine's Best Credit Unions for the past two years.

 

Gray's team is prepared to help you with your needs, from shared branching to opening your first mortgage to helping you get the funds you need to run your business. The Maine State CU team will meet you at the branch location and assist in any way we can.

 

The first Friday of the month, they host a Maine State CU café where members can stop in for a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a seasonal treat.  

 

Community Support

 

The team from Maine State Credit Union is a leader in giving back to the local community. Each year, they participate in the Maine Credit Union League's campaign to End Hunger in Maine. They are also a supporter of local events such as the Town of Gray's Annual Blueberry Festival and Community Days. The team in Gray is also very active in the local Chamber and is sponsoring the annual Bid of Christmas and Polar Plunge in February.

 

Products and Services

 

Maine State Credit Union is one of a few credit unions in the state to offer small business and commercial loans. They offer a variety of mortgage products and service all their loans from their flagship location in Augusta, Maine.

 

They also offer a wide range of loan products such as personal loans, debt consolidation loans, auto, boat, and recreational loans, as well as home equity loans and lines of credit. 

They are a go-to place for checking accounts, Christmas clubs, and savings accounts. They will sit with you and find the product and tools that fit your situation.

 

The Credit Union for You

 

We are a little quirky; we like to have fun and celebrate our differences. We love our communities and support our members when and where we can, not only through monetary contributions but also by volunteering, financial literacy, and bringing fun and laughter to all we do.

 

We welcome you anytime and will do our best to provide you with the highest level of service and thoroughly explain things. 

 

At the end of the day, we are all people who want our neighbors to thrive and make our communities the best place to live that we can. At Maine State Credit Union, members are our bottom line. Belong with us.

 

For more information please call 207-623-1851, email us at contactus@mainestatecu.org, or visit us online at www.mainestatecu.org. In branch hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Drive-Thru hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and eBranch hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Quick Facts About Maine State Credit Union

Founded: 1935

Asset Size: 600,000,000

Branch Locations: Augusta, Waterville, Rockland and Gray

CEO: Stephen Wallace

Business Spotlight: Pop's Place

As the owners of Windham’s new favorite restaurant Pop’s Place, Deanna Gaudreau and Jason LeShane are confident that if your meal is great, portions are generous, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is welcoming and fun, you’ll be back again and again. It’s been an essential part of their success in the restaurant industry and as a result, business is booming at Pop’s Place.

Deanna Gaudreau and Jason LeShane
are the owners of Pop's Place
in Windham. COURTESY PHOTO 

Located at 754 Roosevelt Trail in Windham, Pop’s Place has been open since July and offers a complete breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu in a family friendly environment where smiles, tasty meals, happy customers and fun take priority in everything that they do. The family had been operating the popular CeCe’s Diner on Route 302 in Westbrook since 2021, but leaped at the chance to relocate to Windham this past summer when a facility with a larger kitchen became available.

“In my opinion the specialty items are our breakfast bowls, our fresh no antibiotic-ever chicken sandwiches that can be grilled or fried, our hand-cut red skinned potatoes, our fresh USDA certified burgers and homemade corned beef hash,” Gaudreau said. “We promise to provide the freshest, best quality food that we possibly can with the best service we can provide.”

She has been working in restaurants since she was 14 and says that there is nothing else that she would rather be doing.

“Waitressing and bartending runs through my veins and I have a major passion for it,” Gaudreau said. “We have a large family, and our customers may see a few too many of them at any given time. We want our diner/bar to be the local restaurant that everyone wants to come to and when they do, they feel like family and friends. We have an amazing staff on hand and each one of us are thrilled to be working together to see this dream come true.”

With competitive pricing and an extensive menu, she said she rates the quality of the food at Pop’s Place as exceptional.

“The standards we set for ourselves are above and beyond what even our customers expect from us I believe. We have a certain presentation that we even expect our plates to come out looking like,” she said.

Popular menu items for breakfast include Stuffed French Toast; cinnamon rolls; buttermilk pancakes; breakfast burritos; and an array of breakfast sandwiches and breakfast bowls. For lunch, the menu ranges from hot and cold sandwiches to burgers and chicken tender baskets. Dinner selections are vast and run the gamut from Chicken Marsala to Marinated Steak to Baked Haddock and more. A full kids’ menu is available as are gluten-free items and a limited late-night menu.

Special events and a full-service bar at Pop’s Place are popular too. Karaoke is offered from 7 to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays with Bingo from 7 to 9 on Wednesdays. On the first Friday of each month, Pop’s Place has a dance party from 8 p.m. to midnight.

LeShane said that above anything else, he considers courteous and friendly service to be paramount to the restaurant’s success.

“The best thing about operating a restaurant is certainly our customers,” LeShane said. “They are at the heart of everything we do and if they are happy, they enjoy some good quality food we serve, and they feel like they are family, they’ll want to come back.”

Online reviews are outstanding.

“Always friendly, they make you feel welcome, and their food has always been good, keep up the great work.” Norm Cash

“Great place! Service was awesome, timely and staff was polite. Menu is huge! Which is great. My meal was fantastic, and I think I got a large amount for the price! Would definitely go again, I went for breakfast and for sure will be back for lunch and dinner!” Abby Perkins

“Great new spot we were seated within 15 mins our Hostess and Waitress were cheerful & knowledgeable about Allergies My food was Delicious and there are no restaurants that offer the Gluten Free options like Pop’s Place our food was served within 20 Minutes & the prices were better than most restaurants, We will be back to Pop’s Place.” Georgette Marston

Pop’s Place is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sundays for breakfast from 6 to 2 p.m. for breakfast only with limited lunch items. They are closed on Mondays. Takeout service is available by calling 207-893-8065 in advance.

To keep up with events and to view their full menu visit their Facebook page under Pop’s Place. <

Business spotlight: APlus Autobody

When you’ve been in an accident and your vehicle needs collision repair, APlus Autobody in Windham stands ready to help.

Members of the APlus Autobody team in
Windham include back row, Andrew and
Ashley, front row, Steve, a painter, and 
Derek, a technician. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Conveniently located at 8 Storm Drive in Windham off Route 302, APlus Autobody has been in business for 12 years and focuses on collision and custom paint work. It features three highly experienced autobody technicians and takes pride in being able to assist and advise its customers about the best steps to take when a vehicle has been in an accident. It is known for flawless finishes and handling everything from minor dents to complete collision repair service.

Towing service is available, and all repair work is done in-house with direct insurance billing and a lifetime warranty on all work performed at APlus Autobody.

“We are one of the last standing body shops who are not direct repair with insurance companies,” said Ashley Ciraldo of APlus Autobody. “We do work with all insurance companies, but we are here to do what is right for the customer. We get the repairs completed properly and always thrive more on customer satisfaction. We have knowledgeable employees that can answer any questions you may have.”

What distinguishes APlus Autobody from competitors is its faster scheduling for projects, resulting in shorter wait times to start repair work and get you back behind the wheel quicker.

“We can also get your vehicle in in a timely manner and are not booking months out like other shops in the area,” Ciraldo said. “Insurance companies cannot tell you which shop to use.”

APlus Autobody is a division of APlus and Andrew Coppersmith, one of the owners of APlus, said he’s trying to get the word out that APlus is not just a dealership.

“Whether it’s servicing your car at our service center, or we are here to fix your collision damage or customize however you want, we work on any brand manufacturer,” he said.

Pricing is in line with all insurance rates and because each customer may have questions about the repair process, APlus Autobody goes out of its way to offer exceptional customer service and to take the time needed in educating them about what it takes to repair their vehicle properly and the autobody process.

“We are more about quality than quantity,” Ciraldo said. “Open communication with our customers is essential and here you deal with just one person and you’re not having to consult with insurance collision representatives and the repair shop technicians and the auto parts person. We handle all of that for you and that makes a big difference for many of our customers.”

For some who’ve been in an accident, the misconception about the painstakingly slow process of autobody repair work is shattered once they visit APlus Autobody.

“It may take weeks just to be able to get an estimate at some places and then additional weeks to obtain an appointment to have the collision work done,” Ciraldo said. “We take pride in our turnaround time of how quickly things can happen here and to get them back out there safely and properly.”

APlus Autobody serves everyone in the state of Maine and the business specializes in paint customization.

“We are the only shop around that does color matching. We can paint chrome and textured black plastic,” Ciraldo said. “Color matching and customization has been pretty popular in the car industry among the collision work. We have the ability to color match any color to the factory paint code.”

Online reviews are outstanding.

"I love the quality of work APlus provided along with their great customer service. Best Around!!!"

"All the staff is always so friendly and knowledgeable they were able to answer any and all questions I had about my repair."

"I was very satisfied with my experience at APlus. They handled everything with the insurance company, so I didn't have to. Customer service was the best and my repair looks so good you can't even tell that I had a repair done. I would recommend them over and over again to anyone in need of collision work." 

For more information or to book an appointment with APlus Autobody, call 207-572-4444 or visit them online at https://www.aplustrucks.com/ or on Facebook under APlus Autobody. <

Business Spotlight: 302 Nutrition

The 302 Nutrition name doesn’t begin to tell the story of how a place that specializes in energy teas and healthy shakes is transforming its customers and making it a new favorite place to meet friends, share a laugh and have fun in Raymond.

302 Nutrition employees Sabrina, Ashten 
and Shannon. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Sabrina Golebiewski took over ownership of 302 Nutrition with Dustin James at 1233 Roosevelt Trail, Suite 18, in Raymond less than two years ago in December 2021 and has revitalized the business, turning it into a family friendly establishment where everyone there is a friend and an exceptional place to kick start your day with a tasty and healthy drink.

302 Nutrition offers the largest assortment of protein shakes, loaded teas, protein bowls and Herbalife products in the Lakes Region. But for many loyal customers, the casual atmosphere and uplifting environment is what keeps them coming back day after day for more.

“Once you walk into 302, you’re immediately part of the 302 family,” Golebiewski said. “We pride ourselves on knowing our customers and their needs. We have a loyal following and we don’t take that for granted. Ever.”

The store has been around for almost three years when Golebiewski became its owner, and she began injecting it with her contagious personality and bending over backwards to ensure each customer is treated properly. Most mornings the 302 bar is filled with happy friends socializing and enjoying a drink while launching their day.

“After almost two years since taking over, I still absolutely love unlocking that door and serving my customers,” she said. “We try to have a lot of fun and hope that our customers feel that when they come in, they’ve made a great choice. I’m a single mom of five amazing kids and I took a leap of faith in myself, and I’m pretty proud of how things are going so far.”

Pricing is competitive but the quality of drinks served at 302 Nutrition is first-rate.

“I think we are pretty reasonably priced, and we offer high quality products and service and won’t compromise on that,” Golebiewski said. “Our menu is always expanding, and we have customers who come in and challenge us to make special requests. If we have the ingredients then we are up to it, if we don’t have it then we will get it.”

Shakes are plentiful with new kinds always being added and it’s hard to select one favorite flavor. Customers can choose from Cider Donut, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Taste O’ Honey, Peppermint Blast or Eggnog. Or they also have an expansive range of more traditional flavors such as Chocolate Mint, Cotton Candy, Pralines and Cream, Pina Colada, Cookies and Cream, Café Latte, Vanilla Lovers and many more.

The assortment of teas is just as mind blowing with bases consisting of green, black or orange tea which can be lit with a never-ending supply of flavors including Orange Crush, Starburst, Mango Tango, Lollipop, Lemon Lavender, Nerds, or Pomegranate Power among dozens of combinations available.

Online reviews for 302 Nutrition are out of this world.

“Friendly Staff and great customer service. Sabrina and Ashten are awesome and very knowledgeable about all of their products! Highly recommend 302 Nutrition!!” Jim Donahoe

“Great atmosphere - clean and friendly staff. The drinks are amazing. Worth the stop.” Cindy Grondin Aldrich

“The best teas from the best employees! Such a great atmosphere!” Kristen Bragdon

“I have had teas in many different nutrition shops and 302 nutrition is hands down the best! I drive an hour to get one of their teas!! And the staff is also the best!!!” Jennifer Bishop

“Best Teas, Shakes, and Protein Bowls. Sabrina is the BEST and starting my day here makes each day better! Keep kicking butt, Sabrina!” April Libby

302 Nutrition is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The business is closed on Tuesdays.

Golebiewski says the misconception that healthy drinks automatically taste bad has been shattered at 302 Nutrition.

“This place is a game changer for so many people,” she said. “It’s a whole different way of thinking about your health. The best thing about this place is the people. I love serving my customers. It brings me absolute joy to see them day after day. It’s a family here and every day I get up and I am excited to go to work.”

For more details about 302 Nutrition, call 207-655-6165 or find them on Facebook under 302 Nutrition. <

Business Spotlight: Maggie's A Fine Hair Salon

For some time now, Nicole Kauffman has dreamed of owning her own hair salon and in September her wish came true when she purchased Maggie’s A Fine Hair Salon in Raymond.

Nicole Kauffman has taken over as
the owner of Maggie's A Fine Hair
Salon in Raymond. She has worked
as a stylist at the family friendly
salon for the past six years.
COURTESY PHOTO

Located at 1263 Roosevelt Trail in Raymond, Maggie’s offers great styling in a family friendly atmosphere. Services available include cuts, color, foil, Brazilian blowout treatments, face waxing, perms including a cut, shaping and style, a high-performance and oxidant-free glazing color service for endless creative looks, and updo styling, conditioning hair masques with scalp massages, and braiding. Maggie’s also offers Keratin Smoothing Treatment to transform frizzy, dull, and over-processed hair into shiny, brilliant tresses.

“We provide hair service for all ages,” Nicole said. “We have clients from all over Maine. We take appointments and walk-ins. We do men’s hair too, and we are always taking on new customers and offer competitive pricing. Maggie’s offers a variety of services to customize your haircare needs. With a wide range of color techniques, hair smoothing treatments, perming and endless cutting and styling options, we can create a look you will love to wear.”

Nicole has worked as a stylist at Maggie’s for the past six years and along the way has established many great relationships with customers who consider her as family and have come to trust her and the other two stylists at the salon to provide exceptional service and leave happy with the way that their style looks.

“Between all three stylists at the moment, we have been doing hair for many years,” Nicole said. “I have been doing hair since 2003. I love it and there is nothing else I would rather do. I like to learn from the younger customers and the older customers. I love teaching people what I know. I love watching people do hair. I do keep up on trends with cuts and color foil techniques. I take classes and watch tutorials.”

Nicole said that each professional stylist working at Maggie’s A Fine Hair Salon is an independent contractor and they all work long hours while standing throughout the day on behalf of their customers.

“People come to trust us with their hair and to give them what they want,” Nicole said. “For me, I love building relationships with clients. Younger and older, it's an amazing job. The clients have their hair styled, and we talk, but I talk with them as well and learn about their whole life through the years. I love making people happy. Nurses and nursing assistants do it physically and I can do it with hair. I love to see the smile on their face or making someone's day or being there to talk to them. What is said at the salon stays in the salon.”

The challenge for Nicole in her new role as the owner of Maggie’s A Fine Hair Salon is to keep prices low while the cost of everything continues to go up.

“We do love what we do,” she said. “But we try to give the best prices and best service possible. Making people feel good makes us feel good.”

Online reviews are outstanding.

“Nicole does great with foils. I love my hair. I have thick hair and she does the placement perfectly! My hair cut came out perfect! I love my hair so much!” Samantha Rand

“I brought my 3-year-old boy in for a big boy haircut with clippers, not just a trim. I was nervous, not knowing how he would handle it. It was Amazing! Nicole greeted us with a smile, let him walk around to check out the place, which is gorgeous...Clean and fabulously decorated. She was great with my son and finally gave him the cut we were looking for. She was efficient and super sweet with him. We both loved the whole experience! Thank you!!! Highly recommend- we will be back for sure.” Kristen Bolduc

“I have been going to Maggie's for almost 2 years. They have such a welcoming environment, clean, well decorated, relaxing, and the ladies are friendly and fun! My hairdresser listened to all my hair do's and don'ts, looked at my photos of my hair from the past that I liked! I'm always very happy with my highlights, color and cut, so much that I take a pic and post it on Facebook because I feel like a new and improved woman! So, if you need a new do, or some maintenance, this place is awesome! My special thank you to Nicole, you keep me looking gorgeous! Melissa Chute Devio

To book an appointment or for more information about Maggie’s A Fine Hair Salon, call 207-655-2454 or visit them on Facebook under Maggie’s A Fine Hair Salon. <

Business Spotlight: Windham Rental Center

If you think you know Windham Rental Center, you might want to think again. Under new owners Joe and Donna Poulin, the longtime business at 730 Roosevelt Trail in Windham is growing, all while adapting to changing times with increased rental and retail inventory and featuring quality products that can help get the job done, no matter how large or small the project.

Joe and Donna Poulin took over Windham
Rental Center in 2022. They are proud to
keep the business family owned and 
excited to continue to grow inventory
based upon customer needs.
PHOTO BY MELISSA CARTER

With a staff of eight, Windham Rental Center has a distinguished 27-year record of success as Maine’s premier rental center and serves the entire state, offering the finest in construction and landscape equipment rentals, product delivery, as well as service for the products they sell - and always at competitive and fair pricing.

“The best thing about what we do is helping people,” Joe Poulin said. “We have a truly amazing staff and among us we have a wealth of knowledge and can help advise and provide guidance to those who come in. We offer paths and solutions for projects, what products to use, and how to use our products safely.”

The business has concrete and asphalt rentals; excavation rentals; hand and power tool rentals; home repair rentals; lawn and garden rentals; moving and cleaning rentals; party and event rentals; plumbing rentals; light, power, air, and heat rentals; and pressure washing rentals.

No job is beyond the capability of what can be accomplished with equipment from Windham Rental Center. It has brush cutters; leaf blowers; post drivers; stump grinders; lawn rollers; woodchippers; and post hole diggers. Need an excavator, a skid steer, or a backhoe? Same thing for moving dollys, wet and dry vacuums, saws, airless painters, and hydraulic jacks. All of those and more can be rented from Windham Rental Center.

Trusted brand-name products from Kubota, Bobcat, Black Rhino, Genie, Toro, Rayco, Mud Mixer and Greenworks Commercial, among others, can always be found at Windham Rental.

The business stands behind every product it rents and guarantees that when you take delivery, the equipment is clean and in proper working condition.

“We focus on catching stuff here instead of when you have it out in the field,” Poulin said. “When you pick it up, it will be clean and full of fuel and ready to go.”

According to Poulin, a common misconception is that because of the size of their location, Windham Rental Center may not have the equipment to meet their needs. “Our inventory is posted and updated on our website and people often are surprised by what we have,” he said. “We took over here in May 2022 and have changed the look and the inventory. We also have increased our retail products to meet the needs of contractors and residents and have everything from gloves to beef jerky.”

While they do everything possible to be ready to meet demands, reserving ahead is always recommended, as seasonal demands for some products rises significantly.

“One of the most challenging aspects of what we do is staying on top of the latest and greatest tools for our customers,” Poulin said. “We are always open to feedback and suggestions from both homeowners and professionals to be sure we have what they need.”

Online reviews are exceptional.

“After using Windham Rental Center, I won't go anywhere else, Service was top notch and the equipment was well taken care of! I will be referring my friends and family!! Great job Windham Rental Center!” Robert Duclos

“I had a great experience with Windham Rental. I rented a tractor and mini excavator two days apart. They dropped off the mini-ex machine late in the evening at exactly the time they said they would, and then they returned, picked up the excavator and dropped off the tractor. I had no experience with either machine and they gave me the five-minute run through about how the machines worked and told me they took a few minutes to get used to. They were professional, helpful, and easy to work with.” Paul J.F.

“Great staff that’s very helpful and an incredibly easy process of renting equipment. I would recommend Windham Rental to anyone and I myself will definitely be back!” Sam Pattee

Free quotes are always available at Windham Rental Center which strives to exceed expectations. Call 207-892-7743 or stop in today. Also visit www.windhamrentalcenter.com and find them on Facebook. <

Business Spotlight: Woodman Mansfield Company, PC

Making an informed decision when choosing a Medicare insurance plan can be difficult and perplexing process, but Woodman Mansfield Company stands ready to help bring clarity to a confusing subject and bring people to a point where they feel comfortable about their healthcare choices.

Hilary Mansfield, left, and her father, Robert
Woodman, are the team at Woodman Mansfield
Company and specialize in bringing clarity 
to the confusing subject of healthcare choices.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Robert Woodman and his daughter, Hilary Mansfield, make up Woodman Mansfield Company, and are independent insurance agents who specialize in Medicare plans. They educate people about how Medicare works and why it works as it does and guide them about the correct process for enrollment to prevent penalties or dissatisfaction with their chosen plan.

“We listen to their needs and goals and compare plans available in their county so that they can make an informed decision about which plan will work best for their needs,” Mansfield said.

From their office in the Old Richardson Place at 510 Main St., Suite 109, in Gorham, Woodman Mansfield Company offers complete Medicare solutions, and they are licensed to assist anyone whose primary residence is in the state of Maine. They typically focus on the southern Maine region, but if someone needs their assistance elsewhere, they are happy to travel further.

“Our business is unusual because we are a father and daughter team,” Woodman said. “We take our time with our clients. We like to get to know each potential client well, and we encourage people to make a decision only when they feel confident and ready. And we maintain relationships with our clients. If there is a problem, we are here to assist.”

The company is particularly proud to feature a team of highly qualified individuals who work with them to provide educational “Retirement Planning For All Ages” workshops. These cover topics relevant to anyone planning for retirement. They typically provide an overview of the Medicare insurance process, investment strategies for retirement planning, and estate planning topics, such as the best way to transfer property to relatives. Participants are encouraged to set up a free initial consultation with any of the presenters, and their Medicare insurance consultations are always at no cost.

There is no cost to attend the workshops, and no pressure; just good information and an opportunity to ask questions. The workshops are held in the conference room at the Old Richardson Place in Gorham, and the event list is readily available on the Woodman Mansfield website.

For those turning 65 or looking for answers to Medicare plan questions, Woodman Mansfield Company is a trusted resource and available without expense to clients.

“We try to have some fun. Medicare is confusing, and we are here to help,” Woodman said. “Our consultations are no-cost to our clients. We are paid by the carriers who represent the plans they choose. This is why we take the time to certify with as many different companies as possible; we want to ensure that we can find the best plan for each person.”

Mansfield said that in speaking with her clients, she’s found that the public’s perception is that everyone promoting Medicare plans on television or online are local and that most of the plans are similar, and that’s not the case.

“We understand that choosing the right plan is a very important decision, and we understand how confusing this process can be. There's a lot of misinformation out there,” she said. “I have a background in education, and my dad has been in the industry for many years. We both enjoy working in a profession that allows us to help people every day. There's no better feeling than knowing that the work you’re doing is making someone's life a little easier. It's great to know at the end of each day we've achieved that goal.”

Woodman said that because their company is small, it’s able to offer personalized service and individual attention to clients.

“We try to go the extra mile for people,” he said. “We do whatever we can to get people what they need based upon their individual circumstances, needs, and goals.”

According to Mansfield, their business has grown primarily through referrals.

“There is no better testimonial than a client who is satisfied with the experience they had with us; so much so that they want their friends and family to have the same experience,” she said. “My dad has been working in this business for many years. I'm grateful to be learning from him, and now that we have our own agency, we can take the time to advertise a little bit, such as in this great local publication.”

For more details about how the Woodman Mansfield Company can help you, visit https://www.woodmanmansfieldco.com/ or call Robert at 207-951-2485 or Hilary at 207-466-4929. Find them on Facebook at Woodman Mansfield Company. <

Business Spotlight: Numbers By Nikole, LLC

Ask any successful business owner and they’ll tell you that a great bookkeeper can be the difference between profitability or merely treading water and hoping for the best.

Nikole Clough has owned and operated
Numbers By Nikole, LLC for four years
and has more than 20 years of
bookkeeping and financial experience.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

With more than 20 years of experience and a thorough knowledge of financials, hiring Numbers By Nikole, LLC to handle their bookkeeping is one of the smartest decisions a business owner can make.

“Our main goal is to help ease business owners' minds by taking the finances off their plate, by providing useful reports to show their profit and help with maximizing their deductions,” said Nikole Clough, the owner of Numbers By Nikole, LLC.

Located in Gorham but having a virtual setup that allows her to work with clients throughout the United States, Numbers By Nikole, LLC has been in business for four years and is known for its reliable and personalized “done for you” bookkeeping services.

“Working with a bookkeeper and taking steps toward knowing your finances doesn’t have to be scary,” Clough said. “The majority of our clients say they waited so long to hire a professional because they were embarrassed. Being in this industry for 20 years, we have seen and heard a lot and there is zero judgement. We are here to help and be a comfortable space for you to know your numbers.”

Numbers By Nikole, LLC provides an array of helpful monthly bookkeeping support that includes making sure income and expenses are categorized correctly; reconciliation of checking, savings, credit cards or third-party payment accounts; loan tracking and reconciliation; a customized chart of accounts; and monthly financials to include a profit and loss and balance sheet and other reports that can be generated and customized based upon client needs.

“We also offer cleanup/catchup services, so for the business owner that has tried to keep the bookkeeping current but just doesn't have the time or it’s not coming out right and is a mess, we can come in and get the books all cleaned up and organized,” Clough said.

Numbers By Nikole, LLC also can help with State of Maine sales tax submissions; payroll support through a third-party vendor; annual budget preparation and tracking; estimated taxes of what should be set aside to make quarterly tax payments; helping business owners with knowing how much to pay themselves and setting up a payment schedule; accounts payable; and accounts receivable.

“While we do not perform tax services, we will have your books ready for a tax professional,” Clough said. “We do have some local CPAs that we can recommend for filing taxes.”

What makes Numbers By Nikole, LLC stand out from the competition is its core values.

“We believe in collaboration and strive to make sure our clients understand their numbers and how their business is doing. When a business owner goes from feeling overwhelmed with their finances to taking control, they are sure to feel empowered,” Clough said. “We are approachable. Whether you feel unsure or a bit embarrassed by the current status of your books, we will guide you through it in a judgment free zone. And we are trustworthy. We totally get that finances are a sensitive topic. Growing up we are taught not to talk about money, but here you are letting someone see all your transactions. We are not here to judge. You can count on us to help you create the business and life you dream of by having a strong financial foundation.”

Pricing is highly competitive and factors in Clough’s experience and expert knowledge of bookkeeping.

“We offer different levels of pricing based on what part of the journey a business owner is on. A business just starting out is likely to have a low volume of transactions and minimal complexity,” she said. “A business that is seasoned and growing is likely to have a higher volume of transactions and accounts with higher complexity. We base our pricing off all these factors.”

Online reviews of Numbers By Nikole, LLC are exceptional.

“Nikole has been a joy to work with. She’s professional, responsive, and extremely competent. Having her work on my books has relieved me of so much stress. It’s been a lifesaver.” L. Siviski

“Nikole is a great bookkeeper, we love working with her.” P. Anania

“Nikole has been fantastic in running my books for my gym. She is always prompt, super accurate, and really easy to get a hold of in case of an emergency. You will find her bookkeeping services superior.” S. Durfee

Clough said she enjoys her work and loves being able to help people alleviate the anxiety and stress associated with bookkeeping.

For more information about Numbers By Nikole, LLC, call 207-405-1633, visit www.numbers-by-nikole.com or send an email to Hello@numbersbynikole.com Find them on Facebook at numbersbynikole or on Instagram at numbers_by_nikole. <

Business Spotlight: Think Energy

Theresa Bouchard, a Windham, Maine resident of the past eight years, brings her expertise to Think+ Network, LLC ("Think+") as an Independent Energy Advisor. After Think Energy, LLC (“Think Energy”) rebranded and launch its exciting and innovative new program, Theresa has been dedicated to assisting customers since the early days of March 2023.

Contact local Think+ 
Independent Energy Advisor
Theresa Bouchard to learn 
more about how you can  help
shape Maine's clean energy
landscape.
COURTESY PHOTO

Theresa takes pride in presenting Think Energy's Vision for a Sustainable Future: Envision a world where your everyday actions contribute to a healthier planet, where your electricity choices not only reduce your carbon footprint but also bolster local communities.

Who is Think Energy?

Think Energy is redefining how Maine residents access clean energy. They're more than just an electricity supply service; they're pioneers of locally sourced, community-driven energy solutions. Think Community Solar's collaboration with a national independent power producer is set to revolutionize how Mainer’s access and benefit from clean energy.

Think Energy embodies a commitment to sustainability that aligns with your values. Whether you're new to clean energy or a seasoned advocate, their offerings empower your transition to a greener lifestyle.

Their foundation rests on three pillars: clean electricity, environmental preservation, and community engagement. Choosing Think Energy means access to clean electricity and becoming an environmental steward. Every enrollment contributes to safeguarding 50 trees in the endangered rainforest through their partnership with One Tribe. Learn more: One Tribe Global - Think Energy.

How can Think Energy offerings benefit Maine Customers?

Think Energy currently offers residential customers 100% clean energy, a fixed rate for 3 years with no cancellation fee, and cash back rebates through the Free Energy Club.

Consumers within the Central Maine Power ("CMP") service territory are free to select their own Competitive Electricity Provider ("CEP"). If a residential consumer doesn't choose to take service from a CEP, then they automatically receive electricity supply service from CMP, which is called CMP's Standard Offer Service. Until December 31, 2023, CMP's Standard Offer Rate for residential customers is $0.166310 per kWh.

Alternatively, Think Energy is currently offering residential customers a 3-year term with a fixed-rate price of 13.5 ¢/kWh. Eligible consumers who take advantage of Think Energy's offer will continue to receive a monthly invoice from CMP containing CMP's charges for electricity delivery service, except instead of seeing CMP's Standard Offer Rate, they will see Think Energy's supply charge. For more information about Think Energy's current offer, please review the Disclosure Label located at https:// thinkenergy-public-docs.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/edl/ME_RESI_ENV.pdf

Unsure about a long-term commitment? Thankfully, with Think Energy, there are no cancellation fees for residential customers.

Think Energy's cost savings on electricity supply through December 31, 2023, compared to CMP's Standard Offer Rate for residential customers reaches further through its affiliate, Think Community Solar. With community solar initiatives sweeping the state, you have the opportunity to be a part of something bigger. Think Community Solar's empowers you to receive 10% in bill credits on your electric bill for up to 20 years. This isn't just about cost savings; it is about actively contributing to the growth of local solar projects and reducing the reliance on traditional energy sources.

But the commitment doesn't stop there – it extends to you, the customer, through the Free Energy Club. Think Energy's innovative referral program empowers you to spread the movement and earn cash rebates on your electricity bills, up to $2,000 in any 12-month period. It's a win-win situation you're contributing to tree protection while enjoying the benefits of cleaner energy and financial rewards.

To learn more about Think Energy and community solar, or to enroll through its seamless enrollment process, go http://get.ThinkEnergy.com/tbouchard. If you have any questions, call Theresa and her team at (C) 508-965-9224 or contact her via email at Thinkgreenandsave@gmail.com.

Join Think Energy in Shaping Maine’s Clean Energy Landscape Think Energy isn't merely an energy provider; it's a driving force for positive change. Through a customer-centric approach, innovative technology, and a steadfast commitment to a sustainable future, Think Energy is rewriting the script on how we power our lives.

Maine's cleaner, greener tomorrow begins with you! <