Business Spotlight: Northeast Planning Associates, Inc.

No matter if your goal is to save for retirement or to provide a lasting financial foundation for your family, Northeast Planning Associates places people and their priorities first in creating customized plans and helpful strategies to work toward their client’s financial future. Northeast Planning has served its many clients throughout New England for more than six decades with more than 40 offices.

Mark Morrison can help create a plan or strategy
to address both short-term and long-term goals
and his experience, independent perspective
and personalized advice can make a difference
when planning for your financial future.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 
 

Mark Morrison, a Financial Advisor and Financial Planner, is based in Windham. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Southern Maine and has 30-plus years of experience in the financial services sector and 10 years as a financial advisor. “I receive daily market and economic updates. Having a good understanding of the economy, coupled with my problem solving skills developed as a consultant, I am able to craft impactful strategies to help clients.” said Morrison. Most of his clients are located in Maine and New Hampshire – Bangor to Greater Windham, Westbrook, Portland, Gray, New Gloucester, Cumberland and Portsmouth. Some of his clients live outside of New England – he is flexible and can accommodate almost any situation.

When meeting with clients, Morrison begins by listening. He works to understand his client’s current circumstances before setting realistic objectives. From there, he develops strategies that can adapt to changing conditions over time. Goals are monitored, progress is tracked, and adjustments are made when necessary. This “hands on” approach is designed to give clients the structure and support they need to remain on course. For Morrison, financial planning is more than numbers. It is about building long-term relationships, helping people prepare for life’s transitions, and offering steady financial guidance in both prosperous and challenging times. His combination of professional expertise and community commitment has made him a valued resource.

Clients seeking advice on investments, retirement planning, tax mitigation, 401k distributions, insurance planning, estate strategy and business succession planning can expect Morrison to provide practical advice rooted in experience.

He also works with small businesses offering 401ks, SEP IRAs and Simple plans and he advises on which plan is best suited for both owner/ employer and employee. Once this is determined he stays closely engaged to assist all plan participants and often meets on site at the employer’s location.

Some questions clients have when meeting with Mark:

-Should I have a Roth IRA or a Traditional IRA?

-How much do I need to save to retire confidently and when to retire?

-Do I need long term care insurance and if so what type?

-How much life and disability insurance should I have for my family?

-Should I do a 401k distribution and why?

-What are my options for education savings?

-How much should I take from my investments as income once retired?

-How do I know if I have the right investments?

-Am I properly diversified against risk given my stage in life?

-Can you forecast the probability of reaching my goals if we work together?

-What retirement plan is best suited for my business?

-Social Security will not be enough, what should I be doing now?

These are the common, every day questions clients ask when seeking his advice. “I use my ‘tried and true’ process to find sound and sensible solutions. It’s all about taking the time up front, to understand what’s most important, so I may then tailor a strategy to better position my client in both the short and long run,” says Morrison. He stays close to his clients and meets with them regularly. “I believe communication is very important, and it works best when it is a two-way street.” Client-Advisor collaboration is key, and before any decision is made, he discusses the pros and cons thoroughly. “I do my best to ensure the client understands the ‘why’ so they stick to their plan year over year. It’s all about client education, buy-in and communication.” That’s how goals are pursued with a high degree of satisfaction.

Community service is a central part of Morrison’s life. He is a former youth soccer coach and is currently serving his second term with the Windham Town Council, where he is currently Chair. Morrison is also a Past President of the Sebago Lake Rotary Club where he was honored as Rotarian of the Year in 2018, and recognized with Rotary’s highest distinction, the Paul Harris Fellow, in 2022. He is also a member of the Sebago Lake Chamber of Commerce.

For financial advising from a qualified professional who is invested in this community, visit morrisonfinancialplanning.com or call 207-329-1328 to schedule an appointment. His first meetings are complimentary. Find him on Linked in at www.linkedin.com/in/morrisonfinancialplanning. 

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, A Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. Northeast Planning Associates and LPL Financial are not affiliated. <

Business Spotlight: Robbins Pest Services

As winter slowly begins to turn to spring and it starts to warm up, taking preventative action from mice and rats now can help protect homes and businesses and prevent more serious problems later. Robbins Pest Services stands ready to assist with that.

Rick Robbins of Robbins Pest Services offers affordable
and effective general pest removal for common
household pests such as ants, cockroaches, spiders and
rodents through targeted treatments and prevention 
strategies. COURTESY PHOTO

Owned and operated by Rick Robbins and his wife Nicole, the company’s core services include general pest control by addressing common household pests such as ants, cockroaches, spiders, and rodents through targeted treatments and prevention strategies, including organic options for environmentally conscious customers. It also provides effective bed bug extermination, nuisance bee removal and mosquito and tick treatments.

Homes, restaurants, offices, and commercial buildings often provide the shelter that rodents need to survive Maine’s cold winters but Robbins Pest Services, a family-owned pest control company serving the local area, helps homeowners, property managers, condo associations, restaurants and commercial property owners protect their buildings during peak rodent season.

Rick Robbins of Robbins Pest Services says that rodents commonly enter structures through small gaps around foundations, doors, and utility penetrations, and may nest in attics, basements, wall voids, storage rooms, and mechanical areas.

“Mice can enter through openings as small as a dime, and once inside, they can reproduce quickly and remain active all winter,” said Rick Robbins, owner of Robbins Pest Services. “Early detection and prevention are the most effective ways to avoid a larger infestation.”

According to Robbins, rodent activity can create serious risks for both residential and commercial properties. In homes, rodents may contaminate food, damage insulation, and chew electrical wiring. In commercial settings such as restaurants, apartment buildings, and storage facilities, rodents can damage inventory, create sanitation concerns, and impact tenants, customers, and daily operations.

He said professional rodent control involves identifying and sealing entry points, installing tamper-resistant bait stations, and implementing ongoing monitoring to prevent future activity. Preventative services are especially important for multi-unit housing, food service businesses, and commercial properties, where rodent issues can spread quickly if left untreated. Local homeowners and business owners can also reduce their risk by sealing exterior gaps, maintaining clean storage areas, and addressing signs of activity early.

Robbins Pest Services provides rodent inspections, prevention, and control services for homeowners, property managers, condo associations, restaurants, and commercial facilities throughout Windham and nearby communities. It also offers general pest control by addressing common household pests such as ants, cockroaches, spiders, and rodents through targeted treatments and prevention strategies, including organic options for environmentally conscious customers. It also provides bed bug extermination and mosquito and tick treatments.

“At Robbins Pest Services, we are dedicated to providing the best pest control solutions while prioritizing safety, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction,” Robbins said. “Our expert team is equipped to handle all sorts of pests including rodents such as mice and rats, ants and crawling insects, bedbugs and cockroaches, and also offers traditional mosquito and tick treatments for those who prefer or require conventional methods.”

What sets apart Robbins Pest Services from the competition is its exceptional commitment to customer satisfaction through use of reliable and personalized pest control services that prioritize both quality and community well-being.

“As a family business, we prioritize personalized solutions tailored to each customer's needs,” Robbins said. “Our experienced team stays ahead of the curve with innovative techniques while promoting sustainability. We offer organic options for those seeking environmentally friendly solutions, ensuring effective pest control with minimal environmental impact. Ultimately, we're dedicated to making our customers happy and providing peace of mind. We aim to keep things competitive without sacrificing quality. Our prices are fair and upfront, and do not include hidden fees. We might not always be the cheapest, but we're all about giving you value. And we have different service plans to suit your needs. Our goal is to make sure you're getting top-notch pest control without breaking the bank. It's all about giving you the best bang for your buck. When you choose Robbins Pest Services, you're not just getting effective pest control, you're supporting a local family business that genuinely cares about making a positive impact in the community.”

Call Robbins Pest Services at 207-770-0274 to learn more about their services or to schedule your treatment. Also visit them online at www.robbinspest.com or find them on Facebook under Robbins Pest Services. <

Nonprofit Spotlight: St. Ann's Episcopal Church

From its humble beginnings some 50-plus years ago, St. Ann’s Episcopal Church has grown into a caring and essential presence in Windham and the surrounding communities. Through its twice Sunday worship services and its vibrant music program, the church has offered solace, inspiration, and support to all who are navigating their faith journey.

St. Ann's Episcopal Church is a welcoming, affirming and
inclusive Christian community striving through worship,
love and service to embrace all people just as God created
a diverse humanity. FILE PHOTO   

St. Ann’s outreach ministries reflect their deep commitment to serving their neighbors in practical, compassionate ways. They are a partner with Wayside Kitchen (which provides meals), and Faith Lutheran Church, in offering free community meals each Thursday evening. These meals rotate between Windham Hill Church and St. Ann’s on a published schedule, ensuring consistent hospitality for anyone who wishes to join them.

About 20 greater Windham area families visit the Essentials Pantry on the last Saturday of each month. 

The pantry supplements other local food resources by offering items often not covered elsewhere, such as cleaning supplies and personal hygiene products. They also support local educators by providing fall school supplies to area schools, helping teachers meet the needs of their students. 

This past year, they filled 70 Christmas stockings for families at Windham Primary School and for their friends who use the Essentials Pantry, another small way they share joy and caring with the community. St. Ann’s facilities offer a warm and welcoming space for gatherings of all kinds.

For many years, they have hosted AA meetings in their undercroft on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and they invite others to explore the space as they continue working to become more visible and accessible to the broader community.

Healing Services are also regularly scheduled and open to anyone seeking prayerful support. These small group gatherings offer a peaceful space for individuals to experience healing prayers grounded in the love of Jesus.

Alongside these ministries are more traditional fundraisers, such as the annual golf event and the popular Christmas fair which continues to strengthen their sense of fellowship and shared worship.

More exciting programs are already in development. In September 2026, St. Ann’s will host their first Time, Talent, and Treasure Auction, led by Father Steve Fales, who will serve as auctioneer. Additional details will be shared as the date approaches.

As St. Ann’s looks to the future, they recognize that this good work, while meaningful, is only the beginning. In a rapidly changing world, their outreach must extend to a broader audience. They hope to engage not only with their faithful members but also with the wider community. With that goal in mind, they are launching a new Speakers’ Forum designed to broaden their footprint through a variety of compelling topics.

To kick off this program, they are delighted to welcome Dr. Richard Nickerson as the inaugural speaker at 10:45 a.m. on Feb. 22, 2026, in the church sanctuary. 

Dr. Nickerson is widely known for his extraordinary musical gifts, highlighted by the acclaimed Windham Chamber Singers and his beloved Christmas AmFam program. He will share reflections on his 40-year musical journey, which has taken him to notable venues both domestic and international, including Carnegie Hall, the White House, Vienna, and many other distinguished stages.

St. Ann’s is located at 40 Windham Center Road in Windham and routinely has 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday services, however during the six Sundays of Lent (Feb. 22 to March 29) they'll have a single 9 a.m. service and will return to two services on Easter Sunday. 

They warmly encourage all to visit, explore their ministries, and discover the many ways they seek to serve and uplift the community.

For more about St. Ann’s call 207-892-8447, visit stannsepiscopalchurch.com or find them on Facebook. <

Business Spotlight: Beyond Fitness

For the past two years, Beyond Fitness has redefined what a gym can mean for anyone seeking a facility that supports every stage of their wellness journey.

Stephanie Pedersen is the owner of Beyond Fitness in Gray,
a gym created to make health and fitness simpler, safer and
sustainable for all levels and ages. SUBMITTED  PHOTO 

Located at 15 Main St. in Gray, Beyond Fitness is owned and operated by Stephanie Pedersen and provides a full-spectrum approach to health and fitness. It offers 24-hour gym access, personal training, group strength classes, individualized workout programming built in their own app, nutrition and macro coaching, InBody body composition scans, and sauna access.

“We create individualized programs for members to follow in the gym, at home, or through a hybrid approach,” Pedersen said. “We also work with people fully online. Our focus is helping people understand what to do, why they’re doing it, and how to track real progress. We are a women-owned and veteran-owned small business with a small team of trainers who support coaching, programming, and member services.”

Pedersen launched Beyond Fitness after spending years in the fitness world herself, jumping between gyms, programs, and nutrition approaches while building her own wellness journey.

“Over time, I realized how fragmented the industry was and how confusing it can be for people to know what actually works,” she said. “I wanted to create the type of place I wished existed when I started, one where training, nutrition, education, and accountability lived together. Beyond Fitness was built to make health and fitness simpler, safer and more sustainable for real people.”

According to Pedersen, the most significant aspect of Beyond Fitness is that it combines gym access, coaching, programming, and nutrition support into one system.

“Instead of people needing a gym, a trainer, a nutrition coach, and a separate app, we build everything together,” she said. “Members receive structured plans in our app, ongoing guidance, and tools like InBody scans to track real progress beyond the scale. Our approach is educational, data-driven, and focused on long-term success rather than quick fixes.”

Pricing at Beyond Fitness is intentionally structured to be accessible while still providing a high level of support with five trainers on staff.

“We offer affordable gym memberships, reasonably priced personal training and classes, and low-cost nutrition coaching options,” Pedersen said. “Our custom programming setup is a one-time fee that gives members a long-term plan, not something that expires after a few weeks. We are best known for being a clean, private, supportive gym that offers personalized programming, real accountability, and a strong community environment. Many members come to us because they want guidance, not just equipment.”

While the Beyond Fitness physical gym is in Gray and serves the Lakes Region and surrounding communities, it also works with clients outside the area and out of state through online coaching, nutrition support, and remote programming.

“You can use our app anywhere,” Pedersen said. “Beyond Fitness is not just a gym. It’s a support system. Whether someone is brand new, coming back after time away, managing injuries, or working toward performance goals, we focus on education, structure, and consistency. We meet people where they are and build realistic plans around their lives. Members often tell us that having a plan removes anxiety about the gym and helps them stay consistent. Many have also shared that InBody tracking and nutrition coaching completely changes how they view progress.”

Feedback posted online consistently highlights the supportive atmosphere, the clarity of Beyond Fitness programs, and its personalized approach.

"If you're looking for a gym that has the best equipment, is open 24/7, clean, safe, female owned and operated by an extremely knowledgeable fitness competitor that offers supplements, workouts and nutrition plans, do not look any further. Located in Gray!" Meg P

“Grateful to have a clean, 24-hour gym in the Gray/New Gloucester area. I have been a member for over a year. Stephanie is great! Equipment is always clean, always functional. Nothing but good things to say about this gym and I have had many gym memberships over the years.” Miranda T.

“The best gym I have found yet. Always clean, always organized and don’t have to wait 30 min for a machine. 24-hour gym near home is great for a busy schedule.” Josh B.

"I can’t say enough good things about this locally owned gym. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed—not just as a member, but as part of a community. The staff genuinely care about your goals and take the time to learn your name, your routine, and how they can help you improve. The space is always clean, the equipment is well-maintained, and there’s never that overcrowded feeling you get at big chain gyms. They’ve struck the perfect balance of being professional and personal. What really sets this gym apart are the people. The trainers are knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate. Whether you’re into lifting, group classes, or just getting back into a fitness routine, there’s something for everyone."  Ashleigh B.

To learn more about Beyond Fitness, visit beyondfitness207.com or call 207-657-1058. Find them on Facebook and Instagram under BeyondFitness207. <