Business Spotlight: Wallace Home Improvement

No matter if it’s new roofing, siding or gutters, Wallace Home Improvement can transform your home’s exterior and exceed expectations in an affordable manner.

Based in Gray and led by Dave Wallace, Wallace Home Improvement is committed to using its specialized skills and expertise to provide the best exterior remodeling services available in the Lakes Region of Maine. Through masterful workmanship and dedication to exceptional customer service, Wallace has the experience to handle any project superbly.

“We’re here to offer you the best service at an affordable price,” Wallace said. “We are one of the longest standing roof companies in the area and have an awesome reputation.”

Using only the top roofing materials with quality installation, Wallace Home Improvement has a full range of roofing services ranging from traditional asphalt shingles to standing seam metal roofs. It can upgrade you to a metal roof for great longevity, performance and benefits. For traditional asphalt shingle roofs, Wallace offers a wide variety of styles and colors to choose from, helping to ensure a long lasting and stunning look.

“Established in 1991, we're a family-owned company dedicated to using our knowledge and hands-on know-how to help you get the most out of your home. From siding contractors to roofers to gutter contractors, our team is here to offer competitive pricing and skilled craftsmanship,” Wallace said. “At Wallace Home Improvement, our goal is to ensure you get the great products and quality workmanship you deserve.”

Wallace Home Improvement’s siding installers can assist in converting a home’s drab and faded appearance to look newly restored through exterior low-maintenance vinyl siding. If your old gutters have finally given out or you’re installing them for the first time, Wallace’s expert installers have the experience and hands-on knowledge to efficiently and effectively install a new gutter system while using quality seamless gutter products to provide excellent performance.

Known for its fast quality residential roofing, Wallace Home Improvement offers free estimates and delivers peace of mind, quality roofing service and top-notch installation.

“We believe in mutual trust,” Wallace said. “When we are at your home, you trust us to do as promised, and we trust you to pay when the project is complete.”

Wallace has been in the home remodeling business for more than 36 years and started doing seamless gutters that turned into one of Maine’s largest residential roofing companies.

Reviews posted online are simply outstanding.

“Exceptional work! I don’t think there are enough complimentary words in the dictionary to convey the quality of Wallace Home Improvement. In addition to using great materials, they have an amazing crew that are not only knowledgeable but professional and courteous. Our roof was old and involved more than was expected, but it was no challenge for the Wallace Team. They did a fantastic job!”

The goal of Wallace Home Improvement is to ensure
its customers receive great products and the quality
workmanship they deserve. COURTESY PHOTO

Christine M.

“I was confident when I signed the contract with Dave and his wife that I had made a good decision, after looking at several options for roofers/siders. They were able to answer all my questions and put together a great plan and solutions that I didn't know how to solve. But when the crew showed up, to say I was blown away would be an understatement! They stripped my house, siding and roofing in a matter of several hours. By the end of the day, they started laying new stuff on. The crew worked efficiently and did high quality work until it was complete. Work ethic of days gone by. I am so happy and grateful that I chose Wallace Home Improvement.” Artemis B.

“I am completely amazed at the job Wallace Roofing has accomplished with a work crew that did not stop. In one day laying ice and water shield for the entire house and garage, laying 30 squares and they were done! The fact that I don’t have a dent in my relatively new seamless gutters and you can’t find a spot of debris or a nail in my hedges, flower garden or anyplace around my home. It’s like someone waved a magic wand, and in one day, I have a new roof. His crew moved everything that needed moving and it was placed back in the same location when they left. I can’t thank Dave and Dana and his crew enough. They put me on a priority list because of some leaks I had with all this Maine rain, and I will be good for many, many years! Thanks again and I highly recommend Wallace Roofing for those in need.” George C.

To learn more about Wallace Home Improvement’s full line of roofing, gutter, and siding installation and other services, call 207-756-0969 or visit wallaceroofingmaine.com. Find them on Facebook under Wallace Home Improvement. <

Business Spotlight: J. Wolfe Electric and Phoenix Integration

These days homes and businesses are evolving and changing as advances in technology help simplify life in the 21st century and J. Wolfe Electric is leading the way in bringing convenience, energy savings, and automation to where we live and work.

John Wolfe of J. Wolfe Electric/Phoenix Integration provides
smart home upgrades linking entertainment, lighting,
temperature control and security systems into one
energy-efficient convenient centralizes system.
COURTESY PHOTO   

Based in Windham, J. Wolfe Electric provides a wide array of quality electrical services but also is on the cutting edge of 21st century technology offering expertise in everything from LED lighting upgrades to generators, security systems and smart home packages.

“We are tailored to the needs of our customers,” said John Wolfe, a master electrician and the owner of J. Wolfe Electric. “We’ve been doing Phoenix Integration smart home upgrades for the past four years and have found it can seamlessly integrate all aspects of your life through one centralized system.”

He says Phoenix Integration systems assist in enhancing a homeowner's experience by creating a seamlessly integrated smart home environment. That can include linking entertainment, lighting, blinds, heating and air conditioning and security all through one centralized access point.

“We believe with home automation and with it your possibilities are endless,” Wolfe said. “Our company takes an enormous amount of pride on our reliability, our ability to communicate effectively, our integrity, and in performing quality work.”

The benefits of adding smart home services through J. Wolfe Electric are designed to improve daily life and provide a user-friendly interface for numerous daily tasks. It can automate lighting systems for ambiance, energy efficiency, and convenience or install or integrate security cameras, alarms, and access control systems for enhanced safety and peace of mind. Smart home features can be extended to outdoor living spaces, including outdoor TVs, sound systems, and lighting. Integrating smart thermostats and other energy-efficient technologies can help reduce energy consumption.

Users can monitor their home or business remotely and receive alerts for potential security breaches. Or they can optimize energy consumption through use of automated lighting, temperature control, and other smart devices.

No matter what the needs may be, J. Wolfe Electric can create a home automation system that provides increased convenience to control all your home systems from one place, whether through a wall panel, touch screen, or mobile app on your cell phone. The installation of smart home features can also make residential or commercial properties more appealing to potential buyers.

With combined experience of more than 50 years among J. Wolfe Electric staff members, they possess the knowledge and experience required to handle any task and offer solutions to the most challenging situations.

“It’s a unique business and we also handle all of the Town of Windham and RSU 14 school systems and fire alarms,” Wolfe said. “We offer free project estimates, and our customer relationship is first and foremost to us as without our customers we would not be successful. We are one of the only electrical contractors in the State of Maine who truly offer fire alarms, security, access control, and video surveillance systems all designed, installed and programmed by us. Unlike many other contractors who bring in a sub-contractor to design and commission the system, when we install a system you stay with us even after commissioning with all service, inspection and monitoring needs.”

According to Wolfe, the mission of J. Wolfe Electric is simple yet profound.

“We aim to deliver unparalleled electrical solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability,” he said. “We strive to exceed expectations in every project, and to contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the communities we serve.”

Online reviews for J. Wolfe Electric are exceptional.

“These guys came out and worked in the dead of cold in the winter in an old barn and got the job done. It was of great value. John has a good crew of people working with him and they'll get the job done. This was a 100-amp to 200-amp upgrade with a sub panel and electric car charger install.” Jon D.

“Excellent customer service. Excellent workmanship. I will definitely use this pro in the future.” Andy S.

“John took care of all my needs. Super personable and reasonably priced.” Kathleen V.

To learn more about J. Wolfe Electric and the unique services it offers, call/text 207-632-8799 or visit jwolfeelectric.com and phoenixintegrations.com. Find them on Facebook under Jwolfe Electric. <

Business Spotlight: Tu Casa

It’s no secret that a quality education program for the youngest learners provides them with a solid foundation for the future. At Tu Casa, families and staff members are on a learning journey with children and set the tone for a child’s upcoming educational success.

Tu Casa in Raymond offers families of children ages 2 to 5
a great sense of community and collaboration in providing
quality Early Childhood Education to young learners.
SUBMITTED PHOTO  

Located at 10 Tenny Hill Road in Raymond, Tu Casa provides nature-based and play-based education with an introduction to the Spanish language for children ages 2 to 5 in a warm and loving environment. During the fall and summer months, most of the days are spent outside, including an occasional outdoor nap. During this time, students are dropped off outside, where there is ample space to explore. In the winter, they spend about two hours outside a day, depending on weather conditions, and the appropriate gear provided by families.

“We believe children should be in charge of their unique learning path through risk taking, experimenting and problem solving with adult guidance and care,” said Grace Emery-Freyre, Tu Casa owner. “We believe mixed ages, and mixed approaches to learning through private and public education makes learning relevant to the child’s life and creates a greater sense of motivation, freedom and joy around learning.”

In business for eight years, Tu Casa is going into its third year of partnership with RSU 14. It had five employees during the last school year, each providing unique experiences for the children and families.

“Tu Casa started as Tu Casa Childcare however, we are just calling ourselves Tu Casa, Emery-Freyre said. “On the logo we have added Tu Casa Early Childhood Education. This change is because of our public-school partnership. Changing the word ‘childcare’ to quality 'Early Childhood Education’ helps combat the stigma that early childhood education programs are just another form of babysitting. We are Early Childhood Education professionals.”

Families can enroll their child in a public Pre-K program within RSU 14 at a local early education center.

“In our case we are not a center, we are an in-home family childcare program. We are actually the only family childcare program partnered with a public school system in the state of Maine,” Emery-Freyre said. “This partnership is designed to provide a developmentally appropriate early care and education experience for children, ensuring a seamless and supportive transition between settings. All public Pre-K programs, regardless of setting, meet the same Chapter 124 standards as required by Maine’s Department of Education.”

Those standards include:

* Consistency for the Child: Consistent daily routine with trusted educators, which helps in building strong relationships and providing a stable learning environment. Partnership locations offer extended day programming outside the typical school schedule to offer consistency of care for working families.

* Collaboration for Success: RSU 14 works closely with local early childhood education programs to align early care and education practices, ensuring that children receive a cohesive experience that supports their development. Programs share the goal of fostering growth, creativity, and social-emotional development in children.

* Smooth Transitions: The collaboration between RSU 14 and local early childhood education programs help ensure that your child’s transition between settings is smooth, whether they are moving from home to childcare or from Pre-K to Kindergarten.

“Private families that enroll in our program are usually families with children under the age of 4 because they are not old enough to enroll in public Pre-K,” Emery-Freyre said. “Private families pay out of pocket a weekly or monthly fee.”

Emery-Freyre had been working in education for several years before starting Tu Casa.

“I really wanted to create the space on my own because I strongly believe that the environment does most of the work for the child’s learning,” she said. “In other work settings, I didn’t have the opportunity to create my own philosophy – so creating Tu Casa was a passion project, which is why I believe it has been so successful.”

Tu Casa’s hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and it follows public school scheduling and observes all holidays, vacation weeks, and snow days as RSU 14.

“The most significant aspect of what we do would be a great sense of community and collaboration to provide quality programming for young children,” Emery-Freyre said.

Enrollment for the new school year is now underway for students ages 2 to 5.

To learn more about Tu Casa, call 207-396-0256 or visit www.tucasaschool.com <

Business Spotlight: Wildcats Gymnastics

Wildcats Gymnastics, a new community-centered gymnastics facility, officially opened its doors on June 1 at 155 Riverside St. in Portland. Founded by veteran coach Devon Saloga and her two sons, Talon and Thane, the center brings together decades of experience from gymnastics programs across the U.S. from Boulder, Colorado to Bangor, Maine.

Wildcats Gymnastics brings over 60 years combined
experience to their new facility located conveniently
off I-95 Exit 48 in Westbrook. They are a mother and 
sons family run studio. From left are Thane Saloga,
Devon Saloga and Talon Saloga.
SUBMITTED PHOTO     

“At Wildcats, we blend the best techniques and ideas from the diverse programs our staff has worked with,” said Saloga. “Our comprehensive program is designed to help every gymnast excel. We believe in fostering both the technical skills, and the personal growth that gymnastics can provide.”

Wildcats Gymnastics offers a wide range of services including gymnastics instruction, summer and holiday camps, birthday parties, open gyms, competitive and recreational teams, and seasonal  community events. Their programs cater to children in Cumberland County and surrounding communities, with an emphasis on keeping activities affordable and accessible to families of all income levels.

The gym features state-of-the-art equipment for all levels – from preschool play areas to regulation-sized apparatus for advanced training. Class sizes are kept small to ensure individualized attention and a safe learning environment. The staff, comprised of certified coaches with backgrounds in education, child development, and competitive gymnastics, is committed to fostering a positive, encouraging atmosphere for athletes.

Saloga describes Wildcats as a social enterprise. “We opened our Community Gymnastics Center for the benefit of the kids stuck on long waitlists elsewhere,” she said. “Our mission is to create more access to the sport we love.” Wildcats plans to launch a financial aid and scholarship program in the near future to further expand access, especially to underserved populations.

The center’s unique offerings include session-based classes, which Saloga says improve consistency, commitment, and measurable progress. Another standout feature is the children’s “Show Team”—a non-competitive group that performs at local parades, school assemblies, and community festivals. The Show Team is designed to give children a performance outlet without the pressure of competition.

Classes are structured around progressive weekly lesson plans, ensuring that students develop foundational skills before moving on to more advanced techniques. Parents receive regular updates, and are invited to observe classes, emphasizing Wildcats’ belief in open communication and family involvement.

“Gymnastics teaches kids resilience, leadership, and self-confidence,” said Saloga. “It also supports academic achievement by building neural connections between physical and intellectual learning. We’re not just building athletes—we’re helping raise well-rounded young people.”

Devon Saloga discovered her passion for gymnastics at age 12, going on to compete, teach, and eventually manage Boulder, Colorado’s renowned gymnastics program. Her career has taken her across the country, influencing programs of all sizes. Now, with her sons by her side – both former athletes and experienced coaches themselves – she’s channeling that lifelong passion into Wildcats Gymnastics.

Fall registration is now open, with classes beginning Sept. 2 for children of all ages, starting at walking age. Programs include parent-child introductory classes, beginner and advanced recreational levels, tumbling, summer and non-school day camps, teams and more.

For more information or to register, visit wildcatsgymnasticsme.com, email Info@WildcatsGymnasticsME.com, or call 207-899-8015. Follow Wildcats Gymnastics on Facebook and Instagram. We look forward to seeing you at Wildcats! <