Business Spotlight: Long Beach Marina

Every guest at Long Beach Marina on Sebago Lake is treated like family and they handle all the details, so you can relax and focus on having fun.

Long Beach Marina is proud to offer boaters peace of mind 
when storing their boat over the winter with their brand-new
storage facility. Phase 1 shows the new storage building and
Phase 2 shows the next upgrade coming to the site, a new
service building. By using Code EAGLE2025, boaters
can obtain a 2-year Price Lock at Long Beach Marina.
SUBMITTED PHOTO  

Located at 81 Sebago Road in Sebago, Long Beach Marina offers all-inclusive boat packages to provide customers with hassle-free boat ownership. This includes hauling your boat out, transporting it to their service facility for a full winterization, a thorough inspection for corrective and preventive maintenance, convenient indoor and outdoor storage options, shrink wrap, boat detailing and reconditioning, and much more.

In season, a high-octane fuel dock is available at Long Beach Marina directly on Sebago Lake, with late model pontoon boat rentals, a boat launch, moorings with onsite parking, shuttle service during open hours, a dinghy during off hours, and family service like no other provided on the lake.

“Our commitment is to provide stress-free boating services, guided by a principle of treating every customer with dignity and respect,” said Sam Minervino. “Through exceptional service and seamless operations, we aim to provide an unparalleled boating experience for all of our customers.”

Long Beach Marina originally opened in 1947 and the original dock that was on the property when purchased by the Minervino Family in 1986 was just replaced this year as they continue to provide regular upgrades to the infrastructure at the site that help to ensure its use well into the future.

“In 2026, we will celebrate 40 years of family ownership at Long Beach Marina,” Minervino said. “Our father, Henry, and his son, Sam, were presented with the opportunity to purchase and run a very small marina at the time just doing gas, renting aluminum fishing boats and providing some minor boat service. The family’s background is varied having worked and owned car and boat sales, an ice cream shop across from the now SeaDogs stadium, and several other small business ventures.”

Providing year-round service and devoted to delivering exceptional customer care, Long Beach Marina remains a four-generation business and continually upgrades its services on behalf of the boating community.

“We're constantly improving and growing to provide the best experience for our customers, and we support our local communities throughout the year,” Minervino said. “These are the family values we strive to continue for our family’s legacy.”

Recent improvements to Long Beach Marina include a 24,000-square-foot Boat Rack Storage Building allowing for greater capacity for indoor boat storage and a knowledgeable service department featuring highly skilled and capable marine mechanics and technicians who treat your boat with expertise and care.

The marina maintains and upgrades its premier rental fleet of pontoons on a regular basis, providing safe rental experiences for boaters.

Complete end-of-season services are provided by Long Beach Marina and feature expert winterization services, shrink wrap, bottom washing, and storage. Start-of-season service is also offered including spring commission, quick clean and launch with no requirement for a truck or trailer.

The facility is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week during boating season and features timely preseason and postseason hours each spring and fall.

Reviews posted online are simply outstanding.

“The staff working here are absolutely delightful. They throughly explained everything we needed to know. The boat was well maintained and had all the things you would need including Bluetooth, vests, and lots of space. There wasn’t a wait, and the boat was ready when we arrived. I would highly recommend them. Again, the young people working there made the experience even better from the first phone call to the moment we left.” Diane G.

“Everyone has been extremely nice and accommodating from the rental to the return process could not ask for a better experience. The owner and staff are helpful with great prices and very honest we had a situation with a bent propeller they could have gouged the price but did not. I highly recommend this marina with 10 stars.” Susan N.

“LBM is the best marina on Sebago Lake hands down. The service and gas is unbeatable. The crew is the friendliest on the lake and always have a smile on their faces. The rental boats are top-notch being beautiful and brand new. I highly recommend to rent or fill up at Long Beach Marina! You won’t regret it!” Kayla Smith

Visit longbeachmarina.com or call 207-787-3908 to get a quote for service or storage for your particular boat or to make an appointment. Find them on Facebook under Long Beach Marina <

Business Spotlight: Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps

When power is needed during an emergency or if you’re looking to reduce your heating and cooling costs, Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps are standing by and ready to assist.

Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps has been in business
since 2018 and specializes in complete standby generator
systems and heat pumps providing everything from 
excavation, installation, service, repairs, fuel and
emergency response when needed.
COURTESY PHOTO    

In business since 2018 and offering a combined total of almost 40 years of generator and heat pump experience, the team at Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps believes that installing a standby generator or heat pump for your home or business is one of the smartest investments you can make. The company specializes in complete standby generator systems and heat pumps, providing everything from excavation, installation, service, fuel and emergency response when needed and it sells, services, and repairs standby generators and heat pump systems.

Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps Manager Jake Gardner says the company’s goal is to provide customers with the best service available anywhere and to offer peace of mind to customers when storms strike in Maine and utility costs climb.

“Our company is known for its exceptional aftercare experience,” Gardner said. “We are here for the life of the equipment, and we pride ourselves on not just installing and leaving. We want to make sure that people know they can count on us to come running if they ever need anything. As one of New England’s first Kohler “Titan of Service” recognized dealers, I am very proud of our service team and the level of care that our customers can expect. We hold ourselves to a very high standard of customer care.”

As one of the highest-ranked generator and heat pump dealers in the region, Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps is proud of the awards it has received from Kohler, Generac, and Mitsubishi manufacturers and its stellar rating as a Titanium Level Kohler® licensed and insured generator dealer.

“We are a company of our word and what we quote is what you can expect,” Gardner said. “Companies that attempt to change things after the project has begun and have a never-ending list of changes and add-ons is not how we do business. Anyone can install a system, but we will answer the call at all hours if something ever goes wrong.”

He said that Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps provides all Kohler® and Generac warranties and maintenance services.

“These are the industry’s best products for backup protection at your home or office,” Gardner said. “We are also proud to work with Efficiency Maine, offering discounts, rebates, loans, and other initiatives to promote high-efficiency equipment that helps Maine’s homes and businesses reduce their energy costs and lower their greenhouse gas emissions.”

Because a standby generator or heat pump system is a significant investment, Gardner says Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps does everything possible to keep costs below the local average.

“By employing all our own excavation, electrical, HVAC, and fuel technicians, it allows us to control as much of the projects as possible and not require us to use third-party vendors and keeps all of our costs controllable,” he said.

Reviews posted online for Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps are outstanding.

“Casco Bay Generators are terrific. We had a complex install – location, power source, large property with electric heat, many details to get right, and they did a terrific job. All their personnel from the estimator to the installer were competent, kind and intelligent people. I highly recommend them!” Liz C.

“The Casco Bay Generators team was on time, very professional, and knew their jobs. They did an excellent job installing the new standby generator and minimized the amount of drywall patch work that would be needed following the installation. They did a nice job of cleaning up after they completed the work as well. Thanks very much!” Tom L.

“We are pleased with our choice of a Kohler 14 kw home generator and greatly enjoyed working with Casco Bay Generators to get one installed at a right price. We found them to be extremely technically competent, and friendly and easy to work with - a combination that's hard to find. If you are thinking of buying a home generator, Casco Bay Generators should be your first call.” Steve H.

“Would recommend to anyone. We had a new motor pump and cleaned 4 units- tech did an awesome job giving us insights on how to make our LG systems more energy efficient, will call for annual cleanings, they did not install our unit, and it was hard to find someone to repair ours, but they had no problem working with us.” Linda G.

To schedule a free estimate with Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps, call 207-317-3683 or visit them online at cascobaygenerators.com. Find them on Facebook and Instagram under Casco Bay Generators and Heat Pumps. <

Business Spotlight: Casco Bay Cremation Services

Caring for grieving families and a commitment to providing everyone with a lasting tribute to loved ones when a death occurs is the mission of Casco Bay Cremation Services.

Jeffrey Dobson owns and 
operates Casco Bay Cremation
Services and offers affordable
funeral services for families.
COURTESY PHOTO 

From its location at 68 Bishop St. in Portland, Casco Bay Cremation serves all Southern Maine from Lewiston to Kittery. The company is owned and operated by veteran funeral professional Jeffrey Dobson.

It provides funeral services and specializes in cremation services while also offering urns and other lasting memorial products. Its staff are highly experienced in arranging funeral services and can help families celebrate loved ones no matter what their religion, culture, or budget.

Because the company is locally owned and operated with no outside shareholders, Dobson has been able to keep costs low and affordable for the families who work with Casco Bay Cremation Services.

“For the level of service, we provide and for a provider that meets families in person or remotely, and also for a provider who provides the family with an urn for no additional cost, we are currently the most affordable in the Greater Portland Area,” Dobson said.

Casco Bay Cremation Services is the only provider that offers in-person meetings, and it also provides a basic wood urn or scatter urn for no additional cost and arrangements can be accomplished remotely or in-person for no additional charges.

Dobson has been a funeral professional for more than 15 years and he started working in Portland at a funeral home assisting the funeral directors there. That led him to go back to school to obtain his mortuary science degree.

“I personally spent six years working in the Portland area at a local funeral home before deciding to open my own funeral home in Arundel,” he said. “I recently noticed the cost in the Portland area increasing and wanted to use my ability to offer families an option that provides dignified and professional cremation services without those high costs, so in September, I opened Casco Bay Cremation Services.”

According to Dobson, a funeral professional is essential because they help families navigate the complex process of planning a funeral or memorial service for their loved one. They provide guidance, support, and expertise in areas such as arranging for cremations, obtaining necessary permits and certificates, and coordinating with other professionals involved in the funeral process. Additionally, he said they can help families make important decisions and provide emotional support during a most challenging time.

“We are truly family owned and locally operated. We have spent our entire life growing up and attending local schools,” Dobson said. “We don’t answer to outside investors, we answer only to the families that entrust their loved ones to our care. These families are truly our investors. We offer services of a full-service funeral home at a much more affordable cost. We do not sacrifice a high level of service for a lower cost. We believe a family should obtain the same professional services without the higher cost.”

For area families, it’s comforting to know that Casco Bay Cremation Services is available to help at any time of the day or night. When a loved one dies, all you need to do is make one phone call and from that moment on, they will take on the responsibilities of the physical care of your loved one, and the emotional care of those left behind.

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

“We want people to know that we provide the highest quality and dignified services while also offering the most affordable cost,” he said. “The quality of the services we offer is of the highest importance to area families and they will never sacrifice quality and compassion. The cost of the services should never be a factor in the quality of the services that a family receives. We are proud and honored to serve our community in a way that allows us to offer compassionate pricing and caring services.”

For more information about Casco Bay Cremation Services, call 207-747-8240 or visit them online at www.cascobaycremation.com. Find them on Facebook under Casco Bay Cremation Services. <

Business Spotlight: Knuckle Up Customs

Very exciting news for those who love motorcycles and are looking to explore the open road anytime, anyplace, and especially here in Maine. Knuckle Up Customs, a favorite local shop to take care of motorcycle body work and painting needs, audio systems, air ride and all aftermarket accessories, has a new location in Windham and is ready to perform all your Harley quality customization and specialty work.

Anthony Scamman, owner of Knuckle Up
Customs, welcomes motorcycle lovers 
to check out his new shop at 608
Roosevelt Trail in Windham.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Owned and operated by Anthony Scamman, Knuckle Up Customs has moved from its previous North Windham location to 608 Roosevelt Trail in Windham. The move has enabled Knuckle Up Customs to be able to offer a full range of services and to carry a complete line of parts including tires, gaskets and oil in stock.

“We offer an unforgettable experience and unbeatable value and have triple the amount of space we had at the old location,” Scamman said. “Knuckle Up Customs is a leading dealer, proudly serving the Windham area. Our goal is to help with all your Harley Davidson needs, from sale to service to parts. Since our doors first opened, complete customer satisfaction has been our top priority. Our experienced staff is committed to finding the right Harley Davidson products for you at the best possible prices.”

At Knuckle Up Customs, certified technicians are always on hand to take care of your service needs and have an exceptional reputation for paint work and audio installations and repairs.

According to Scamman, the larger Knuckle Up shop now has the space to carry an extensive line of merchandise and apparel as well. That includes a wide variety of accessories and riding gear.

He says that although Knuckle Up Customs specializes in Harley Davidsons they will paint almost any type of bike.

Scamman knows the ins and outs of motorcycles, having started his career in business by detailing bikes in 1991. Now with more than 33 years of experience in the field, he’s able to focus on providing quality products and exceptional service that customers deserve.

“We feature Harley stereo systems, air ride, body kits, parts and accessories and custom Harley builds,” he said. “We are a certified shop for SystemX Ceramic Coatings and complete bike detailing. Whether you are a veteran rider or are planning your first adventure, we welcome you to experience everything Knuckle Up Customs has to offer.”

Available services at Knuckle Up include everything from body and paint to audio systems, air ride, detailing, aftermarket accessories, brake service, tire installations, oil and filter changes, bars and exhaust installations and custom builds. They also offer convenient pick-up and delivery services for motorcycles.

For Scamman the best aspects of his expanded business and new location are delivering quality products and providing outstanding service for new and returning customers.

“I love making someone’s bike a part of them,” he said. “It’s very gratifying to customize it and in doing that, it really becomes a part of who they are.”

He says that the most challenging part of his work is all the constant research that must be done to stay current and up to date with all the latest products and popular accessories ready to hit the market.

But above everything else, Scamman said that listening to people is the most important key to his longevity in the business world.

“The key to lasting success for our business is listening to our customers and what they say they want,” he said. “If you do that and make sure that everyone is happy with the finished product, you can be successful.”

By moving and expanding the Knuckle Up Customs shop, Scamman says he is dispelling the notion that his business is basically just a service shop.

“We focus on products and services that other people do not do, such as music systems and paint work and we encourage everyone to stop in and see what we have to offer,” he said.

Knuckle Up Customs is located at 608 Roosevelt Trail in Windham and is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed Sundays.

To learn more about Knuckle Up Customs and their custom Harley work and services, call 207-232-5533. Visit their Facebook and social media pages under Knuckle Up Customs. <

Business Spotlight: Long Beach Marina

Long Beach Marina on Sebago Lake has garnered a loyal following for over 38 years and is about to earn some new fans through several upcoming projects and its continued focus on providing personalized service for customers.

A rendering of upcoming projects for Long Beach Marina that
will create a new storage building and a new service area
to better serve customers when completed.
COURTESY PHOTO   

The Minervino Family has been welcoming boaters to Long Beach Marina on Sebago Lake since 1988 at its full-service facility at 81 Sebago Road (Route 114) in Sebago (Boat Coordinates 43°51’0”N,70°34’0”W). The marina can assist you with all your boating needs including late-model pontoon rentals, a dock with 93 octane fuel, long-term and short-term mooring rentals with a courtesy shuttle, full-service packages, winterization, shrink wrapping, winter storage, boat washing, and an easy-to-launch boat ramp.

If that wasn’t enough, exciting new upgrades are intended to make Long Beach Marina an even finer facility for convenient boat storage and an expanded service area, as soon as the project’s completion in November.

“In Phase 1 we will be constructing a 24,000-square-foot Boat Rack Storage Building and in Phase 2 we will be adding to our Service Department with a 5,000-square-foot Service and Sales Building,” said Sam Minervino, who co-owns Long Beach Marina with his wife, Jan.

Long Beach Marina originally opened in 1947 and still maintains the original dock that was on the property when purchased by the Minervino Family in 1988, who continue to provide regular upgrades to the infrastructure at the site that help to ensure its use well into the future.

“In 2019 we added a service department, and we keep striving to offer the finest no-hassle boating services available locally,” Minervino said. “We offer year-round service and go the extra mile by treating our customers as we would want to be treated with kindness, courtesy, and respect.”

The marina maintains and upgrades its premier rental fleet of pontoons on a regular basis, providing a safe and a worry-free rental experience for boaters on Sebago Lake. It expertly maintains its own rental fleet, yet Long Beach Marina’s team of experienced service technicians also take great pride in caring for their customers’ boats and vessels through exceptional mechanical repairs, routine maintenance, winter storage and affordable reconditioning services.

“We offer a complete Dock to Dock service package to take meticulous care of your vessel,” Minervino said. “You can leave your boat on one of our moorings or we can pick it up at your dock. We’ll pull your boat out of the water in the fall and launch it in the spring for pickup or delivery back to your dock. Our marine mechanics are highly skilled and capable technicians who will treat your boat with expertise and care.”

Full end-of-season services are provided by Long Beach Marina and feature expert winterization services, shrink wrap, bottom washing, and storage. Start-of-season service offered include spring commission, quick clean and launch with no requirement for a truck or trailer.

Convenience happens to be a big reason that customers prefer Long Beach Marina. The facility is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week during boating season and features timely preseason and postseason hours each spring and fall.

The full-service fuel dock at Long Beach Marina can be easily accessed from the open lake without obstruction, tricky channels, or waterways to navigate and helpful marina crew members are on duty to pump 93 octane gas to keep your boat operating efficiently.

The emphasis on courteous friendly service and quality products offered by the marina have not been overlooked in reviews posted online.

“Always the best day of the year! Jan and Sam provide the best service, high quality boats and maintain them to the highest standard.” Bob C.

“Owners and staff very pleasant and helpful. Our pontoon and tube rental were awesome. 5 stars.” Scott R.

“We love Long Beach Marina! Family friendly and always available to assist with any questions and concerns. Their staff is so friendly. We never feel alone on the lake knowing our marina is available. 5 Stars.” June L.

“Great place to gas up and rent a boat! The boats are in good condition and reliable, very personably staff and the Minervino family are wonderful!” Gail M.

For the ultimate in boat care you can always trust Long Beach Marina. Visit longbeachmarina.com or call 207-787-3908 to get a quote for service or storage for your particular boat or to make an appointment. Find them on Facebook and Instagram. < 

Business Spotlight: Red City Ale House

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business Spotlight: King + Miller Real Estate

Real estate might conjure visions of contracts and closings, but the King + Miller team’s true pride is in having the biggest hearts in the business. Patient, passionate and highly skilled, this caring collection is connected by their love of Maine and the people who call it home. Windham’s small-town charm, endless amenities and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures largely influence the team - Brokers Bridget King & James Quimby and Copywriter Lisa Bassett grew up calling Windham “Home,” and both James and Associate Broker Ben Schulz currently reside in this well-loved locale.

Bridget King and Jason Miller came together to create 
King + Miller Real Estate in 2015. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Created in 2015 by Jason Miller and Bridget King and currently comprised of renowned brokers, client care and transaction coordinators, an in-house stager and a copywriter, the agency’s brand is inspired by authenticity, driven by relationships and founded on decades of combined industry expertise.

“In this market, it’s nearly impossible to be a single agent navigating all aspects of real estate transactions - especially at a high level. When Jason and I decided to collaborate, it was based on our passion to help people through one of the biggest transitions of their lives. Our favorite conversations with clients are the ones where we help them gain clarity on their dreams for the future, and then facilitate their success. By combining forces, we were able to cultivate a powerful team of smart, creative, and caring people who guide our clients seamlessly through our time-tested process to get to their destination with ease. We love working together and are proud of the service we provide to our community. Our group is like a family, and we consider our clients members of that family,” Broker Bridget King said.

The team boasts impressive stats, but their top priority is a commitment to taking the fear and overwhelm out of real estate, helping Maine families to buy and sell with ease.

“I have known Bridget since grade school and was always impressed with her fortitude, work ethic, and for just being a great person. I stayed in touch and knew that she was a well-respected and successful agent. She really loves what she does. When I decided to change careers and got my real estate license, I knew that I would learn more with Bridget and Jason than with anyone else. They are both truly knowledgeable and care about their clients. It has been a wonderful fit for me,” says Broker James Quimby.

“Bridget (King) and I are lifelong friends, and I’ve always been in proximity to her infectious energy and love for her career. Bridget’s loving presence is magnetic, and when she asked me to come on board to tell the tales of homes for sale and the adventures of the agency, I happily scooped up the opportunity. The entire team’s kind vibe has made my transition into the real estate industry easy and enjoyable,” Copywriter Lisa Bassett said.

The focus on community connections has paid off for King + Miller, who has helped an average of 122 families buy and sell annually since 2015 and consistently ranks in the top 1 percent of real estate teams in Maine. Pouring love back into the community is a key facet of the company’s philosophy, resulting in excess of $25,000 donated by K+M to local charities including the Center for Grieving Children, Full Plates Full Potential and the Maine Alzheimer’s Association.

The agency's powerful personal connections, marketing reach and visibility are robust and respectfully regarded, which caught the eye of Associate Broker and current Windham resident Ben Schulz, who joined the team in early 2023:

“I joined King + Miller because of its small boutique agency vibe combined with all of the marketing/offerings and more of any big agency,” he said.

King + Miller Real Estate is an independent agency that recently moved to its new location at 201 Main St., Suite 5 in Westbrook. “Our office is centrally located, with easy proximity to Windham and the greater Portland area and we are really excited about that,” Bridget said.

The agency offers Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Relocation and New Construction services. They love what they do - and it shows!

For more info and to work with this amazing team call 207-805-3716 or visit www.kingmillerrealestate.com <

Spotlight: St. Ann’s Episcopal Church

Often as you enter a town or city in our great country you will see a sign which states “The Episcopal Church Welcomes You.” Have you ever seen one of these and wondered to yourself, does that really mean me?

St. Ann’s Episcopal Church is a welcoming, affirming, and inclusive Christian community striving through worship, love and service to embrace all people.

We as Episcopalians, believe in a loving, liberating, and life-giving God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

As constituent members of the Anglican Communion in the United States, we are descendants of and partners with the Church of England and the Scottish Episcopal Church, and are part of the third largest group of Christians in the world.

We believe in following the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world.

We have a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being. Women and men serve equally as bishops, priests, and deacons in our church. Laypeople and clergy cooperate as leaders at all levels of our church.

You are welcome in our church regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, marital status or national origin.

We believe that God loves you – no exceptions. And so do we.

St. Ann’s has been a vibrant part of the Lakes Region communities of Maine for over 50 years. Our message continues to be that we welcome you into this adventurous life and faith in Christ…whoever 'you' may be.

Please consider joining us on Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. We are located at 40 Windham Center Road in Windham. Also visit them at www.stannsepiscopalchurch.com and follow them on Facebook to keep up with events throughout the year and live services.<

Business Spotlight: Sebago Station Four Runway

As dedicated professionals who put their lives on the line each time they answer a call for help,

firefighters know how important food can be and put a lot of effort into preparing tasty and healthy meals for crews on duty at the fire station. Now two retired firefighters are sharing the cooking expertise they developed on the job and the result is a diner featuring savory dishes that everyone can enjoy.

Chrys Nolan and her husband, Fred Harrington, are both retired firefighters who launched the Sebago Station Four Runway diner a year ago, recently relocating it from its original site in Sebago to a new spot at 13 Airport Drive in Limington, which is conveniently located on Route 11.

Breakfast is served all day and it’s a scenic spot for families to enjoy a meal and watch the planes taking off and landing.

They called the old building in Sebago when they were in the department “Station Four,” Nolan said.

“Sebago only has three stations, and Station Four was a local code meaning they were going to eat or meet over coffee,” she said.

The owners began slinging burgers, preparing meals and flipping eggs while attempting to serve the community in a whole new way.

“Instead of answering calls, we were now feeding the community they love so much. It became a hang-out for the locals, as well as a place to listen to one another,” Nolan said. “We are also known for helping and giving back to their community. As Sebago Days were going on, we had no problem after the diner closed for the day to cross the street and go across the road to cook for the Sebago's Fire Auxiliary.”

Now the public and first responders are enjoying the results of the couple’s devotion to great food and dedicated service to the community.

“The most significant aspect is our story. We are two retired firefighters who decided to start a diner, and neither of us went to school for it,” Nolan said. “We are known mostly for our breakfasts.”

This past year Sebago Station Four’s seven employees participated in the “Hike for Hospice” in which more than $2,000 in tips were collected and donated to the Gosnell House, a part of Southern Maine Hospice.

Nolan said that they have been such an influence in the community including “paying it forward” to locals who were short on cash and covering their bill, and in return, recipients “pay it forward” by paying for others’ meals in times of need when they were able to.

Both Nolan and Harrington are committed to shopping local and that means purchasing an array of local products such as getting their maple syrup from Greene's Maple Farm in Sebago.

“We offer 10 percent discounts to first responders, healthcare workers, veterans and seniors,” Nolan said. “We also serve free biscuits complimentary.”

According to the owners, Sebago Station Four often serves the community in ways the public doesn’t always see.

“We have built a family and care about our customers,” she said. “We have come to feel like a close-knit part of the family in many cases. We’ve had customers undergoing cancer treatment or in hospice that we’ve become friends with. Everybody’s part of the family when they eat here.”

Offering competitive prices, quality meals and exceptional customer service, Sebago Station Four’s following is growing by the day.

“We keep the prices low so everyone can afford it,” Nolan said. “We strive to provide the best food possible.”

Harrington’s favorite dish Sebago Station Four serves is called “Hogfat Hill,” and it includes crispy hash browns topped with crumbled sausage, crispy bacon, onions, peppers, and eggs. He also says he enjoys “Fred’s Breakfast Burrito” as well.

Nolan said her own favorite dish at the diner is a Lobster Omelet.

“I never had one until my husband made one for me and it is fantastic,” she said. “It’s a three-egg omelet with lobster meat and American cheese.”

Nolan and Harrington say the secret of a successful business is simple.

“You have to know your customers, provide quality food that tastes great, offer outstanding customer service, serve affordable food and be connected to the community,” they said. “That’s what we’re trying to do here at Sebago Station Four.”

For up-to-date menus and more, visit them online at www.sebagostation4.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sebagostation4 <

Business Spotlight: William Flagg Agency, LLC – Allstate Insurance

Commitment, experience, product knowledge and courteous customer service are the foundation of the William Flagg Agency and has led to the company being a popular option for many when searching locally for a reputable insurance company.

From its offices at 543 Main St., Suite A in Westbrook, the William Flagg Agency helps protect clients from life's uncertainties with Allstate's comprehensive line of insurance.

“We offer all personal lines products including Home, Auto, Renters, Condo, Motorcycle, Boat, Landlord, Off-Road Vehicle, Manufactured Homes, RV and Valuable Personal Property insurance,” said agency owner William Flagg. “Also, we specialize in commercial lines products and offer General Liability, Commercial Auto, Commercial Property and Workers Compensation. We are licensed and staffed to offer life insurance, annuities, mutual funds and employee workplace benefits.”

Flagg lives with his wife Jaimee and stepdaughter in Windham and started in the insurance and financial services industry after graduating from the University of Rhode Island. He joined the agency while working for the prior Allstate owner, Carlo Giraulo, in 2016 and now leads a staff of five highly skilled employees who handle all aspects of the insurance business including sales, service, claims and life/financials.

“The most significant aspect of our business is the ability to offer a solution or product for anything a client needs, be an expert in those products and help guide them through the education and purchase,” Flagg said. “We spend real time with our clients to make sure they understand what their options are and what product or coverages are best for them. We’re also a local small business with staff that live and work in the community and understand the needs of our clients.”

According to Flagg, the pricing they offer for insurance is highly competitive, but their diverse products and expertise is what really sets them apart from other insurance providers.

“We offer solutions for investment properties, vacant properties that are being renovated, short-term rentals, flood prone areas, coastal exposures, log homes and many other hard-to-place risks,” Flagg said. “Allstate specializes in the standard Homeowners and Auto but also partners with other companies to help place risks that are outside of Allstate’s guidelines.”

He said a misconception is that the main goal of every insurance agent is just to make a sale and his intention is to ensure that every sale is not the end of the relationship with customers of his agency.

“We are a local, trustworthy, licensed and knowledgeable office available to review their current policies, offer solutions and help try to save them money,” Flagg said. “We understand that money is the important factor in most insurance decisions but there is a lot more that can come along with it. There is no need to settle for an 1-800 customer service when a local office is here.”

Because Flagg lives and works in the community, he feels an obligation to help them understand their insurance options and strives to make their experiences with his agency as friendly and knowledgeable as possible.

“I want everyone to know there is someone in the community who can help them understand the options available when they’re looking for insurance,” he said. “By doing so they are supporting small business and we can offer them the utmost in personalized attention. Our agency is one of the only Elite agencies for Allstate in Maine. This means we have achieved extremely high levels of sales, customer retention, claims handling and bundling and for the client, this means they’re working with the best.”

Flagg and his staff constantly review current trends affecting the insurance business so they can best educate their customers regarding options.

“Allstate is the industry leader in telematics and offer steep discounts for those participating in our safe driving program. Everyone should be aware of the discounts available to them through their insurance carriers,” Flagg said. “Every company is different, but many are offering safe driving discounts through telematic systems. It’s the future of the insurance industry.”

Through everything they do at the William Flagg Agency, relating to people and being able to share their knowledge of the insurance business is paramount to its staff.

“The best thing about what we do is being able to educate and help people with insurance,” Flagg said. “We take a conversational hands-on approach and I educate more than I sell. We’re here to help.”

For more information and to reach the William Flagg Agency, call 207-856-0000 or visit them online at https://agents.allstate.com/william-flagg-westbrook-me.html. Find them on Facebook at William Flagg/Allstate. <

Business Spotlight: Jar Cannabis Co.

Jar Cannabis Co. employees made history this week when they opened Windham’s first Adult-Use retail cannabis store at 11 Storm Drive.
Back in January 2019, Jar opened its first medical marijuana retail store in Windham and ever since, their focus remains on delivering personalized and attentive service to customers and continuing to offer products of quality and value.

“We are 100 percent Maine-owned, providing a positive and exciting workplace for our staff, and quality cannabis for customers,” said Joel Pepin, Jar Cannabis Co. co-founder and manager. “We start by putting meticulous effort into growing cannabis in our clean, top-tier facility. We then test and verify our products to ensure accurate dosing. We proudly do all of this in full compliance with local and state regulations.”

Jar Cannabis Co. employs a staff of 70 and Pepin said employees are knowledgeable, professional, courteous and take pride in their work.

“We all realize that we’re doing this at a time when the social stigma of cannabis is shifting,” he said. “In just a short period of time, cannabis companies are now one of Maine’s largest industries.”

Their new Adult-Use store for ages 21 and over opened on Wednesday, Feb. 23, but Pepin emphasized that Jar’s business is multi-faceted, and they will continue to give those using their medical marijuana store the utmost in support and attention as they have come to rely on. The existing medical storefront will continue to operate alongside the new Adult-Use store. 

Adults 21+ are invited to stop by
Jar Co.'s new Adult-Use retail store
at 11 Storm Drive in Windham.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

“Our mission is to provide our customers with an experience at JAR Cannabis Co. that is both personable and comfortable,” said co-owner Adam Platz. “We are not absent owners. We care about the quality of our work and strive for all our customers to have a great experience. We believe that our hard work is what makes our product what it is and retains our customer loyalty.”

Platz said JAR’s team of cultivators and retail employees establish and maintain genuine, professional relationships with customers and patients. 

“We take a holistic approach to wellness and believe that cannabis and the great outdoors is what it’s all about,” he said.

Platz says staying up to date regarding the state’s ever-changing cannabis rules and regulations is not an easy task, but one the business has been able to navigate successfully.

“The real challenge is that this industry is maturing quickly,” he said. “The shifting markets and state laws are one thing but like anything it’s also challenging managing other human beings. We’re proud of what we’ve done so far in building this business.”

According to Pepin, JAR products are cultivated using innovative and organic technologies with an emphasis on quality and consistency.

“Our flower is pesticide free, mold free, devoid of heavy metals, and has been lab tested to the highest standard, he said. “From watering our plants to selling product at our storefronts, our cultivation, operations, and retail teams pay extra attention to every detail to make sure that every JAR Co. product that hits the market is our best-foot-forward. At JAR Co., we ultimately strive to create cannabis products that our customers can trust.”

JAR Co. offers pure and effective cannabis in the form of flower, concentrates, edibles, and CBD products, including tinctures, capsules, lotions, salves, drinks, and lip balms. It is a one-stop-shop where Pepin says that there is genuinely something for everyone.

“Our key to operating a successful business starts with vertical integration and includes the cultivation, extraction and retail aspects,” Pepin said. “We are from Maine; we’re not some out-of-state corporation, and we control our business from seed to the final sale. We care about the quality of our products, and we care about this community.”

The hours for JAR’s Adult-Use retail cannabis store in Windham is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. They are closed Monday and Tuesday.

For additional information, visit JAR Cannabis Co. online at https://jarcannabis.com/ or find them on Instagram or Facebook at Jar Cannabis Co. <

Business Spotlight: OTELCO

OTELCO has completed its Fiber to the Premise (FTTP) network in Windham. The project is part of a larger expansion the company currently has under way in 18 Maine towns and cities. 

About 2,200 locations in Windham are eligible for fiber Internet service offering residential speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second and customizable speeds for businesses.  The OTELCO customer service team began processing the first orders on Oct. 28, and the first installations were completed on Monday, Nov. 1.

“We’re so pleased to begin serving customers in Windham,” said OTELCO VP of Marketing Trevor Jones. “I know that those who subscribe will be thrilled with the performance of our high-speed fiber Internet.  We’re already hearing from them on social media.”  

One new subscriber who wasn’t even connected yet was so excited about having a new choice in providers, he posted the following to the Windham Community Facebook page:

“Following up on an older post about Otelco fiber optic coming to North Windham.  I was notified this morning that the service went active yesterday.  I have Spectrum (about to be had Spectrum) at $74.99 a month for 100 down / 20 up.  Otelco is offering 150 down and up for $59.99 for the first year and then $69.99 on.  Their 500 down and 500 up is $69.99 starting and then $79.99.  1000 down and 1000 up is $$79.99 a month starting then $89.99.  Some crazy speed for decent prices.  Line drop to the house is tomorrow and install is Monday.  Just thought I would let people know.”

In addition to the product offerings that were shared in this Facebook post, OTELCO also offers service to businesses with a 100 Mbps basic package at $99.95, that allows for up to two added phone lines with unlimited long distance for $20 each.  For larger businesses or those with more complex needs, the OTELCO B-to-B sales team is happy to consult to develop customized solutions to meet the individual needs of any company. 

So, what is Fiber Optic Internet?

Fiber Optic Cable is made up of many hair-thin strands of glass that use light pulses to transmit data.  It’s important to understand that fiber was designed specifically to send and receive data while DSL and Cable (both made of copper wire) were initially designed to carry telephone and TV signals respectively.  Over the years, providers, OTELCO included, have modified phone and Cable TV networks to deliver data, but today, neither have the capabilities to meet our ever-growing demand for connectivity. 

Unlike copper wire, fiber transmission doesn’t deteriorate over long distances.  Fiber also offers symmetrical bandwidth which means that upload and download speeds are the same; neither DSL nor Cable have that capability so download speed is faster than upload.  Anyone who has been telecommuting for work or using videoconferencing for remote schooling knows that upload speeds have become extremely important.   

OTELCO has an interactive map to help Windham residents see if their location is part of the build and view updates about the project.  Visit www.otelco.com/WindhamGotFiber and register to be contacted by Customer Care to arrange for installation.  Businesses submitting the form will be forwarded to our B-to-B sales team.

OTELCO is also employing a crowdsourcing model to help determine areas suitable for future network expansion.  All Windham residents are encouraged to register even if their address is not part of the current project area.  If there is overwhelming interest in specific areas, the company may decide to expand its network at a future date.

ABOUT OTELCO

Otelco Inc. provides wireline telecommunications services in Alabama, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont, and West Virginia passing more than 67,000 locations.  The Company’s services include local and long-distance telephone, digital high-speed data lines, transport services, network access, cable television and other related services.  It also provides competitive retail and wholesale communications services and technology consulting, and managed services.  For more information, visit the Company’s website at www.otelco.com.  <

Business Spotlight: Swift River Roasters

If you think about it, coffee connects a community in so many unique ways, linking us to each other over a cup, enlivening our taste buds and our senses, and fostering an appreciation of nature, where coffee beans are grown and harvested. Raymond’s Swift River Roasters launched in 2010 in conjunction with The Good Life Market and continues to build a solid reputation for roasting top quality green beans from around the world into delicious brews to fill local coffee cups.    

Swift River Roasters’ roasting facility is on Roosevelt Trail in Raymond with retail coffee and coffee drinks available right next door at the company’s flagship store, The Good Life Market, 1297 Roosevelt Trail, as well as at many other local locations.

“We small batch roast our coffee every week, so the product going out to our customers is super fresh,” said Linda Manchester, Swift River Roasters co-owner. “In addition to our wide range of standard offerings of single origin coffees, proprietary blends, and flavored coffees, we do private labeling for local markets, and we’ve worked with wholesale customers to develop custom blends to their unique tastes.”

Manchester said that Swift River Roasters has recently partnered with PFG Northcenter as a wholesale distributor, which allows them to serve a broader base of restaurants and retail establishments.

“In the Lakes Region, we’re available at The Good Life Market, Mills and Co., The Umbrella Factory, Windham Hannaford, Kelly’s Sebago Diner, Knight’s Cafe Naples, Chipman’s Farmstand Raymond, Standish Café, and Chutes' Cafe Casco. We ship wholesale and retail coffee directly to customers all over the country; we roast for a coffee company in Nashville, Tennessee, and for a medical software design company in Scottsdale, Arizona,” Manchester said. “PFG Northcenter distributes our coffee throughout Maine and New Hampshire, and we deliver directly to retail establishments throughout Southern Maine.”

Manchester said that the slogan for Swift River Roasters is “We’re here for you,” and that truly epitomizes the company’s basic business philosophy in every sense.  

“Swift River is top quality, delicious, no nonsense coffee that’s locally roasted, packaged and distributed, and we’re available all over the Lakes Region,” she said. “If we're not in your neighborhood, let us know and we’ll see how we can fix that. We’re responsive to our customers and to our staff. We’re dedicated to quality and consistency; we all drink our coffee every day, so we’re in constant contact with the product. We’re available locally in many different locations and we’re willing and eager to expand and grow our brand into other markets.”

According to Manchester, wholesale coffee roasting is the most significant aspect of the Swift River Roasters business.

“We’re focused on seeing our coffee represented widely in the marketplace. We roast high quality coffee, produce distinctive blends, and sell them at a great value,” she said. “We’re sized right to continue to offer our wholesale customers personalized service and support. We’re fortunate to be in a market where craft coffee roasting is established, and consumers are savvy about what they taste.  Mainers love coffee, and that means good business for all of us in the industry.”

Offering an exceptional quality product is paramount to Swift River  Roasters and that starts where the coffee beans are grown.

“We source our beans through an importer who works with different coffee growing countries,” Manchester said. “We follow the trends in the coffee world through the publications and conferences of the Specialty Coffee Association of America, and through networking with others in the industry.  We strive to stay up to date, but also down to earth; just like our mindset at The Good Life Market, our goal is for our coffee to be exceptional but approachable. We’re very hands-on with the business and with our customers, making sure that our coffee is well received and a successful product for our retailers.”

“Our coffee represents a great value in the marketplace, and our pricing is quite competitive. As with any international agricultural crop, coffee pricing is affected by weather and the political landscape, but we strive to keep the cost to the customer consistent and accessible,” Manchester said.

For wholesale inquiries about Swift River Roasters, call 207-655-3243; for retail inquiries, call 207-655-1196.  They also ship directly through their website www.swiftrivercoffee.com and you can follow them on Facebook or Instagram @swiftrivercoffeeroasters <

Business Spotlight: Asphalt Experts

As the business name implies, Asphalt Experts are the go-to licensed specialists and top industry professionals for both home driveway and commercial asphalt paving and repair. Offering services in the Greater Portland and Sebago Lakes Region areas, 

Owner Joe Sparks is a third-generation paving expert. He was trained and inspired at an early age by both his father and his grandfather, who owned and operated an asphalt paving company in the Kennebunk area over 60 years ago. Sparks’ father followed in the family business, building his own successful company in Northern Maine.

“I began in the asphalt industry as soon as I could begin working,” explained Sparks. “As a young boy, I would go to work with my dad during summer months and school breaks. Eventually, I realized that I could take that experience and build my own company in the Southern Maine area. I love what I do, and it is a business goal that my experience and dedication to a company that has supported my family for generations will continue in the same manner as my father and grandfather.” That is - to provide high-quality service and product to satisfied clients.

It seems he may be reaching his objective. Sparks and his company of Asphalt Experts have received many accolades. “I can’t recommend Joe Sparks and Asphalt Experts enough,” stated one testimonial on the company’s Facebook page. “Joe did my driveway and my neighbor’s driveway last year. Joe showed up on time and did exactly what he promised he was going to do. I waited until we got through the winter to write a review to see how our driveway held up. Both my driveway and my neighbor’s driveway held up great. I have already recommended Asphalt Expert to friends and family.”

Another satisfied customer wrote: “Joe was nice enough to take his time to notice that we had some issue with our parking lot and paved for free. He is a super nice guy, as are his employees. Great company and people!”

What makes Sparks and Asphalt Experts stand out among the rest is that this company is an owner/operated business. With Asphalt Experts you get personal care. “You do not go through a sales manager – you talk directly to me - the owner - who has experience in the field and can give the client exactly what they want and need,” Sparks stated.

Another outstanding feature is Sparks takes great care to give an accurate estimate. “We don’t simply submit for the paving project itself,” Sparks continued. “We take the time to fully understand the unique paving situation a client has. I listen to their requests and needs, and from there I can determine what they want and find the best method to accommodate that specific project.”

Sparks and the rest of the Asphalt Experts team will make sure the preparation and finished project is done correctly. “We take our time and do it right,” Sparks said. “If it takes us an extra day or day and 1/2 than we had anticipated to complete the unique needs of the project, we do not tack on an extra charge to our customers. We do not sacrifice quality for quantity of hours.”

This level of the company’s integrity is an assurance to all home and business owners. After all, your home and business are the two largest investments one can make and Sparks and his team treat your home and business as if it were their own.

Asphalt Experts’ work ethic is unmatched, and their pricing is highly competitive. Whether you’re in need of a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, count on this professional company for quality workmanship and attention to detail resulting in a durable, long lasting and aesthetically pleasing asphalt surface. Call Joe Sparks today and speak directly with him for a free estimate at (207) 252-9821. <