Business Spotlight: Pine Tree Bakery

Baking is really all about transformation, from turning flour, sugar and eggs into delicious cookies and pastries, and baked goods into smiles, and it’s the essence of what the new Pine Tree Bakery is all about.

Lesa Beck owns Pine Tree Bakery on Route 302
on the Windham/Westbrook town line. It offers
a vast selection of pastries, cookies, brownies,
and breakfast sandwiches and everything is
made from scratch using high quality ingredients.
PHOTO BY ED PIERCE 

Located at 1557 Bridgton Road in Westbrook on the Windham/Westbrook Town Line, Pine Tree Bakery is owned and operated by Lesa Beck, who turns out baked goods by hand each day using only the finest quality ingredients. The bakery offers a vast selection of pastries, ​small cakes, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, tea and ​hand-crafted espresso drinks and a generous assortment of tasty desserts such as tarts, cookies, brownies, and more​.

“By far the best thing we do is bring smiles to the people we serve,” Beck said. “It makes them happy. Our friendly staff works hard to make sure you are happy with what you receive when you visit us.”

Pine Tree Bakery opened April 10 and uses exceptional ingredients such as Callebaut chocolate, Cabot butter, and King Arthur flour, which give their products a high-quality and delicious taste.

“While many bakeries use pre-made mixes or bought-in packaged products, at Pine Tree Bakery we make everything from scratch in house,” Beck said. “Our baked goods include a rotating selection of cookies, muffins, small cakes, pastries, and desserts. We update our selection each week to feature new flavors and items. While we don’t have a full lunch menu yet, it’s something we are working on for the future and we do offer a couple of savory baked items each day.”

For coffee, Pine Tree Bakery offers drip coffee and Espresso-based drinks with beans from Coffee by Design, a high-quality local coffee roaster right here in Maine.

“Our pastries and desserts are all individual serving size,” Beck said. “We’ve worked hard to keep our prices reasonable for our customers. Our pastries and desserts range in price from $2.25 to $5. What really sets us apart is our high-quality food and pastries and our customer service. We really want to make it a good experience for our customers so they will come back again and again.”

“And we are a great spot to grab breakfast and coffee on your way to work in the morning or stop by later in the afternoon for that end-of-day pick-me-up and a cookie,” she said. “We offer both take-out and dine-in so you can choose to grab and go if you’re in a hurry or sit and relax with some good coffee and a treat or two.”

Beck first learned how to bake as a child and found it to be wonderful stress relief when she worked in a technology career.

“I spent 20 years in the tech industry as a project and program manager but was ready for a change and had always dreamed of opening my own bakery café,” she said.

Prior to opening the new bakery, Beck remodeled the 1,500-square-foot interior so it can now seat 38 customers at one time, transforming the former CeCe’s Diner into a new favorite gathering spot for locals.

“We have also created a comfortable and cozy space to hang out with a cup of coffee and breakfast or to spend time with family and friends,” Beck said. “We have a spacious dining area and plenty of parking.

Beck says that feedback from our customers has been incredibly positive to date, and she and her employees are so happy that their customers are enjoying their food.

“Some of our best sellers to date have been our Swedish Cinnamon Knots, Blueberry Streusel Muffin, Cinnamon Rolls, and Scones,” she said. “I’d like to give a shoutout to our amazing baker, Sue Jones, and to Jessie Farinella, the friendly face you’ll see at the front counter.”

Hours for Pine Tree Bakery are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.

For more details, call 207-887-9087 or visit https://pinetreebakery.my.canva.site/home

Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556319087506 or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pinetreebakeryme/ <

Business Spotlight: SmartBinz.us

When it comes to simplicity, efficiency, and customer support, SmartBinz.us stands out as an exceptional choice when choosing a dumpster company.

Owned by Paul Vail and based in Windham, SmartBinz.us is a new business that is available for both residential and commercial customers. No matter if you’re managing construction debris or taking on a home renovation project, SmartBinz.us stands ready to help.

Featuring a variety of cost-effective roll-off dumpster sizes and a hassle-free and convenient experience for customers, SmartBinz.us offers the best value and service for just about any project.

“I designed this company for it to be as easy as possible for making a reservation, payment, delivery and pick-up,” Vail said. “Our bins are clean and new and everything about our business is simple and effortless for our customers. We take pride in what we do.”

Vail said that SmartBinz.us can be used for home renovation projects for disposing of debris from home remodels. They also can be used to collect yard waste such as branches, leaves, and grass cuttings, or for spring cleaning to get rid of old furniture, appliances, and clutter from your attic, garage, or basement.

Contractors can use SmartBinz.us to keep construction sites clean by removing scrap materials and waste or to safely dispose of old roofing materials and shingles during a roof replacement.

SmartBinz.us roll-off dumpsters can be used to haul away old refrigerators, hot tubs, mattresses, foreclosure clean-outs, trash removal, television disposal, and e-waste disposal.

According to Vail, when choosing the right dumpster rental service, it is important that your needs should guide your decision.

“It's essential to assess various rental options to ensure you're getting the best value and service for your project,” he said. “Considering the size and type of dumpster required is crucial in making an informed choice. At SmartBinz.us, we understand that reliability and affordability are key when selecting a rental for your requirements. Our services address these needs with a customer-focused approach, ensuring that your rental experience is as seamless as possible.”

Roll-off dumpsters are versatile, suitable for everything from home renovations to garden clear-outs, ensuring efficient removal of debris. On the other hand, construction dumpsters are designed for heavier materials often found on construction sites. Vail said that understanding the specifics of your project will guide your dumpster selection, ensuring the debris is managed properly.

“Our selection features dumpsters designed for specific materials and waste types, ensuring efficiency and compliance with local regulations,” Vail said. “You’ll find that each dumpster type has been crafted to facilitate different kinds of debris removal. From roll-off dumpsters perfect for bulky waste to compact bins ideal for residential clean-ups, SmartBinz.us is equipped to handle it all. Available dumpster options are just a click away, simplifying your project planning and execution.”

He said repeat rentals from our satisfied customers affirm the company’s commitment to meeting their service expectations every time.

SmartBinz.us rentals are eco-friendly and that means you are choosing a partner committed to responsible dumpster management.

“By embracing eco-friendly practices, we minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability,” Vail said. “Remember, efficient waste disposal is about making greener choices for our community.”

He said the proficiency of SmartBinz.us ensures that your home or construction site remains orderly and efficient.

“At SmartBinz.us, every customer benefits from the simplicity and effectiveness of our dumpster rentals, featuring an assortment of sizes to accommodate any project magnitude,” Vail said. “We offer more than just a bin, our comprehensive services include swift delivery and pickup, enhancing your overall rental experience. We’re dedicated to delivering exemplary waste disposal services, and SmartBinz.us is committed to ensuring your specific needs are met, catering to both residential and commercial projects in Windham.

To learn more about SmartBinz.us or schedule an instant quote, visit smartbinz.us/ or call 207-404-1308. <

Business Spotlight: Cleaning Essentials

The customer always comes first at Cleaning Essentials and it’s part of the reason the Raymond-based cleaning company remains successful.

Owned by Regan Burke, Cleaning Essentials offers personable, reliable, and experienced staff, flat-rate fees and customizable cleaning services while using green cleaning products and emphasizing efficiency.

“Helping our customers has always been our mission at Cleaning Essentials,” Burke said. “There are no surprises with our customized flat-rate fee based on the scope of work for your particular needs.”

She said that Cleaning Essentials has reasonable hourly rates for move-ins and move-outs or for deep cleans, and the company thoroughly trains its employees to be as efficient and productive as possible on the job creating total customer satisfaction.

Cleaning Essentials provides expertise in specialty surfaces. Regular maintenance includes floor care, dusting, mopping, vacuuming, and making kitchens and bathrooms sparkle. Extra al la carte services include ovens, refrigerators, making beds, and windows. No job is too large or too small for its staff, many of whom have been with the company for years.

“Our team of people are fully trained staff that can efficiently clean a house in a reasonable period of time at a fair and reasonable cost,” Burke said. “We clean homes, businesses, and vacation rentals. We also work closely with homebuilders and real estate professionals to get the job done right.”

The Cleaning Essentials company also is socially conscious and participates in a wide array of community service programs, including Cleaning For A Reason for cancer patients, and also offer a FLEX program for teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, and the elderly.

“It's not the 1950's anymore. Cleaning services are more mainstream than ever before, especially after COVID,” Burke said. “Regular maintenance cleaning is proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and to improve household relationships and overall health. This is a no judgement zone. This is what we do.”

Burke says that she started cleaning in her neighborhood during high school as a way to help pay for her horse. “Thirty years later when he passed, I started making natural products called Noteworthy Naturals,” she said. “Simultaneously, I joined up with another single mom to clean for extra income. The products and the company took off. I’ve come full circle.”

Since launching Cleaning Essentials in 2017, the company now has just under a dozen employees but continues to grow. “We’re small but mighty,” Burke said. “Consistency and reliability are what we are all about and we are not like the rest.

Customers have certainly noticed and Cleaning Essentials is now an award-winning company, taking home the 2023 Best of the 207 Award and in 2023 it was the gold recipient of the Eagle Choice Award for cleaning services.

Social media and Google reviews are exceptional.

“I have been very happy with the services provided by Cleaning Essentials. The crew that cleans my house are on time, friendly, go about their work efficiently and are the least disruptive of any previous cleaning services I've used. In addition, the admin staff are very responsive and a pleasure to deal with. Thank you, Cleaning Essentials!” Connee Bush

“I was impressed by the cleaning results, but also by the efficiency – there was no wasted effort. The company came to us highly recommended by neighbors who would never recommend anyone who wasn’t superior. Later, I used this company for interim cleaning of the toilets and kitchen. Once again, the work was done very well.” Peter Greer

“Cleaning essentials did a fantastic job on our family's camp! They cleaned very thoroughly and left the place in pristine condition. Regan and Amanda were also responsive and were very clear on price (which was a great value for how deeply they cleaned). Thank you!” Anna Hartley

“Love working with Cleaning Essentials. Everyone is friendly, responsive, and efficient. They do a great job cleaning and go out of their way to make us happy. 10/10 would recommend.” Sofia Prado Huggins

“I’ve used Cleaning Essentials for years. It’s the best cleaning service I’ve ever had. The staff does an excellent job. I never hesitate to recommend them.” Kerrie Mangione

For more information about Cleaning Essentials services or associated costs, call 207-804-8966 or visit their website at www.mycleaningessentials.com You can also find them on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and on Facebook at Facebook.com/CleaningEssentials207. <     

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Business Spotlight: Lakes Region Enterprises

Whether you’re looking to add curb appeal to your property or just trying to create your own slice of heaven right here on earth, Lakes Region Enterprises can help you achieve your dreams.

Anthony Palla of Lakes Region
Enterprises takes pride in his work and 
treats customers like he would his own
family. He resides in the Lakes Region
with his wife, Kelli, and their son.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Located at 999 Roosevelt Trail, Unit 2 in Windham, Lakes Region Enterprises is owned and operated by Anthony Palla, who has the knowledge and expertise to transform any project while keeping the associated costs highly competitive.

Lakes Region Enterprises performs an array of landscaping, hardscape, and plowing services for customers throughout the Lakes Region and in the Greater Portland area, including mowing and weekly yard maintenance, mulch, clean ups, pruning, installations, parking lot sweeping, snow plowing and removal, and other hardscaping projects.

The company can provide expertise in the installation of interlocking pavers, bricks and stone, outdoor fireplaces and firepits, patios, pool decks and terraces, retaining and landscape walls and creating custom walkways. It also can handle any project involving grass cutting, edging, debris removal, lawn aeration, seeding, shrub and small tree pruning and initiating a cost-effective turf management program.

“The best thing about what I do is getting to work outside and helping people turn their vision for their property into a reality,” Palla said.

He has extensive experience in landscaping and field management and has managed both large and small companies while developing an intricate knowledge of landscaping and hardscaping over that time. That experience was developed from 10 years in the field and then as a supervisor and company manager in the Portland area before branching off on his own to create Lakes Region Enterprises.

Now with his own company, Palla focuses on training employees to perform tasks the correct way and the equipment needed to accomplish the jobs his customers need done.

“I have experience on the commercial side of things as well as on the residential side,” he said. “We always strive to provide the best possible service at competitive pricing including offering year-round and seasonal contracts.”

Because of this background, Lakes Region Enterprises has the right experience to properly address winter expectations for businesses that need to be open or remain open during winter storms.

“We have the experience, the expertise, and emphasis on quality to take care of any projects that any business or homes are looking for in year-round contracts,” Palla said. “We can take care of them, so they don’t have to worry about landscaping and plowing and they can focus on other things.”

His strong work ethic ensures reliability and always places the needs of Lakes Region Enterprises customers first.

“We show up when we say we will and we return all phone calls in a prompt and timely manner,” Palla said. “We provide the best quality possible, and word-of-mouth referrals have backed that.”

Online reviews for Lakes Region Enterprises are exceptional.

“Lakes Region has been our go to landscape and hardscape provider for a few years now. Anthony has been responsive and dedicated to working with us and within our budgets. There has been more than one occasion we had to call on them for a special project, installing new playgrounds, storm cleanup, or site work. Not once have they let us down.” Thomas Wood, Point Sebago CSA Property Manager

“Anthony is the best, and most knowledgeable guy when it comes to any property services. Very nice, and easy to talk to. The work that they do over at Lakes Region is second to none. I would recommend them for sure.” Bruce Smith

“Anthony did an excellent job with my yard cleanup yesterday. Such a genuinely nice guy and I’d hire him again for sure.” Julia Holden

“You guys did a great job with our yard. Thank you so much!” Destiny Johnson

Now going into its third year, Lakes Region Enterprises offers a staff of seven and stands ready to assist with whatever project you may have at your home, vacation home or commercial property.

For more details about Lakes Region Enterprises and for a free estimate, call 207-415-4296, visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lremaine or send an email to LakesregionenterprisesME@gmail.com <

Nonprofit Spotlight: Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing

As the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing celebrates its fifth anniversary this spring and gears up for another year of working on projects helping community residents in need, volunteers are sought to put their faith into practice and become the change they want to see in this world.

The Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing celebrates
its fifth anniversary this year and is seeking volunteers to
work on this year's home repair projects for those in need
in the community. COURTESY PHOTO 

The mission of the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing remains to make a difference in the communities of Raymond, Standish, and Windham by providing safe and adequate housing repairs for those who are aging in place. The nonprofit organization is run entirely by volunteers who can sign up to volunteer and donate any amount of time to assisting in making home repairs and other tasks for veterans and seniors locally.

An affiliate of the nonprofit national Fuller Center for Housing, the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing was founded by representatives from Raymond Village Community Church, Faith Lutheran Church, North Windham Union Church, Windham Hill UCC, Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, St. Ann’s Episcopal Church and Saint Joseph’s College and provides a wide range of home repair, clean-up, and home rehabilitation services to qualified senior residents.

“I am so proud to be celebrating our five-year anniversary,” said Diane Dunton Bruni, the chair, president, and a founding member of the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing. “When 12 community members met in July 2019, I would never have dreamed that we would have the impact upon the community in the way that we have. Helping veterans and seniors age safely in their homes by volunteers repairing homes is truly faith in action.”

She said that the group’s first project was in 2020 and from 2020 to 2023, a total of 46 projects for 30 different local families were completed by 146 Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing volunteers who contributed 3,286 volunteer hours.

The national Fuller Center for Housing was established by Millard and Linda Fuller, who also created Habitat for Humanity. The Fullers and a group of like-minded partners founded The Fuller Center for Housing in 2005 as a return and recommitment to proven and effective grass roots, faith-based principles of helping others in need.

“Hope is essential in life,” Dunton Bruni said. “What we are doing is we are giving hope.”

Jim McBride, the chair of Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing’s Family Committee, said that becoming a volunteer for the group is inspiring.

“It warms my heart to serve with others from our faith community to help people in need right here in Windham, Raymond, and Standish. The families we serve are always so grateful that our volunteers not only fix their homes, but also care enough to develop deep and lasting friendships,” McBride said. “It is truly a blessing to be able to help families in need across our community. As awareness of Sebago Fuller Housing has grown over the past four-plus years, we have been able to tackle more projects with more talented volunteers and local contractors. Thank you for the very generous funding support from caring individuals, businesses, and partner churches throughout the community.”

According to McBride, Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing is currently preparing its list of projects for this year.

“We currently have 13 active projects, most of which are held over from last year,” he said. “Several of these jobs involve roof repairs or replacing the old roof, building a new roof over a wheelchair ramp, replacing an old deck with a smaller covered porch, minor electrical repairs, winterizing two doorways, replacing storm doors and windows. We do some spring and fall clean-ups, and some painting projects as well as tree/branch removal as needed. Most of our focus is on repairs to keep the residents safe and warm, rather than just aesthetic requests.”

McBride said they are planning a project day for April 27 to collaborate with the PowerServe Community Day of Service held each year and the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing will likely have at least one project day for volunteers each month right through the summer and fall in 2024.

To help cover the costs of some of the larger projects this year, the Sebago Lakes Region Fuller Center for Housing is conducting a $25,000 community fundraiser. Dunton Bruni said that the group will be announcing a new gala fundraising event soon but also welcomes donations at www.sebagofullerhousing.org.

"It is so important to have people be able to stay safely in their homes and to know that they don’t have to leave at a time that they just want to have the memories and feel comforted by what’s around them,” she said.

To volunteer to help with this year’s projects, send an email to sebagofullerhousinginfo@gmail.com. <

Business Spotlight: 4Health Family Medicine

Like many others in the medical profession, Dr. Su-Anne Hammond of Windham wants to return to spending more time with her patients, having the time to listen to their concerns and focusing on a direct relationship between the patient and the physician. With her new practice 4Health Family Medicine, she’s able to do just that.

Dr. Su-Anne Hammond, DO, has opened
4Health Family Medicine in Windham,
a Direct Primary Care practice.
COURTESY PHOTO

Located at 32 Tandberg Trail Unit 6 in Windham, 4Health Family Medicine offers Direct Primary Care (DPC), a more personalized approach to medicine. Through direct primary care, patients are billed directly and pay a monthly membership fee allowing for transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

“Direct Patient Care is a national movement that brings back the genuine doctor-patient relationship,” Dr. Hammond said. “4Health Family Medicine looks forward to partnering with you to be a part of an improved healthcare relationship.”

A board-certified family medicine physician, Dr. Hammond provides care for patients at 4Health Family Medicine with acute illnesses and offers chronic disease management and preventive healthcare.

“As a Direct Primary Care (DPC) Physician I can do these services over longer appointments, allowing me more time for personalized, individual care of each patient,” she said. “DPC also allows me the time for providing services not often done at traditional primary care offices like laceration repair, same-day sick visits, skin procedures, nutrition and exercise counseling, and osteopathic manipulation, to name a few.”

The benefits of 4Health Family Medicine include having direct access to your physician through phone, text, and email, more relaxed appointments, and more affordable costs.

“The most important thing I can share is for someone who is interested in having a more direct relationship with their doctor is they should reach out and schedule a meet n’ greet appointment with me,” Dr. Hammond said. “Insurances and costs can be intimidating, but there are a lot of benefits to DPC that make my care valuable in the access and convenience, as well as the cost. A great example is texting the office at 8 a.m. with symptoms of an infection, being seen that day and leaving the office with the medication treatment you need in hand.”

She is open to seeing patients from any geographic area at 4Health Family Medicine and pricing is competitive.

“DPC pricing is aimed to be affordable and transparent to help reduce the burden of high healthcare costs, especially unexpected costs, fees and high deductibles,” Dr. Hammond said. “My costs are in alignment with the median pricing for other DPCs in Cumberland County.”

Dr. Hammond has practiced family medicine in Southern Maine for more than 20 years and knew from a young age that she wanted to become a physician.

“I don't have a great ‘why’ story. I told my parents I wanted to be a doctor before I even started kindergarten,” she said. “My parents were very young when I was born, my dad worked for the Maine Central Railroad and my mom was a stay-at-home mother,” she said. “My best guess is the idea came from something I saw on tv. I think many people kind of chuckled at the idea that I would go to medical school since I was from a lower middle-class family, but it was all I ever wanted, and I truly spent my whole life focusing on that one goal.”

The new 4Health Family Medicine practice allows Dr. Hammond to return to the reasons she became a physician originally.

“There is a saying I've learned in DPC that ‘if you've seen 1 DPC, you've seen 1 DPC,’ Dr. Hammond said. “DPC offices are all unique to the physicians that operate them but have the common thread of removing the middleman in healthcare and focusing on a direct relationship between the patient and the physician. This lets me provide personalized care, helping people take care of themselves and educating them about their health. I’m able to do “old school” medicine here.”

Dr. Hammond said she has always taken pride in providing up-to-date, quality healthcare to her patients.

“Over the years there have been so many barriers that interfere with that,” she said. “I am looking forward to direct communication, long appointment times and really having high-quality relationships with my patients. Many of my current patients have expressed genuine support and have already registered to be a patient at 4Health.”

To learn more about 4Health Family Medicine, visit www.4healthfamilymedicine.com or call 207-544-4564. Find them on Facebook and Instagram under 4HealthFamilyMedicine.<

Business Spotlight: Hilltop Boilers

It's a magical time of year for Hilltop Boilers Maple Syrup in Newfield and as the popular business gets ready for their annual Maine Maple Weekends™ starting this Saturday, there’s never been a better time to experience what the award-winning business has to offer.

Hilltop Boilers in Newfield is family owned and operated
and provides exceptional maple products and a sugarhouse
not to be missed in Maine. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Owned and operated by the Bryant Family, Hilltop Boilers at 159 Elm Street in Newfield takes pride in its exceptional maple products and making it worth your while every time you visit. Its unique sugarhouse is worth the drive and until you’ve tasted genuine maple syrup produced by Hilltop Boilers, you’re missing out on one of the sweetest tastes in Maine.

“When we were teenagers, we started tapping trees along the roadside,” said Michael Bryant, one of the co-owners of Hilltop Boilers along with his brother Mark Bryant and their wives. “Neither of us had a license to drive but we pushed a hand dolly up and down the road with a little sap tank on it. We built our first sugarhouse in high school and added on to it in the late 1990s. In 2017, we flattened that sugarhouse and built a new modern one. Since we moved into that building, we have grown unbelievably and aren't sure what we are going to do next. Our sales tripled in 2023 from what they were the year before COVID. We desperately need a bigger sugarhouse and more space.”

It’s truly a family business as Michael and Mark’s brother, Matthew, also works a lot of hours for Hilltop Boilers. Michael's wife Jen works full-time for the business and Bryant kids, John (17), and twins Thomas and Julia (14) work as much as they can outside of school for them.

“We are a sugarhouse that provides our customers with all things maple. We have a retail store that has been voted ‘Best of the 207’ for two years in a row. It is unlike any farm store you will find in Maine with high end cabinetry, a model train, heating and air conditioning, high ceilings, and awesome décor,” Michael Bryant said. “We see tens of thousands of visitors through our store each year. We also deliver syrup to restaurants in southern Maine, some well-known ones too. Places like Becky’s and the Miss Portland Diner get regular deliveries. We work with Goodwill stores and have maple booths in all of their southern Maine stores giving them a large share of the profits. We also deliver to many other retail and convenience stores such as the Rusty Lantern Market stores. We collaborate with many companies, such as the Maine Needham Company, Box of Maine, The Scone Goddess, and Coastal Maine Popcorn, to supply them with maple products as an ingredient for their products. We have a large online presence and ship maple products all over the United States with California, Florida, and Texas being our three largest states we ship to, outside of Maine.”

What sets Hilltop Boilers apart from other Maine maple producers is its year-round presence, highly competitive prices and an amazing sugarhouse store.

“Until you have been there, it's just really hard to imagine how nice it is,” Bryant said. “The atmosphere and building are just beautiful. The scent of maple in the air, the cows in the pasture, it leaves you begging for more. Everyone cares and will work hard to see that you have a positive experience.”

Online reviews are fantastic.

“Quality and service are absolutely the best!!!” Dyanne Brewster

“Wonderful setting, friendly folks, delicious products. Don't leave without some syrup, whoopie pies and maple mustard. You'll see why they are award winners!” Bev Giddens

“Everything they do is done 'just right' with a personal touch. High quality products created by a high-quality Maine family. I highly recommend Hilltop Boilers!” Nancy Marshall

The First Maple Event Day will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 16, with hours on Maine Maple Weekend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 23 and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 24. Another Maple Weekend will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30. Plenty of quiet store days for those who just want to browse and shop in the Maple Store are generally from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, with the exception of Maine Maple Weekend and on Easter.

To learn more about Hilltop Boilers Maple Syrup, visit https://hilltopboilersmaplesyrup.com/ or call 207-793-8850. Find them on Facebook under Hilltop Boilers Maple Syrup. <

Business Spotlight: Standard Gastropub

Standard Gastropub may be one of the best-kept secrets in the Lakes Region of Maine but for more than a decade now it’s been delighting visitors and year-round residents with some of the tastiest food in the Pine Tree State.

Standard Gastropub is at 233 Main St. in Bridgton and draws
culinary influences  from around the world. It also offers a 
vast assortment of craft and specialty beers.
COURTESY PHOTO   

Started by William Holmes, Standard Gastropub can be found at 233 Main St. in Bridgton and features delicious high-quality everyday dishes and an enormous selection of more than 200 different craft, specialty and rare/hard to find beers, house-crafted cocktails, as well as wines, and sake on tap; all offered in a comfortable setting to gather with friends or family.

Holmes grew up locally and opened the restaurant when he moved back to Maine after living and working in Massachusetts. He’s not only Standard Gastropub’s founder and owner, but also the restaurant’s head chef.

“I’ve always been creative and I like to cook” Holmes said, and with more than 20 years of working in restaurants the proof is on the plate. “Nothing compares to the feeling of instant gratification from cooking and serving someone a meal. Sharing in the joy it brings them; becoming a small part of their life, their celebration, or simply, their comfort is an unmatched feeling of success.”

Open year-round, culinary influences are drawn from street food around the world along with the rich history of American barbecue pits in the Deep South and 60’s car-hop style burger joints out west. Holmes says that the menu at Standard Gastropub changes seasonally and some of its most popular dishes include their dry-aged smash burgers and crispy Belgian style fries, Brussels sprouts, a fried chicken sandwich, and coffee rubbed smoked brisket burnt-ends. Other rotating items like the Quesabirria Beef-Dip sandwich, Musubi Mac and Cheese, poutine, unique & flavorful salads, and specialty sauces keep everyone coming back to try something new.

Plenty of gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options are available. Don’t miss their out-of-this-world Curry Ketchup, and be sure to check out Brunch, or the Thai pop-up menu offered Sunday nights 4 to 9 p.m. and Monday for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the Spring.

Holmes says the former chef and owner of Chao Thai Restaurant, which used to be located across the street from Standard Gastropub, now offers her authentic Thai menu to keep things fresh and fun for patrons.

“We’re really a place that is adaptable and responds to changing times,” Holmes said. “We believe in serving quality 100% scratch-made food. Some may have the misconception that we’re expensive, but we offer a wide array of affordable items and are all about having fun.”

This year the restaurant is opening a new outdoor space which will seat up to 100 and offers space for yard games and activities as well as the ability to feature live music and local bands.

Online reviews are nothing less than exceptional.

“What an extraordinary spot within idyllic Bridgton – high end ‘pub’ fare (absolutely delicious every time) with a broad and exciting beer selection (draught, bottles, and cans). An exciting adventure for foodies and beer connoisseurs! The wait staff is always excellent, friendly, and helpful, and the atmosphere is both inviting bustling, and hip--a must-visit if you're in the area!” Steve Michaud

“Not that there are a lot of choices for exceptional food in Bridgton, but the Gastropub has the best food I've had in town. The Burnt Ends and Crispy Sprouts (Brussel sprouts) are exceptionally good. On top of the excellent food, the beer selection is really good as well.” Joe Mineo

“Omg the food here is amazing!!! Get the Brussel sprouts as a side and it will NOT disappoint! The fries were also delicious. Great beverages of all kinds too. Can't say enough good about the food! 5 stars is not high enough!” Karyn W.

“We stumbled upon Standard Gastropub while visiting Bridgton for the day. The food was excellent, and their assortment of beer was vast and extensive. I highly recommend the brussels sprouts, the smash burger, and the fries. The servers were all very friendly and the food was delicious. Great vibe all around.” Kaye K.

This Spring Standard Gastropub is open from noon to 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays; with expanded hours to be expected for the summer season.

To learn more about Standard Gastropub or place a takeout order, visit them online at standardgastropub.com/ or call 207-647-4100. Find them on social media at standardgastropub <

Business Spotlight: Square One Contracting Services

With more than three decades of experience and a solid reputation of quality work, Square One Contracting Services is a general contracting company that performs all types of home remodeling and custom home building.

Square One Contracting Services can help transform home
remodeling projects dreams into reality no matter how
large or small and within budget. Here's a before and
after photo showing a project from studs to completion.
COURTESY PHOTO  

Owned and operated by Jason Lamprey, Square One may be new to the Lakes Region and based in Casco, but they are not inexperienced in construction. Jason started his career working in plastering in the 1990s and over the years has grown to know all aspects of construction and developed the expertise to help his customers realize their project dreams.

“We’re focused on building strong relationships with our customers, building strong relationships within our own teams and performing exceptional work,” Jason said. “All your home improvement projects should start at Square One.”

As a contractor, Jason is responsible for managing all vendors and trades working on Square One projects and serves as the focal communications point between all parties. He coordinates the projects, which involves evaluating project documents or determining the site for renovation projects. He submits fixed price bids and considers the costs of construction materials, equipment, and labor and he applies for permits, providing temporary on-site utilities, ensuring that the property is secure, managing anyone working at the site and is responsible for maintaining accurate records and monitoring cash flows for the project.

His ability to communicate effectively, attention to detail and knowledge of the business are exemplary.

“Our professionalism and organization are the major thing that sets us apart from competitors,” Jason said. “The planning and scheduling stage of a project is one of the most important. Keeping all the subcontractors and homeowners informed and updated on the project status is crucial to a successful project.”

Jason said that Square One Contracting Services pricing is based upon what a customer needs for any given project.

“If the project has a tight budget, then we give the customer options based within their price point,” he said. “If it’s a unique custom finish that they are after, then we can provide those options as well.”

Starting out in the construction business right after finishing high school, Jason said that he found the physical work and the ever-changing atmosphere of construction projects to be enjoyable and it led to eventually owning his own company and then a career in overseeing many different types of construction projects.

“To this day, the physical work and the changing project sites are two of my favorite things about construction,” he said. “The best thing about what I do is that I simply like working with customers. It’s an awesome feeling to see their excitement when the project starts to evolve and to see their faces when the project is finished. I also love the fact that I’m never in the same spot for very long.”

He says the most challenging aspect of his work is scheduling and coordinating all the different subcontractors to complete projects without significant lapses.

“It’s not easy, but I to try stay on top of things and try to mesh everything together,” Jason said. “It’s a juggling act sometimes trying to get all the personalities and skilled trades on board.”

With locations in Maine and Dudley, Massachusetts, Square One remains guided by basic expectations that project customers have come to rely on, Jason said.

“Our customers expect prompt recognition when they call or email us,” he said. “They can expect a return phone call or text that day. We believe in timely communication to keep everybody informed of every step of the process. It’s their money and their home, so we do our utmost to keep them involved so they know what’s going on.”

Square One also uses convenient Houzz Pro software in a single, easy-to-use online platform that provides updated project details to everyone involved.

For further information or to see how Square One Contracting Services can help you realize your goals, call 207-544-3183. Visit them on Facebook at Square One Contracting Services or online at www.square1cs.com <

Business Spotlight: Gracie Gym Maine

A year has passed since Gracie Gym Maine first opened to the public in Windham and it’s safe to say that the facility has been a tremendous success story in the Lakes Region.

Gracie Gym Maine is celebrating its first
anniversary and offers Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu training for ages 4 and up at its
7,000-square-foot facility in Windham.
COURTESY PHOTO

Gracie Gym Maine is located at 770 Roosevelt Trail #6 in the Shaw’s Plaza in North Windham and draws students from all over the state. It offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons to everyone ages 4 and up and the program’s head coach, Vinicius Garcia, is widely considered one of the most elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors in the world. Garcia has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since the age of 16 and has competed in many of Brazil’s top events under renowned coach Rodrigo Castro who promoted him to black belt in 2015.

“We have kid’s classes, teen classes, beginner classes and advanced classes, both in Gi and No-Gi,” said Gracie Gym Maine owner Michael Smith. “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a self-defense martial art system and combat sport, focused on grappling and ground fighting. It promotes the concept that smaller and weaker people can successfully defend themselves against bigger, stronger, and heavier attackers.”

Smith said that the one-year anniversary of Grace Gym Maine and its ongoing success is cause for celebration in the community.

“We are thrilled with the families and individuals we have been helping in their personal journey in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and seeing people transform is what it is all about for us,” he said.

According to Smith, transforming lives through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is gratifying and is the reason that he decided to open Gracie Gym Maine in Windham.

“The transformation is really remarkable,” Smith said. “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will change your life. It is a profound mental, physical, and spiritual experience.”

He said that the size of its academy and facility at more than 7,000 square feet and featuring more than 3,000 square feet of mat space makes Gracie Gym Maine an exceptional experience for participants. Other amenities available at Gracie Gym Maine are a weight room and a recovery lounge with an infrared sauna and cold plunge. Additionally, there is plenty of seating and five changing rooms.

Smith said that Gracie Gym Maine provides an outstanding user experience that is second to none in Maine.

“The facility rivals Jiu-Jitsu academies in major metropolitan areas in size, amenities and instruction level but has been able to keep pricing below industry standard,” he said.

Originating in Brazil in the early 20th century, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on using leverage and submission holds to defeat opponents, making it an effective form of self-defense for people of all sizes and abilities. It is an effective form of self-defense because it teaches practitioners how to stay calm and composed in high-pressure situations.

Along with teaching physical techniques, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also emphasizes the development of mental toughness and a strong, positive mindset. Its practitioners learn to be confident and mentally prepared for any situation, and its intense, full-body workout will help participants get in great shape and improve their overall physical fitness.

All Gracie Gym Maine professors are certified Black Belts through the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation.

Thanks to its popularity, Gracie Gym Maine is currently expanding its onsite clothing store connecting with Skilled Violence, a lifestyle apparel brand, and has also created a dedicated area for kids and their parents to watch television while their siblings or loved ones are training.

Since Grace Gym Maine opened, another significant event has taken place.

“Our head instructor, Vinicius Garcia, and academy administrator Nayara Morais Cunha, had a baby, Miguel,” Smith said. “Vinicius and Nayara have been absolutely incredible with their dedication, as well as the half-dozen coaches that have helped out. And I’d like to give a special thanks to Amy, who ran our front desk while Nayara was away for maternity leave.”

In October, Gracie Gym Maine took fourth place at the Jiu-Jitsu New England Championships in Worcester, Massachusetts among 120 other academies, displaying immense dedication, skill, and discipline resulting in 12 gold medals earned at the event, which was sponsored by the Jiu-Jitsu World League. In December, some Gracie Gym Maine participants were honored for their hard work during a special belt promotion ceremony.

“At Gracie Gym Maine, everybody is important,” Smith said. “We’re here to help everyone experience a transformation, but it’s not easy. It’s hard and the mat is a great equalizer. We offer a personal, professional, and spiritual challenge from the very finest instructors.”

For more information about Gracie Gym Maine, call 207-383-2228 or visit https://www.graciegymmaine.com/ Find them on Instagram under graciegymmaine <

Business Spotlight: Peak Electric

No job is too large or small for Peak Electric of Windham.

Rich Brown, owner of
Peak Electric, is 
experienced to tackle
all your residential
electric needs and
brings both
affordability and
quality to every job.
COURTESY PHOTO 

Owned and operated by Rich Brown and his wife, Mikala, Peak Electric offers several types of electrical services, including a comprehensive range of services include electrical panel replacements, service upgrades, new construction installations, remodeling, and troubleshooting. He is equipped to repair underground and overhead wiring, work on breaker boxes, switches, outlets, dimmers, and a variety of other projects for homes.

The company’s versatility is evident as Peak Electric can do everything from the installation of ceiling fans to washer/dryer hookups to installing dishwashers to testing electrical systems for safety and replacing components that are worn or outdated.

“I got started in business strictly based off an idea,” Brown said. “Since a kid it has been a dream to be an entrepreneur, I never knew what type of business I wanted to own. I discovered in my mid-20s that I really enjoyed electrical work and that's when the idea became reality. I immediately started my journey to become a business owner.”

Along the way, Brown served in the U.S. Navy and gained invaluable experience performing electrical work for several other companies before launching his own business on Jan. 1.

“The most significant aspect of Peak Electric is our unwavering commitment to community service,” Brown said. “Beyond providing excellent electrical services, we take pride in actively contributing to the well-being of our community. This dedication, coupled with our focus on customer satisfaction, sets us apart. It's not just about completing projects; it's about making a positive impact on the community we serve.”

According to Brown, the goal of Peak Electric is simple.

“We want to make people’s houses feel more like a home,” he said. “To me, that’s very important. We take pride in offering competitive pricing for our services. We understand the importance of affordability for our customers while maintaining the highest standard of quality. Our commitment is to provide transparent and fair pricing, ensuring that our community receives exceptional value for their investment in our electrical services.”

Exceeding customer expectations, using quality parts and delivering a quality service is part of what separates Peak Electric from competitors.

“We respond promptly to all calls,” Brown said. “We show up on time and when we say we will. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the quality of services we provide. We prioritize precision, safety, and customer satisfaction in every project.”

Peak specializes in smart home integration.

“There are plenty of smart home services that could be more cost-effective, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency,” Brown said. “Under energy efficient lighting solutions, switching to LEDs is a must, it not only reduces energy consumption but also offers long term cost savings due to their extended lifespan. The benefits to upgrading electrical panels for increased capacity ensure they meet modern energy demands and preventing potential hazards.”

The customer feedback for Peak Electric has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Peak is outstanding. very attentive to your needs and helpful with great suggestions in how to make it exactly what you want and even better. Very respectful and non-intrusive when working with you. Fast responses and very thorough work. I highly recommend him for any and all your needs. Very pleasant staff and a real pleasure to do business with.” Bob Carlista

“Peak Electric did a superb job. I contracted this company to ensure my generator outlet and panel were working properly. Not only did Peak show up on time, but they were also really accommodating to my time. Upon arrival, Rich quickly realized and acknowledged the cables were not properly installed to the panel. He went above and beyond to set up my generator, and even added the oil and gas to get my generator ready to go. Rich tested the generator and the panel, ran my house on generator power for a while, tested the generator battery and more. Peak is definitely an honor-based company and I highly recommend it.” Joe Feliciano

“Peak Electric did an awesome job installing our new hot tub. The service was quick and very clean. Rich is very knowledgeable, professional, and efficient. I would recommend them to anyone looking for any electrical service. He knows his stuff!” Julihana Militao Contois

For more details about Peak Electric, or to make an appointment, call 207-332-0075 or send an email to owner@peakelectricmaine.com Find them on Facebook and on Instagram at @peakelectricme. <

Business Spotlight: Maine Community Solar

It may sound like a concept directly from the future, but community solar farms are generating power and sharing it for residences and businesses alike and reducing electric bills in the process. Based in Portland, Maine Community Solar educates consumers about the benefits of community solar programs and helps them enroll in one that’s right for them. Locally owned and operated, Maine Community Solar envisions a sustainable future by making the state a leader in sustainability and renewable energy.

Maine Community Solar employees are active in the 
community, such as recently volunteering to serve a meal
at a Preble street homeless shelter in Portland. The company
educates consumers about the benefits of community solar
programs and helps them enroll in one that's right for them.
SUBMITTED PHOTO    

A solar farm is a collection of photovoltaic solar panels that absorb energy from the sun, convert it into electricity and send that electricity to the power grid for distribution and consumption by customers like you. Community solar farms are mounted to the ground instead of rooftop panels and come in all shapes and sizes.

“Maine created a free community solar program for residents to promote locally produced renewable energy and to offset the costs of this transition and other electricity cost increases for Mainers,” said Tony Napolitano, the owner and founder of Maine Community Solar. “Most people don't know this program exists to benefit them, are misinformed, or don't understand how it works. We are here to educate people and help them participate.”

According to Napolitano, services provided by Maine Community Solar are free.

“What we do is help customers understand Maine's community solar program and join a local solar farm so they can support local renewable energy and save on their electricity bill,” he said.

The company serves the entire state of Maine and all customers that pay an electric bill with CMP or Versant.

Napolitano said the best aspect of his work with Maine Community Solar is having an opportunity to assist everyday people understand renewable energy while helping protect the planet in the process.

He has worked in green building and renewable energy for 20-plus years. He grew up in Maine and attended Portland High School. He launched his own marketing company, Roundhouse Media, in 2010 and founded Maine Community Solar on Jan. 1, 2021.

“When I learned about community solar and the fact that anyone could benefit from renewable energy with no upfront costs, long-term commitment or other barriers to entry, I thought it was a game changer,” Napolitano said. “I signed up for a local solar farm right away and made it my mission to spread the word as far and wide as possible.”

Significant savings for Maine consumers is the foundation of Maine Community Solar’s success.

“A Mainer that pays an average electric utility bill can save more than $22 per month or $250 per year on their electricity costs, or about 15 percent,” Napolitano said. “Many people can save more. We've helped hundreds of Maine businesses and thousands of Mainers join a local solar farm. Customers we helped in 2023 will account for more than 80,000,000 kwh of locally-produced, renewable energy powering Maine homes and businesses. We focus on doing the right thing and the right way. If you put customers first, the success takes care of itself.”

Well respected for taking an educational, community-based approach to advocating for renewable energy and its benefits, reviews posted online for Maine Community Solar are exceptional.

“I don’t usually write reviews, but: Maine Community Solar! Everyone should be doing this. I had been meaning to make the change to solar energy for a while but kept pushing it off. A gal named Sydney followed up with me a few times and I’m so glad she did. The signup is super easy (you use your log in information with your existing electricity supplier, which couldn’t be simpler!). I’m not super tech savvy, but Sydney walked me through every step to make sure we got it right. You save money, support the growth of local solar farms, and basically don’t have to do a thing in the process. Do it!” – Emily Smith

“Great experience signing up with Maine Community Solar. Very professional, helpful, and responsive. The agent was personable and really aided me through the process. Excited to save 15 percent on my CMP bill.” – Bill Nalls

“I tried to sign up for solar electricity and kept hitting roadblocks. Maine Community Solar made it easy.” – Susan Hall

To arrange a meeting with one of Maine Community Solar’s Education Specialists to learn more about what they can do for you and how they can help you start saving through community solar, call 207-888-3670 or visit them online at https://mainecommunitysolar.org/save-15-on-your-electric-bill-with-community-solar/. You can also find them on Facebook at facebook.com/mainecommunitysolar207. Sign up now and receive a $50 gift card as a thank you for helping to create a sustainable Maine. <

Business Spotlight: Sebago Fiber

For many living in rural communities around Sebago Lake, internet service is spotty at best. But Sebago Fiber, a local, family-owned company, is striving to change that by providing reliable, fast fiber internet service to homes and businesses in the region.

Andrew Davis is passionate about
providing reliable, fast fiber internet
service to homes and businesses
in the Sebago Lakes Region and 
owns Sebago Fiber serving towns 
and communities in the area.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
   

Offering vital internet services to those that are currently unserved or underserved, Sebago Fiber takes a different approach by working directly with local towns and building its service in phases in areas where there is the most demand. Larger telecommunications companies don’t have a financial incentive to do that because the cost of updating the infrastructure is too high in rural towns with small populations and potential profits for them are too low.

“Being able to bring something as necessary as reliable internet service to people as a small local business is vitally important,” said Brandie Shydo, Sebago Fiber’s Director of Marketing and Community Engagement. “We offer excellent customer service and make it simple for customers by offering support services by email and comprehensive online account access. We don't require customers to wait on the phone for hours or visit an office to get help if they need it.”

Shydo said Sebago Fiber’s internet services are more reliable than cable or DSL and the company proactively monitors its systems as well as its customers' services so they can respond quickly if there is an issue. Its technicians and support staff all live and work locally.

Because the company is small, it’s able to provide simple transparent pricing, making cutting the cord from big cable easy and offering freedom of choice for television and phone services. Alternative services often come at a lower cost while still providing desired functionality such as DVR services.

Company owner Andrew Davis said that Sebago Fiber’s mission is to provide fast, reliable internet to its neighbors.

“Our pricing is generally competitive with other services,” he said. “We do not offer ‘introductory’ or promotional pricing that will sharply increase in 12 to 24 months “Our pricing is transparent and published online, so it's easy to understand what you're getting and how much you'll pay.”

When Davis began spending summers on Frye Island, he came to realize that working from home there would be virtually impossible because of the lack of quality internet service. He investigated working with the existing service providers to improve service, but they were uninterested. Having a technical and software background, Davis decided to start Sebago Fiber. The company was able to build out services that cover 100 percent of Frye Island in just two years with 94 percent coverage in one year, beating its initial goal of 60 percent in three years.

“We build our systems for reliability. Light traveling over fiber does not have the limits of copper telephone or cable networks,” Davis said. “Fiber is not susceptible to every power fluctuation in a storm causing power surges down the lines and frying the cable modem. We build our systems with reliable backup battery and generator power. Two thirds of internet customers on Frye Island have switched to Sebago Fiber from their previous provider. Our customers' only complaint is that they can no longer blame a bad internet connection for not being able to work remotely in Maine.”

Sebago Fiber serves Frye Island and is expanding to the towns surrounding Sebago Lake including Sebago, Naples, Standish, Raymond, Casco, and Windham in the White’s Bridge Road area and north of there.

Davis said Sebago Fiber is currently conducting a survey to gauge interest about where to expand next.

“If you want reliable fiber internet, please complete our online survey at SebagoFiber.net/lake so our company and your town know the area with the most interest,” he said. “Where we build next is based upon community response. We’ll go where the interest is. If you want a better alternative service, go take the survey.”

The company has been in business since 2021 and its leadership team is four people covering engineering, support, billing, and customer service. It also has four field service technicians. Shydo said openings are available for full and part time positions for additional field technicians and support staff to be hired in the local Sebago Lake region.

For more information about Sebago Fiber, visit www.sebagofiber.net, send an email to info@sebagofiber.net, or call 207-544-6811 or find them on Facebook under SebagoFiberWiFi. <

Business Spotlight: Your Desk

As working remotely has gained in popularity and office space rent for small businesses continues to skyrocket, a unique business idea called coworking has emerged and now that concept is available in Windham at Your Desk.

Your Desk, located in the Windham Crossing complex at
744 Roosevelt Trail #206, offers affordable, manageable
workspaces that can be rented on a daily, weekly or
monthly basis. COURTESY PHOTO 

Located in the Windham Crossing complex at 744 Roosevelt Trail #206, Your Desk offers reasonably priced, manageable workspaces that can be rented on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. It serves customers from anywhere, from local people looking for a place to connect with other professionals to work, read, or have a meeting, to visitors who need a temporary place to work remotely while on vacation.

This space houses four private offices, a conference room, seven semi-private desks, and a large room with 18 diverse work areas, including adjustable desks, worktables, upholstered seating, and a high-top bar table. A phone booth and a restroom are available within the space. Access to Your Desk is provided through a reservation system, either online, or through an app and then scanned at the front door for entry. Wi-Fi, coffee, and tea are provided to customers at no charge as part of the service and high-speed internet and limited printing services are also available for guests.

“This is a great option for someone who needs a workspace,” said Your Desk co-owners John Krouse and Chris St. Pierre. “There is such a high demand for this type of service, and we are the only business of this type providing this service locally. We’re calling it a community because it’s so much more than just a space to work.”

St. Pierre and Krouse say they got started in the coworking community business out of necessity.

“We were looking for an office space to house our real estate business, Next Key Real Estate brokered by eXp Realty, and was not able to find a reasonably sized or priced office space,” St. Pierre said. “The coworking spaces in the greater Portland area were all full and had a waiting list. We saw an office condo for sale that was in desperate need of an update, coupled with a vision on how to convert the space to a coworking business.”

According to Krouse, Your Desk’s plan is to create a coworking community in Windham with the goal of not only providing a professional space for its customers, but also be a resource with the hosting of informational events throughout the year with use of its conference and general space rooms.

“Perhaps your own at-home work environment has changed, or working from home is not an option, or you are a business owner just starting out, or you are working from home and the power goes out, or a seasoned business owner who needs a spot for employees to work as they grow,” he said. “This is the perfect spot with short- and long-term options. The conference room is available for meetings or seminars and can be rented hourly.”

Your Desk is highly affordable, with daily access for its general room and monthly membership starting at around $9.50 a day.

“There are many pricing options as we’re flexible to everyone’s needs,” Krouse and St. Pierre said.

More than simply providing a space to work, Your Desk also offers opportunities for networking by drawing together professionals from diverse fields and possibilities for collaboration and motivational support. It offers a professional atmosphere instead of remote isolation and can lead to improved productivity, and is cost effective, as renting an office space independently can be pricey.

“Your Desk is an independent business with reasonable rates and several amenities. This will be an asset to the local community to assist customers with their work needs,” Krouse said. “If you need a change of scenery to be more productive in a work environment, your traveling, powers is out at your home office, your business is growing out of its current spot, or you need a place without distractions, this is the perfect location to help take that next step to being more successful.”

Grand Opening Days for Your Desk are planned for Jan. 31 and Feb. 3 with tours available and refreshments, prizes and giveaways offered.

Your Desk is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

To learn more about Your Desk, call 207-613-2331 or visit http://www.yourdeskmaine.com. Find them on Facebook under YourDeskMaine or send an email to admin@yourdeskmaine.com <

Business Spotlight: Pure Clean Co.

When you hire a cleaning service, you expect value, quality, and attention to detail, and Pure Clean Co. of Windham offers all of those and more to its loyal and devoted customers.

Cory Beaulieu is the owner of Pure Clean Co. 
which is based in Windham and offers
exceptional residential, commercial and
Airbnb cleanings. COURTESY PHOTO 

Pure Clean provides exceptional residential, commercial and Airbnb cleanings. Popular services include weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleanings, move-in and move-out cleans, and one-time cleanings. Additional services include strip and waxing or buffing of VCT tile floors and small-job carpet cleaning services. They also specialize in deep cleanings that focus on removing built up dust, germs, and bacteria from the hardest locations to reach.

Now under the sole ownership of Cory Beaulieu, Pure Clean features strong reliable staff members who provide amazing attention to detail and sincerely care about the quality of their work.

“We travel from Bridgton to Yarmouth and go as far as Portland and South Portland,” Beaulieu said. “We truly care about our clients and keeping their homes perfect.”

According to Beaulieu, Pure Clean Company’s pricing is always fair, transparent and very competitive.

“Because we don't do the minimum, we are always doing more than the average company and what they offer for the same prices or more,” he said. “We recently had a slight price increase, but our goal is to continue delivering the highest standard of cleaning services while ensuring fair compensation for our dedicated cleaning professionals.”

The company has been in business since 2019 and has 12 dedicated staff members who are grateful for the continued trust shown by the public and support for their cleaning services.

“We are fully insured and trustworthy and have many five-star reviews,” Beaulieu said. “Because we pay strict attention to the little things and go above and beyond to exceed customer expectations, we have a stellar reputation among our customers.”

Through careful and meticulous attention to detail, Pure Clean specialists delve into the nooks and crannies of homes, including the baseboards, ceiling fan blades, light fixtures, surfaces and even the insides of ovens, microwaves and dishwashers in kitchens and strive to make bathrooms a priority, including the removal of troublesome water stains and leaving tubs, tile and grout behind that shine and sparkle like they are brand new.

Beaulieu said that estimates are always free and convenient bookings are readily available for Pure Clean Co.

“Part of our continued success is that we have great communication with our customers and are very flexible to work around their schedules,” he said.

Reviews of Pure Clean Company posted online are extraordinary.

“Today was my first Pure Clean experience and it won’t be the last. They cleaned our home meticulously and thoroughly. I am so pleased with the work their team does!” – Kate Ryan

“We used Pure Clean for a regular clean and they did a deeper clean where it was needed (bathrooms) and left the place looking spotless. They were extremely responsive from start to finish and handled the logistics beautifully.” – Karen Dahl

“These guys are fantastic. When I got home, I thought the house looked really great. Then I opened up the microwave, and almost had a heart attack... because it had never looked that good. And just now I opened up the oven... they even did the oven!!! WOW. I can't wait for them to come back.” – Sally Wood

“We scheduled Pure Clean for a deep clean at a family cottage, and we were so impressed! The staff arrived with a plan and worked together efficiently to clean all the corners and to put a shine on the place. They asked appropriate questions and, more than once, told me they wanted to make us happy and clean it well for us. They certainly did!! I highly recommend this group and will have them back in the future.” – Nancy Crowley Doolittle

“Would highly recommended Pure Clean's cleaning services! They did an awesome job! Definitely will use them again!” – Vanessa Johnston

For more info. about Pure Clean Co. services or to schedule a walk-through and an estimate, call 207-310-7294 or send an email to purecleanco.cory@gmail.com. To see pictures of their immaculate work visit them at www.facebook.com/purecleancoME <

Business Spotlight: APLUS Service

There are many benefits to keeping your vehicle properly cared for and it’s no secret that regular maintenance can extend the life of your car, truck, or SUV and reduce the risk of accidents and breakdowns. This is the goal of APLUS Service, which strives to provide exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, expertise, and quality products.

APLUS Service Center at 299 Roosevelt
Trail in Casco offers an array of 
mechanical services and a complete line
of tires for just about any vehicle.
 COURTESY PHOTO

APLUS is prepared to handle and resolve any type of mechanical problem from its location at 299 Roosevelt Trail in Casco and its ASE-certified technicians work on all types of automobiles and trucks. The business is owned by Andrew Coppersmith and Andy Lane, who also own and operate APLUS Truck Sales and APLUS AutoBody in Windham.

“We do just about everything here,” said Josh McDermott of APLUS Service. “Our customers come to us from throughout Maine, and we do our utmost to ensure their complete satisfaction. We specialize in having the same equipment found at the franchise dealer for those hard to fix jobs as well as a full line of oem parts for your late model diesel Ford, GM and Dodge trucks.”

He said that APLUS Service believes in treating everyone that walks through their door as if they are family and by being open, direct, and honest with customers, they are building a loyal and appreciative customer following.

Mechanical services available at APLUS Service include oil changes, wheel alignments, engine repairs, belt and hose adjustments, cooling system flushes, suspension work, battery and electrical, complete diagnostics, tune-ups, brakes, exhaust, shocks and struts, steering, transmissions, air conditioning, emission leak testing, lift kits, vehicle customizing, preventative maintenance, and much more.

APLUS Service also offers a complete line of tires and tire maintenance services. It is a Maine State Inspection License station and offers a comprehensive and vast selection of wheels.

As a NAPA Auto Care center, customers can be assured that APLUS Service technicians use quality NAPA auto parts.

“We maintain the highest standards to see that our customers receive the best possible work at the best possible price,” McDermott said. “We are also fully transparent and provide open communication with customers about the vehicles we work on.”

The business relocated to Casco from its former location at APLUS Truck Sales on Storm Drive in Windham a year ago when an increasing number of customers taking advantage of their services left them out of space. Now in a larger and clean new facility, APLUS Service can accommodate customers quickly and efficiently with a staff of 15 employees.

“Put simply, we’re out there to take care of our customers,” McDermott said. “Our business takes quality and customer service very seriously.”

He said as a NAPA Auto Care center, APLUS Service follows a strict Code of Ethics so customers will know up front what to expect and as part of this code, the business is committed to perform high-quality diagnostic and repair services at a fair price, using quality NAPA parts; employing ASE-certified technicians in all areas of work performed; being dedicated to customer satisfaction; exercising reasonable care for the customer's property while it is in the shop's possession; providing a system for fair settlement of customer complaints, should they occur; and maintaining the highest standards of the automotive service profession.

Feedback on social media has been outstanding.

“Solid guys! Great company, they care a lot about quality and take great care of their customers.” Nate Tilley

“Recently brought my Ram 3500 to have service done by APLUS and I couldn’t be happier with the quality of service I received. These guys went above and beyond to address the concerns I had. You cannot ask for better.” Brian Brennan

“Friendly service, knowledgeable techs, and a superb reconditioning department. The team here gets it and puts the customer first.” Chet Tetreault

“Can’t say enough great things about you guys! Brought my truck in and you guys brought it in that same day and immediately started working on it to rectify the problem. That type of customer service is what’s kept me coming back to you guys for the past eight years and I don’t see that changing in the future! Thank you!” David Vachon

APLUS Service is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 207-572-4444 or text 207-550-1559. <