Sun Journal Business Profile 2010 by Sun Journal

PRESENTS

An in-depth look at businesses throughout Central and Western Maine

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer

he Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce commemorated its 2010 annual meeting and awards presentation at the end of January with the biggest single event in the organization’s long and distinguished history. And the sellout crowd celebrated having achieved an all-time record membership in 2009, as well: 1,355 members, making the Chamber among the most powerful advocacy and member-services business organizations in Maine. 2010 seems on pace to continue the Chamber’s recent successes, since membership renewals “are well ahead of where they’d been at this time in other years,” according to Chamber president, Chip Morrison, the energetic face and voice of the membership and of the larger Androscoggin County community. “The support of our members and the growth of the organization is gratifying, of course,” Morrison said recently, “but what it really does is provide us with a base of people committed to the wellbeing of the community. They devote thousands and thousands of hours of volunteer time. That enables us to really expand what we can do to help our members grow and prosper, and to help make our area the best possible place to live and work.” The Chamber has a long record of advocating on behalf of its members with local, state and federal legislators, agencies and regulators. It supports its members with a wide range of networking opportunities, access to education, information, and expertise that will help them in the successful pursuit of their own missions. And there is a constant need to expand the list of services the organization provides, both to its membership and to the public. “This is an incredibly diverse and vibrant community,” Morrison explained. “Our members are divided into more than 300 different categories, and no single group constitutes even a plurality. That pretty much reflects the nature of the area in which we live, though, and we try to provide representation from all elements of the community as part of our leadership. The 37 members of our board of directors are an energetic bunch of individuals who are really committed to our community.”

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

2010 Chamber board of directors Submitted photo

YPLAA volunteers collecting donations for Volunteers of America Submitted photo

While the cities and towns of Androscoggin County were once dominated by the manufacturing culture represented by the giant mills, the decline of those traditional industries has actually enabled a more robust and diverse economy, one better positioned for the 21st Century, and the Chamber has had to respond accordingly. Among its long-term commitments is a deep engagement with education, the vital underpinning of the new economic realities - from pre-K through post-secondary, continuing education and professional development for adults, scholarships, and advocacy. One of the most successful new initiatives undertaken by the Chamber in recent years has been support for the Young Professionals of the Lewiston Auburn Area (YPLAA), a cadre of over 400 members who are on a path to become the future civic and business leaders of the region. They have been engaged with the community with more than

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20 specialized projects and initiatives of their own this past year, undertaken by members of six committees. YPLAA recently commemorated its own annual meeting, their second, at which half a

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dozen specific awards were conferred. While the Chamber has contributed directly, in many ways, to the diversification and strengthening of the local economy, one which despite the struggles of the past couple of years has continued to lead the state in its ability to create and retain jobs, it has recently expanded the work of the Regional Image Committee to support the notion of the greater Androscoggin communities as a tourist destination. “Many of us don’t see our own forest, for the trees,” Morrison said. “We have an abundance of unique historical attractions, educational and healthcare facilities; special events and festivals that attract guests from all over the country, even from abroad. The Dempsey Challenge alone not only raised over $1-million for the Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing, but it also attracted an unprecedented level of major media attention. We have nearly two dozen wonderful arts organizations and venues – music, theater, dance, galleries, museums. There is world-class dining and all sorts of lodging options.” The Chamber’s recently completed presentation of L/A’s Cultural and Tourism Assets documented an industry that employs nearly 5,700 people locally and generates more than $14 million, by conservative estimates. “We’re really grateful to our members,” Morrison said, “because it’s their level of support that lets us do so much for so many. We really are the product of literally thousands of individuals working together.”

Visit, call or write the Chamber at:

The Business Service Center at KeyBank Plaza

415 Lisbon Street, PO Box 59 Lewiston, Maine 04243

207-783-2249

www.androscoggincounty.com

ADVERTISER INDEX

Dear Readers: SUN MEDIA GROUP presents Profile 2010, our annual overview of the businesses and organizations that provide innovation and important services to our communities. Within these pages you will find business profiles that give snapshots of a company’s or organization’s products and services, key contact information, sales levels, ownership, employment growth, and historical background. This dynamic special section gives businesses and organizations a forum to display the successes of the past year and lay out their plans for the future. Take the time to explore what these companies have to offer. We hope you will enjoy reading this unique section. It features businesses and organizations that help shape your world, past, present and future. STEPHEN M. COSTELLO Vice President / Advertising and Marketing 689-2920 ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Jody Jalbert 689-2913 ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Yvonne Allen 364-8728 Larry Baril 689-2960 Mike Blanchet 778-6772 Brian Croteau 689-2909 Jeff Haggerty 689-2991 Dan McManus 689-2906 Norm Moreau 689-2904 Dionne Morneau 689-2956 Claire Small 689-2958

Education USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College....................10

Entertainment Cole Farms..................................................................14 Portland Sea Dogs.................................................14 Rolandeau’s................................................................13

Assisted Home Care............................................ 46

Mount Blue Oil.........................................................33

Casco Bay Gastroenterology.......................... 40

Pineland Lumber....................................................31

Center Street Dental.............................................43

Redlon Johnson......................................................31

Central Maine Audiology..................................37

Reggie’s Sales & Service......................................28

Central Maine Medical Group.......................... 2

Sherm Arnold’s Flooring & Kitchen Design.................................34

Central Maine Orthopaedics...........................45 Cosmetic Enhancement....................................36

Retail

Health Club & Spa...................................................37

Advantage Gases & Tools..................................16

Majors Mobility........................................................41

Affordable Eyes........................................................22

Marshwood Center.............................................. 44

Chapman Collision Center................................19

Montello Heights....................................................45

Coleman’s Collision Center...............................16

Pine Tree Orthopedic Lab................................ 44

Donna’s Greenhouses.........................................23

Proactive Physical Therapy...............................42

Earrings & Company........................................... .22

Schooner Estates....................................................41

Emerson Chevrolet.............................................. 48

St. Mary’s Health Systems..................................47

Employment Times.............................................. 11

Franklin Savings Bank ........................................... 7

The Meadows...........................................................43

LA Auto Company.................................................19

Gregory Strong.......................................................... 6

The Medicine Shoppe...........................................42

Lee Auto Malls..........................................................20

Lewiston Auburn Economic Growth Council......................................................... 7

Home

Martindale Country Club...................................21

Maine Chamber of Commerce........................ 8

American Concrete...............................................26

Northeast Bank.......................................................... 9

Aqua-Max of Maine...............................................29

Oxford Federal Credit Union............................. 6

Benner & Son.............................................................32

Rainbow Federal Credit Union......................... 8

Budget Blinds............................................................32

Health

Fielding’s Oil...............................................................26

Sam’s Italian Foods................................................12 Theater At Monmouth........................................13 Village Inn....................................................................12

Finance Androscoggin Bank...................................... 24, 25 Androscoggin Chamber of Commerce..... 3 Androscoggin Valley Council of Government...................................10

R.S. Osgood & Sons...............................................17 Rollins Furniture......................................................23 ServPro of Lewiston-Auburn...........................18 Sun Journal................................................................... 5 Whited Motorhome & RV..................................21

Gagne & Son Concrete........................................30

Non-profits

Gas Contractors of Maine..................................28

Advocates for Children.......................................35

Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice...... 40

Hammond Lumber...............................................27

American Cancer Society..................................15

Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons....................................38

Hammond Tractor.................................................30

Common Ties............................................................. 5

J.L. Hayes & Co..........................................................33

United Way................................................................ 46

Advance Orthotic & Prosthetic Services............................................39

SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR Denise M. Scammon 689-2997 MARKETING COORDINATOR Sheri Verville 689-2903 COVER / DESIGN MANAGER Christina Noonan 689-2954 AD DESIGN TEAM Leo Baillargeon Jennifer Gendron Shirley Hood Sandy Marquis Linda Perry Michelle Pushard Jesse Richter Terri-Lee Seeley Jim Vangeli

Sun Journal, 104 Park Street, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, Maine 04243 Lewiston 784-5411 • Farmington 778-6772 • Rumford 364-8728 • Norway 743-9228 SUN JOURNAL

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Growth Council serves as one-stop economic development agency Overview The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development and business attraction agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, comm ercial f inancing, site searches, and marketing. The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council serves as an oncall business partner, assuming a variety of roles to help clients get down to business affordably, efficiently, and successfully. The Growth Council also serves as a clearinghouse of information on a wide variety of business resources, such as education and training programs, incentive programs, local statistical data, and networking opportunities.

Loans

LAEGC provides gap financing for clients in the Twin Cities, and currently manages more than 20 outstanding loans totaling

about $4.8 million. Gap financing allows small- and medium-sized companies the ability to operate, innovate, and maintain their workforce. Since 1981, LAEGC has leveraged tens of millions of dollars in new local investments through its financing programs.

Site Searches & Product Development LAEGC provides confidential site searches for clients looking for existing office, industrial, retail, or commercial space, raw land, or build-to-spec options. LAEGC manages an extensive database of properties and works with municipal officials, local realtors, and developers to find the right solution for each client. LAEGC was instrumental in assisting the Wal-Mart Distribution Center, Safe Handling, and Estes Express, to name just a few clients. Often by serving its sister corporations (Lewiston Development Corp., Auburn Business Development Corp., and L-A Railroad Co.), LAEGC has helped develop or manage

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

development of property, including the Auburn Industrial Park; Angostura/World Harbors; and a future spec building on Forrestal Street in Lewiston. LAEGC serves as landlord and marketing agent for the Business Service Center at 415 Lisbon Street. Furthermore, LAEGC is always ready to assist the cities of Lewiston and Auburn in evaluating project development proposals and exploring partnerships.

Marketing & Public Relations LAEGC serves as the primary marketing and business attraction resource for the cities of Lewiston and Auburn, overseeing various print, elec tronic, and mass media communications. The Growth Council manages the

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successful “L-A: It’s Happening Here!” community image and branding campaign and oversees all TV, radio, print, and electronic advertising for the campaign. The Growth Council also assists its development clients with public relations needs, from writing and distributing press releases to organizing ground-breaking ceremonies and ribbon cuttings. LAEGC regularly pursues media and public relations opportunities particularly to related issues that affect the local economy, economic development, and business issues. For 15 years, LAEGC has organized the Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show, which has evolved into the largest one-day business show in the state. The show attracts nearly 200 exhibitors and 2,500 attendees. It has sold out for the past five years, and has an

extensive waiting list each year. This year’s show has as its theme “Show 2010: Launching a New Decade,” and will be held Thursday, June 10, at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston. The show will focus on the need for organizations to seize opportunities to innovate, reinvent themselves, and take a fresh look at what they do best. LAEGC also hosts an Annual Dinner and Business Forum — on May 13 this year — to celebrate the communit y ’s economic development successes, inform business and community leaders about development projects, and preview upcoming projects. The dinner provides a forum for the cities of Lewiston and Auburn to bestow their Economic Achievement Awards to local businesses and/or individuals each year.

Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council

P.O. Box 1188 Lewiston, ME 04243-1188

www.economicgrowth.org

Phone: 784-0161

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415 Lisbon Street,

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Village Inn: Back from the fire, into the fryer By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer / Photographer

he fire at the end of April 2006, that caused the Village Inn to close, was considered a tragedy that impacted the entire Lewiston-Auburn area. Longtime patrons were dismayed, and the larger community felt as though it had lost a vital part of its fabric. “We expected to re-open within six months,” co-owner Belinda Vallee explained, “but it took more than two years. We kept running into people everywhere who told us constantly that we needed to keep pushing, to not give up. My in-laws were called at home. The community has been so supportive. People were so patient when we first re-opened in July 2009. We got a terrific welcome back – it’s great to know that people didn’t forget us.” How could they forget? The Village Inn has prospered through three generations of the Vallee family, since 1963, and remains a local institution. Fine family dining, special family recipes, value pricing, and dedication to the community have characterized the Auburn landmark since its inception. “We have always served excellent meats, cut to order, along with chicken and pasta dishes. We have a new chicken Oriental salad, too, but of course, we’re best known

Norm, Connie, Belinda and Mike Vallee

Feeding the community in body and spirit has always been a labor of love for the Vallee family. for seafood, said co-owner Mike Vallee. “We’re the home of the original ‘two-fer’ in L-A. We’ve always served generous portions, but since we re-opened, we also feature ‘basket portions’ all the time, day or night, smaller ‘anchor portions’ of our baked dishes and even a ‘mates portion’ of our famous seafood platter.” The menu may be diverse, and highlighted by award-winning chowders and soups, but the Inn’s reputation comes from its famous fried dishes, especially clams and scallops. Well, that and the famous

slow-roasted prime rib. As always, they use the highest-quality, cholesterol-free frying oil. Everything is made to exacting standards using fresh, local ingredients according to secret family recipes for chowder, batter, stuffing and gravies. The historic front of the dining area escaped the fire, which consumed the kitchen and the second-floor Captain Don’s loft/function area. When patrons returned after the July 2009 re-opening, they found the familiar blended with a whole new look — more spacious, yet warmly cozy. “We expect Captain Don’s loft to re-open by this summer,” Mike said, “and it will look as great as the rest of the space.” The community has been good to the family, the Vallees asserted, but they have been generous with the community over the years, as well. “We do what we can to give back,” said Mike. “We’ve been a major sponsor of the Lions’ youth hockey tournament for years and we’ve also become more involved with the Balloon Festival, After the earthquake in Haiti, the Village Inn created a “Share a Heart for Haiti” fundraiser, but at the same time, proceeds were shared between Haitian relief efforts and a local cancer community center effort, because, said Belinda, “as much as we wanted to show our support

Sam’s: Still fresh after seventy years By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer

am’s Italian sandwiches earned their status as icons of the LewistonAuburn culture through three and a half generations of courtesy, quality, and service. When lines of hungry mill workers first formed in front of the carry-out-only Main Street store well before America’s entry into World War II, there was no such thing as “fast food.” It would be at least another generation before cityscapes were changed forever by the explosion of national food chains. But first, there was Sam’s, a genuine, local original. “The first Sam’s Italian sandwiches were salami,” said a spokesman, “but for years, now, the ham Italian has been the biggest seller.” From the beginning, the concept was simple, satisfying food made with care using fresh, unique ingredients. Sam’s signature Italian bread is baked fresh daily, during the swing shift. The fragrances of baking are most prominent on Main Street in the hours just before dawn, when trucks begin delivering that day’s fresh bread along with fresh pizza dough to the dozen locations now in the Sam’s family, from Freeport to Waterville to Rumford. Sam’s proprietary

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secret-recipe sauce is still made to exacting standards and is available nowhere but Sam’s. Sam’s recipes for spaghetti and lasagna are also their own. “We’re still providing the same training support the company used when I first started working here 18 years ago,” observed general manager Mike Marchus. Sam’s has provided the first job to countless Lewiston-Auburn area youths, many deciding to make it a career. The average manager among all 12 locations has been with Sam’s for more than 15 years; in fact, some began their careers while in high school or college. Loyalty isn’t limited to staff: most everyone in L-A, where six of Sam’s 12 stores are clustered, knows someone who has moved away but needs a trip home once in awhile to get a Sam’s fix. “There are subs and pizzas everywhere,” a Lewiston expatriate said recently, “but there’s nothing like what I remember about Sam’s from my childhood. I always need to stop in when I’m in town.” For more than 40 years, Sam’s sandwiches were only dispensed from the counter on Main Street in Lewiston. Pizza was added in the 1950s, and dinners in the early 70s. By the time the second location was opened

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for the people of Haiti, it was also important to not forget about our own community at such a time.” “There have always been a bunch of the kids working here,” said Mike, “grandkids, nieces and nephews, our kids – there’s a picture of our son, Michael, out front. He was about three years old, but he was already wearing an apron.” And the affection the family has had for their community has been returned many times over by the abundance of old and new fans settling comfortably back in to the familiar, but all new Village Inn.

Village Inn 165 High St., Auburn 782-7796 in 1982, on Center Street in Auburn, national chain restaurants had appeared on the local scene. But Sam’s remained entirely a part of Maine culture, and is completely dedicated to the well being of the communities in which it is located. Sam’s works with local food banks in each of its towns, assisting them with yearly fundraisers. While Sam’s was confined to a single location for its first 40 years, the opening of its 12th store, in Waterville, this past December completed the addition of 11 stores in the second 30 years. In addition, Sam’s offers full-service catering including set-up, professional staffing, and clean-up, while party-sized orders can be placed at each store. Sam’s has expanded in the face of enlarged national competition, but has always remained faithful to its origins. That’s how you grow from simply a sandwich shop to an essential component of local culture.

SAM’S

Italian Foods 268 Main St. Lewiston, ME 782-9145

www.samsitalian.com Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

The Theater At Monmouth: Maine tradition of quality

group as everyone comes together in a short and intense period of planning, design, and rehearsal to create a magical experience for more than 28,000 theatergoers. “We are looking forward to a great year of unforgettable performances,” Greenham said.

Actually, there’s a whole lot happening in the off-season as Producing Director David Greenham and members of the artistic staff assemble the summer theater company and plot what will be 10 weeks of exceptional theatrical experiences in July and August.

“A s a l w a y s , w e w i l l o f f e r f r e s h interpretations of Shakespeare’s work, making them accessible and entertaining for everyone. This year we have selected ‘The Comedy of Errors,’ Shakespeare’s shortest and silliest of comedies, as well as action-packed ‘Pericles, Prince of Tyre,’ an exciting first for the Theater and for many audience members as well.”

The Theater At Monmouth grows from a few staff members to a company of more than 50 as actors, directors, managers, designers, and technicians converge in mid-June upon the small town from points across Maine and from all over the United States.

Also on stage this summer will be Mark Twain’s hilarious lost play “Is He Dead?” It’s a classic Twain must-see only recently published from his personal papers. TAM will also present George Bernard Shaw’s comically clever “Misalliance,” an ironic look at marriage and courtship.

The company quickly becomes a tightknit

Also in the offering, a delightful, funny

By David A. Sargent Freelance Writer

may seem quiet through much of the winter and spring months at The Theater At Monmouth, as loyal patrons near and far eagerly await a summer’s worth of great professional theater.

tale for children, “The Canterville Ghost,” in which an American family moves to a historic home in Britain where they find the ghostly Sir Simon as an unexpected house guest. “In the fall, we’ll bring Gilbert and Sullivan’s much-loved ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ to the stage, and along the way you can expect plenty of special events and surprises. You can keep up with all of this by regularly visiting theateratmonmouth. org,” Greenham said. You can reserve seats for all of these shows and more on www.theateratmonmouth. org where you can check out show calendars and plan your summer theater experiences. You can also call the box office at (207) 933-9999. Founded in 1970, the Theater was named The Shakespearean Theater of Maine by the Maine State Legislature in 1975. This summer will mark TAM’s 41st season. Performances are held in beautiful Cumston Hall, listed on the National

Dennis A. Price and Bill Van Horn Register of Historic Buildings since 1976. The Theater At Monmouth strives to offer a variety of productions that appeal to folks of all kinds and is proud to belong to Maine’s tradition of quality work and innovation. To learn more about The Theater At Monmouth, show schedules, tickets and more, go to www. theateratmonmouth.org or call the box office at (207) 933-9999.

For tickets, show dates and more, go to: www.theateratmonmouth.org or call (207) 933-9999

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Cole Farms: More than just desserts, updated menu keeps diners happy By David A. Sargent Freelance Writer / Photographer

60 years of financial data that helps him analyze and adjust for changing times. When a lot a chain restaurants began building all over Maine in 2002-2005, Cole Farms endured the same challenges that faced many other older establishments. “People try the new spots, but they come back,” Pollard said. “We have a large customer base and it's growing all the time.”

hen Cole Farms owner Brad Pollard says, “ This place is unique,” you don't have to look far for verification. Pollard, who represents a younger segment of the family-owned business, explained that the popular restaurant at 64 Lewiston Road, Route 202 just north of Gray, has changed a lot through nearly 60 years, but he said it also has been important “to make subtle changes so you don't lose the sense of what this place is all about.” What it's all about is good, home cooking. Many customers have their menu favorites in mind as soon as they walk through the door. Nevertheless, Pollard hasn't ignored the need to accommodate newer tastes, and the menu now offers wraps, salads, swordfish and a number of other recent additions. Cole Farms is not only a large and popular restaurant, it is also a local institution with a solid reputation for providing a job with flexible working conditions to many local residents. Over the years of its existence, hundreds of area residents have been Cole Farms employees.

Vivien Estes, left, of Yarmouth, a frequent diner at Cole Farms, looks on as Natalie Tombarelli, Gray, makes some additions to the entryway menu board. Pollard said many young people are on his workforce and he likes to encourage them. “Especially in hard times, the younger people are good workers,” Pollard said.

It all began when trees and junipers were cleared from a rocky pasture in the spring of 1952 to provide room for a 24-by-30 foot building and a small parking lot. Steady growth occurred in its first decade and there were 10 additions during the next 10 years with seating for 235. A gift shop was added in 1994, and that space has recently been turned back into additional dining area.

He said many employees first worked for him when they were in high school or college. Some left to start families, and they often come back after five or 10 years and work flexible part-time hours for supplemental income. Pollard, who is a member of the executive board of the Maine Restaurant Association, makes business decisions based on nearly

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No meal is complete until you've tried one of the Cole Farms desserts – more than 40 to chose from. The pies and puddings are baked fresh daily on the premises, and 13 varieties of ice cream are also made at Cole Farms. Cole Farms caters for banquets at Spring Meadows Golf and Country Club just across the highway, which is also under Cole Farms ownership. The Club includes a 1922 barn remodeled to become a full banquet facility with seating capacity for more than 200. The Cole Farms business flourishes even in the late fall and winter because of a loyal and well-established patronage coming from a distance of 40 to 50 miles or more. More information is available on the Cole Farms Web site at www.colefarms.com.

Cole Farms 64 Lewiston Rd. Route 202, Gray 657-5866 Across from Spring Meadows Golf & Country Club

www.colefarms.com

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Coleman’s Collision Center By Donna Keene Rousseau Freelance Writer

t Coleman’s Collision Center, located at 1524 Minot Avenue in Auburn, the customer is priority one. From towing a vehicle to the shop and working with insurance companies to completing repairs and restoration, their certified specialists are at the ready to deliver service and support with honesty, efficiency, and customer-driven professionalism. “We are an honest company,” said owner Phil O’Connor. “Everything we do is in the best interest of our customer. It’s just the way we do business.” Coleman’s ef for ts toward increased efficiency and quality are constant according to O’Connor and are illustrated by the past year’s commitment to “green” practices. His shop in Saco is using the Spies Hecker (Dupont) waterborne paint system, a product that is jet-dried with air better for the environment as well as for the employees who use it. The end result is a restored vehicle returned to the customer in a more timely fashion. Auburn’s

“We believe providing service with state-of-the art equipment and processes that always benefit the customer sets us apart. If we do anything that does not benefit our customer, we consider it a waste.” Phil O’Connor

location will be retrofitted for this new process in 2010. “Our offices are now paperless,” confirmed O’Connor, who said everything is stored electronically to allow for faster retrieval and sharing of information. “We are always reviewing our processes to see what can be done better, more efficiently. And the question is always how, and what changes do we make to benefit the customer.”

The shop now offers e-estimates from their Web site at www. poccollison.com, a quick and easy way for customers to get a general idea of the cost of repairs to their vehicle from the comfort of their own homes. O’Connor travels throughout the country studying best practices of industry leaders, bringing back new ideas and introducing them to the Coleman team. The goal is to take what is good and make it great. O t h e r s e r v i ce s t h a t s e t Coleman’s apart include: free mobile estimating, free pick up and delivery, rides to work or home, assistance in claims process, assistance with towing, w r i t te n l i f e t i m e w a r r a nt y, paintless dent repair, electronic claims processing and heavyduty and motor home repairs. Paperwork, paint, and process aside, O’Connor confirmed that it is the Coleman team that makes the true difference for their customers. “All of us are accountable, not only to the customer and the industry, but to one another,” he explained. “And when we are, everyone benefits. We only hire the best, people who are not only the best at what they do, but how they do it, and their attitude towards life in

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general. I love all our employees and it’s important to me that they too, have a good experience working on the Coleman team. I want to give back to them through education, top salaries, full benefit packages, insurance, uniforms, even a matching 401K plan.” O’Connor knows a happy team makes happy customers. “What happens here must always benefit the customer and I stand by that. That’s why I want to be sure my team is in the happiest and best place they can be, personally as well as professionally. It’s never about getting the sale; it’s about getting the customer.” Coleman’s Collision Center is a division of POC Collision which also owns R.P. Bell Collision in Saco, Maine.

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1524 Minot Avenue Auburn 784-6121 www.poccollision.com

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Trends motivate their focus By Dave McLaughlin Freelance Writer / Photographer

ulling into the parking lot at R.S. Osgood & Sons can be a bit intimidating for first time visitors. Traveling along Rt. 2, drivers only catch a glimpse of the tremendous amount of inventory available to customers. Once you step through the door and into the showroom, however, there is little doubt why R.S. Osgood & Sons will be celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. A friendly, warm environment greets customers with a welcoming atmosphere that helps them feel at home. “Our biggest thing is the personal attention we are able to give our customers,” third generation owner Cindy Osgood said. “We service everything we sell, we have the parts in stock and experience with the equipment.” Founded by Roland Osgood in 1930, R.S. Osgood & Sons has been helping customers in the surrounding area for 80 years. There is a sense of pride that runs throughout the 12 employees, showing a concern and desire to be of help when called upon. Osgood senses that pride and understood the importance of dealing with customers needs when she took over the business from her father, Spencer, in 2003. She also has the knowledge and understanding of the area and what her customers are looking for in equipment. Before Osgood became the owner, R.S. Osgood & Sons completed an upgrade

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and expansion to their sales and accounting department that has proven extremely helpful over the past seven years. Additionally, their parts department has taken giant steps forward to ensure customers have the parts they need, when they need them and at competitive prices. Recent trends have seen large farms dwindling and the economy declining. Keeping that in mind, R.S. Osgood & Sons has moved forward, ready to help those people who are looking to produce their own food on a small amount of land and still need reliable equipment to perform day-to-day tasks. “Homeowners are doing a lot of gardening, people with five to 15 acres. They may have a few horses or cattle; some have small gardens and many have larger gardens,” Osgood said. “We have the equipment to help those people be successful, as well as those working larger farms.” Nestled in a small western Maine community has been a positive factor in the continued growth of the company. Through their reputation of service and reliability, R.S. Osgood & Sons has developed a niche that customers have come to rely on, one that has given them a broad base of returning and new customers. “I like where we are situated,” Osgood said. “We don’t lose touch with the customers. For the most part we have known most of them forever.” Helping to support that base has been an exceptional parts and service departments. Brad Whittemore and Debbie Wentworth continue to excel in their expertise in the parts

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Parts department personnel Debbie Wentworth and Brad Whittemore with customer Billy Mallett. Sales Manager John Conant

Above, shop foreman David Haynes and Jody Thompson in the service department. department, while shop foreman David Haynes, Jody Thompson and Kent Wagstaff boost a knowledgeable service department. Osgood also relies on the experience and knowledge of John Conant in sales; Chipper Osgood, with 16 years in the service and warranty department; and bookkeeper Susan Richards, who has been with the company for 20 years. In addition to offering a full line of Kubotas, R.S. Osgood & Sons also sells lawn and garden

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Above, Kent Wagstaff in the service department. equipment, including Toro, Cub Cadet, Stihl, Honda and farm equipment by Kuhn and Woods and Landpride.

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

LA Auto: Convenience of local servicing makes for satisfied buyers By Donna Keene Rousseau Freelance Writer / Photographer

Jim Piper of LA Auto Company in Lewiston opened his doors for business in February 2009 and since then he has concentrated on doing everything right. In a challenging economy where competition is tight, he has dedicated himself to providing his customers service that reflects his commitment to them and to the vehicles he sells. “We specialize in inventory that is meticulously serviced and restored to ‘almost new’ condition,” explained Piper. “We want our vehicles to be dependable, long-lasting, well-maintained, and reasonably priced. That’s why we offer the three-month/3,000-mile warranty.” He continued, “I have two on-site mechanics and one full-time reconditioning professional. We want to sell our customers used vehicles that they can feel proud to drive. When it comes to preparing a car for the lot, my staff knows not to skimp.” According to Piper, the business over the past year has carved itself a niche in used foreign cars. He admits the direction

was not intentional; his lot features a wide inventory of used vehicles ranging from Ford Mustangs and Honda Accords to Audis, Volvos, and Mercedes Benz. “I have a passion for cars,” said Piper. “Every Thursday I travel to New Hampshire and Massachusetts for auctions. I go early, before the auction starts, to view the inventory, check for vehicle condition, and determine what will be required to move a car from the back of my building to the front.” He laughed when he said he searches for cars “with eyes,” those that catch the attention by their design, color and styling. He focuses on the high-end features including moon roofs, leather interiors, and heated seats, among other details, and generally tries to stay with 2004 or newer models with mileage under 100,000 miles. “We can also locate specific vehicles for customers,” said Piper. “I can sit down with a customer to determine budget, features, make and model of a car of his or her choice. If customers know what they want, I can find it.” And from the first to the last car he has located for a customer, every one has left his lot happily satisfied.

A car “with eyes” is exactly what brought Steve Roop of Auburn to LA Auto Company. “I saw Jim driving around in a car that I liked the looks of. When I stopped in, he had already sold it, but he said he knew what I was looking for and he went to auction,” Roop said. “I was on vacation at the time. He brought back a beautiful 2003 Mercedes S Series sedan and I went in and bought it.” Roop, who has always driven used vehicles and trucks said that while he likes the higher end inventory LA Auto Company offers, he especially likes the convenience of local servicing for his new car. “A lot of what can make owning cars like Volvo, Mercedes, and Audi expensive is servicing them out-of-town,” added Roop. Pete Nadeau, of Greene, Maine, is another satisfied customer of LA Auto Company. “We purchased two cars from Jim, one for my son, and another for my wife,” said Nadeau. “Jim bent over backwards to make sure we were happy. He called me from the auction when he was searching for a car for my son. Even after the sale, if we had an issue, Jim took care of us. I was impressed. He’s been very good to us.”

A year ago, Piper set out on a business venture to build a better car buying experience for his customers, “one less painful than a visit to the dentist.” A year later, he has happy buyers, including Roop and Nadeau, confirming his success. “It was a fantastic experience.”

733 Sabattus St. Lewiston, Maine 777-0047

Chapman Collision Center went green from day one direct gas-fired baking booth along with a Drive on 360 degree frame machine.

By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer / Photographer

“Green from Day One” is the first thing you’ll notice, on the sign at the driveway entrance to the new Chapman Collision Center, at 2085 Lisbon Rd., in Lewiston. “Because we opened this shop from scratch, just this past December,” said Bob Chapman, “we were able to do everything right. We were able to help protect the environment, provide a healthier workplace for our own people, and do the best possible job of matching factory-original paint jobs, all at the same time.” Using a waterborne basecoat from PPG Industries instead of the more conventional solvent-based systems can reduce the amount of smog and ozone-damaging VOC chemical compounds released into the air by as much as 80%. “This is the latest technology in use in as much as 90% of auto

Bob Chapman keeps a close eye on technology that allows for better job results. m a n u f a c t u r i n g ,” C h a p m a n explained, “ but it’s a relatively new capability in collision repair facilities. Not only is it good for the environment, but because it’s the same process as the factories use, it enables us to precisely match factory colors.” Chapman knows what he’s talking about. Before opening his own shop, he had spent 19 years running body shops in Augusta and Lewiston-Auburn.

“The new technology lets us do a better job for our customers,” he said. “Controlled, consistent pressure from new stainless steel paint guns provides a consistent coating that is virtually the same as the original. You’d be surprised,” he added, “by how many subtle variations there are to each color produced by each manufacturer; but we can match them all.” The shop is equipped with a Devilibiss

Chapman’s 8,000 square foot shop, with 15 working bays, is three miles from Turnpike exit 80. It can accommodate everything from custom-paint jobs on motorcycle tanks to huge tour buses and dump trucks. It is the only heavy-duty repair facility in the area, with a 14’x14’ door and an 80-foot-long bay. “If it rides on the road, it can fit in our shop,” Chapman laughed. They have personnel licensed to operate big rigs, and they can provide on-site estimates wherever the equipment might be.

the right amount of time, the first time.” He tells the story of a driver from Massachusetts who was rearended in a collision in Portland recently. That customer was referred to Chapman by a friend, and was happy with the repair job. Unfortunately, the same driver was involved in a second accident two days later, and was back at Chapman’s. “Eventually, the whole industry will move to the kind of technology we’re using now,” Chapman said, “but we are well ahead of the curve. It’s expensive to convert existing equipment to what is needed for these new coatings, but we’ve been able to get it right – to go green – right from the start.”

Chapman Collision handles all insurance paperwork for their customers, including rental cars (drop-off and pick-up as well). “Our goal,” Chapman explained, “is to get our customers’ vehicles repaired in

Chapman Collision Center • 2085 Lisbon Rd., Lewiston • 782-2022 Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Lee Auto Malls: Rolling forward and looking ahead By David A. Sargent Freelance Writer

takes a solid foundation of quality product and excellent customer service to maintain and even increase growth in the face of the current recessionary economy, but that’s what Lee Auto Malls is achieving. John Isaacson, CEO of The Lee Auto Malls, said, “We are successful because we have built a diverse line of franchises. The list of autos sold by Lee now includes Dodge, Chrysler, Cadillac, Jeep, Honda, Nissan, Toyota, Scion, and GMC trucks.” In the face of recession, the past year has seen the addition of 70 new employees statewide and eight additional locations. “We have a lot of long-term employees who work hard to take care of our customers,” Isaacson continued. He noted that Lee Auto Malls is often making sales to fourth generation customers. Shopping for a new or used car at Lee Auto Malls is easy and pleasant. The huge lots are filled with selections and there are multiple bright and shiny showrooms. Repair service is quick and easy, with a comfortable new lounge area with snacks and high-definition TV available in Auburn. Isaacson outlined the company history that goes back to a 1936 DeSoto-Plymouth dealership named Advance Auto Sales on Franklin Street in Auburn. Neither the original building nor the street are now in existence. In 1969 Shep Lee, son of the founder, moved the business to what was then a two-lane outer Center Street. “It was a huge risk,” Isaacson said. “It was like the edge of the earth. The Auburn Mall did not exist, the Veteran’s Bridge was not yet built and there were no other car dealers in the area, just farms. Today, every new car sold in this county is sold on outer Center Street.” Nevertheless, the company grew steadily. Shep Lee was the first in Maine to own more than one auto dealership. Lee Auto Malls now comprises six auto dealerships in Lewiston-Auburn and 20 across Maine — Presque Isle to Saco and Topsham to Norway — making it the largest auto sales organization in the state.

John Isaacson (above left), CEO, and Bill Menke (above right), general manager of Lee Auto Malls, stand in the Center St. showroom.

Energy efficiency in the cars they sell is also reflected in the company’s attention to good energy practices in their buildings. New lot lighting that uses less electricity and causes less upward light loss was installed at the Center Street location recently. More efficient lighting and other “green” measures have been taken inside the buildings. Menke also explained that Lee Auto Malls has become the first local

business to utilize Zero-Sort for 100 percent waste paper recycling. Support for many community organizations and events has always been an important part of the Lee business philosophy. Isaacson said, “We take very seriously the obligation to give back to our communities.” More than 1,000 requests for donations are received by the company every

Bill Menke, Lee Auto Malls general manager, said people are keeping their cars longer and they are paying attention to proper maintenance. When they shop for a new car, they are focusing on gas mileage and safety. In addition to Hybrid vehicles, he said there will be a lot of progress in the near future in clean-running diesel vehicles and full-size, fully electric cars.

With its 75th anniversary celebration coming up in 2011, Isaacson sees emphasis on continued growth for the locally-owned and managed firm. The Web site at www.leeauto.com offers a wealth of up-to-date information about the availability and price of hundreds of vehicles, and the inventory can be searched by new, used, year, make, style and price criteria. There’s also plenty of information about financing.

AUBURN 777 Center Street Photo: Jose Leiva

At Lee Auto, “We never forget who’s driving.” 20

year. Isaacson said funds are given to as many as possible, and every request, whether funded or not, receives a written response.

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Toll free (888) 343-5695 Local (207) 784-5441

www.leeauto.com Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Whited Motorhome & RV: Icons of the open road By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer/Photographer

tow-behind camper delivered to your favorite campsite can provide your family with an affordable, dependable vacation home for much less than you might expect. A big, Class-A diesel pusher motorhome, fully equipped with such amenities as 40” plasma TVs, convection ovens, Corian counters, washers and

dryers, lets you roam the countryside at will, to follow the concert or racing circuits, or to follow the weather, wherever you like. Whited Motorhome and RV Center, on Hotel Road in Auburn, celebrates its ninth year with millions of dollars of new inventory, and an open house with refreshments and specials on parts and service. “This is already shaping up as the recovery year for the RV industry,” said Whited General Manager Gary Mynahan. “There’s pent-up demand from

people who have postponed their purchase, and they’re ready, now. There are great new financing options in place, both from local Maine financial institutions and from national sources. Whited is in terrific shape, with lots of RVs arriving every week. “Diversification helps, for sure,” Mynahan explained. “And, we’re diversifying the RV line this year, too: we’re now an officially authorized Winnebago dealer – from small, Class-C gasoline models, vans, and up to Class-A gasoline models, too. That’s in addition to the big diesel Tiffin, Fleetwood and Forest River motorhomes and the tow-able travel trailers we’re known for.” Adding Winnebago to the Ford and Peterbilt trucks the company also represents means that Whited now offers three of the most iconic American brands on the road. “Shopping for an RV is like buying a home,” Mynahan said, “and so it helps that we have people – like Scott Lewis and Bill Strauss –

Because Whited’s RV business is affiliated with the larger, heavytruck business next door, the company didn’t experience the full extent of the recent downturn.

who have been part of this industry for more than 15 years. It’s an educational process, and people like to take their time. And we make it fun, too. It’s a kid-friendly place, because kids need to be a big part of the decision process, and they really enjoy exploring all the nooks and crannies,” he added. The Web site – www.whitedrv.com – provides direct access to the entire Whited inventory, lets you browse options, pricing, parts, and learn how to take advantage of the RV experience.

Whited Motorhome & RV

2160 Hotel Road, Auburn, Maine 1-800-235-3613

Martindale Country Club opens its doors and links By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer

fter nearly 90 years as, arguably, the preeminent social and golfing club in the Lewiston-Auburn area, Martindale Country Club opens its doors – and its links – to the general public in a semi-private nature. Co-owners Jim Day and Nick Glicos (who also serves as director of golf) have committed to making every aspect of the Martindale experience as rewarding as possible, for both members and guests alike. The main dining hall, refurbished along with the rest of the clubhouse, remains available for weddings, business meetings, and all sorts of private functions, with exceptional menu options. The public is also invited to dine in the popular Grille Room, where there is also an ambitious new menu. General manager Mike Williams said, “We expect the new Martindale to be one of the great dining experiences in Lewiston-

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Auburn. Fresh ingredients, innovative dishes, and moderate prices are evident on the new menus. This will be a destination for everyone, not just golfers. We really want everyone to treat Martindale’s ‘Grill Nineteen’ like they would any other fine restaurant in town.” Martindale remains, foremost, a golf facility. “We want everyone – members, guests, and the general public – to simply have fun here and enjoy the exceptionally conditioned golf course, superb food and beverage facility, and professional atmosphere,” said Glicos, who has a distinguished 20-year career in Maine golf and is president of the Maine chapter of the New England PGA. “Jim and I are really committed to Martindale long-term,” Glicos said. “Jim is an exceptional businessman and has extensive experience in food and beverage, real estate development, and brings a wealth of knowledge to the operation. Jim has been a member of Martindale for many years and is very active in the community. For he and I to operate Martindale together is very exciting. I think our skills complement each other and we have worked closely on improving the club’s facilities and operations. “The keys to success at Martindale will be close professional management, both in the

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restaurant and on the golf course,” Glicos asserted. Day and Glicos have brought in certified CGSA, Scott Cybulski, as their new golf course superintendent, one of only three certified golf course superintendents in the state of Maine. Cybulski had served the past 15 seasons at the Falmouth Country Club. “Scott is one of the state’s top superintendents without question. His work over the years at Falmouth demonstrates this. Maine golf has been given a nice head start by Mother Nature this spring,” Glicos said. “The course came through the winter in amazingly good condition, and players should have a great experience right from the start. All 18 greens are in super shape to start the year. We have a number of on-course upgrades, that will take place throughout the season, that will be evident to everyone playing here this year.” Players will also find an entirely new fleet of golf carts in place, another sign of how things are changing. There are leagues for men, women, and couples. Women who are not members of the club are invited to play in leagues and it is not necessary to commit to the entire season. They can play once, once in awhile, or as often as they like. Tee times for the ninehole league will be between 4 to 5 p.m. on

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Mondays, starting on May 17. Those playing will also be able to enjoy golf lessons, weekly games, wine tastings: “It’s all about having fun,” said Glicos. Membership has its privileges, too, including a full tournament schedule, preferred tee times, billing privileges, discounts on lessons and club services, as well as a number of social functions throughout the year. “The membership is enthusiastic about the outcome of the sale of the club,” Glicos said. “We’re really excited about bringing them a great product and service. The public is welcome at select times each day. The cost of membership has gone down considerably and we expect that 75% of our play will be derived from our members. But it is a whole new experience, and we really want everyone to be able to enjoy this wonderful facility.”

Martindale Country Club 527 Beech Hill Rd., Auburn 782-9074 www.martindalecc.com

Affordable Eyes: Style and fit that fits your style By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer / Photographer

are crafted on-site in accordance with each customer’s prescription.

Single vision, lined and no-line bifocals are all available, as are sunglasses. Lenses can be tinted to any color you like, and new lenses can be cut to fit in a frame that you have purchased elsewhere, or even an old frame that you just don’t want to give up.

tepping into Affordable Eyes on Center Street in Auburn is like going on a shopping trip with an old friend. Proprietor Bill Nadeau believes that it is very important that his customers feel comfortable with the process of purchasing eyeglasses and at Affordable Eyes the customers do. Nadeau began his career in eye care more Joanne Hillwig, of Lewiston, sits with Bill Nadeau and than 30 years ago as an optical technician. In tries on a pair of eyeglasses. 1995, Nadeau became a certified optician and became passionate about providing excellent to choose from, he takes his time helping you customer service. find a style and fit that fits your style. Approximately four years ago he put his many talents to use at Affordable Eyes. Nadeau con- From wire frames to plastic, black, brown, silver siders the purchase of eyeglasses to be similar and gold to bursting with color and light, men, to the purchase of a piece of jewelry. “This women, boys and girls will find something should be a fun experience,” he exclaimed that looks great. Affordable Eyes has somewith a smile, referring to his product as “face thing for the entire family. jewelry.” Born and raised in Maine, Nadeau understands The simple coziness of the Affordable Eyes that “Mainers” want both friendly customer showroom allows Nadeau to give friendly, service and quality products that will stand honest and professional individual attention the test of time and wear. Although frames are to each visitor. With more than 240 frame styles purchased from various distributors, all lenses

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Perhaps the most striking difference between Affordable Eyes and other eyewear retailers is the price. Depending on the brand of frame that you choose, and your prescription, your new eyeglasses will cost anywhere from $59 to $159, with a second pair starting at just $40.

Affordable Eyes is open every weekday from 9:30 until 6:00 and Saturday from 9:30 until 1:00, although they do close the third Saturday of every month. For more information, they can be reached by telephone at 333-6927. Affordable Eyes stands behind its products and Nadeau’s goal is to make sure you will be completely satisfied with the way you look and the way you see. Your comfort, both after you receive your eyeglasses, as well as while you are choosing and fitting your “face jewelry,” is what makes Affordable Eyes a clearly good choice when the time comes to purchase eyewear.

229 Center Street  Auburn, Maine  333-6927

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Spring blossoms at Donna’s Greenhouses By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer

hat began as a small vegetable stand in 1986, has grown and blossomed into a colorful and expansive array of products and services to suit the fancy of any gardener. From soil and compost materials, to annual and perennial flowers, vegetable plants and herbs, as well as fruit trees and bushes, Donna’s can get you started. With a variety of fertilizers and mulches, all available for pick-up or for delivery in bulk, Donna’s will help you keep your garden healthy and beautifully maintained. For those who enjoy decorating, Donna’s carries a large assortment of Massarelli stone garden accent pieces and bubbling fountains. Owners Donna and Chuck McNally travel extensively, visiting art auctions and

other out-of-the-way places, and delight in bringing unique and affordable decorative pieces to offer their clientele. In addition to their five greenhouses and multiple meandering outdoor garden paths with well-stocked tables and trays, bountiful hanging floral baskets, and landscaped areas teaming with colorful flowers and delightful statuary, Donna’s has a lovely gift shop stocked with locally made Blackcat Pottery, pottery by Wayne Messer of Cumberland, bird feeders, sundials, candles and gifts for the nature enthusiast, as well as all of the essential garden tools and seeds.

April showers bring May flowers, and so much more this time of year at Donna’s Greenhouses in New Gloucester. Donna and Chuck have mastered the art of gardening and enjoy sharing their knowledge as much as they enjoy sharing their flowers. For the gardener who wants to “enhance his or her ability to get a plant from seed to garden,” Donna’s offers weekend

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classes in “Growing Seedlings.” Chuck will provide all of the supplies and assistance needed to start and grow 72 plants for your garden. Donna will be leading “Container Gardening” classes on how to create a window box or other container garden with plants of your choosing, whether you prefer flowering, vegetable or herb. These classes are offered through a local Adult & Community Education program and require preregistration by calling 345-3217. In addition, every Saturday in May, Chuck will teach a “Raised Bed Gardening” class on techniques and resource development for creating raised bed gardens. Call or visit Donna’s Greenhouses for more information regarding classes. Although the raised bed gardening class is free, the fee for the Adult Education classes is minimal. In mid-

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June, Donna’s will participate in the annual Country Garden Tea & Tour over four days of plants, tea and snacks. FMI, visit www. countrygardenteaandtour.com. Donna’s Greenhouses, 216 Ricker Road, New Gloucester, is open every day until 6 p.m. Visit their greenhouses and gift shop and take a stroll through their gardens, or call Donna and Chuck at 926-3776 to see how they can help you make the most of your green thumb by “gettin’ dirty at Donna’s.”

Donna’s Greenhouses 216 Ricker Rd., New Gloucester

926-3776

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Lewiston, Maine, April 10, 2010

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Reggie’s Sales & Service: Time to grow and mow By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer/Photographer

Its name - Reggie’s Sales and Service – may, technically describe the business, but it doesn’t begin to explain what they do or how they do it. Specialists in a wide range of outdoor power equipment, for lawn, garden, commercial landscaping and forestry, along with a broad array of protection and safety gear, Reggie’s is as much about service (and parts) as it is about sales. “Our goal,” said Reggie Emery Jr., a 20-year veteran of the business, “is to make sure our customers can get their work done, whether we’re talking about homeowners or woodsmen. We want to be sure they have the right equipment for their jobs, and that the equipment works the way it’s supposed to.” With an extensive assortment of power equipment from such dependable names as Stihl, Husqvarna, Echo, Jonsered Chain Saws, and a new line of commercial-grade blowers and weed wackers from Shindaiwa, Reggie’s tools are built to last, to handle tough jobs in the field. “We know that time is money,” Emery explained. “We’ll keep you in the field.”

Reggie’s may be among the biggest independent purveyors of snow blowers and home-oriented winter gear in the LewistonAuburn area, but their biggest focus is on what comes out of the ground rather than what falls on to it. Reggie Emery Sr., a supplier to the most rugged outdoors industries for more than three decades, built the company’s reputation by servicing woodcutters. The company always has at least 250 chain saws in stock, including more than 40 different models, suitable for any size lot, variety of tree or harvesting operation. And Reggie’s will gladly fulfill any special orders that may be beyond their inventory, as well.

nological innovations to the industry,” Emery added. But, while Reggie’s has always been about managing things that grow, new this year will be a focus on actually growing things. Beginning this spring, Reggie’s will add a new commercial greenhouse capacity to the Minot Avenue location, providing unusual varieties of vegetables, savories, flowers and seedlings. “Specialized peppers, for example,” Emer y said, “or Oriental eggplants. People might be surprised by the variety of produce that can be grown in Maine.” Reggie’s greenhouse operation will offer grow-to-order plantings for landscapers, and also have a direct retail element.

The company is a family-friendly enterprise that also meets homeowners’ needs, any time of year. “We have a great reputation for snow blowers and generators,” Emery said, “but our busy season really starts in the spring,” when mowers and landscaping equipment displace snow blowers in the big lot on the hill overlooking Minot Avenue, in Auburn.

“I’ve been growing for years,” Emery said. “We’ve had commercial greenhouses in the past. But moving to this location will be much more convenient for customers – lots of parking, more display space.” For several years, Reggie’s has given away tomato plants through local foodbanks, and to school and veteran organizations. “How great is it for people to be able to grow their own food?”

Reggie’s Sales & Service 1334 Minot Avenue, Auburn, Maine 04210

207-783-0558

“Exmark, for example, is among the biggest names in mowing and landscaping, and they are constantly bringing the latest tech-

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Aqua-Max of Maine:

Free your home and water supply of pollutants and poisons

ver the last 16 years Dan and Brenda Cote have expanded their business at Aqua-Max of Maine, located at 914 Sabattus Street, Lewiston, with the addition of four staff members. Today, they continue to educate the public about water quality and its effects along with the importance of buying products and services from people who are certified in their trade by the Water Quality Association.

CERTIFICATION Cote said it is a great honor to be a member of WQA, an “international trade association representing the residential, commercial, industrial and small community water treatment industry.” Cote also sits as a Board Member for the Eastern Water Quality Association which serves the eastern part to the United States. When making proper equipment comparisons, who would you depend on for the answers — a store employee/ tradesman with generic knowledge or a certified knowledgeable educator/salesperson who has passed WQA exams and has also been factory trained? In a typical big box store or hardware supply house you may not be able to find an employee with knowledge about water chemistry, or for that matter, proper sizing experience. Cote noted that there’s a move for national certification to be required of all vendors of water quality products and he is hoping that certification does in fact catch on; this way, consumers will feel safer and will have more knowledge about their water chemistry and how the system actually works. “At Aqua-Max of Maine, being certified means we have the knowledge and experience to explain to the consumer the whys and hows of a system and why quality of a product is important. Quality and proper sizing will give you more buy for the buck,” Cote said, “don’t short change your options.” At Aqua-Max of Maine, we are proud of Wayne Bates, our top educator/salesperson of the year for Hague Quality Water Products in the North East region which incorporates New Jersey, New York and the six New England States, said Cote. Bates follows the WQA industry code of ethics along with participating in the annual certification pro-

Side-by-side tap water comparison: Polluted (left) versus Clean (right)

grams. Bates is proud to be a member of WQA; it makes his job easier to explain to the customer the importance of field testing and customizing options along with information on new innovative techniques.

QUALITY Cheaper is not necessarily good or bad, but before, during, and after your water treatment purchase, ask yourself, “’Who can and will answer your questions professionally?’ Don’t be fooled; always get an independent lab test done and always, always ask for a full explanation of the results, what they actually mean in regards to health and the effects on your home plumbing and heating. I promise it will save you dollars,” said Cote.

INNOVATION Products constantly evolve and, said Cote, “We need to stay up-to-date with the current changes to our environment. You can rest assure that when you buy from Aqua-Max of Maine, you’re dealing with educated instructors/salespeople who will let you know what your options are even before you make a purchase.” Aqua-Max of Maine can help you determine your living and working water needs. Cote said, “Not sure what the difference is between living and working water? Ask us at Aqua-Max of Maine. Want to know if your existing water treatment products are efficient or wasteful or part of the go green movement? Call us at Aqua-Max of Maine at 782-1005.” In addition to certified water treatment products, Aqua-Max of Maine provides quality Water and Air Radon Mitigation Services. Reducing radon from your well or the air in your home is a job for a certified expert. Cote explained, “Most people are not aware that a home in the city can also have radon issues in the air. Call A & L Laboratory for a radon test kit at 784-5354 or pick up a kit at Hotel Road, Auburn, Maine.” Aqua-Max staff are certified radon mitigators and are registered with the state of Maine radon department. The Aqua-Max team has been initially certified by the Rutgers University in New Jersey following the Maine state standards.

Aqua-Max of Maine

CASH-AND-CARRY SHOWROOM For those who like to do their own home repairs, Aqua-Max of Maine now offers a cashand-carry showroom located at 914 Sabattus Street, Lewiston. The team is qualified to explain what equipment and installation procedures are needed to properly fix issues the right way. “We encourage people to bring in their water report for a full explanation of the results. The showroom has an area where we can test for some contaminants.” Cote added, “Bring in a water sample or obtain an A & L Laboratory kit at our showroom.”

TECHNOLOGY The white mailboxes in front of the showroom have A & L Laboratory kits available for pick-up and drop off during business hours or after hours, which ever is more convenient for the customer. If a person wants an appointment for in-home testing, Aqua-Max of Maine will dispatch a person to the home for a free water analysis without any pressure to buy anything. “Aqua-Max of Maine staff carry an extensive portable lab when they are on the road so we can bring the lab to your home to test and treat your water on site,” said Cote. The benefit of having your water tested on site, right in front of you, is that the visibility of the test procedure should alleviate any skepticism you may have about the integrity of the water test and actually see how well the recommended system would work by utilizing a miniature water treatment device at your own kitchen

sink. Cote said, “As we used to say, ‘the proof is in the pudding.’” An overview, whether you are treating water stains, odors or carcinogens such as arsenic, or water and air radon in your home, Aqua-Max of Maine can make resolving such issues less complicated with a visit to the showroom or call for an appointment and we will visit you.

SAVINGS FOR YOU The team at Aqua-Max of Maine can show you examples of untreated water along with its effects. Cote said, “As an example, most people don’t realize that simple water treatment can cut energy costs by 29% — that is huge. Water treatment can lower maintenance on heating elements and treated water will heat faster producing immediate hot water savings.” Treated water means septic systems are not exposed to harmful detergents, and even results in huge savings on cleaning supplies. “Aqua-Max carries all natural biodegradable cleaning and personal soap products that can save up to a $1,000 dollars per year, for an average family of four,” said Cote, “and all of these products are manufactured with plant-based materials — totally hypo-allergenic concentrated soaps that don’t have any chemical preservatives and are ideal for new front loading washing machines.” Visit the showroom to see these products for yourself and get a full explanation of their benefits to you.

• 914 Sabattus Street • Lewiston, ME 04240 • 207-782-1005

www.aquamaxofmaine.com

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Hammond Tractor wants to know: Is it spring yet? Gary Hammond, an Edward Little graduate, believes in investing in the city, and the company is well-positioned to be here for a long time. Stan Spilecki, general manager of the Auburn dealership, explained that, “We do a lot of long-term, strategic planning, that’s constantly updated. It helps keep us innovative and efficient. That’s especially important in tough economic times,” he added, “because customers know they can count on you.”

By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer/Photographer

lthough Hammond Tractor, on Minot Avenue in Auburn, provides a wide range of winter equipment, it is spring and summer when the company is busiest. The largest farm, garden, commercial, golf and turf, and commercial chipper dealer in New England, Hammond Tractor helps you take care of the work that needs to be done outdoors: dairy and vegetable farms, construction job sites, golf courses, and your own backyard. “Nothing runs like a Deere,” is, of course, the famous signature of the company with its modest beginnings in the prairies of the 1830s, and that philosophy is fulfilled every day by the folks at Hammond Tractor. Although Hammond provides the most diverse inventory of John Deere equipment of any retailer anywhere near its territory, it also offers a wide range of equipment from more than two dozen other dependable manufacturers, enabling a perfect match between the work that must be done and the means to do it. Such familiar brands as Mahindra Tractors, DR, Walker Mowers, and

Kuhn, are well represented. The company sells and services a large line of Honda power equipment such as generators, lawn mowers, pumps and more, and has recently added Stihl chain saws and trimmers. There’s a wide range of used equipment and even an array of kid-sized John Deere gear. Family-owned for more than a generation, Hammond is dedicated to Auburn.

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The business is built on the combination of superior service with a staff of thoroughly experienced certified technicians, combined with a huge inventory. Hammond continues to service equipment that has been in the field for decades and has computer access to the lifetime history of every John Deere tractor brought to its service department. With additional locations in Union and Fairfield, Maine, Hammond Tractor has a staff of 90, and a massive inventory of all sizes of tractors suited to every size job and site, suitable for homeowners and small farmers. The company also stocks, sells and services workhorse tractors and commercial site-

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work equipment including mini-excavators and specialized agricultural tractors and commercial mowing equipment, with the latest technology and most ergonomicallycorrect operator features. That diversity ensures that all customers, regardless of how modest their needs might be, have access to a level of professional knowledge and skills that is unchallenged in the industry. Hammond Tractor’s motto is “Committed People, Exceptional Value.” The Web site, www.hammondtractor.com, provides convenient links to all the brands carried at all the Hammond locations, making it easy to find the right equipment for the job. Back yard or back-40, Hammond Tractor has what it takes to cut the work down to size.

Hammond Tractor 1110 Minot Avenue, Auburn, Maine 04210

207-782-8921

www.hammondtractor.com

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Pineland Lumber: Nearly 100 years of commonality By Donna Keene Rousseau Freelance Writer

oing business locally is more important today than ever before. For nearly 100 years, Pineland Lumber has remained committed to its community and responsive to their needs. According to Neal Ouellette, who co-owns Pineland Lumber along with Ruth Gallagher, the business has been a proud contributor to the economic growth in Lewiston-Auburn and, throughout its history, has looked for opportunities to give back to the community that has supported its business success.

building contractors control the costs to their customers in a tough, competitive market. With this in mind, Pineland Lumber is a member of Lumbermen’s Merchandising Corporation, the largest buying co-op available for independent lumber dealers. Pineland’s membership allows them to “level the playing field,” keeping them competitive pricewise with the larger “big box” stores.

Ouellette expressed an increased need for supporting local community organizations and businesses in economic times like these. As with many businesses, Pineland Lumber receives solicitations weekly for supplies and materials for various group and organizational projects throughout Androscoggin County.

Perhaps one of Pineland Lumber’s greatest secrets to success in a slow economy, however, is its ability to deliver customer service with a veteran team of professionals ranging from the company owners to yardmen, from inside and outside sales staff to project designers. Together they boast more than 250 years experience in the building industry. As Ouellette put it, “Here, the owners are in the store. We don’t need to call a board meeting to make a decision about whether we can provide a product for a particular project. We can decide right here, right now with a customer.”

Alongside its community support is Pineland Lumber’s effort to help individual

Ouellette continued, “There is something that no amount of advertising or money

can buy and that’s relationships. Knowing, really knowing your customers, not only by budget or project but by name, by family. When you establish commonality, you take

the extra time.” Nearly 100 years of business success supports that statement and is yet one more good reason why supporting local businesses benefits everyone.

Pineland Lumber April 1962

10 Avon Street • Lewiston, ME • 784-4524 • www.pinelandlumber.com

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Sherm Arnold’s Flooring and Kitchen Design Center By Dan Marois Freelance Writer / Photographer

rom the minute you enter Sherm Arnold’s Flooring and Kitchen Design Center, there’s a friendly atmosphere that you find only at a family-run business. There is a lot of conversation and goodnatured kidding going on, but it’s all business when it comes to talking about home remodeling and renovations. Denis Lebel, owner and self-proclaimed “jackof-all-trades,” is at the center of the activity from greeting customers, fielding questions over the phone, and attending to whatever needs to be done. Lebel’s sister, Diane Dube — the flooring specialist — can be found introducing customers to an endless selection of laminate tiles, vinyl flooring, and carpeting in hundreds of styles, patterns, and colors. Dube has nearly three decades of experience in selecting exactly the right kind of flooring to meet the customer’s needs. “Diane will come right to your house to measure your flooring and discuss what you are looking for,” said Lebel. “She’s the expert

With the click of the mouse, you can see how your selection of kitchen cabinets will look in your home. and she’ll put together all the options that are available for your project or plan.” Lebel’s son, Todd — the kitchen specialist — is seated at a computer, putting the finishing touches on a personalized design for a kitchen remodeling. With the click of the computer mouse, Todd shows us exactly how the kitchen cabinets will look in the customer’s home, including precise measurements for the installation and a 3-D look at the color and design selected.

to plan out what they want to accomplish,” said Lebel, noting that improvements in the kitchen and bathroom can bring the greatest increase to a home’s value. “We work within the person’s budget and show them the options and selections that are available.” A quick walk around the design center’s showroom reveals that there are many design options from which a shopper can choose. In one area, customers get an up close look at kitchen cabinets including the wide array of colors, designs and brand names available. Another showroom is filled with more flooring selections than anyone ever thought possible. There’s one display after another with samples of everything from the newest and best laminate flooring to multiple racks with carpeting samples of various textures, colors and designs.

Lebel noted that he’s owned Sherm Arnold’s Flooring and Kitchen Design Center for two and a half years, though the company has been around for three decades. In that time, business has grown and he’s proud of the special attention he gives his customers.

For the environmentally concerned shopper, Sherm Arnold’s offers bamboo flooring, one of the “greenest” materials available, as well as carpeting made from 100% recycled materials.

“We sit down and work with the customer

For the shopper’s convenience, customers

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Meet the folks at Sherm Arnold’s: Todd Lebel, Denis Lebel, Diane Dube

can visit www.shermarnolds.com to start planning their home renovation projects. There, you’ll find the selection of items that can be seen at their location at 550 Lisbon Street in Lewiston. “We’ve been blessed,” said Lebel, stating that old and new customers alike trust their home projects to the family team of Denis, Todd, and Diane. “We encourage people to stop by and look at our showroom and meet our truly dedicated staff.”

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

The Health Club & Spa: Our goal is to accommodate our members By Donna Rousseau Freelance Writer

he Health Club & Spa has been in business for over 35 years and under the ownership of Lisa and Tony Fontaine for the past four and a half years. Many renovations have taken place and more are planned. The Health Club offers a variety of exercise choices from exercising in a class or on your own, on the aerobic floor, in the water, with or without weights or equipment. “We are more than just cardio machines,” said Lisa. “We have something for everyone from ages 12 and older, at any stage of fitness. There is a different workout area for everyone.” As the economy has affected everyone, the Fontaines have noticed that fitness has been one of those things that people have

cut from their budgets. “Not getting out of the house or exercising will affect one’s health. It’s like a vicious cycle, not working out leads to medical issues, which leads to future medication expenses.”

“We have seven treadmills, three recumbent bikes, two uprights, three steppers, five elliptical machines, and two arc trainers.” Also available are Cybex, Reflex and Nautilus machines, as well as a free weight area.

The Fontaines realize that not everyone can pay a membership upfront so they offer payment plans. They don’t charge any extra fees for a workout program or for any of their classes. “We are here to help everyone in any way we can; we try and accommodate their needs.”

“We provide a free initial workout program with follow-ups to suit your individual needs.” The Health Club has aerobic classes, strength training, stretching, kickboxing, step, and sculpting classes; Yoga, Tai Chi, and Zumba. These classes are offered throughout the week at no additional cost to members. “The Health Club offers the SilverSneakers program,” added Fontaine, who described the fitness program as one designed specifically for seniors or those with disabilities. Completing the fitness experience at the Health Club, members can benefit from on-line nutritional meal planning, tanning, massage and physical therapy on-site, all at additional costs.

The pool area can be used for exercise or to relieve pain. There you will find a threelane mineral pool, large mineral hot tub, wood-heated sauna and Danish plunge. The Health Club offers water aerobics classes at least seven times per week. Members benefit from cycling classes, a power-lifting room and, on the main floor,

Fontaine described the Health Club as “non-intimidating, family-oriented, where members are not just numbers. We really make an effort to know all our members by name and, if we don’t know them, we will at some point.” Knowing her clients and recognizing their needs is what drives Fontaine to offer a range of membership plans designed

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Members can use the pool area for exercise or to relieve pain. to accommodate every pocket. Call for membership info. The goal for The Health Club & Spa is to continue to renovate and expand to accommodate their members’ needs. “Our most recent expansion provided a 26x76 physical therapy business and a larger men’s locker room,” Fontaine explained. For Fontaine, the key is moving ahead responsibly. “We want to continue to provide our members with fitness programs designed to meet their individual needs. We want our members to be comfortable and have fun while they work out.”

Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons: Comfortable dental treatments

o you have a toothache? In this economy, all too often patients are making hard decisions between restoring teeth in a normal conventional dental fashion or extracting them. This unfortunate decision is usually forced upon them by financial considerations. Dr. Kippax at Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons can help you with the extraction, but also can help you realize what other options are available for you. Every patient may have options among several different treatment plans before making the decision to take the final step of extraction, and Dr. Kippax is happy to advise you of these options. Many patients have fallen away from their dentists for routine care and then have toothaches that force them to find a dentist immediately. In situations like this, Dr. Kippax and his staff are available five days a week and every other Saturday for emergency care. Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, P.A. can also help you with routine wisdom tooth extractions. Wisdom teeth are not useful teeth and may cause problems for the existing dentition by wearing away bone on the back side of the neighboring teeth. Also, wisdom teeth may become decayed due to the difficulty of cleaning them, they

Dr. Kippax at Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons may be badly misaligned or not functional or may develop pathology and infection around them. If the wisdom teeth do require removal, we can make the experience comfortable, in our office, with general anesthesia. Many patients are involved in sports and we strongly recommend use of mouth guards for any type of contact sport. Mouth guards and helmets with chin bars can virtually eliminate most dental trauma injuries. Any tooth that has been traumatically fractured or knocked out has a very short time period in which treatment must be rendered.

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Patients with knocked-out teeth must see the dentist within 90 minutes of the accident for reinsertion and fixation. After that time, the chances of successful reinsertion drop off dramatically. Frequently, these teeth will require subsequent root canal therapy and perhaps even restoration and crowns. Dr. Kippax can initially stabilize the tooth and then help you arrange the appropriate follow up with your general dentist. Dr. Kippax and staff are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week for just such emergencies. Dr. Kippax also treats facial fractures and lacerations in his office as opposed to a potentially lengthy emergency room visit.

With dental implants, we have a variety of aesthetic options to make our patients feel more comfortable, function normally and feel better about themselves. The Implant Center at Androscoggin Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons uses the Nobel Biocare and Nobel Active and Bicon Implant Systems.

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These two brands of implants have wide variability in size and shape making them very versatile in the jaw no matter what your individual circumstances. If you are missing teeth, these two systems usually have a solution and dental implants can be placed. If you have any questions about implants, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very easy to arrange a free implant consultation by calling 1-800-400-4665. We can advise you as to whether or not implants are possible for you, what type is best, and how much they will cost. We can also arrange coordination with your general dentist for their part of your treatment plan. For many people who have let their teeth go, sometimes the only answer is a fullmouth extraction. We know that this is a difficult decision to make and we can help you figure out if it is the right thing for you. We can then make sure the extractions are performed in a comfortable professional manner perhaps with general anesthesia. Following the healing period, we can help you coordinate with your dentist or denturist for fabrication of complete upper and complete lower dentures. We strive to make this situation for patients comfortable and treat them with respect during the course of it. We understand patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; concerns and questions.

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

o Our Extended Family … physicians, physical therapists and individuals in need of orthotic and prosthetic services and products. Advance Orthotic and Prosthetics offers the personal and professional help to both referral sources and patients that cannot be found with off-the-shelf or online products. AOPS repeatedly serves hundreds of referral sources throughout Central and Southern Maine. It’s our full-service team approach that makes the difference.

Together, We Make It Happen We provide a wide range of Orthotic and Prosthetic services and we treat a wide variety of patients, each of whom receives personalized care and attention from one of our skilled specialists and office staff. From pediatrics to geriatrics, from your head to your toe, we can help to alleviate pain and make life a little better.

You Prescribe It

 We Build It – On-site fabrication. Technicians, left to right: Nate Nichols, Nate Fish, John Roeger, and Jess Cook

 We Bill It – Our  We Design It – Based on physician and patient information and practitioner’s evaluation.

dedicated specialists assure billing procedures resulting in maximum insurance reimbursement for our patients.

Practitioners, left to right: Dale Conlin, CP; David Johnson, CO; Sandra Marino, CO, C.Ped; Randy Shaw, CFo, R.T.,R

World Class Athletes Require Comfort and Stability for World Class Performance

Office staff, left to right: Front: Debbie Dean, Elaine Rowe; Back: Brenda Hinkley, Karen Rodrigue, Cheryl Perry, Anita Maurice

Total Service, Total Care Facility accreditation with the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics. Members in good standing with American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association, American Academy of Orthotist & Prosthetists, Amputee Coalition of America, Better Business Bureau, Androscoggin Chamber of Commerce, and Auburn Business Association. You can be confident in our ABC certified practitioners with a combined experience of nearly 60 years. Your needs will be met every time by our qualified practitioners who offer personalized services to assist each patient with their unique conditions.

Alex “Bump” Heldman of Auburn, NCAA Division 1 Skier “Advance Orthotics has enabled me to reach a higher level of performance with the help of your ski boot orthotics,” said Heldman. “The comfort and stability of the orthotics has enhanced my performance to a higher level, much greater than the competition.” Sun Journal file photo

Our comprehensive serves are all-inclusive. We do not charge office visit fees. No lengthy delays. We have an on-site fabrication department staffed with highly skilled technicians.

We accept Medicare, MaineCare and Full-service offices in

Auburn Brunswick Westbrook

other managed care companies.

Since 1994, we have proven that your trust is well-placed at Advance Orthotic & Prosthetic Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

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Dale Conlin, Certified Prosthetist at Advance Orthotic and Prosthetics, is shown here fitting a prosthetic leg to his patient. Dale’s 25 years of experience in the O&P industry and the fact that he is himself an amputee helps him relate to his patients’ needs. From start to finish, Dale’s patients can rely on his abilities to offer total prosthetic care.

AOPS facilities are open from Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Emergency coverage is provided on a 24-7 basis, as well. Toll-Free Telephone: 1-877-877-7022

www.advanceoandp.com 39

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Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Majors Mobility navigates many twists and turns By David A. Sargent Freelance Writer

Majors Mobility, that goal is achieved in many ways for people with an extremely wide range of needs. The 15-year-old company is close to Lewiston-Auburn and they routinely come to the Lewiston area several times a week. Tyrrell Hunter, president of Majors Mobility, said the firm leads the way in the Durable Medical Equipment industry in Maine. It is one of the only DME companies in the state that offers the full array of mobility equipment and respiratory equipment and services. Majors Mobility is a company with a dedicated, highly-trained and low-turnover staff who can match a full selection of equipment with the specific requirements of each customer, Hunter explained. Furthermore, Hunter emphasized that Majors Mobility’s personnel have important expertise in the extremely difficult task of navigating through “all the twists and turns” of Medicare and insurance claims on behalf of their customers. “We know people have different tastes and

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

needs,” Hunter said. Whether the customer needs a lift chair, a power wheelchair or a scooter, she said the objective is to provide choices that are always “medically appropriate as well as aesthetically pleasing.” In the past year, Majors Mobility has added respiratory services. The company offers state-of-the-art oxygen equipment that is

“Getting around is what it’s all about — mobility for everyone is a precious thing.” Tyrrell Hunter

much more energy efficient and quieter than what other companies provide. Portable oxygen equipment can now be as inconspicuous as a pocketbook and as light as 4.5 pounds. “It’s so important to get set up with the right equipment,” Hunter said. All of the firm’s 11 staff members have received extensive

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training. In addition to a certified rehabilitation specialist, the company has factory-trained service technicians; even the delivery drivers are certified in deliveries. Hunter is concerned that too many people with critical mobility needs respond to longdistance marketing offers that lack personal service or quality assurance. She named a frequently seen television ad for scooters as an example of a company “that has no presence in Maine” in the form of a showroom or qualified in-state evaluators. Hunter noted that no employees of Majors Mobility receive commissions on sales. “We are consultants, not sales people,” she said. One of the main differences between Majors Mobility and long-distance companies is that Majors Mobility will bring a power wheelchair or scooter to the home to make sure it is the most appropriate model and the home environment is safe before the customer takes delivery. Another product that Majors Mobility specializes in is lift chairs. They have 14 different models in stock in different seat widths, depths and heights to fit various people’s shapes. “A lift chair is not just a piece of furniture,” Hunter said. “An improperly fitted lift

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chair can cause medical problems.” Majors Mobility also provides hospital beds, manual wheelchairs and stair lifts.

Majors Mobility 49 Topsham Fair Mall Rd.

Topsham, Maine 1-800-570-3393 www.majorsmobility.com

“At The Medicine Shoppe we believe that we provide caring and treatment beyond prescriptions.” The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy is housed in a building that is much more compact than that of large chain store pharmacies “and with good reason,” stated Lana Hoang, registered pharmacist and owner. “Our pharmacy is dedicated 100% to healthcare, and we do not want any distractions from our main mission. That mission is the driving force in providing the finest medicines and products to guide our customers to a much healthier state of living.” Hoang continued, “The pharmacists and staff are constantly upgrading their skills through continuing education so that we may provide the expert counseling service for which we are known.”The Medicine Shoppe is also a training center for pharmacy students from throughout New England. “We take great pride in our future pharmacists, that is why we participate in the students formal training.” Hoang and other bilingual staff members can converse “en francais” and strive hard to communicate with all of their patients to fully understand their prescription needs and to assist them in understanding their role in improving their health and lifestyle. Hoang is an active member of The American Academy of Anti-Aging and is proactive in staying current with the latest developments in anti-aging drug therapy management. Hoang has recently partnered with Dr. Michael Bedecs, DO of the Age Management Center in Portland. The Medicine Shoppe offers his prescribed and compounded

hormone replacement creams and associated prescriptions. “We are deeply involved in the administration of various clinics for our community. The Medicine Shoppe regularly conducts blood pressure screenings, seasonal flu and H1N1 flu shot clinics and Zostavax administration,” said Hoang. The Medicine Shoppe has another gifted pharmacist, Lou Gagne, R.Ph. who has over 33 years experience in pharmacy, with a wealth of knowledge in the science of compounding pharmaceuticals to order. The compounding process is necessary for varied reasons: sensitivity to ingredients, taste ingredients, how a medication is administered and for medication strength. Ann Loudermilk, The Medicine Shoppe pharmacy manager, stated, “A very important link to the L/A community is the Durable Medical Equipment department. The pharmacy is a Medicare Certified supplier of medicines, medical supplies and equipment for two area hospitals, several nursing facilities and private individuals. “It is important to us that patient and caretakers are fully trained regarding their use of supplies and equipment allowing them to become comfortable with their treatment plans,”said Loudermilk. Many of the pharmacy’s patients meet Sue Mercier while discussing billing of medical supplies for their insurance carrier, and with good reason — Mercier is a walking encyclopedia of billing information

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Ann Loudermilk, manager, and Lana Hoang, owner and R.Ph. regarding MaineCare, Medicare and private insurance claims, and is an important resource for the pharmacy and its family of patients. The Medicine Shoppe is proud to be associated with The Sam and Jennie Breast Care Center,” said Hoang. “We are the sole provider of Amoena prosthetics for the center and we provide the expertise of Joan Caron, a certified mastectomy fitter. Joan takes precise measurements and fits the patients custom made prosthetic replacements and also assists in the fitting of the patients garments as well. Joan has been on our team for 28 years and it is an honor to work along side of her.” Joan invites all of her patients to ask her any questions that apply to their needs, whether the questions are about garments or prosthetics. Loudermilk noted that the pharmacy has been honored by a nationally syndicated consumer study group as “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Chain Store Pharmacies” and

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rated as the top rated pharmacy for “Highest in Service and Knowledge” by an independent consumer products magazine for the past two years. “With fast and friendly service, dedicated healthcare professionals, extensive on-hand medical equipment and specialized medicines the pharmacy is your one stop health needs source point. It is the mission of The Medicine Shoppe to provide the best treatment and outreach to our community.” Hoang encourages all patients to call or visit with any health concerns that they may have. “We want you to feel like part of our extended family, one that you can turn to for professional advice and services. We even offer free delivery in the Lewiston and Auburn area.”

373 Sabattus Street Lewiston, Maine P: (207) 783-3539 F: (207) 786-9252 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday www.medicineshoppe.com/0550 All prescriptions can be ordered online, by phone, fax or in person at the store.

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

Center Street Dental: Where patients are family as a colonel several years ago.

By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer / Photographer

Dr. Chen grew up in Taiwan and came to the United States to further his education. He is a graduate of Georgia State University and Temple University. Dr. Chen is also a student of the martial arts; his calm and cheerful demeanor can make even the most nervous patients comfortable in his dental chair.

enter Street Dental has been brightening smiles in the twin cities for more than 30 years. James Dunn, DMD and Yen-chang Chen, DMD, along with their dental hygienists and administrative support personnel, wish to express their sincere thanks to all of their patients, friends and families for their patronage and their commitment to good dental health. Located at 26 Cross Street, just a stonesthrow from Center Street in Auburn, Dr. Dunn has been improving dental health at this location since 1984. In 2003, Dr. Chen arrived in Maine and became the other half of this dynamic duo of dentistry. With extensive renovations to their offices completed about six years ago, and with the addition of the latest in “state of the art” equipment and technologies, Center Street Dental provides a full spectrum of dental services in an office that is as friendly, comfortable and diverse as it is professional.

to help you enjoy the benefits of good dental health.” From pediatric dentistry, soft tissue management and teeth whitening to root canals, implants and dentures, Center Street Dental can take care of all of your dental health needs. For more information regarding what Center Street Dental has to offer, please visit their Web site at www.centerstreetdental.net or call 784-2211.

Dr. Chen DMD and Dr. Dunn DMD

According to Dr. Dunn, Center Street Dental can take care of all your dental health needs. A graduate of Tufts University, Dr. Dunn began practicing dentistry in his late 20s. Dr. Dunn taught high school science in Augusta, Maine before attending dental school, and has enjoyed coaching football, hockey and baseball. He spent 28 years in the United States Army where he was the commander of a unit that provided dental services to soldiers, retiring

Though their histories and personal styles may be strikingly different, Drs. Dunn and Chen compliment each other well. They share a passion for the art of dentistry and both will tell you that they enjoy making their patients smile brightly. Center Street Dental has five dental hygienists on its team; two have worked with Dr. Dunn for more that 20 years. The dentists, hygienists and administrative personnel at Center Street Dental work well together and all maintain the same high standards with respect to the care and treatment of their patients. At Center Street Dental, “it is our goal

Center Street Dental 26 Cross St. Auburn, Maine 207-784-2211

www.centerstreetdental.net

The Meadows: The amenities of home, convenience, security By Dan Marois Freelance Writer / Photographer

“Your needs, problems and favorite things become familiar to the staff and we can give you the special attention that you need,” said Rebecca Laliberte, the proprietor and heart and soul of The Meadows which provides retired residents with safety, security, and, quite possibly, some of the best home cooking around. Once the site of a motel and subsequent nursing home, the Meadows is uniquely constructed to meet the needs of elderly residents. The hallways are wide and level so residents have a large area to roam about the facility. While residents enjoy the privacy of their own rooms, they also can gather in many different sitting areas, in a library/ pool room, outside on the patio, or in the home-like atmosphere of a spacious dining room. Situated only a few miles from Lewiston, The Meadows is conve-

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niently located near shopping malls, doctors’ offices, hospitals, and anything else residents might need. “At The Meadows, three meals a day are provided in the rental cost and if you want to go shopping, we provide transportation or a personal shopper at no additional charge,” said Laliberte. The Meadows is affordable with rates starting at $800 a month for the room, meals, housekeeping, linen services, transportation and personalized services. Resident assistance is available 24 hours a day. Laliberte says that some people get anxious about making a move to a living center, fearing whether they will know anyone or miss having their privacy. She assures residents that there’s no problem for people who have chosen The Meadows. “You don’t have to worry about who you know, what you did for a living, or what your background is,” assured Laliberte. “At The Meadows, you are instantly family.”

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The Meadows

Route 202, Greene, Maine 946-3007

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www.mainemeadows.com

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Assisted Home Care: Fostering independence By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer / Photographer

ranging in length from a couple of hours to around-the-clock care.

nder most circumstances, the words “independent” and “assisted” have dissimilar, if not opposite, meanings. With an elderly population, however, “assistance” can mean “independence.” For our elderly loved ones, Assisted Home Care offers services that allow each to live independently, in their own home. Although its offices are located and affiliated with Montello Heights, a gracious residential facility in Lewiston, the services that Assisted Home Care provides reach so much further. From Bath-Brunswick to Oxford County, Assisted Home Care offers in-home services to people who prefer to live at home, but need some assistance to do so. Services offered by Assisted Home Care include personal care, light housekeeping, meal preparation, feeding assistance, medication reminders and laundry, as well as errands, companionship and respite service for other caregivers. In addition, Assisted Home Care can provide services

is caregiver continuity. Merrill explained that the elderly are often wary of allowing a stranger into their home and resistant to accepting assistance. Therefore, “it is important to keep the same personnel in the home.” Although some individuals are assisted on a long-term basis, some require services for short periods of time; perhaps as a respite for family members who provide care on a regular basis or for the “Snowbirds” amongst us who split their time between the northeast and warmer climates.

Carol Fontnette sits with client Joan Merrill.

Though supervised by a registered nurse, each of the 32 carefully chosen professionals employed by Assisted Home Care is fully certified as a nurses’ aide, medical technician, residential medication aide and/or a personal care assistant. According to Nancy Merrill, administrator of Assisted Home Care, one of the most important aspects of in-home care

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Families whose loved one has come for a visit or has just been discharged from a hospital or other facility may also need temporary assistance and would do well to consider Assisted Home Care as a comfortable way to provide care. Assisted Home Care has served our communities for 13 years. According to Merrill, 10 of her caregivers have been with Assisted Home Care since its inception. With such longevity, Assisted Home Care considers itself family, and this attitude of friendship and support transfers well to

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the individuals and families they serve. After so much time spent living and working in our community, Merrill and others at Assisted Home Care are familiar with the many community resources that are available to the elderly and can help with necessities such as heat, food and transportation. Working in harmony with other agencies, they are able to foster the development of support systems for their clientele. Assisted Home Care is able to respond quickly when called upon, and there are caregivers available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, by calling 212-6736.

Assisted Home Care

550 College St. Lewiston, ME 783-7375

www.assistedhomecare.org

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010

SUN JOURNAL

PR FILE 2010

Baseball, apple pie and Emerson Chevrolet By Rich Livingston Freelance Writer

“Chevy

helped build the American middle class in the first place,” said Emerson Chevrolet’s John Emerson. “And,” he added, “they’re in a great position to help rebuild it now. I can’t remember ever being so excited about what is coming from Chevrolet.”

and perhaps on General Motors in particular, Emerson anticipates a market rebound that is both need-driven and supported by more realistic credit options. “Consumers have been using this time to pay down their household debt,” he said, “and so many people are better able to buy a car now than they might have been a year or two ago. Plus, there is greater need now than there has been in years as people have held onto older cars longer than they might have liked.”

Speaking from a dealership that has been a vital component of the social, economic and cultural fabric of Lewiston-Auburn for more than four decades, such observations are both reassuring and encouraging, and there can be no more authoritative source than Emerson himself. For the arts, education, sports: there has been no more dependable corporate citizen for the past half-century than Emerson Chevrolet. The company and the brands it represents are all about fundamental community values.

The reduction in the number of brands that GM needs to support will be helpful, too, Emerson asserted. “We won’t be competing with ourselves so much anymore.” More specifically focused resources, vastly improved inventory control and more rigorous financial management will all help restore the brand to prominence, Emerson feels, “but the real key to Chevrolet’s future are all the really innovative, cutting-edge new models that are starting to come into the market.

“The restructuring of General Motors means that the resources and the focus are all in place to help Chevy return to the kind of dominance of the automotive market we all remember.” While acknowledging that the economy has been tough on the automotive industry in general,

“We haven’t seen that kind of innovation in maybe a generation or more,” he explained. And while such stalwarts as Chevrolet pick up trucks remain a cornerstone of the brand, the hottest activity is in the crossover-utility market, a series of vehicles that combine the most appealing

SUN JOURNAL

features of sports utility vehicles, family vans, and the old station wagon concept. Chevy is leading the CUV category with the 2010 Chevy Traverse, ranked by U.S. News and World Report as #1 (of 27 entries) among “Affordable Mid-sized SUVs.” The Traverse is a contender for 2010 Car of the Year, and like its compact cousin, the 2010 Chevy Equinox, the Traverse is available with either front wheel or all wheel drive. “The whole new car market will be revolutionized this summer,” said Emerson, “when the Chevy Cruze gets here. I can’t ever remember as much excitement about any single new model.” The 2011 Cruze, a new compact sedan, will be the first truly global car ever designed and built by Chevrolet, and will compete on the ground throughout Europe and Asia, as well as North America. Stylish, peppy and extremely efficient, the Cruze will be considered either a family car — a sedan that will comfortably seat five, in what has been described as “a surprising amount of room, even for big people,” or a performance car with both guts and efficiency. “It will be about connecting the driver to the car,” Emerson said, with such features as an optional six-speed transmission. The Cruze will be the first of the next, more fuel-efficient, newly engi-

PR FILE 2010

neered Chevrolets to hit the market, within months, but it will be followed quickly by a whole new generation of completely redesigned, more efficient vehicles. Upcoming releases, likely for the 2011 model year, include the breathtaking Orlando CUV and the eagerly anticipated Chevy Spark mini-car, both of which are expected to average between 35 and 40 miles per gallon. But Chevy will also reengineer its more familiar models, too, with complete makeovers planned for both the popular Malibu and Impala nameplates: more powerful and roomier, but with efficiencies and gas mileage far in excess of any medium or full sized sedans currently available, regardless of brand. “We’ve survived the toughest times in the U.S. car industry since World War II,” Emerson said, “and now it’s time to move on. I really believe that the thrill of driving that Chevrolet brought to us originally, is coming back. And coming back, big.”

Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 10, 2010