22nd Annual Central Maine Business

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colby.edu 4 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers ~ 2019 ~ TABLE OF CONTENTS Waterville has become a centrally-located and welcoming large-scale events host city...... 6 It’s a small team at KV Chamber...... 8 Free advice can be worth a lot when it comes from CEI...... 10 BUSINESS Palliative care is about living well despite serious illness...... 11 Northern Light Inland Hospital expands services and events JOURNAL highlighting family health...... 12 Camaraderie and cooperation among businesses add to a welcoming atmosphere in Franklin County...... 14 Timber Pure Technologies to start production of wood fiber insulation M E E T O U R S T A F F in former Madison paper mill...... 15 Winthrop moves into fall and winter with a full complement of activities...... 16 Group Vice President Sales, Masthead Maine Skowhegan Area Chamber steps into the future...... 17 Jody Jalbert Colleges of all sizes and types compete harder than ever for students...... 18 Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel Mission driven and moving forward: Projects and progress moving at Sun Journal | Western Maine Weeklies top speed in Waterville...... 24 Phone: 689-2913 ~ Email: [email protected] Two centers, focused on innovation, look to the future to help grow the economy...... 26 Business Development Manager Tuning in to WII-FM (i.e. what’s in it for me?)...... 28 Bridget Campbell Maine’s low unemployment marathon doubles previous record...... 29 Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel Kennebec Behavioral Health puts focus on workers...... 38 Phone: 861-9155 ~ Email: [email protected] How a career helping others can make you happier...... 39 Should you buy or build a home?...... 40 Advertising Sales Team Maine home sales set a record in 2018, and they’re not far off Charles Barnes Dave Pierce the pace this year...... 41 Jeremiah Elwell Ron Robbins Business owners should be thinking about a succession plan...... 42 Amanda Guilford Betsy Weiss 5 signs it’s time to ask for a raise...... 43 Crystal Jacques Waterville software startup accesses two funding sources to help promote product...... 44 For those who want their own business, Maine offers lots of free help...... 46 Advertising Creative Team New opportunities beckon a new kind of worker...... 47 Jake Laws Alicia Tuttle Mid-Maine Technical Center seeing early success in Lindsey Leboeuf Karen Paradis, Outdoor Leadership program...... 48 Dawn Tantum Creative Supervisor Cybersecurity firm expands, highlighting growth of online threats...... 50 How new tech could help you manage your money...... 52 Debbie Fuller, Profiles Coordinator How to prep financially when changing jobs...... 54 4 tips to dress for success at work...... 56 Contributors How companies are supporting employees’ financial goals...... 58 Darla Pickett and Terri Hibbard, Content Editors Taylor Abbott Nancy Marshall J. Craig Anderson Nancy P. McGinnis About this section Wanda Curtis Joseph M. Pratt This special advertising supplement was produced by the Kennebec Journal/ Mike Duguay Meg Robbins Morning Sentinel. The cover design was by Alicia Tuttle, graphic designer. Nancy Gallagher George Sopko If you would like information on running a section about your Terri Hibbard Valerie Tucker business or organization, call Business Development Manager Elizabeth Keane Barbara Walsh Bridget Campbell at 861-9155 or (800) 537-5508, Ext. 9155 or email [email protected]. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 5

INDEX OF BUSINESSES

Aable Cremation Services, LLC...... 55 Eric’s Restaurant...... 51 Mattson’s Flooring and Window Advance 1 Cleaning Services...... 41 Eye Care of Maine...... 45 Treatments...... 40 All Season Home Improvement Co...... 53 Fairfield Antiques Mall...... 49 Mount Merici Academy...... 45 Allen Insurance and Financial...... 36 Family First Funeral Homes & Mt. Blue Drug...... 52 Antiques Directory...... 49 Cremation Care...... 55 Northeast Charter and Tour...... 36 Augusta Civic Center...... 17 Farmington Businesses...... 52 Northeast Laboratory Services...... 43 Augusta, City of...... 25 Farrin’s Country Auctions...... 49 Northern Light Health...... 60 Automotive Services Directory...... 56 Franklin Savings Bank...... 54 Oakland Businesses...... 58 Avesta Housing...... 37 Funeral & Cremation Peachey Builders...... 39 Bar Harbor Bank & Trust...... 13 Planning Directory...... 55 Pine Tree Orthopedic Lab...... 54 Best Places to Work in Maine...... 36-37 Gallant Funeral Home...... 55 Pink Elephant Antique Mall, The...... 49 Boyntons Greenhouses, Inc...... 53 GHM Insurance Agency...... 43 Portland Pie Co...... 51 Buddies Meats & Groceries...... 58 Giberson Funeral Home, LLC...... 55 Prime Financial, Inc...... 47 Business Journal Profiles...... 30-35 Gibson LeClair Certified Public R & D Self-Storage...... 57 CARE Services Co...... 17 Accountants...... 39 Randy’s Full Service Auto Repair...... 56 Catholic School Directory...... 45 Golden Pond Wealth Management...... 15 Redington Fairview General Hospital...... 37 Colby College...... 3 Good Times Unlimited...... 52 Rocky’s Stove Shoppe...... 53 Coldwell Banker RizzoMattson Hallowell Businesses...... 29 Self-Storage Directory...... 57 Realtors...... 21 Heritage House Restaurant...... 51 Sheridan Corporation...... 9 Cooks Corner Self-Storage...... 57 Higgins and Bolduc Agency...... 58 Somerset Stone & Stove...... 53 cPort Credit Union Augusta ...... 19 Home Improvement Directory...... 53 Sprague & Curtis Real Estate...... 25 D. H. Pinnette & Sons, Inc. Roofing...... 53 Jack B. Turner Jewelers...... 29 St. John Catholic School...... 45 Damon’s Pizza & Italians...... 51 Joseph’s Fireside Steakhouse...... 58 St. Michael School...... 45 Dan & Scotts Cremation & Judy’s Jewels and Forgotten Treasures....49 Stanley’s Septic Tank Service...... 53 Funeral Services...... 55 Kennebec Behavioral Health...... 27, 37 Stoney Creek Antiques...... 49 Darling’s Auto Group...... 37 Kennebec Federal Savings...... 36, 41 SW Realty Partners, LLC, Self-Storage....57 Davis Paving...... 47 Kennebec Savings Bank...... 2 Sweet Chilli Thai Restaurant...... 51 DeBlois Electric, Inc...... 36 Kennebec Valley Community College...... 11 The Elm Event Center...... 47 Delta Ambulance...... 15 Maine Avenue Self-Storage...... 57 TNT Glass...... 56 Dining & Catering Guide...... 51 Maine State Credit Union...... 23 Tranten’s Family Shurfine...... 52 Direct Cremation of Maine...... 55 MaineGeneral Health...... 37 University of Maine at Augusta...... 59 Dom’s Barber Shop...... 29 Maine-ly Elder Care...... 19 Whited Motorhome & RV Center...... 56 E. J. Perry Construction Company, Inc.....29 Maple Leaf Self-Storage...... 57 Winslow Supply Inc...... 41 Engine 5 Bakehouse...... 51 Marshall Communications...... 21 Yard Care Plus LLC...... 53 6 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers

“The City of Waterville was se- lected as the host city for this year’s event organized by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. It was an amazing weekend. Bikers from all over the U.S. and a handful of other countries were impressed with the venue and its proximity to downtown. Local service or- ganizations provided dozens of volunteers to assist with duties from food prep, to shuttle service to helping handle luggage. It was a fantastic showing of what the area CAN be for the city in the future.” MATT SKEHAN, DIRECTOR PARKS AND RECREATION, CITY OF WATERVILLE

Photo courtesy of the city of Waterville A birds eye view of the Waterville Riverwalk and city at sunset. Waterville has become a centrally-located and welcoming large-scale events host city BY NANCY GALLAGHER and guests deserve because, during this with the Chamber of Commerce and Current Waterville room count stands Correspondent event, we honor Girl Scouts who have local businesses and organizations,” said at approximately 500, and bed count at earned our highest awards, the Gold and Director of Summer Programs for the approximately 750, with an additional 40 t’s finally happening. Silver Awards, the Girl Scout Leadership Center for Small Town Jewish Life, Mela- or more rooms and restaurant space now “More and more we’re seeing scholarship recipients, graduating high nie Weiss. Conference venues included under construction at the future Lock- I Waterville as the destination for . . . school seniors and our very deserving Thomas College, the Waterville Opera wood Hotel on Main Street. bigger statewide events,” said Mid-Maine Girl Scout volunteers. Girl Scouts come House and the Hathaway Creative Center. Waterville’s Elks Club and hotels offer Chamber of Commerce President and from all over the state to attend, and September brought 450 cyclists and extensive banquet facilities. Broadening CEO Kimberly Lindlof, noting that the city downtown Waterville is somewhat central nearly 100 staff, volunteers and local the city’s complement of large-scale ad- now has the capacity to host both indoor and easy to get to for our attendees. The service groups to Waterville’s RiverWalk vantages is The Elm, a full-service events and outdoor large-scale events. staff at the Opera House are great to at Head of Falls. center, recently opened on College For the second consecutive year, the work with and attend to every detail, en- “The City of Waterville was selected as Avenue, adding a lounge with a full bar Girl Scouts of America held its annual suring our event is a success,” said Girl the host city for this year’s event organ- and seating for 125 persons, a flexible statewide May conference in Waterville. Scouts of Maine CEO Joanne Crepeau. ized by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. It banquet space that expands to seat from Mid-Maine Chamber Guidebooks helped In June, the Maine Conference for Jew- was an amazing weekend. Bikers from 250 to 350, and a 500-seat performance participants with parking and dining infor- ish Life returned to Waterville. all over the U.S. and a handful of other venue with a digital sound system, acous- mation convenient to the Opera House “We’ve enjoyed hosting the annual countries were impressed with the venue tical panels and LED lighting. If adding venue. Maine Conference for Jewish Life in and its proximity to downtown. Local standing admission tickets, The Elm can “Girl Scouts of Maine has hosted our Waterville for the past six years. Every service organizations provided dozens of accommodate 650 concertgoers. annual G.I.R.L. Celebration at the Water- year, the conference has grown, and for volunteers to assist with duties from food For ten days in August of 2020, the Al- ville Opera House the past two years, and the past three years we’ve held part of prep, to shuttle service to helping handle fond Youth & Community Center will host we look forward to hosting it again there the conference on Main Street, bringing luggage. It was a fantastic showing of the Cal Ripkin Babe Ruth U12 Major/60 next May. It is such a wonderful venue for over 250 people from across the state what the area CAN be for the city in the World Series at Purnell Wrigley Field, our event. The space and stage are per- and beyond to experience our beautiful future,” said Matt Skehan, Waterville’s fect for the recognition that our honorees downtown. It’s been wonderful to work Director of Parks and Recreation. More MID-MAINE, PAGE 7 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 7

Purnell Wrigley Field Contributed photo BikeMaine 2019 Contributed photo Purnell Wrigley Field, home of the 2020 Cal Ripken World Series. 450 participants tent at Waterville’s scenic RiverWalk at Head of Falls preced- ing the beginning of 2019 BikeMaine, a week-long cycle tour of Maine’s natural beauty.

Waterville Opera House Contributed photo The Waterville Opera House stage is set for the 2019 Girl Scouts of Maine G. I.R. L. Celebration.

the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce concurrently expands its role as Water- Mid-Maine ville’s one-stop shop for business devel- opment at 50 Elm Street. The Central CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 Maine Growth Council, 680-7300; a Small Business Development Center Advi- again making Waterville the destination sor, 319-4316; and the recently-launched for a major event—one expected to attract satellite of the Maine Technology Institute 3,000 attendees. 582-4790 diversify access to business “Nine regional championship teams information and resources in that single from across the US…their families, convenient location. friends, fans, coaches and referees The Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce will settle into Waterville,” said Felicia is located at 50 Elm Street, Waterville. Lambert of the AYCC. Lindlof will print an Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. additional 3,000 Mid-Maine Chamber of Monday through Friday. Telephone, 873- Commerce Guidebooks to help them navi- 3315, fax 877-0087 and the website gate the area. is midmainechamber.com. For general Even as its reputation as a large-scale inquiries contact customerservice@mid- Dennis Griggs photo events destination shines ever brighter, mainechamber.com. Sharing a bite at the Maine Conference for Jewish Life. 8 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers It’s a small team at KV Chamber But it boosts businesses and programs in 23 cities and towns BY NANCY P. MCGINNIS Correspondent

t’s been a busy year for the Ken- nebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, I reflecting the energy and diversity of the members in the 23 cities and towns served by the four-person office located on Western Avenue in Augusta. “We are small, but mighty,” said Katie Doherty, President and CEO, praising her Chamber team: Caroline Saban, Marketing Director; Kayla Tracy, Events & Membership Director; and Office Manag- er Lindsay Corbett. Doherty also cites the dedication and open mindedness of the Chamber’s board of directors to explain how an organization founded way back in 1932 stays relevant and continues to make a community impact in 2019 and beyond. In light of the ongoing evolution of strong downtown coalitions, Main Street programs, and the like, the Chamber has been engaged in reassessing its own pri- orities and transitioning to a supporting role in community events all year long, while aligning itself more closely to its own mission, focusing on the workforce and the local economy. Thus, the Chamber is bidding farewell to its Whatever Family Festival after a 42- year run. Launched as a community boat race in the 1970’s in celebration of the recently completed cleanup of the Ken- nebec River, the event had expanded and Nancy McGinnis photo morphed over the decades to a weeks- The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce team includes (l. to r.) Caroline A. Saban, Marketing Director; Kayla M. Tracy, long lineup of activities and offerings Events & Membership Director; President and CEO Katie L. Doherty and Lindsay L. Corbett, Office Manager. from golf to bluegrass. “We’re encouraging businesses that have supported the Whatever Festival in past years to continue to be active par- ticipants in community events, such as nesses to small entrepreneurs, recruited shaking hands. The 7th Up initiative is and backgrounds to attend this highly the Fourth of July parade and festivities to participate. designed to benefit all students whether acclaimed course and the Chamber is in Augusta. We’ll be continuing to develop The goal: to forge connections, offer they will enter the workforce with a high working with some 430 KLI alumni to cre- the Kennebec River Brewfest,” a popular insight, and build awareness of career school or trade school diploma, associ- ate an interactive mentorship program. summer event launched two years ago opportunities right here in our own ate›s or bachelor›s degree. Doherty and Through these new and remodeled that features live music and spotlights lo- communities, said Doherty. This time is a her team are enthusiastic and ambitious: initiatives, she notes, in this era when cal breweries and distilleries, “and we’re critical juncture when young people are “Next year, we›ll be expanding 7th Up to we turn to and are so often driven by the excited about the Kennebec Valley debut beginning to form opinions and perspec- seventh graders in all the school districts internet and social media, the Chamber of 7th Up this fall,” said Doherty. tives about their future options. For ex- across the Kennebec Valley.” is re-visioning and re-energizing. Earlier this month, for its inaugural ver- ample, students learn that MaineGeneral After a one-year hiatus, the Chamber’s “We’re also trying to market ourselves sion of 7th Up, based on the event pio- employs not only physicians and others Kennebec Leadership Institute (KLI) is better, as a Chamber,” explains Doherty. neered by the Bangor Regional Chamber with medical training – but also chefs now refreshed, up and running again, As she often tells newcomers, “You get last year, the Kennebec Valley Chamber and engineers. with 22 students currently comprising its from a membership what you put into it. partnered with Cony High School to offer In conjunction with 7th Up, Doherty 32nd cohort. It always works best when you show up, 180 seventh grade students the oppor- adds, the JMG (Jobs for Maine Gradu- “We took time out to work with a brand yourself, connect and contribute.” tunity to spend a day connecting in depth ates) teacher at Cony has been working consultant, explore leadership trends Meanwhile, the Chamber’s other popu- with selected Augusta businesses. The with the students to help them develop and restructure this important 13-week lar offerings such as Cynergy, providing students were split into five groups, each practical, confidence-building real world program,” said Doherty. Area business- working with three of a total of fifteen skills such as making eye contact and es select employees of varying ages area employers, ranging from large busi- More KV CHAMBER, PAGE 9 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 9

After a one-year hiatus, the Chamber’s Kennebec Leadership Institute (KLI) is now KV Chamber refreshed, up and running again, with 22 students currently comprising its 32nd cohort. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 The Chamber took time out to work with a consultant, explore leadership trends and re- structure this important 13-week program. Area businesses select employees of varying networking opportunities for young area ages and backgrounds to attend this highly acclaimed course and the Chamber is working professionals, and the Chamber›s Small Business Resource Team, with seasoned with 430 KLI alumni to create an interactive mentorship program. expertise and resources, continue full speed ahead. Preparations are already underway for the annual Kenney Awards coming up in January. With new retail, restaurant, and other field phone calls and email inquiries year businesses opening and or expanding, ‘round,” said Doherty. Visitors are always there has been a flurry of ribbon cuttings interested in local things to do, and -- “as many as one or two a week,” said attractions such as the area lakes and Doherty, noting that the Chamber is hap- campgrounds. The Chamber’s literature py to welcome members and non-mem- racks are filled with members’ brochures bers alike to the business community. and flyers, and “we’re happy to offer “We’re here to help.” guides and maps covering not just the The Kennebec Valley Chamber includes Kennebec Valley area but the entire state about 600 members, with an impressive of Maine, to share the love.” retention rate of 92 percent. To learn For more information about the Cham- (or rediscover) all the benefits of mem- ber, visit the website at kennebecvalley- bership, quarterly refreshers are offered chamber.com or email info@kennebecval- on site in the upstairs conference room leychamber.com or call 623-4559. at the Chamber (an attractive meeting KVCC serves Augusta, Belgrade, space for up to 30, available free of Chelsea, Dresden, Farmingdale, Fayette, charge as a membership benefit). Gardiner, Hallowell, Jefferson, Litchfield, The Chamber’s Western Avenue Manchester, Monmouth, Mount Vernon, Nancy McGinnis photo headquarters also serves as a real and Pittston, Randolph, Readfield, Richmond, The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, serving 23 area cities and towns virtual visitors’ center. “We’ve had lots of Somerville, Wayne, West Gardiner, White- and approximately 600 member businesses and organizations, is located just off tourism foot traffic this summer, and we field, Windsor and Winthrop. Interstate 295 on Western Avenue in Augusta. 10 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Free advice can be worth a lot when it comes from CEI BY NANCY GALLAGHER “That’s our role; to educate them and help them learn how to do things for themselves Correspondent and help them set up systems that they understand. I see people wait sometimes too long before they ask for help. (CEI advice) should make it easier for them to understand where he Small Business Develop- ment Center (SBDC) of Coastal their money is going and how to make decisions that will improve their profitability.” Enterprises, Inc. (CEI) offers free T ALLISON WATSON, ADVISOR SBDC/CEI confidential business advising throughout the state of Maine. From her Waterville location, Allison Watson acts as SBDC Advisor for north- ern Kennebec and southern Somerset counties. She assists businesses with concept and start-up viability issues, the challenges of growth and exit strategies for mature businesses. By bringing information concerning op- erations, management, financial systems and human resources, “we really offer advising services from the very beginning of the start-up to the exit of a business,” says Watson. CEI, a nonprofit community develop- ment fund lender, also has programs and resources to assist with job creation counseling and credit issues as well as with environmental and aquaculture enterprises. In the past year Watson provided more than 1,000 hours of client advisory services. She helped the 100 clients she advised to generate about $1.2 million in capital for start-ups and expansions. Among those enabled by these funds to start or expand were daycare centers, Contributed photo a barber shop, recycling facility, interior Barbers Eric Signorelli and Tanya Lennon, of The Barber Parlor, the newly opened barber shop on College Avenue in Wa- decorator, real estate development, terville. The Barber Parlor, is open Tuesday through Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday and Monday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 162 lobstering, restaurants, machine shop, College Avenue. This business is an example of Small Business Development Center Advisor Allison Watson’s efforts in automotive repair, landscaping, coun- assisting entrepreneurs with their startup process. seling services, photography, painting, industrial processes and farming. She mentored at the Maine Center for help in facilitating growth in this category available to guide businesses with their purchasers will expect three years of Entrepreneurs, a gateway educational is on the way at the state level, said finances. tax returns as a demonstration of the workshop leading to a competitive oppor- Watson. “That’s our role; to educate them and value of what they will be buying. Current tunity to pitch ideas to earn a $25,000 A bumper crop of restaurants is in the help them learn how to do things for employees might also be interested. development grant. works and Watson expects that to trend themselves and help them set up sys- Businesses sold to employees have a Small businesses undergird Maine’s upward as Waterville continues to grow. tems that they understand. I see people higher success rate than other small economy. Higher labor costs and a reluc- Watson has been focusing on the Qual- wait sometimes too long before they businesses, she said. tance to raise prices to adequately cover ified Small Employer Health Reimburse- ask for help,” says Watson. Her exten- One-hundred businesses. 1,000 hours those expenses pressure many small ment Arrangement (QSEHRA) program, sive background includes the financial of free advice. $1.2 million in capital for businesses, said Watson. Hourly wages through which participating employers analysis skills and solutions to better startups and expansions. Who says free will increase yearly up to $15 and an earn a tax benefit by providing employ- position a business for tax filing and loan advice is worth what you pay for it? upcoming earned paid time off benefit ees with a pretax stipend dedicated to applications. CEI is located in the Mid-Maine Cham- further squeezes labor costs. purchasing marketplace insurance. Busi- “It should make it easier for them to ber of Commerce building at 50 Elm It’s no secret that Maine needs more nesses ready to grow or attract employ- understand where their money is going Street in Waterville. Business hours are daycare facilities. On a positive note, ees and pay benefits must demonstrate and how to make decisions that will im- Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Watson recently attended a ribbon cut- a solid financial base in order to success- prove their profitability,” says Watson. Telephone is 319-4316. Email is allison. ting for Happy Days Daycare in Winslow, fully access new capital, says Watson. What about exit strategies? Have one, [email protected]. The CEI website the latest among a number of daycares She stresses the importance of well-or- rather than just closing a business, said is ceimaine.org. The SBDC website is opened locally in the past year. More ganized financial systems. Her office is Watson. This takes time. Prospective mainesbdc.org. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 11 Palliative care is about living well despite serious illness BY VALERIE TUCKER FOR Correspondent

iving with serious illness is never easy, but Northern Light Health L patients have an extra layer THOSE of support available to them through palliative care. Palliative care, as defined by the Center to Advance Palliative Care, is specialized interdisciplinary care pro- vided by physicians, nurse practitioners, WHO social workers, nurses and other staff working together for people living with serious illness. Such care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a DO serious illness – whatever the diagnosis. The goal of the palliative care team is to Contributed photo improve quality of life for both the patient Northern Light Sebasticook Valley and the family while working alongside Hospital provides specialized medical the patient’s primary care provider and care for patients who have serious and involved specialists. chronic illnesses. Palliative care is ap- There is often confusion about the propriate at any age and at any stage difference between palliative care and of treatment. Unlike hospice care, hospice care. Hospice care is a type of patients can receive supportive care palliative care for patients living with while receiving treatments that are advanced illness nearing end of life. The meant to cure an illness. Kim New- patient has either come to a stage where by, FNP-C, works with patients and curative efforts are no longer of benefit families to discuss their goals of care, or the patient’s goals have moved toward options, improve their quality of life Unique. a focus on comfort and in-the-moment through symptom management, and quality of life. Palliative Care, in contrast, advance care planning discussions. Challenging. can be paired right alongside curative treatment. And in fact, the earlier the better, said Jim VanKirk, MD, medical require changing clothes and is noninva- Adventure. director of Northern Light Palliative Care. sive (listening to heart, lungs, etc.). “Research shows that involving pallia- • Discussion of what the patient and tive care early in the course of a person’s caregiver understand about the state of Is it time in illness leads to better outcomes for the person’s illness. your life to try patients and their families,” said VanKirk. • Discussion about goals important “By enhancing the availability of outpa- to the patient regarding living as well as something new? tient and home-based palliative care, we possible with the illness. can reach patients earlier in their illness • Review and completion of ad- and address quality of life through symp- vanced-care planning paperwork as KVCC offers tom management and by continuing to needed. address goals that are important to the • Recommendations to patient and programs to patient’s daily life.” provider relative to symptom manage- launch careers to To that end, Northern Light Sebasticook ment and/ or resources that could Valley Hospital offers outpatient pallia- benefit the patient. last a lifetime. tive care services as well as inpatient • Follow-up as needed and as goals consults at the hospital when needed. and/or symptoms require. Patients and SVH providers also have Currently, palliative care services are the resource of home-based palliative covered by insurance just as any spe- care as part of wrapping care around the cialist visit. For questions or to contact WWW.KVCC.ME.EDU patient and family as illness progresses. palliative care at Northern Light SVH, call 92 Western Avenue, Fairfield, ME 04963 What to expect at a palliative care 487-4081. Northern Light Sebasticook For more information, please call Enrollment Services at 453-5822 (KVCC) appointment: Valley Hospital is located at 447 North or email CJ McKenna at [email protected] •A brief physical exam that does not Main Street in Pittsfield. 12 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Northern Light Inland Hospital expands services and events highlighting family health BY WANDA CURTIS the summer months, they’ve seen a lot “All of Inland’s primary care practices Correspondent of tick bites, Lyme disease and other illnesses. She said they see an average now have behavioral health services orthern Light Inland Hospital’s of 21 patients per day with a high of 36 through telehealth connections with a new Walk-In Care Clinic opened patients in one day. N in March and is staying busy. “We’re glad to see people who don’t psychiatric mental health nurse prac- John Dalton, President of Northern Light have a primary care provider and help Inland Hospital, said they’ve seen a them to locate a provider,” said Pendex- titioner connected to Acadia Hospital, steady flow of patients at the clinic for ter. “Our goal is to help them get estab- but located in Indiana. This kind of a variety of non-emergency health care lished with a provider.” needs during the past six months. According to Pendexter, one difference technology is great for patients, it “It’s been very successful and very well between Inland’s Walk-In Care Clinic gives them much easier access be- received by the community,” said Dalton. and many express care facilities is that “About half of the patients we’ve seen they’re able to do lab work and take the cause it’s available right in their home- are Inland patients and half don’t have a specimens right next door to the hospital. primary care provider.” She said that they can also order X-rays town primary care office.” Nurse manager Hope Pendexter said at the clinic which can be done right next JOHN DALTON, PRESIDENT the Walk-In Care Clinic was opened to door. NORTHERN LIGHT INLAND HOSPITAL provide care to those in the community “If they need prior authorization, we can with non-emergency needs such as cold also take care of that,” she said. or flu symptoms, urinary tract infections, The Walk-In Care Clinic, located at 174 earaches, sprains, strains, minor cuts, Kennedy Memorial Drive, is open 8 a.m.- skin irritations, allergies or headaches. 6 p.m. seven days a week. The only days She said they’ve seen a lot of seasonal to be closed are Thanksgiving, Christmas illnesses such as colds, sore throats, and New Year’s Day. No appointment is and flu during the winter months. During necessary at the clinic.

TELEHEALTH SERVICES Another way Northern Light Inland Hos- pital is making healthcare work for the community is increasing the availability of specialty care via telehealth. Through a Skype-like video system, telehealth gives Inland patients local access to care that HOPE PENDEXTER DEBRA SCHLEICH, NP-C LANCE FELLERS, MD they may have had to travel long distanc- NURSE MANAGER, NORTHERN LIGHT NORTHERN LIGHT es to receive otherwise. NORTHERN LIGHT RHEUMATOLOGY RHEUMATOLOGY “All of Inland’s primary care practices INLAND HOSPITAL now have behavioral health services from EMMC’s Anemia Clinic listens to the within the system. through telehealth connections with a client’s heart using a special Bluetooth “It opens up many possibilities for psychiatric mental health nurse prac- stethoscope. Based on the exam and telehealth and other ways we can make titioner connected to Acadia Hospital, test results, the provider can order it easier for patients to access our family but located in Indiana. This kind of medications, follow-up labs and infusion of healthcare providers across the miles,” technology is great for patients, it gives treatments to be done at Inland Hospital. said Barry. them much easier access because it’s Northern Light Inland Hospital offers a available right in their hometown primary similar telehealth service for sleep apnea NEW RHEUMATOLOGY STAFF care office,” said Dalton. consultations with experts from their In other news, Lance Fellers, M.D., Anemia Care is a new telehealth offer- sister hospital in Presque Isle, AR Gould. recently returned to Maine to practice at ing at Inland. Anemia specialists from Telehealth has been used in the emer- Northern Light Rheumatology. He was on Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical gency department for many years for staff at Inland before leaving to teach in Center provide patient evaluations and trauma and behavioral health needs. Florida a few years ago. Fellers is one of Contributed photos propose treatment plans remotely during Sara Barry, director of community rela- only two physicians in the State of Maine The Walk-In Care Clinic, located at 174 video session held in a specialty care of- tions, said that being part of Northern who specializes in pediatric rheuma- Kennedy Memorial Drive, is open 8 fice in the Medical Arts Building attached Light Health gives Inland access to spe- a.m.-6 p.m. seven days a week. to Inland. A medical assistant is with the cialists at eight other hospitals and many More INLAND, PAGE 13 patient during the exam. The provider other health care locations for services Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 13

and in childcare sites to help promote noon at Snow Pond Center for the Arts. healthy habits,” said Barry. Families will have a chance participate Inland Northern Light Inland has several in snowshoe hikes and a snowman mak- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 events planned for this school year. All ing challenge. Some snowshoes will be events are free. available to borrow. tology. He is board-certified in internal MEDITERRANEAN DIET CAMP EXPO & HEALTHY KIDS’ DAY medicine, rheumatology and fellowship FOR BETTER HEALTH Saturday, April 4 from 10 a.m. - noon at trained in pediatric rheumatology. A new Families will have the opportunity to the Alfond Youth Center. nurse practitioner Debra Schleich, NP-C enjoy cooking demos and taste testing Families will view a sugar display show- has also joined Northern Light Rheuma- quesadillas and salad dressing plus a ing how much sugar in the average soda tology. She will specialize in headache short talk about the Mediterranean Diet drink and learn how sugary drinks con- and migraine management and will on Wednesday, October 30 from 5:30 tribute to childhood obesity. They will also also assist with therapy for fibromyalgia p.m., - 7:30 p.m. at Snow Pond Center for sample fruit-infused water samples to patients. the Arts, 8 Goldenrod, Sidney. Call Jim at introduce healthier drink options. They 861-3392 to pre-register. will learn more about the 5-2-1-0 Wheel FAMILY FUN SERIES of Wellness. Families will learn about According to Barry, Northern Light In- Contributed photo FALL FESTIVAL: local camps and participate in fun activ- land Hospital hosted a number of family Inland also hosted an Art in the Park QUARRY TRAILS EVENT ities too. events for the community during the past event with Waterville Creates in June. Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. – year in conjunction with their Family Fun 1 p.m. at Quarry Road Trails CHILDREN’S HEALTH & SAFETY FUN Series. They were involved in two Farm- Families will have the opportunity to FAIR - KIWANIS CLUB OF er’s Market at Head of Falls. for Kid’s Club, where they helped children participate in a Fun Run at 9 a.m. GREATER WATERVILLE Inland also hosted an Art in the Park plant either a vegetable or herb in jars Saturday, May 2 from 9 a.m. - noon at event with Waterville Creates in June. and gave children an opportunity to taste HEALTHY HOLIDAYS AT Messalonskee Middle School Children drew tulips and Inland staff test some veggies. JOY TO THE ‘VILLE Families will have the opportunity to distributed Let’s Go! 5-2-1-0 (5 - or more Barry said that hundreds of local fami- Saturday, December 7 from 10 a.m. - learn about health and safety while fruits and veggies each day; 2 - hours or lies participate in their Family Fun Series noon at Chase Forum, Waterville. having fun. less of recreational screen time; 1 - hour each year. Inland partners with other Families will be able to sample healthy or more of physical activity daily; 0 - sug- organizations in the community to offer holiday snacks. DISC GOLF ary drinks, more water and low-fat milk). free or low cost ways for families with Saturday, July 25 from 9 a.m. - noon at Also, distributed was information about children to stay active together. SNOW POND WINTER Winslow High School. ticks and sun safety. Later in the sum- “It’s part of our work with the Let’s Go! CARNIVAL & ICE FISHING DERBY Families can learn how to play disc golf mer, Inland collaborated with SNAP-Ed 5-2-1-0 program in schools, after-school Saturday, February 29 from 9 a.m. – taught by Winslow High School students. We help businesses write their own success stories.

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Member FDIC 14 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Camaraderie and cooperation among businesses add to a welcoming atmosphere in Franklin County

BY VALERIE TUCKER Correspondent “By working together, instead of competing, we add to the risha Mosher, Executive Director of the Franklin County Chamber vitality of the area and to the T of Commerce, is convinced that overall welcoming atmos- local businesses have the ability to weather economic ups and downs better phere we show our visitors than more urban areas in the state. “The community ties in Franklin County and potential businesses.” are very strong,” she said. TRISHA MOSHER, Businesses support each other and EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Chamber memberships support the economic vitality of the area, she added FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER and steady business growth reflects that OF COMMERCE solidarity. “By working together, instead of com- peting, we add to the vitality of the area and to the overall welcoming atmosphere we show our visitors and potential busi- nesses,” Mosher said. One new Chamber member is the Mosher’s job also includes staying Western Maine Play Museum in Wilton. current on legislation that will impact the The museum got a home in 2014, when county’s employers and employees. The the family of Albert York, the town’s first Contributed photo minimum wage law, for example, has an doctor, donated their century-old house The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce welcomed a new business mem- effect on small businesses, because em- at 561 Main Street. The house needed ber with a unique vision to share. After five years hard work and fundraising, the ployers worry they can’t afford the extra an estimated $500,000 in major renova- Western Maine Play Museum in Wilton had its grand opening on September 21. costs. She’s part of the Legislative Com- tions. Joni James said that five years and The building was donated, but it needed major renovations and repairs, accord- mittee, which meets to discuss current nearly $1 million later, the house is fully ing to Joni James, Executive Director. The museum’s Design Committee has cre- legislative issues and invites speakers to renovated and the museum is welcoming ated exhibits that appeal to both children and adults in a safe, fun and engaging explain what members need to know to visitors. She hopes eventually to renovate space for kids of all abilities to explore over and over. make informed decisions. the 1,500-square-foot former carriage The dedicated Membership and Wel- house as a play village. come Committee provides information for “We made sure everything is about fun prospective members and welcomes new and interactive learning,” James said. area businesses. Economic Development Small family-owned businesses can Committee members dedicate significant continue to thrive when some larger “Our 2019 Visitors Guide has lots of ering, hosted by local business mem- energy and time to bring new businesses specialized businesses have closed or area information on places to stay, shop, bers, and opportunities for professional and industries to the area. The popular moved elsewhere, Mosher said. Tradition- eat, hike, camp, swim and sight-see,” she development. Other committees help Chamber Bucks program allows individu- al industries, including wood products, said. with the annual Wellness Fair, the Wilton als to buy certificates directly through the agriculture and logging, have experienced The Chamber’s cozy office space Blueberry Festival, the Chamber’s booth Chamber office. Shoppers can use them job losses due to manufacturers moving outside the Wal-Mart store on Route 4 in the Exhibition Building at the Farm- at participating member businesses. production out of the country. Today, new provides members and visitors quick ington Fair and the annual recognition “People find it’s a great way to give versions of those former industries are and easy access to pick up or distribute meeting in November. something that also benefits the local filling that void. The medical and recre- brochures, business information and Volunteers make miracles happen on economy,” Mosher said. “They can take ational marijuana markets have slowly cards. Mosher maintains a website and a regular basis, said Mosher. The annual care of all their shopping in one step been accepted as part of the tax base online calendar of events at franklin- publication of the Welcome Guide has because the Chamber bucks don’t have of the region. Origins, a manufacturer of countymaine.org. The Chamber members its own committee to plan the layout, to be redeemed at just one business.” martial arts, athletic and casual wear, organize the traditional and ever-popu- review material and advertisements and For more information, email Mosher bought several old industrial sewing lar Chester Greenwood Day on the first distribution. at [email protected] or machines used to make footwear years Saturday in December, and their fall golf “Volunteers also organize the Gerry her staff at assistant@franklincounty- ago. Today, the factory turns out modern tournament at the Sugarloaf Resort rais- Wiles Holiday Food Basket Drive each maine.org. Visit franklincountymaine.org clothing that’s sold around the world. es money for area scholarships. Thanksgiving, handling donations and for a calendar of Chamber events and The tourism industry remains strong, The Chamber also offers a monthly coordinating delivery of each basket,” schedule of community activities and Mosher said. Business After Hours networking gath- Mosher said. celebrations. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 15 Timber Pure Technologies to start production of wood fiber insulation in former Madison paper mill BY MEG ROBBINS decades but never before in North America, until the end of 2018, and we had been Morning Sentinel according to Henry. GO Lab used to import it purchasing their product and using it in our from across the Atlantic Ocean, which Henry buildings,” Henry said. “When they decided to he former Madison Paper Industries likened to “shipping air” due to the product’s cease operations, they gave us the opportunity mill is one step closer to being back in low density. to buy that manufacturing equipment, which T action, this time as the continent’s first “When it comes to its advantages, besides was relatively new, at a fairly affordable price, producer of wood fiber insulation. being renewable, recyclable and not toxic, which gave us a cost advantage. We were able GO Lab Inc., a Belfast-based building prod- (wood fiber insulation) is superior in sound- to really quickly seize opportunity to disassem- ucts manufacturer closed on a $1.9 million proofing and vapor permeability, which is ble and reassemble that back in Maine. If we deal to buy the building, after announcing plans important in letting houses breathe,” Henry had to order that equipment new, it would be to do so in April. The listing price was $2.5 said. “There is a lot of moisture in the air during a three to five-year process. So, it’s not only a million. the wintertime and that moisture can con- monetary advantage, but a time advantage.” The company’s president, Josh Henry, said dense in wall systems, which is something you Madison Paper Industries shuttered in May that once hiring is complete, the Madison facili- really don’t want. The pink and blue rigid foam 2016. While Timber Pure Technologies is still ty — which will be called Timber Pure Technol- boards like you see on construction sites have a ways away from fully running, Henry said he ogies — will employ 120 people, slightly more zero vapor permeability. Wood can wick mois- is thrilled about the progress the company has than previous estimates. The first round of ture and allow (the house) to breathe.” made so far. The company had wanted to open hiring will take place next fall, when production Henry would not specify what prices the a wood fiber insulation manufacturing plant in of the first product begins. Timber Pure Technologies products will sell at, Maine for over three years. “We’ve already hired three people that used but indicated that they will cost “in the middle “We’re really excited to have reached this Morning Sentinel file photo to work at the former UPM paper facility, and of the range between the lowest and highest milestone and to work together with the town of by David Leaming they’ve been a tremendous asset to us in un- insulation” currently available on the market. Madison and state of Maine,” he said. “We’re Josh Henry, of the Go Lab company, derstanding the value of the building and how Right now, GO Lab is in the process of moving Mainers and we’ve been working on this for a stands in front of the shuttered former best to operate it,” Henry said. its recently purchased equipment from Germa- long time. We’re really gratified to be able to do UPM paper mill in Madison on April Timber Pure Technologies will make three ny to Maine, where it will be installed in its new this in Madison and bring that human resourc- 10. Henry’s company closed on the types of wood fiber insulation, called EM Board, home this spring. es pool, the talented people who used to work purchase of the mill and expects to EM Batt and EM Pack. Wood fiber insulation “That facility (in Germany, called Homanit) at the mill and put them back at the mill and hire 120 or more people to work there has been on the market in Europe for over two had been operating and producing product produce a great product for state of Maine.” producing wood fiber insulation. Whether you are 55 or 85 our mission is the same… grow and protect your family’s treasure for your “Golden Age”

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Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC 16 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Winthrop moves into fall and winter with a full complement of activities BY BARBARA WALSH organizations, businesses and clubs. Winthrop Lakes Region Chamber, Occurring on the same weekend, the executive director Wayne Holiday Stroll offers open houses Special to the Business Journal at local potters, jam makers, bakers and crafters from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday o matter what the season, there and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday, is always something happening in which also include a visit from Santa, a N the Winthrop Lakes Region. tree-lighting and caroling. With more than 10 lakes and ponds in “Last year, we had large crowds walking the area, there is an abundance of oppor- along Main Street, and it was nice to see tunities for boating, swimming, fishing, people from all over Maine doing their snowshoeing and ski-mobiling. holiday shopping, supporting local busi- But along with enjoying the region’s nat- nesses,” said Aaron Chrostowsky, Wayne ural beauty, there are scores of activities town manager. year-round, including festivals, farmers The Winthrop Lakes Region Chamber markets, fireworks displays, art shows, also welcomed several news businesses holiday strolls, road races and the annual during the past year, including van der Winthrop Holiday Parade. Brew, Dunkin’ Donuts and Freckle Salvage “Our gorgeous lakeside communities of- Company. fer wonderful events throughout the year,” Contributed photos Offering a variety of craft beer, van said Barbara Walsh, executive director Above, Freckle Salvage Company, a der Brew opened last November and is of the Winthrop Lakes Region Chamber, vintage home décor and gift shop. located on the shores of Maranacook which includes Winthrop, Monmouth, Left, owners Jesse and Nicole Stanford Lake at 30 Summer Street in Winthrop. Manchester, Wayne, Mt. Vernon and Fay- opened the vintage shop in August on The tasting room offers live music and ette. “There is something for people of all Main Street in Winthrop. a variety of games, including darts, corn ages to enjoy.” Below, van de Brew, a craft beer tasting hole and pool. This year over 5,000 visitors enjoyed room at 30 Summer Street in Win- “We’ve received excellent feedback the Chamber-sponsored Fourth of July throp, offers live music and a variety of about the beer,” said owner Kim Vander- fireworks display over Maranacook Lake. games, including darts, corn hole and meulen, who has brewed 21 different Monmouth’s Beach Party, which also pool. types of craft beers over the past year. includes a fireworks show, live music, food “We have a lot of families that come in trucks and children’s events, garnered with their with children and even babies,” over 1,000 at the annual event, which said Vandermeulen. “In my initial business began four years ago. plan, I had hoped to create a place that During the last weekend in September, was comfortable for families, like the Monmouth also held its 11th annual Ap- English or Irish pubs.” pleFest 5k road race to benefit Cumston Businesses, organizations and local Hall. Built in 1900, the Romanesque-style wedding parties have also booked van der building is known as the center of com- Brew for dinners and social gatherings. munity life and houses the town’s library A vintage home décor and gift shop, and The Theater at Monmouth, Maine’s Freckle Salvage Company opened in Au- Shakespearean playhouse. gust on Main Street in Winthrop. Business More than 100 participated in the road has been steady at the store, said owner race and over 800 attended the event, Nicole Stanford. which included a “Comedy for Cumston” “Everyone in the community, from show with Capital City Improv. shoppers to other Main Street businesses, “Cumston Hall is the heart and center of have been so supportive of us; it’s been Monmouth” said Dennis Price, president wonderful,” said Stanford, who opened of the Friends of Cumston Hall and found- the shop with her husband, Jesse. er of Capital City Improv. “Our mission is of the region’s largest 5K races, all pro- munities and all that they have to offer,” The 129 Main Street store, Stanford ex- to continue to raise money and awareness ceeds from the race benefit the conserva- said Chamber Director Walsh. plained, has everything from vintage furni- for this architectural gem. Families and tion of the Cobbossee Watershed. As the weather turns colder, there are ture and collectibles to new items, jewelry runners have enjoyed this festival for the In August, The Chamber’s annual Side- still plenty of activities in the Winthrop and scores of Maine-made gift, including past 11 years.” walk Art Festival in downtown Winthrop region with ice fishing derbies, snowmobil- purses, soaps, candles, decorations and Held on the 4th of July, the Winthrop’s and Readfield’s Heritage Days featured ing, the annual Winthrop Holiday Parade gourmet food items. Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed also art, live music, historical talks and family and the Wayne Holiday Stroll. For more information on the Winthrop sponsored its Friends on the Fourth 5k activities. Held on the first Saturday of December, Lakes Region Chamber and its business- race, drawing hundreds of spectators and “These events draw thousands of people the upcoming parade at 3:30 p.m. Dec. es, contact 377-8020 or info@winthrop- over 500 runners during its 17th year. One throughout Maine, showcasing our com- 7 features floats and music from local chamber.org. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 17 Skowhegan Area Chamber steps into the future BY JASON GAYNE “If someone is looking for Executive Director Skowhegan Regional Chamber of Commerce a place to open a business Special to Business Journal now is the time to look at he Skowhegan area has seen many the Skowhegan Region.” Our knowledgeable staff will put their years of changes over the years, including the JASON GAYNE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Skowhegan Regional Chamber of experience to work in assisting you with making TCommerce. It has expanded over the past few any type of healthcare equipment decision. years, both in membership and in coverage Skowhegan Region. area, all while keeping the mission in mind to We are working to add new customers support, promote and attract business for the and tax base to the community to support COMPLEX REHAB EQUIPMENT Thanks for advancement of the region. economic development— creating more jobs SALES AND SERVICE putting your Trust We work with many partners on a local, and capital investment in our community • Power Wheelchairs with Power Seating Tilt, state and federal level. The work that we do is means broader tax base and more people Recline, Elevate In CARE to help grow regional economic development. and companies to take advantage of goods • Manual Light Weight & For our Chamber, the focus is on communi- and services. 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The Skowhegan Region has planning and implementing a long-term future • Gait Trainers and Standing Equipment grown over the years into an area that is that benefits both residents and businesses, • Manual Wheelchairs drawing a lot of attention nationally. and preserves our community’s high quality • Power Wheelchairs If someone is looking for a place to open of life — some of the Chamber’s least visible • Positioning Chairs a business now is the time to look at the but most critical work. • Toileting and Bathing Equipment • Breast Pumps (covered by some insurance) Claude Put Your Event Levesque, ATP HOME MODIFICATIONS AND In The Middle Of It All! 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Many colleges, especially small ciding to go on to college, or any kind of Costs have left the average U.S. graduate of a private colleges, have had to close in recent years T advanced learning for that matter, has gone four-year college, or their families, with $30,000 while the rest work hard to find the right students. down drastically in recent years for a couple of to $35,000 in debt. In Maine, recent studies peg Colleges in our central Maine area have found reasons. that total at just over $30,000. interesting and creative ways to make higher First, America’s birthrate has declined steadily The days when a middle-class student with education both attractive and financially possible over the last 32 years, according to government campus jobs, scholarships and small loans could for people of all ages to get the education and statistics. Fewer babies being born means there earn a four-year degree and leave a college with training they need for a better life. 3-year bachelor’s and 4-year master’s degree sets Thomas College apart The landscape of higher education is Freshmen sign a contract agreeing to earn that job guarantee by having an internship and facing a “seismic change” with economic and demographic pressures, said Laurie participating in job career offerings, leadership development and community service. “When Lachance, president of Thomas College. you do those things, you will be employable. If you do not have a job in six months after “There has been incredible disruption,” she said. And many colleges have closed. graduation, we will make your federal loan payments for up to a year or you can come back “Particularly in New England because we have the highest concentration of colleg- and get a second undergraduate degree or start work for a master’s (at no cost).” es, many of them private colleges.” LAURIE LACHANCE, PRESIDENT, THOMAS COLLGE Over the decades, fewer babies have been born leading to fewer high school ble cost. graduates, and since many of our col- “I believe we’re the first or among the leges depend on Maine students, she first colleges to offer a bachelor’s degree said, competition for those graduates is in just three years. High-performing stu- extreme. dents can shave one year off, saving one Meanwhile as the aging population year’s cost and getting out to earn money retires, many jobs need filling. one year sooner. “There are huge shortages in health “That’s a game changer. More than care, in teaching—especially math and one-third of the incoming class is in the science—and tech industries are crying three-year program.” for help. Not just any worker will do. Students who want can add a fourth There is a need for a college degree or year, she said, and graduate with a mas- minimally, some kind of training.” ter’s degree. At the same time, there has been a The cost at Thomas is about $27,000 growing backlash against college debt. for tuition and fees, another $11,000 “Affordability has become such a major for board and room. Lachance said that outcry that some students have chosen about 95 percent of the students get not to go on at all.” financial aid and about 70% of students Lachance sees that as a huge mistake. work while they go to college. “As a society, we’ll spent $30-35,000 Thomas is in shape to handle challeng- on a car, or build up credit card debt for es now and in the future, Lachance said, items that lose value,” she said. “When, because “our strategic plan is based on in fact, the only investment that will Whitney J. Fox Photography innovation and sound business princi- create a significant payback is higher Thomas College offers an accelerated three-year Bachelor’s degree option for all ples. education or training.” of its majors. For high-achieving students, this program saves time and money for “We’ve been in the black for the last 29 Lachance said that the affordability students and their families. years. Rather than putting off issues, we issue stems from the fact that many deal with them as they arise. We’re very college graduates find that their expen- nimble, there’s not a lot of bureaucracy. sive education has not led to a good community service. a second undergraduate degree or start “That doesn’t mean it’s going to be job—Thomas College graduates are “When you do those things, you will work for a master’s (at no cost).” easy,” Lachance said, “but we’re well-po- guaranteed a job. be employable. If you do not have a job How often does this happen? “It’s sitioned to weather the storm.” Freshmen sign a contract agreeing to in six months after graduation, we will rare,” said Lachance. To learn more about Thomas College go earn that job guarantee by having an make your federal loan payments for up Thomas has created ways, she said, to to thomas.edu. internship and participating in job career to a year or you can come back and get deliver a college education at an afforda- offerings, leadership development and More EDUCATION, PAGE 19 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 19 Unity College has created “educational models that can work for audiences oth- Education er than the new high school graduate. A working adult with two kids and a job CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 has different educational needs from a freshman. We have designed curriculums and scheduled calendars for different demographics, allowing us to be more flexi- Educating future ble. We have 15 different start dates, not just two semesters.” environmental leaders MELIK KHOURY, PRESIDENT, UNITY COLLEGE mental education and influence. educational needs from a freshman” he said. “We have is a major goal at In 2018, the college was given the Sky Lodge in Moose designed curriculums and scheduled calendars for different River, which included several buildings, 150 acres of land demographics, allowing us to be more flexible. We have 15 and supporting funds. The gift helps Unity College further different start dates, not just two semesters.” Unity College realize its commitment to making the entire state of Maine its The burden of college debt is a concern for most families, classroom, college officials said at the time. but at Unity, a small school without a huge endowment, “al- Change has been a constant at Unity College in the past Half Moon Gardens in Thorndike —renamed the McKay most 100 percent of students are on some kind of financial several years, said Melik Khoury, Unity College president. In Farm and Research Station—a multi-faceted greenhouse aid” including federal, state and scholarship funding, he said. recent years, the school has developed a large and success- operation with all required equipment, was donated to Costs at Unity depend on the program, but basic tuition ful graduate program, an undergraduate online program and the school in 2013. As a center for innovative projects and is $19,000, while room and board is $10,000. Online study adopted a new freshman curriculum. research, college officials said the facility allows the school to costs $470 per credit hour. In addition, the college has improved the physical campus help address challenges faced by rural agricultural enterpris- Unity College stands apart from other institutions of higher with upgraded and new labs as well as new or improved es in New England. Such challenges include energy costs, learning, according to Khoury. residence halls. compensation for agricultural workers, a challenging climate “We are an environmental college graduating environ- Now that the school draws 75 percent of its students from and a sparse population density. mental leaders for the future. Our students are out of the out of state, revenues have increased substantially, Khoury And, in 2011, the college received $10 million from an classroom with their faculty members and staff, they’re in said. This has led to numerous improvements both to pro- anonymous donor for unrestricted endowment. local communities working on projects and doing internships. grams and facilities. To accommodate changes and growth, Unity College faces the same problems as colleges across They’re going to the ocean, talking to local fishermen. They’re he said, the school vastly increased its operating budget. the country and in Maine, said Khoury: Coping with an aging doing real-life primary research, even as undergraduates,” In fiscal year 2010-2011, the operating budget stood at population and a lower birthrate, leading to fewer students Khoury said. $11,486,256. By fiscal year 2017-2018, the operating heading to college. This has led to the creation of educational “They’re experiencing the beauty of Maine.” budget had nearly doubled to $21,328,286. models that can work for audiences other than the new high Learn more about Unity College at unity.edu. Unity College also has benefitted from three major gifts in school graduate. recent years, expanding the reach and breadth of its environ- “A working adult with two kids and a job has different More EDUCATION, PAGE 20

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A huge and important expansion in recent years At the University of Maine in Augusta (UMA), Jonathan has been the establishment of the Harold Alfond H. Henry, vice president of Enrollment Management and Campus in Hinckley thanks to an Alfond Foundation Marketing, said the biggest change in recent years is the donation, said Richard Hopper, KVCC president. age of the student population, which has been getting KVCC developed a 580-acre section of the former slightly younger. Good Will-Hinckley School, renovated multiple “This is a unique moment in history,” Henry said. Stu- buildings and constructed a new science education dents and families are no longer willing to take on huge center. With additional grants and gifts, the college amounts of debt for a college degree and “we’ve taken also revitalized the 120-acre farm and secured advantage of that. We’ve recruited to two campuses.” UMA photo organic status for it, Hopper said. UMA campuses are in Augusta and Bangor, but there Lauren Masse celebrates with her daughter during Another grant was used to support the construction are nine UMA Centers across the state in Brunswick, 2019 UMA Commencement. After receiving her de- of a Culinary Arts laboratory and degree program, East Millinocket, Ellsworth, Houlton, Lewiston, Rockland, gree, Lauren secured a position at Medical Diagnostic allowing students and faculty of the program to Rumford, Saco and South Paris. This kind of easy access, Laboratories, as a Senior Sales Executive for New operate a cafeteria at lunchtime and host special- said Henry, can cut costs by eliminating travel and board England. ized dinners for area residents. Also, a new cafeteria and room. As a result, access to college study is easier on the main campus has improved food options in and more affordable for the school’s 5,515 full- and part- “Many of our students come here with Fairfield and, Hopper said, cafes on both campuses time students. are open to the public. Also helping students begin or continue their education an intentionality. They’re pioneers With a subsequent grant from the Sewall Founda- are distance education technologies, such as web-based tion, Hopper said, KVCC created its Early Childhood video conferencing, making college education more who’ve stepped out of their comfort Development degree program in Hinckley to embrace accessible than ever, Henry said. zone to improve their lives. They come whole-family education, including outdoor play, In the future, he said, there will be more focus on de- healthy eating and nature discovery. gree completion for adults looking for career growth and/ with grit and determination. We don’t There have also been significant improvements or additional skills for new careers in Maine, and to fill know what they’ve had to overcome to to the KVCC main campus in Fairfield, he said. This shortages as older workers retire. includes upgrading of the Precision Machine Tech- Information technology, computer information systems, get here. We have a great sense of pride nology (PMT) laboratory with computerized numerical cybersecurity and other technology fields are desperate control (CNC) lathes and milling machines, simu- for well-trained workers and, Henry said, the nursing when they walk across that stage in lators and 3D printers and more with help from a shortage has reached near-crisis proportions. Other May.” Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), state health care jobs in both physical and mental health fields bond funding and college reserve. also are expanding. JONATHAN HENRY, VICE PRESIDENT OF The Applied Engineering and Electronic Technology Those may be popular areas of study, but a quick check ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING (AECT) also was recently upgraded and a welding lab of the UMA’s website reveals an impressive array of pro- UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT AUGUSTA was constructed. grams: From Architecture, Art and Aviation to Biology and “We do an incredible amount of work with area Business; Computer Systems and Cybersecurity, to Data business” said Hopper. “We’re really important to the Science and Dental Programs—the list goes on through The current building consists of suites with one, two or local market.” the alphabet to Veterinary Technology. three private bedrooms, communal space, private bath- KVCC has expanded its Workforce Training and Pro- Henry said while cost is always a consideration, UMA rooms and a kitchen. Cost is $7,200 per year. fessional Development (WTPD) division to provide a has among the lowest tuition rates in the University of “While we have traditional students just out of high regular series of professional development programs, Maine System at $239 per credit. A full-time student school,” he said, “two-thirds of our students are more but also designs customized training for area busi- with 30 credits per year would pay $7,170 in tuition than 25 years old. More than half of UMA students are nesses, particularly in the fields of welding, precision and approximately $998 in fees (health care and other first generation and 72 percent are Pell Grant eligible. machining, plumbing, energy services, electrical services). About 70 percent of students are female and of the stu- technology and forensic phlebotomy. However, UMA offers something special to reduce the dent body today, 67 percent attend part-time. To meet the growing demand for trained workers price of a degree: The Pine Tree State Pledge. All students “UMA students are motivated to make a positive in health care fields, the KVCC Nursing Program eligible for a Pell Grant pay no tuition at all. Regardless of change in their lives and the lives of their families by installed a computerized simulation laboratory and the amount of the Pell Grant received, eligible students pursuing a college degree,” Henry said. the Medical Assisting program expanded to include (who meet in-state residency requirements) are awarded “Many of our students come here with an intentionality. its own simulation lab. A new computer lab was a university grant to ensure that the entire cost of tuition They’re pioneers who’ve stepped out of their comfort installed to support the Health Information Manage- has been met. zone to improve their lives. They come with grit and deter- ment (HIM) Program to teach medical coding—the UMA has opened its first-ever student housing this year mination. We don’t know what they’ve had to overcome with 34 beds in Hallowell and plans to more than double to get here. We have a great sense of pride when they that capacity by fall of 2020, Henry said. walk across that stage in May.” More EDUCATION, PAGE 21 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 21 “The sticker price is $92 per credit hour or about $3,000 for a full-time student. However, almost 70% of the student population (of full-time students) qualifies for a Pell grant of $6,500.” That grant covers tuition, books and fees, and some living expenses. The school also offers scholarships. RICHARD HOPPER, PRESIDENT, KENNEBEC VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

school also offers scholarships. Education People are often surprised that they’re eligible for the grant, he said, “We all CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20 think we’re middle class and wouldn’t be eligible for financial aid, but the vast only accredited program in the state of majority have financial need.” Maine, according to Hopper. With Maine’s aging population as well KVCC also has thriving satellites in as a shrinking population and a “hot Augusta on the Buker campus and in labor market” KVCC’s enrollment might Rockland at the Mid-Coast School of drop, but since most students who apply Technology. to KVCC are looking for a change of ca- “We can meet people closer to where reer or a job that pays better, this school they are and we think that’s important,” is in good shape to handle such challeng- Hopper said. es, according to Hopper. “The sticker price is $92 per credit hour, “Things are good. Things are stable. The or about $3,000 for a full-time student. college is in really, really good shape,” he KVCC photo However, almost 70% of the student said. The Culinary Arts laboratory and degree program at KVCC allows students and population (of full-time students) qualifies To learn more about Kennebec Valley faculty to operate a cafeteria at lunchtime and host specialized dinners for area for a Pell grant of $6,500.” Community College visit kvcc.me.edu. residents. A new cafeteria on the main campus has improved food options in That grant covers tuition, books and Fairfield and cafes on both campuses are open to the public. fees, and some living expenses. The More EDUCATION, PAGE 22 Your goal is our game.

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We want students and their families to know that if they are admitted to Colby and Education have financial need, we are committed to making it possible for them to attend. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Colby College is recognized as a top liberal arts school offering a wide range of opportunities

SUBMITTED BY RUTH JACKSON ty—27,000 hours in 2018-19 alone. Vice President of Communications, What changes do you think will affect Colby most in Colby College the next 10 years? The increasing cost of a college degree Special to Business Journal will continue to be a major issue in higher education. Many families are feeling squeezed by the cost of college education What has changed most at Colby in the last 10 years? Col- and we have a responsibility to ensure Colby is accessible to by has long been one of the nation’s most highly regarded lib- deserving students regardless of financial means. eral arts colleges, and in recent years it has become more rec- Through our Colby Commitment, we meet 100% of each ognized for its leading academic programs, the quality of the admitted student’s demonstrated financial need without student experience, and the range of opportunities it offers to loans. The Fair Shot Fund, announced in 2018, ensures that students to prepare them for meaningful and successful lives. talented students from families in the middle-income brackets Photo courtesy of Colby College Many of those opportunities are offered in partnership with have access to Colby’s extraordinary educational opportuni- renowned Maine institutions, such as the Bigelow Laboratory ties by capping the annual parent/guardian contribution at Colby has created a new model for how a liberal arts college for Ocean Sciences and Jackson Laboratory. $15,000 for families making up to $150,000 (with assets is engaged in the world and its local community. This has Over the past five years Colby has significantly changed typical of that income level). evolved from a deep focus on building an academic environ- its student profile, ensuring that the most talented students Families making less than $60,000 (with assets typical of ment that embraces the complex connections between the from a range of backgrounds have access to the remarkable that income level) can expect no parent or guardian contribu- local and global through the liberal arts, civic engagement education we provide. While Maine students still represent tion for their student to attend. and scholarly research; a broad array of global research, approximately 10 % of the student population, California and Bottom line: we are continually focused on finding new ways learning and work experiences facilitated by DavisConnects Texas are among the top 10 states represented in this year’s to ensure that Colby is open to the best students and offers and a sincere commitment to its symbiotic relationship with first-year class. them all the opportunities they deserve once they’re here, in- Waterville, as well as embracing Maine as home and as a The Class of 2023 was chosen from a record pool of more cluding funding internships, global opportunities and research learning laboratory. than 13,000 applicants, compared to just more than 5,100 in through our DavisConnects program. The Colby College Museum of Art and the Lunder Institute 2014, and it was the most competitive in the Colby’s history. What is the cost of attending Colby including tuition, board for American Art have become recognized for the ways in The Class of 2023 represents 380 high schools from 38 and room, books and fees? The comprehensive fee for the which they enhance cross-disciplinary learning at Colby. The states and 35 countries. Almost one-third identify as students 2019-20 academic year is $72,000, which includes tuition, Colby Museum features one of the most renowned collections of color and 13 percent are first-generation-to-college stu- room, board and activities. of any college art museum in the country, and faculty from dents. For the Class of 2022, roughly 95% of families with an across departments—from physics and environmental studies Colby is committed to a new model of liberal arts education, income of $200,000 or less qualified for financial aid. Colby to English and East Asian studies—integrate the museum one that provides an extraordinary intellectual education on awarded nearly $46 million in financial aid grants in 2018- into their curricula. At the same time, Colby is deepening its campus and offers meaningful opportunities that, along with 19, with more than $7 million a year going to students from connection to the local arts culture through the planned Paul their coursework, position our graduates to solve the most Maine. J. Schupf Art Center downtown and its work with Waterville vexing issues of our time. How significant a handicap is cost at Colby? Colby’s Creates!, and a new center for creative and performing arts on Through the DavisConnects program, launched in 2017, investments in financial aid through programs like the Colby campus, currently in design, will provide new opportunities for Colby has made research, internship and global opportunities Commitment and the Fair Shot Fund are making a dramatic connection through the arts. universal to the student experience. Last year, 93 % of our difference in allowing us to enroll the nation’s top students Colby’s model provides the scale, breadth, and impact of students engaged with DavisConnects and, to date, DavisCon- from lower- and middle-income backgrounds. In the Class of larger institutions through partnerships and collaboration with nects has provided $1.5 million in funding for these experienc- 2023, 18 percent are eligible for Pell Grants (a means-tested the world’s cultural, research, arts, medical, and business es, which greatly enrich our students’ learning and position federal aid program), compared to only 9% in 2014. Forty-six institutions. Many of these are here in Maine, including The them for successful and purposeful lives. % of Colby students now receive financial aid, compared to Jackson Laboratory, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, This is part of a broader set of efforts that have fueled other 38% five years ago, and the percentage of students graduat- and the 7 Lakes Alliance, and they reach well beyond Maine, innovative initiatives including a unique partnership with the ing with debt has decreased 25% during the same period. including leading organizations like the Smithsonian Insti- city of Waterville that is resulting in a historic level of economic Unfortunately, some students and families self-select out of tution, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Dana-Farber Cancer development in the area. places like Colby because they don’t see a means to affording Institute, Citi, Goldman Sachs, and MarketAxess. Colby’s investments in downtown Waterville include the Bill it. We want students and their families to know that if they are The Colby experience is rooted in being deeply connected & Joan Alfond Main Street Commons, which opened in 2018 admitted to Colby and have financial need, we are committed to the world and its local community. Our civic engagement as home to more than 200 students and faculty, new retail to making it possible for them to attend. program has made Waterville and Maine a learning laboratory space and an important community resource, the Chace What is unique about Colby College as compared to other through community involvement, and students work with Forum. Maine colleges? While there are a wide range of ways in dozens of local organizations to contribute to the community A new hotel, the Lockwood, which will offer a new kind of which Colby is unique, key among them include: while enhancing their academic experience and relationship hospitality experience in Waterville and bring visitors to down- Colby’s model provides the scale, breadth and impact of to critical issues of our times. town, will open in the fall of 2020. larger institutions. It accomplishes this through a focus on Colby’s new athletics center, slated to open in fall 2020, will The Paul J. Schupf Art Center, currently in design, will create scholarship and discovery, multidisciplinary approaches to provide state-of-the-art facilities for all members of the Colby a hub for arts and community engagement in the heart of integrated learning, a deep commitment to the traditional community and will support the community beyond campus, Main Street, and Colby helped to secure a federal BUILD grant liberal arts, leading-edge programs addressing the world’s as the current Harold Alfond Athletic Center does. That, in to improve the streetscapes and traffic patterns downtown. challenges and an unprecedented network of partnerships addition to Colby’s fields, which are also an asset to local Colby’s commitment to Waterville is especially embod- and collaborations with the world’s cultural, research, arts, schools and organizations, will provide unique and valuable ied through a robust program in civic engagement where medical and business institutions that provide valuable experi- resources that foster an integrated approach to promoting students benefit from and contribute to the local communi- ences for students. active, healthy lifestyles. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 23

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Maine State Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. 24 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Mission driven and moving forward: Projects and progress moving at top speed in Waterville BY NANCY GALLAGHER Correspondent

he Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC) serves as the economic T development department for the City of Waterville and the Towns of Winslow, Fairfield and Oakland, working with 90 businesses and investors (an all- time high) within those communities as well as in Sanford and up the coast, said Garvan D. Donegan, Director of Planning and Economic Development. “We continue to see really nice data trend lines coming out of the mid-Maine area and City of Waterville,” said Done- gan—including a continuing population in- crease and an uptick in total retail sales. More than 20 commercial properties in Waterville have changed hands in the past few years.

RENOVATING Planning for the Phase 1 development of the Lockwood Mill complex on Water Street includes a mixed-use develop- ment for workforce housing, market-rate housing and 10,000 square feet of new commercial space, said Donegan. After decades of dormancy, “to be able to see the community, the developers, all the surrounding partners breathe life into this soon-to-be-new facility is extraordi- narily exciting,” he said. Increasing attractive housing stock is critical to workforce development, says Contributed photo Garvan D. Donegan, Director of Planning & Economic Development at Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), gives a Donegan. This development, while at- ‘TechTalk’ presentation at CMGC’s monthly Central Maine Tech Night. This time it was about investing in Opportunity Zones tracting students and professionals, also at Bricks Coworking & Innovation located in downtown Waterville. links Waterville’s downtown district with its South End, extending re-development into that area. With funding from the Bill and Joan Alfond Foundation and Colby College, the mond restaurant” opens on the southern REIMAGINING traffic conversions on Main and Front CMGC this year allocated 13 façade and end of Main Street. Construction of a Waterville recently received a highly Streets; completely rebuilding side- building improvement grants to business- planned $18 to $20 million dollar Arts competitive $7.3 million federal BUILD walks, adding streetscaping amenities, es in the downtown district, stimulating Center, now in the design process, gets grant from the United States Depart- landscaping and design; financing a $1 more than $325,000 in downtown invest- under way in the next 12 to 24 months. ment of Transportation for a $9.2 million million redesign of Castonguay Square ment, Donegan said. Those two projects alone, within about Waterville Downtown Transit Corridor and to enhance walkability, pedestrian safety 400 linear yards of each other, represent Gateways and Revitalization Project. and attractiveness to encourage an EXPANDING about a $40 million investment in the “This project is going to change how increase in visitors. Central to regional economic devel- downtown, said Donegan. people move and interact with the Donegan foresees project delivery with- opment are the ongoing investments of This renewed vibrancy in Waterville’s downtown, as well as how vehicular in the next 12 to 24 months. Colby College and the Alfond Foundation. downtown creates opportunities that traffic moves around” in three ways, said Waterville has been designated as one In 2020, The Lockwood, a hotel with magnetically attract new businesses. Donegan: adjusting and modernizing more than 40 rooms and a “four-dia- downtown traffic patterns, including More GROWTH PAGE 25 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 25 Central to regional economic development are the ongoing investments of Colby College Growth and the Alfond Foundation. In 2020, The Lockwood, a hotel with more than 40 rooms and CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 a “four-diamond restaurant” opens on the southern end of Main Street. Construction of a of Maine’s 32 Federal Opportunity Zones. planned $18 to $20 million dollar Arts Center, now in the design process, gets under way in Donegan plans to use this designation to further stimulate investment by launch- the next 12 to 24 months. Those two projects alone, within about 400 linear yards of each ing a Qualified Opportunity Fund to show other, represent about a $40 million investment in the downtown. how investors can take advantage of the program. infancy of their businesses. and transportation. If fully built out, are also thinking about our workforce SUSTAINING F3MFG, manufacturing high-end alumi- Waterville’s land fill cap and close solar program…working with our investors CMGC continues working with Geno- num truck and van bodies and racks in energy project could be Maine’s largest. and developers to put together either typing Center of America (GTCA) at the their plant off Waterville’s Trafton Road, The idea is to close landfills and use incentives or grant opportunities to Hathaway Creative Center. This maturing was recently named one of the fastest the land unsuitable for development as make visions a reality,” he said. Being start-up, founded by Jackson Laboratory growing companies in the United States. a money-making solar energy project. locally invested and well diversified in and IDEXX employees, has achieved 90% Their propulsive growth in many ways Fairfield has adopted a similar approach readiness for any possible changes in year over year growth for the past three “is facilitating discussions on the need at its land fill. This novel land use can the economy frame Donegan’s philoso- years. GTCA received a Maine Technology for and the future development of new also diversify the city’s municipal budget. phy going forward. Institute grant in the summer of 2019. industrial manufacturing light warehouse A third solar array sits on a lot at Water- “I do expect a good strong end to 2019 GTCA’s growth is integral to Waterville’s workspace on Trafton Road,” said Done- ville’s LaFleur Airport, Donegan said. with some really big projects both com- “transition from this kind of post-manu- gan. “A wonderful tipping point.” Local manufacturing also continues, ing out of the ground and being finalized facturing milieu to a knowledge and tech- using area natural resources to produce in 2020,” he said. based hub, albeit certainly with still good GROWING items as widely disparate as paper prod- Central Maine Growth Council is precision manufacturing,” said Donegan. Measures of Tier 1 growth continue in ucts and gluten-free crisps. a public/private 501c6 quasi-gov- GTCA represents some of those jobs. the segments of health care, information ernmental mission-driven economic The 2500-square-foot Co-working and technology, precision manufacturing, FORECASTING development corporation located at 50 Innovation Lab in the Hathaway Creative education, food service and accommo- “We have been having a wonderful Elm Street in Waterville. Office hours Center offers the only co-working and dation. Notably, culinary diversity and time in terms of driving growth, so this are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 incubator space in the Waterville area. microbreweries animate a burgeoning fall and into 2020 a lot of projects will p.m. Telephone is 680-7300 and Fax is The Lab creates convenient access to the foodie hub, said Donegan. be coming out of the ground,” said Don- 877-0087. Mobile number is 272-2243, individuals and resources that start-ups Tier 2 growth includes energy, forest egan. “We have a number of very large website is centralmaine.org and email is and entrepreneurs often seek in the products and agriculture and logistics projects occurring simultaneously...We [email protected].

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Contributed photo Thomas College is fulfilling this mission by the work that it is doing through its two centers focused on innovation; the Harold Alfond Institute for Business Innovation and the Center of Innovation in Education. Two centers, focused on innovation, look to the future to help grow the economy Area businesses, entrepreneurs become part of the mix SUBMITTED BY MICHAEL DUGUAY participants can quickly learn skills and attract these students as future impacting the entrepreneurial and inno- Executive Director and deploy them in the workplace. The employees. In doing so, the program vation community. Harold Alfond Institute overall intent is to provide courses on helps skilled and capable future grad- The event will be hosted again this for Business Innovation topical matters that the area business uates to potentially stay in the region November at Thomas College and Special to the Business Journal community is interested in having their and further strengthen the workforce. seeks to offer the same level of par- incumbent workforce be trained for at a The Institute also has taken a lead ticipation and enthusiasm from the homas College continues to lean higher level. role in the development of an Entre- entrepreneurial community and general into the mission that innovation The Institute’s Signature Internship preneurial and Innovative Ecosystem public that it has enjoyed in the past. T is a core skill and competency Program has proven to be a significant for central Maine. It continues to do The Institute also has brought addi- that each student, incumbent worker, opportunity for both the participating that by teaming up with its local and tional programming and expertise into business and teacher must have in students at Thomas College and the regional partners to bring impactful the mix to help grow this ecosystem. In order to help grow the economy and hosting businesses. More specifically, and timely events, programming and particular, the Institute has partnered knowledge base of central Maine. these internships are crafted with an instruction in the entrepreneurial and with the Maine Center for Entre- Thomas is fulfilling this mission by the area business to provide the student innovative space. preneurs (MCE) to offer its flagship work that it is doing through its two with a unique experience that they More specifically, the Institute has business assistance program called centers focused on innovation; the might not otherwise receive from anoth- done that through measures such as Top Gun. Having had a very successful Harold Alfond Institute for Business er business, or be of a nature whereby creating a forum called Converge and introduction to the program this past Innovation and the Center of Innovation the student gets experience working on Create Weekend, where entrepreneurs year, the Institute is delighted to be in Education. a new process, product or project that and innovators can come together, able to offer this program again to busi- The Harold Alfond Institute for Busi- they would not be able to in another along with industry and topic experts, nesses this year. ness Innovation (HAIBI) offers profes- position. to discuss all aspects of the area of The 15-week immersive training sional development opportunities for By placing students with local busi- interest. program, delivered by industry ex- employees within central Maine to gain nesses, not only does Thomas College The two-day event is held annually perts, takes a cohort of businesses skills in supervision, leadership, inno- help increase the skill set and knowl- and engages participants in one-on-one and exposes them to an expert level of vation, continuous improvement, effec- edge of those individual students, it discussions and dialogues, breakout education and instruction in all aspects tive teamwork, technical writing and an also provides these businesses with the sessions and keynote presentations of running and growing a business. array of other areas. These three- and opportunity to cultivate future talent on topical subjects that are currently six-week courses are designed so that More INNOVATION, PAGE 27 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 27 teach with technology. The Institute’s Signature Internship Program has proven to Thomas students are able to incorpo- Innovation rate technology into their future Maine be a significant opportunity for both the participating stu- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 classrooms, leveraging virtual reality, dents at Thomas College as well as the hosting businesses. game design, 3D design and printing, and cutting-edge educational software applications. Applications will be taken until mid-No- In addition, CIE runs a variety of vember with businesses chosen to on-and off-campus professional de- participate by the end of the year. The velopment with its various partners. program starts in early 2020. These offerings provide professional The Center for Innovation in Educa- educators in the field the opportunity to tion (CIE) engages directly with future expand their knowledge and teaching teachers, existing teachers, students practices in innovative areas, such as and the public through its creative and early childhood, STEAM, student-cen- leading-edge programming. tered learning, and digital learning. As an example, the Future Teachers Staff at the Institute and Center would Academy is an open event for Maine understand from individuals, potential high school sophomores, juniors students, existing teachers and busi- and seniors who have an interest in nesses how it may help them become exploring the field of education as a more innovative. This may include career. Participating students take part participation in an existing program or in a daylong, hands-on and experimen- providing consultation on the available tal teaching environment. It is led by options to receive training, or a college professional faculty from the Thomas degree in business or in education. College School of Education, as well as Individuals or businesses that are partners from the Maine Department interested in any of the programming or of Education and Maine Teachers of events mentioned in this article should the Year. visit the Institute’s and CIE’s websites CIE integrates technology into every at www.thomas.edu/institute and education student’s curriculum. Stu- www.thomas.edu/academics/cie or to Contributed photo dents learn how to use technology and, receive more information, please give Waterville Converge and Create networking event. most importantly, they learn how to staff a call at 859-1159.

Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Specialists Improving lives with effective, innovative care

Kennebec Behavioral Health provides a continuum of high quality, community- based prevention, education, treatment and rehabilitation services in central Maine for children, adults and families experiencing mental illness, emotional difficulties or behavioral challenges.

1-888-322-2136 Kennebec.Behavioral.Health www www.kbhmaine.org @KBHMaine 28 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Tuning in to WII-FM (i.e. what’s in it for me?) BY MARSHALL COMMUNICATIONS Special to the Sentinel and KJ

ach of our days starts off rela- tively the same with the alarm E on our phone waking us up. Eventually, we roll over and shut off the alarm and thus begins the static of a perpetual bombardment of messages. Even before our feet hit the ground, we are exposed to marketing messages on our phone or on the packaging of the products we use every day. As the day progresses, we are exposed to even more methods of communications, from signs on the side of the road to the library directing us to get a library card. The ever-increasing number of mes- sages on the airwaves is inescapable. Our minds become so full of to-do items that many messages get lost in the static. Businesses that need to cut through the influx of messages, have to be aware of their audience and understand what messages will resonate with them. Here is what you need to know: Tune in to WII-FM (what’s in it for me?).

Networking with your audience One of the most important parts of creating a message your audience will want to listen to is showing them you care. Think of this as being similar to a networking event. You don’t want to yammer on about yourself so much that other people will lose interest or think to reach many people who have sought families, jobs and interests and find an dresses of people who have agreed to you have a very large ego. What you do out the information being provided, en- image of a person that matches the per- receive emails from you and you should want to do is show them that you care suring there is something in it for them. sona. Print off your avatar profiles and treat your list with care. about their work, their hobbies or their These topics may be narrow, but they hang them up where you can see them At Marshall Communications, we interests by asking questions and leav- are extremely thorough and detailed. while creating messaging. have been sending out The Marshall ing the talking to them. Nancy Marshall, founder of Marshall By developing avatars who are repre- Report e-newsletter once a month for Communicating with your audience is Communications, started The PR sentative of your audience, you can pic- 10 years. To connect with our audience no different. The messages you air must Maven® Podcast in 2018 to share her ture what they are interested in and will and show them that we care, Nancy show that you and your business exist passion for building a network based on more easily be able to create content Marshall writes a personal message to serve your audience. both personal and online networking. your audience will appreciate. and includes a recipe. Doing this makes She has done 52 episodes so far and the e-newsletter feel like it is coming Narrowcasting plans to continue on a weekly basis. Monthly e-newsletter from a human being, not a robot. Our Different from broadcasting, narrow- While one way to make each of e-newsletter also provides articles our casting is about the importance of Keeping it personal your messages more relevant to your audience might find helpful to improve narrowing the topic of your message to When developing a message, you audience is by reducing the number of their business or career and serve their ensure you are providing information want to make sure you know who your messages you send out, you don’t want needs. your audience cares about and that it audience is. All demographics: age, to go radio silent. One way to send out Now that you have these tips and serves a purpose for them. location and lifestyle provide a good messages your audience will tune in to tricks, you will be able to improve your Podcasts are a great example because baseline but developing an emotional is by sending them an e-newsletter. ratings and become the station all your they are narrowly targeted. While connection with these numbers is next One of the most valuable assets in listeners will want to tune in to. Just broadcast programs try to appeal to the to impossible. your marketing arsenal is your list of make sure to remember, if you are go- many interests of their large audience, This is where avatars and personas email addresses. Unlike content you ing on air, be sure to include the answer this is not necessary for a podcast – or come in. Based on your target audi- post on social media, you actually own to your listener’s number-one question: your message. Podcasts have the ability ence, give your avatars names, ages, the email list. These are valuable ad- What’s in it for me? Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 29 Maine’s low unemployment marathon doubles previous record The state’s unemployment rate has been below 4 percent for 44 consecutive months, twice as long as the previous record of 22 months from September 1999 to July 2001. BY J. CRAIG ANDERSON The preliminary unemployment rate Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship government estimate of 100,000 jobs Portland Press Herald estimate of 2.9 percent for August was Program, which has seen participation was unchanged from August 2018, it down from 3 percent for July and 3.5 increase by 40 percent over the past said. aine has doubled its previous percent in August 2018, according to two years, and pending applications The U.S. preliminary unemployment record for longest-running pe- the state Department of Labor. The would increase participation by an rate of 3.7 percent for August was M riod with the statewide unem- number of unemployed job-seekers additional 50 percent. unchanged from July and down slightly ployment rate under 4 percent. in August decreased by 4,000 from a Maine’s preliminary payroll survey from 3.8 percent a year earlier. The According to preliminary, seasonally year earlier to 20,100, it said. estimate of 634,500 nonfarm payroll August estimate for New England was adjusted unemployment estimates The state’s persistent low unemploy- jobs for August was up 6,800 jobs 3 percent. Rates for other states in the for August, Maine’s unemployment ment rate has led to an enduring labor from a year earlier, the Labor Depart- region were 2.5 percent in New Hamp- rate has been below 4 percent for 44 crunch, affecting businesses around ment said. The private sector estimate shire, 2.1 percent in Vermont, 2.9 consecutive months, twice as long as the state. Several state and private of 534,500 jobs was up 6,800 over percent in Massachusetts, 3.6 percent the previous record of 22 months from programs are trying to address the the year, with the largest job gains in in Rhode Island, and 3.6 percent in September 1999 to July 2001. workforce challenge, including the the leisure and hospitality sector. The Connecticut.

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156 Water St., Hallowell | 207-623-9743 If you can dream it... we can do it! OPEN: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Hallowell, Maine (207) 622-2259 www.ejperry.com No appointments. Walk-in Only. Open every weeknight. 30 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

AUGUSTA CIVIC CENTER CITY OF AUGUSTA • Contact Information: addresses • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 76 Community Drive • Director: Earl Kingsbury 1 Cony Street Bill Bridgeo, City Manager Augusta Maine 04330 • Founded: 1973 Augusta, ME 04330 • Founded: June 9, 1797 • Phone: (207) 626-2405 • Employees: 90 (207) 626-2300 219 • Web: Augustaciviccenter.org • Hours: Event Driven • Phone: • Employees: • Email: Visit our website for individual • Email: Visit our website for • Hours: individual email addresses Mon.-Fri. 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. • About Us: The Augusta Civic Center is designed to accommodate any type of function. Particular emphasis will be placed upon those bookings which generate hotel & motel room nights and related revenues for city • Web: www.augustamaine.gov business, thereby increasing economic stimuli for the local infrastructure. With 49,000 total square feet, an impressive Main Auditorium, 2 Ballrooms and 23 Flexible Capacity rooms and Full Catering services, it’s • About Us: Maine’s capital city, Augusta also serves as the economic and transportation easy to find accommodations to fit your needs. Ideal for conventions, corporate meetings, sporting events, hub of Central Maine. From December through late spring, Augusta is at the center of the expositions and trade shows, this progressive facility delivers space and support services for all groups- state’s political attention – hosting not only the state legislature, but also serving as the both large and small. Augusta is also the State Capital and is within an hour of the rocky coast, sandy headquarters for hundreds of not-for-profit organizations and trade associations. With beaches, famous ski resorts, historical landmarks and golf courses. It’s the center of your business and vacation dreams. Nearly 1,000 rooms are available in fine hotels and Inns conveniently a daytime population of close to 60,000, the City of Augusta may well be the largest located within minutes of the Augusta Civic Center and Maine’s major highway, I-95. small city in Maine.

BAR HARBOR BANK & TRUST CARE Services Co. • Contact Information: • Contact: • Contact Information: • President and CEO: 368 Route 3 Jeff Charland 448 Main St. Claude Levesque, ATP, CRTS, CEAC South China, ME VP, Regional Relationship Manager Palmyra, ME 04965 • Vice President: • Phone: (207) 445-4865 • Hours: • Phone: (207) 368-4822 Jeremy Paules, ATP, RTS, PTA • Web: www.BHBT.com So. China: Mon.-Thurs. 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. • Email: [email protected] • Founded: 2016 • Founded: 1887 Open until 5:30 p.m. on Friday [email protected] • Employees: 5 • Employees: 514 Saturday 9 a.m.-12 noon • Web: www.careservicesco.com • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed on weekends and major holidays • About Us: CARE Services provides accessibility and rehab equipment and services to clients facing mobility • About Us: Make Bar Harbor Bank & Trust your bank and lender of choice! For over 130 years issues in Maine. Based in Palmyra, the CARE Services team has over 100 years of combined experience we have been providing financial solutions to businesses in Maine, helping them grow and serving the people of Maine. Our mission is to provide quality mobility and accessibility equipment to help succeed! Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is local, listening and lending to businesses in Kennebec clients live independently. We further pledge always to hold paramount our client’s privacy and dignity as County. Named one of the 2017 Top 200 Publicly Traded Community Banks in the Nation they live their life to the fullest in the homes and community. Our president has 37 years of experience by American Banker magazine. Visit us today, or go online to BHBT.com. Member FDIC. What’s on your horizon? in Home Medical Equipment and 30 years experience in Complex Rehabilitation Equipment. CARE is more than just our name, it’s how we feel about YOU, our customers. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 31

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

COLDWELL BANKER RIZZO MATTSON, REALTORS cPORT CREDIT UNION - AUGUSTA • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: Brian Rizzo • Contact Information: • President/CEO: cPort Credit Union Augusta Branch Gene Ardito 219 Capitol St. • Founded: 1981 399 Western Ave. • Founded: 1931 Augusta, ME 04330 • Employees: 18 full-time agents Augusta, ME 04330 • Hours: • Phone: (207) 622-9000 • Hours: • Phone: (207) 623-1001 Hours vary by office location • Web: www.rizzomattson.com Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: www.cportcu.org • Email: [email protected] Saturday by appointment www.facebook.com/cPortCU/ • About Us: Coldwell Banker Rizzo Mattson is a family owned company meeting the real • About Us: We began as only the third credit union in the state of Maine. What started as an organization run estate needs of the Capitol Area since 1981. With a friendly office staff and supportive team out of our first manager’s desk drawer grew to occupy the post office building at 125 Forest Avenue in Portland. Our headquarters then moved to our current location at 50 Riverside Industrial Parkway in Portland. cPort has of 18 full-time agents, we offer a wealth of expertise in Commercial, Residential, Waterfront five branches located in Portland, Augusta, and Scarborough.In 2005, we changed our name to cPort Credit and Investment real estate. As an affiliated agency of the Coldwell Banker network, we Union, again to better reflect the recent change in our charter, which now allows us to offer membership utilize our national and international connections to assist our buyer and seller clients re- to anyone who lives or works in one of five counties: Cumberland, Kennebec, Androscoggin, Sagadahoc gardless of where their move may take them. We are proud to be a part of the Kennebec and York. We strive to deliver the best possible financial experience to our members. We connect with Valley business community and look forward to being the “go-to” source for sound you, our members, through a high level of personalized service, through convenient banking technol- real estate advice and professional real estate service. ogy, and we connect with our communities, giving back to the areas that we serve.

DELTA AMBULANCE EYE CARE OF MAINE • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Doctors: 29 Chase Avenue Timothy A. Beals, MBA, EMTP 325A Kennedy Memorial Dr. Steve R. Witkin, M.D. Waterville, ME • Email: [email protected] Waterville, ME 04901 Peter C. Kohler, M.D. (207) 861-4244 • Web: www.deltaambulance.org • Phone: (207) 873-2731 James R. Putnam, M.D. 10 Cony Road • Founded: 1972 (800) 660-3403 Deborah I. Witkin, M.D 122 Medical Center Parkway • Employees: 140 • Web: www.Maine2020.com Nour Tchekmedyian, M.D. Augusta, ME • Hours: 24 hours a day, • Founded: 1922 Helen Bell-Necevski, O.D. (207) 623-4900 7 days a week. Lorie Lepley Parks, O.D. Michael C. Parks, O.D. • About Us: Delta Ambulance is the leading provider of high quality, compassionate emergency Adam B. Puiia, O.D. services, and non-emergency medical transportation in central Maine, as well as an important Paige J. Oliver, O.D. regional resource for emergency care, health and safety education and a strong supporter of the community. Winner: Margaret Chase Smith Maine State Quality Award - 2000; • About Us: Eye Care of Maine is an ophthalmology referral and general eye Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce President’s Award - 2010; Department of care practice. We provide the most current and comprehensive services in eye Defense/ESGR Pro Patria Award - 2011; MidMaine Chamber of Commerce - Business care. We also have a stand-alone surgery center. of the Year Award - 2012.

FRANKLIN SAVINGS BANK GHM INSURANCE AGENCY • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 197-209 Main Street, P.O. Box 825 Tim Thompson, President and CEO 51 Main Street Bill Mitchell Farmington, ME 04938 • Hours: Lobby and Drive-Up Hours Waterville, ME 04901 • Founded: 1901 • Phone: (207) 778-3339 vary depending on branch and day of the (207) 873-5101 • Employees: 30 (800) 284-0752 week. See webpage for specifics. Mobile • Branch Offices: Jay, Rangeley, and online banking and bill pay with • Hours: Wilton, River Valley, Skowhegan, Mt. Franklin eBranch, local and statewide • Email: [email protected] Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Blue High School and Ellsworth fee-free ATMs with the Maine Cash Ac- • Web: www.ghmagency.com (24-hour claim service) • Web: www.FranklinSavings.Bank cess system and telephone banking with Evenings and weekends by • Founded: 1868 Telebanker are available 24 hours a day. appointment. • Employees: 117 See our web page for current information. • About Us: Franklin Savings Bank is proud to celebrate its sesquicentennial in 2018, marking 150 • About Us: Personal insurance, business insurance, employee benefits, life, health, years of community banking! Full service banking and financial services through Western Mountain disability, long-term care insurance, bonding and human resources consulting. A Financial Services. Franklin Savings Bank is a state-chartered Universal Bank with $412 million family-owned independent insurance agency providing exceptional service, compet- in assets and eight locations serving west central Maine and business needs Downeast in itive insurance rates, loss control and 24-hour claim service to individuals, families Ellsworth. Franklin eBranch online and mobile banking and bill pay are available free to and business owners throughout Central Maine. customers. We are a member of the Maine Cash Access fee-free ATM network. 32 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

GIBSON LECLAIR, L.L.C. GOLDEN POND WEALTH MANAGEMENT • Contact Information: • Partners: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 150 Capitol Street Jeanne T. Gibson 129 Silver Street Brian Bernatchez, CFP® Suite 3 Stephen L. LeClair Waterville, ME 04901 • Founded: 1996 Augusta, Maine 04330 • Founded: 2003 • Phone: (207) 873-2200 • Employees: 8 • Phone: (207) 623-8401 • Employees: 10 • Email: • Hours: (800) 639-2150 • Hours: [email protected] Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: www.GibsonLeClair.com Mon.-Fri.- 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: www.goldenpondwealth.com Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. • About Us: We offer audit, financial statements, consulting and tax services. Certified Public Accountants specializing in: • About Us: Investment Management and Financial Planning. Independent financial 1) Non-profit auditing and taxation services firm providing comprehensive wealth management services to families and 2) Business and individual taxation institutions throughout Maine. 3) Reviews and compilations 4) Closely held business issues

HIGGINS & BOLDUC AGENCY, INC. JOSEPH’S FIRESIDE STEAKHOUSE • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Owners: 56 Main St. Matthew Marquis, President 99 West River Rd. E.J. Fabian Oakland, ME 04963 Danielle Marquis, Vice President Waterville, ME 04901 Kevin P. Joseph • Phone: (207) 465-2531 • Founded: 1940 • Phone: (207) 877-8325 • General Manager: Richard Savage • Email: [email protected] • Employees: 8 or (207) 87steak • Founded: 2011 • Web: www.higginsandbolduc.com • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. • Email: • Employees: 50 [email protected] • Hours: • Web: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. www.jfs.me Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. • About Us: We are a family-owned insurance agency offering all lines of personal, commercial, life and health insurance. We specialize in providing exceptional customer • About Us: We are an independent, locally-owned, slightly upscale Steak- service. house that carries only USDA High Choice and Prime cuts of beef as well as the freshest Seafood and Chicken available. We also have a nice selection of Vegetarian and Gluten Free items.

KENNEBEC BEHAVIORAL HEALTH KENNEBEC FEDERAL SAVINGS • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 67 Eustis Parkway Thomas J. McAdam 70 Main Street Allan L. Rancourt, President/CEO Waterville, ME 04901 • Founded: 1960 Waterville, ME 04901 • Hours: • Phone: • Employees: over 420 • Phone: (207) 873-5151 Main St.: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (207) 873-2136 or • Web Address: Branch Office: Washington St. Drive Up: 1-888-322-2136 www.kbhmaine.org 11 Washington St., Waterville Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (207) 873-3539 Fri. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. • About Us: Kennebec Behavioral Health’s mission is to promote the well-being of children, • Email: [email protected] Sat. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. adults and families who experience mental illness, emotional difficulties or behavioral chal- • Web: www.kfsavings.com Washington St. Lobby: lenges. Founded in 1960, Kennebec Behavioral Health (KBH) offers clinic-based services in • Founded: 1936 Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Waterville, Augusta, Winthrop, Skowhegan and Farmington and provides community-based • Employees: 22 Sat. 8:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. services throughout a seven-county service area. KBH’s nationally recognized vocational • About Us: Community bank headquartered in Waterville, Maine. Residential mortgage rehabilitation program features High Hopes Clubhouse in Waterville, Capitol Clubhouse in specialists: First-time homebuyer programs, seasonal financing, construction loans, Augusta, Looking Ahead Clubhouse in Lewiston and Village Clubhouse in Topsham. KBH refinance, home equity. Free checking with Rewards, Easy Saver CDs & IRAs. Online is CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) accredited and is banking, bill payment,eStatements, mobile, mobile deposit. CardValet™ app lets you well known for its high-quality, strengths-based approach to its mission. control your debit card. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 33

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

KENNEBEC SAVINGS BANK KENNEBEC VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE • Contact Information: • President: Andrew E. Silsby • Contact Information: • President: P.O. Box 50, Augusta, ME 04332 • Founded: 1870 92 Western Ave. Dr. Richard Hopper • Phone: (207) 622-5801 • Employees: 140 Fairfield, ME 04937 • Employees: 206 • Branch Offices: • Web: www.KennebecSavings.Bank • Phone: 100 full-time 150 State St., Augusta, 622-5801 • Hours: (207) 453-5822 106 part-time 226 Main St., Waterville, 872-5563 Lobbies: Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. • Web: • Hours: 84 Main St., Winthrop, 377-5801 Drive-ups: Mon.-Fri.: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. www.kvcc.me.edu Mon.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 1 Northern Ave., Farmingdale, 588-5801 KSB Anytime: 24-hour electronic • Founded: 1969 Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 181 Lower Main St., Freeport, 865-1550 banking centers in Augusta, Farmingdale, • Email: [email protected] Freeport & Manchester • About Us: Kennebec Savings Bank values excellence in service, teamwork and community. We are • About Us: Offering two-year associate degrees and one year certificate programs, more than a bank, we are helping to build our communities and make them stronger. Established in unique programs, opportunities to transfer credits to four-year colleges and universities, 1870, Kennebec Savings Bank today is a state-chartered community bank, part of a mutual organ- online classes, professional development courses and customized workforce training. ization with a team of 140 employees and offices in Augusta, Farmingdale, Waterville, Winthrop and an Electronic Banking and Loan Center in Freeport. Customers and employees alike say “We Make It Easy” at Kennebec Savings Bank. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

MAINE STATE CREDIT UNION MAINE-LY ELDER CARE • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 200 Capitol St. Augusta Tucker Cole, 28 Center St. Denise Rogers-Stevens, RN 623-1851 President/CEO Oakland, ME 04963 • Founded: 1999 162 Hospital St., Augusta • Founded: 1935 • Phone: (207) 465-3249 • Employees: 100 621-6060 • Employees: 74 • Web: www.maine-lyeldercare.com • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 81 Grove St., Waterville • Hours: 873-5159 Hours vary by office location • Web: mainestatecu.org Facebook.com/MaineStateCU Maine-ly Elder Care provides Quality of Life Solutions to the people and • About Us: Maine State Credit Union is devoted to improving our member’s financial lives, • About Us: not just the bottom line. The friendly greeting in the lobby is real from the tellers to the CEO. communities we serve. We provide nursing, personal care by Christian caregivers, We are a local credit union, but members can access our services anywhere in the world homemaking, transportation and home maintenance and repairs. through seamless online and mobile banking technology. Maine State Credit Union is dedicated to helping its members reach their financial dreams. Members are our bottom line. Belong with us.

MARSHALL COMMUNICATIONS MATTSON’S FLOORING & WINDOW TREATMENTS • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Manager: Ashley Woods 151 Capitol St. Nancy Marshall 276 Whitten Rd. • Founded: 1965 Suite One • Founded: 1991 Hallowell, ME 04347 • Employees: 6 Augusta, ME 04330 • Employees: 12 • Phone: (207) 620-8888 • Hours: • Phone: (207) 623-4177 • Hours of Operation: (207) 623-1106 Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Web: http://marshallpr.com Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: www.mattsonsflooring.com Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. • Email: [email protected] • Email: [email protected] Also by appointment

• About Us: Marshall Communications was founded in 1991 by Nancy Marshall, The PR We are a locally owned small business who specialize in sales and installation of Maven®. The Marshall Plan® was developed to serve clients with a 65-step action plan that • About Us: commercial and residential floor coverings and window treatments. We cater to homeowners, takes three months to create and provides a detailed road map to achieve your specific business owners, contractors, builders and the DIYers! Our staff are specialists, trained to marketing and communications goals. The PR Maven® Podcast helps companies and indi- guide you to the best options for your home or office. Free on-site measures and consulta- viduals grow their personal and organizational brands both online and in person. Located tions in-store are available for all our flooring and window treatments. in Augusta, the firm serves clients in tourism, economic development and healthcare statewide and nationally. 34 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

NORTHEAST LABORATORY SERVICES NORTHERN LIGHT CONTINUING CARE, LAKEWOOD • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 227 China Rd. Rodney “Beau” Mears • Contact Information: • Chief Executives: Winslow, ME 04901 • Email: [email protected] 220 Kennedy Memorial Drive Shannon Lockwood, Adminstrator • Phone: (207) 873-7711 • Web: www.nelabservices.com Waterville, ME 04901 • Founded: 1974 (800) 244-8378 • Founded: 1972 • Phone: (207) 873-5125 • Employees: 160 • Branch Office: • Employees: 70 • Web: www.lakewoodcare.org 120 Main St. • Hours: Westbrook, ME 04092 Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • About Us: We are part of Northern Light Health, an integrated health delivery system serving the state of Maine with a goal to make healthcare work for every person. Northern Light Continuing Care, Lakewood is a 5-star rated skilled nursing center that provides short-term rehabilitation • About Us: Accredited laboratory providing a wide range of environmental as well as long-term and dementia care. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our residents, analytical chemistry, microbiology, and indoor air quality testing services. Manufactures patients, and their families through compassionate care and creative activities programming. microbiological prepared media products for a wide array of customers including Our qualified rehabilitation staff offers physical, occupational, and speech therapies. We pharmaceutical, biotech, food and clinical markets. provide our skilled nurses and certified nurses’ aides with ongoing advanced training so they can continue to deliver the safest, most caring experience possible for all who need Lakewood. We are located on the Northern Light Inland Hospital campus.

NORTHERN LIGHT INLAND HOSPITAL NORTHERN LIGHT SEBASTICOOK VALLEY HOSPITAL • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 200 Kennedy Memorial Drive John Dalton, President • Contact Information: • President: Waterville, ME 04901 • Provider Finder Service: 447 N. Main St. Teresa P. Vieira • Phone: (207) 861-3000 1-800-914-1409 Pittsfield, ME 04967 • Founded: 1963 • Web: northernlighthealth.org • Employees: 750 • Phone: (207) 487-4000 • Employees: 362 • Founded: 1943 TTY: (207) 487-4590 • Hours: • Web: www.northernlighthealth.org Hospital - 24/7 • About Us: We are part of Northern Light Health, an integrated health delivery system serving • About Us: We are part of Northern Light Health, an integrated health delivery system serving the state of Maine with a goal to make healthcare work for every person. Northern Light Inland the state of Maine with a goal to make healthcare work for every person. Not-for-profit critical Hospital is a community hospital with primary care and specialty care practices in Waterville, access hospital with Surgical Services (general, trauma, laparoscopic, and specialty surger- Oakland, Unity, and Madison. Our services include birthing center, cardiology, diabetes ies), Diagnostics (CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, 3-D Mammography, Bone Density and nutrition wellness, emergency care, general surgery and urology, infusions, imaging, Screening), Full Service Laboratory, Northern Light Primary Care practices in Clinton, orthopedics, osteopathic manipulative medicine, physiatry, physical/occupational/speech Newport, and Pittsfield, Women’s Health Center, Outpatient Specialty Services, Emergency therapy, podiatry, primary care, rheumatology, sleep medicine, vascular care, walk-in Services (emergency department, ambulance service, helipad), Rehabilitation Centers care, women’s health, and wound care. in Pittsfield and Newport, Urology Services, Cardiopulmonary Services, Community Health and Education, Diabetes and Nutrition Clinic, Business Health Services.

PEACHEY BUILDERS PINE TREE ORTHOPEDIC LAB • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 105 Old Winthrop Rd. Gary Peachey 175 Park St. Todd MacDonald, President Augusta, ME 04330 • Founded: 1947 Livermore Falls, ME 04254 • Founded: 2006 • Phone: (207) 622-7531 • Employees: 26 (207) 897-5558 • Employees: 20 Fax: (207) 622-7060 • Hours: • Web: • Hours: • Web: www.peacheybuilders.com Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.pinetreeorthopedic.com Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Email: Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. [email protected] Evenings by Appointment • About Us: Peachey Builders if a full service design/build contractor with almost 70 years specializing in industrial, commercial and institutional buildings and facili- • About Us: We manufacture custom AFO’s, custom orthotics, custom shoes, custom articu- ties. Our goal is the final, successful completion of your special building or buildings, lating braces, and we do all types of shoe modifications. Our retail store specializes in comfort so you can get on with the business at hand. At Peachey Builders we are always shoes with sizes from 5-18 and widths from AA to 9E available. Our friendly staff includes looking for new and innovative ways to expedite your building needs cost effectively, three certified Pedorthist that have helped thousands of people with foot problems. We and professionally! also have a 40-foot safety shoe trailer that calls on businesses throughout Maine. Take a drive today to Livermore Falls and visit the most unique shoe store in Maine. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 35

BUSINESS JOURNAL PROFILES 2019

PRIME FINANCIAL, INC. SHERIDAN CORPORATION

• Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • President: Mr. Mitchell Sammons 753 West River Rd. Roland Fournier 33 Sheridan Drive • Vice President: Mr. Daniel Wildes Waterville, ME 04901 • Founded: 1985 PO Box 359 • Founded: 1947 • Phone: (207) 877-9450 • Employees: 6 Fairfield, ME 04937 • Employees: 100 • Web: • Hours: • Branch Offices: Portland • Annual Payroll: Over $3 million www.primefinancial.biz Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Email: [email protected] • Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: www.sheridancorp.com • About Us: Financial Planning, Investments, Retirement Planning, Life Insurance, Health Insurance* (*not offered through LPL Financial). • About Us: Construction and engineering services for commercial, institutional and industrial building projects. Building contractor delivering general contracting, Registered Representative of LPL Financial. Securities and Advisory Services offered construction management and design/build construction services. In-house design through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC capabilities for site design and permitting.

SPRAGUE AND CURTIS REAL ESTATE UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT AUGUSTA • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: • Contact Information: • Chief Executive: 75 Western Ave. Bill Sprague 46 University Drive Dr. Rebecca M. Wyke, Ed.D Augusta, ME 04330 • Founded: 1957 Augusta ME 04330 • Web: www.uma.edu • Phone: (207) 623-1123 • Employees: 10 • Phone: (207) 621-3465 • Founded: 1965 • Email: • Hours: [email protected] Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Web: Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. www.spragueandcurtis.com Other times by appointment • About Us: UMA transforms the lives of students of every age and background across the State of Maine and beyond through access to high-quality distance and on-site education, excellence in student support, civic engagement, and professional and liberal arts programs. • About Us: Full service real estate firm handling properties in the greater Augusta, UMA serves approximately 6,000 students at its campuses in Augusta and Bangor and Winthrop and Gardiner regions. Buyer and seller representation, statewide and na- through eight UMA Centers around the state. With its multiple locations, long-term expertise tional MLS, nationwide and global referrals; member Leading Real Estate Companies in online and distance learning, and commitment and success in supporting adult learn- of the World. ers, UMA is generally considered the university of choice for Mainers of all ages who want to attend college without uprooting their lives. Support our LOCAL economy. Where we all — live, work and play. Help our businesses thrive and grow. 36 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers

Thank you to our employees! YOU make us a family. YOU make us one of Maine’s Best Places to Work! Northeast Charter • Lewiston, Maine Offices in Camden, Rockland, Belfast, Southwest Harbor and Waterville 207-784-3159 AllenIF.com | (800) 439-4311 | An Employee-Owned Company

Thank you! The entire KFS team has made KFS one of the Best Places to Work in Maine - 6 years in a row! Your outstanding teamwork, positive attitude, and commitment to extraordinary service makes KFS a great place to work and a great place to bank.

SELECTED AS ONE OF MAINE’S BEST PLACES TO WORK! Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 37

The “Best Places to Work in Maine” program recognizes companies that have established and consistently fostered outstanding workplace environments. The organization that manages the program, Best Companies Group, gathered information from all registered organizations including employee benefits, workplace policies and employee responses to a comprehensive satisifaction survey. Participating companies receive an employee feedback report in an effort to help them improve their scores. The report summarizes employee engagement and satifiscation data and includes employees’ written comments. The report is used by many organizations to make significant improvements in their workplace culture. The program is part of a long-term initiative to encourage growth and excellence in companies throughout the state.

Improving lives with A COMPLETE LIST OF TOP COMPANIES effective, innovative care CAN BE FOUND AT Kennebec Behavioral Health is honored to be named one of the Best Places to Work www.bestplacestoworkinme.com in Maine! Our incredible staff make KBH one of the most comprehensive mental health centers in Maine with their dedication and commitment.

1-888-322-2136 www www.kbhmaine.org

is proud to be named one of the Best Places to Work in Maine again in 2019! View our job openings online at: darlings.hirecentric.com/jobs

When you need high-quality care, we’re with you.

to our phenomenal staff for all they do to make THANK YOU Avesta Housing a “Best Place to Work in Maine.”

We’re proud of our 4,400 employees who provide Excellence at Work every day. Come work with us! To learn more, visit www.mainegeneral.org/careers. Nov. 2 – Lab & Support Services Career Fair Alfond Center for Health, Augusta

2019 WWW.AVESTAHOUSING.ORG/CAREERS 38 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Kennebec Behavioral Health puts focus on workers Efforts center around creating a healthy work environment

BY ELIZABETH KEANE team sets up challenges that staff can Communications Specialist KBH participate in for a fun and productive way Special to Business Journal of reaching wellness goals. Throughout the past few years, the n any business, promoting a healthy KBH Connections Team, whose goal is to work environment can be the most improve connectedness among staff and I important deciding factor in providing the community, has similarly coordinated quality services. At Kennebec Behav- several employee activities such as KBH ioral Health, this comes down to three Day at the Sea Dogs, summer staff bar- components: compensation, benefits and becues, door decorating contests, a Pet culture. All three are necessary to this Palooza competition, a family ice-skating nonprofit that relies on a work environ- event and an annual employee appreci- ment that encourages collaboration and ation Spring Fling dinner and dance. The support as it works to provide mental KBH Connections Team created a fun car- health care. pool karaoke video for staff leading up to As a business, KBH remains competitive the last Spring Fling with an 80s theme. in its wages and benefits and continually This year, the team will continue with assesses its wage structure through dif- the tradition of choosing a fun theme and ferent studies to ensure KBH offers com- incorporating videos and fun promos to petitive compensation in line with current encourage participation. trends. Through financial management All of this work with the different and advocating for legislation, which committees and management’s goals to improves reimbursement rates for mental improve the workplace environment has health services, the agency continues to led to exciting recognition. In 2018, KBH increase pay and provide more services Contributed photos was named as one of the Best Places to as need grows. KBH Wellness Team and Connections Team plan activities that benefit employee Work in Maine by the Society for Human Similarly, KBH recognizes that in today’s health, both physical and mental. Above is the 80s themed Staff Spring Fling, and Resource Management- Maine State climate, benefits can be just as impor- below is one of their 5K teams. Council (MESHRM) and Best Companies tant as wages. A robust health insurance plan, 403B match, nutritional counseling, Group. This was the first time the agency smoking cessation clinics, gym and mas- applied and would later rank in 11th for sage therapy reimbursement and contin- the large business category. uing educational opportunities encourage Once again, the agency has been employees to reach their fullest potential named one of the Best Places to Work both in their careers and their well-being. in Maine for 2019. KBH’s CEO, Tom However, the agency found that more McAdam said that the designation vali- could be done, and over the last five dates the purposeful attention that the years, staff from different departments agency has made around recruitment and and locations have come together to form retention. committees to innovate practices already “Over the last two to three years, our in place and form new ideas to benefit management has been particularly staff. Two of these committees, the Well- focused on three things: culture, compen- ness Team and KBH Connections Team, sation and benefits,” McAdam said.“We promote healthy practices and develop are pleased that the many staff members company culture. who participated in the survey are very For a third year, KBH’s Wellness Team satisfied with the direction in which we has been meeting monthly to create are moving. This is consistent with our and plan activities that will benefit the was developed to spotlight employees new app-based wellness incentive pro- ideas and goals around being a primary health, both physical and mental, of KBH on their journey toward improving their gram called Virgin Pulse. The app (and service provider of mental health care in staff and to evaluate previous plans and well-being. Further, the group formed a available Max Buzz trackers) allows staff central Maine.” endeavors. The team began with weekly KBH 5K Team. Staff participate in locally to earn money for engaging in healthy Serving over 14,000 people, KBH oper- wellness tips and lunch-n-learns on topics organized runs and walks to help promote behaviors and aids them in tracking their ates community-based clinics in Augusta, such as nutrition, sleep, financial health wellness and the causes of other organ- progress. The social component of the Winthrop, Skowhegan, Farmington and and exercise and have since expanded its izations. In the last year alone, the team platform allows colleagues to participate Waterville. More information about KBH ideas to include more social components. has participated in at least five 5Ks. in competitions that will help them to programs can be found online at kbh- A monthly newsletter, Road to Wellness, Finally, in July, the team unveiled a challenge and connect with others. The maine.org or by calling 888-322-2136. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 39 How a career helping others can make you happier here’s no doubt about it -- what work or staring at a screen all day. They’re • The industry is booming. As more you do each day for work can make out in their communities, helping to keep seniors are electing to stay in their homes, T a huge impact on your overall seniors and others happy, healthy and an increasing number of home care aides well-being. According to a Society for safe. Their view changes throughout the and nurses are needed to provide them Human Resource Management survey, key day, keeping things fresh and invigorating. with essential care. Indeed, employment job satisfaction aspects include job securi- • No two days are the same. While daily of home health aides and personal care ty, respect, trust and a positive and healthy tasks are straightforward, no two days are aides is projected to grow 41 percent environment. If you don’t have these things exactly the same for caregivers. Home care from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the in your workplace, you may be considering careers mean that one day, you could be average for all occupations, according to making a career shift. playing a game with a senior; the next, you the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Studies suggest that workers in profes- could be sipping tea and sharing stories. In fact, major providers of home health sions focused on serving other people tend • The work is meaningful. Working with care are actively hiring, including Interim to be the happiest and most satisfied, and patients to provide care and help them HealthCare, which takes steps to match experts point out that careers in the grow- stay healthy is immensely rewarding. Yet, patients to clients, and has locally owned ing home care industry can be particularly even when days are stressful, home care and operated franchises across the U.S. To fulfilling. workers have the satisfaction of knowing learn more about home care careers, visit “There are few occupations more reward- they’re having a positive impact on the interimhealthcare.com/careers. ing than empowering someone who needs individuals they serve, as well as their “Whether you’re an experienced profes- a little help,” says Jennifer Sheets, presi- communities. sional considering a pivot into home care, dent and chief executive officer of Caring difference in the world.” • It’s flexible.Part-time, full-time, per or a young adult looking for inspiration Brands International and Interim Health- So, is a caregiver job right for you? Here’s diem, with flexibility in location and availa- to choose a first career, the home care Care Inc. “A home health care career is a what to know: bility -- these are just a few of the ways in industry will welcome you with open arms,” great fit for people who value flexibility and • This is not a desk job. Caregivers which workers can customize the look and says Sheets.” have a calling to help others and make a aren’t trapped in a cubicle doing paper- feel of a home care career. - StatePoint

Celebrating our 72nd year of Quality

Accounting Firm/ Commercial Construction Financial Consultant In Best of the Best!

Lincoln Academy Advanced Technology and Engineering Center

EST. 1947 PEACHEY It’s not just adding them up. It’s making them count. BUILDERS For 72 years Peachey Builders has specialized in Design/Build services that work in perfect harmony with our clients’ needs. P.O. Box 2508 Augusta, ME 04338 207-622-7531 • fax: 207-622-7060 • www.peacheybuilders.com 150 Capitol Street, Augusta | 207-623-8401 40 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Should you buy or build a home? It depends on what you want and how much you can afford BY VALERIE TUCKER live and put belongings in storage while “With today’s low inventory in this part of the state, a home Correspondent waiting. “With today’s low inventory in this that’s properly priced and in the desirable location can sell eciding whether to build or part of the state, a home that’s properly in less than a month.” buy a home requires some priced and in the desirable location can D serious thought. Those who sell in less than a month,” he said. DON PLOURDE, BROKER/OWNER opt for building a new home will have Plourde said central Maine is a popu- COLDWELL BANKER PLOURDE REAL ESTATE to find land to buy, decide on a home lar retirement location, with affordable design, the flooring, fixtures, cabinets, housing prices compared to southern countertops, interior and exterior trim, Maine and the rest of New England. sheetrock and painting, heating system The region has plenty to offer except for and more. available housing. Usually, homeowners don’t want to “If we’re going to attract people to take on that large a task themselves. this area, we need attractive housing Even if they’re comfortable doing some for them,” he said. “People like to buy a of the work, they’ll still have to hire and new house if they can.” schedule the individual contractors. He doesn’t see many people con- More often, they’ll hire a contractor verting summer camps into year-round who can subcontract the septic system, homes, but he acknowledges there is the wiring, the plumbing, the carpentry, pent-up demand from those selling their sheetrock work and every other detail larger family home and downsizing to related to creating their new home. a smaller and more easily accessible Jason Thomas, a contractor based in dwelling. Condominiums are a popular Starks, stays busy year-round. When option, he said, but many of the larger he builds a home, he meets with the building contractors have chosen to owners to discuss and decide whether work further south in the state, because to have a full basement or a concrete profits are higher. Building condos in slab, whether siding will be vinyl or Yarmouth is more profitable than build- cedar shingles and whether the roof ing condos in Winslow, for example. will be standing seam steel or asphalt. Plourde is optimistic, though, that cen- The building material choices can be tral Maine will remain a popular choice endless and so are the costs. for families, retirees and those moving “People are always surprised by the away from the cities and crowded sub- price of materials if they’ve never done a urbs in other parts of the country. big building project,” he said. Another realtor, who has weathered Today’s homeowners want more than the vagaries of the market and the econ- one bathroom and they want open omy, agrees with Plourde. spaces for entertaining and family “We’re in an up cycle right now,” said gatherings. They also dream of having Bill Sprague Jr., owner of Sprague & Fall in love with new flooring, a beautiful patio or deck and a garden Curtis Real Estate in Augusta. shed and maybe a small workshop. Un- Sellers are getting good prices today, less they have done their research, they he said, but they should expect to pay it will leaf you smiling. may be in for a letdown. proportionately higher prices if they “A typical three-bedroom, 1,800 want to buy a piece of property and square-foot ranch-style home with a full build a new home. Homeowners who basement and a garage will be about bought or built their home a generation $250,000 in today’s market,” he said. or more ago, raised their families and FLOORING & WINDOW TREATMENTS According to Don Plourde, broker/ paid off their mortgage will benefit from owner of Coldwell Banker Plourde Real their investment now. Estate in Waterville, buyers can find “When the market is hot, like it is now, Your Flooring and Window Treatment Specialists RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SALES AND INSTALLATION some wonderful pieces of land on which prices go up and inventory goes down,” 276 Whitten Road, Hallowell | 620-8888 | www.mattsonsflooring.com to build a new home, but they have to he said. Open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. plan ahead before they put their current When the market is sluggish, buyers home on the market. With today’s real find a more varied inventory and a good estate market short on inventory, finding supply of homes. That’s not the case a qualified contractor willing to do the today, he said. A property that’s priced job can be a daunting task. Those who fairly and is neat and clean could sell plan to sell an existing home and prop- within a month. Buyers are looking for erty could wait several months before homes that are well cared for and are the new home is ready for occupancy. willing to overlook older kitchen cabi- They may need to find another place to nets, dated fixtures and tiny bathrooms. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 41 Maine home sales set a record in 2018, and they’re not far off the pace this year Through August, the total number of sales was less than 1% below the first eight months of 2018 – the state’s best sales year ever.

BY J. CRAIG ANDERSON quickly,” Peter Harrington, association president and Portland Press Herald broker/partner with Malone Commercial Brokers in Portland, said in a statement. “We expect a strong aine homes have sold at a near-record finish to 2019, but that depends on a steady stream pace this year through the month of Au- of new affordable listings to meet the needs of M gust. Maine’s working families.” Statistics released Thursday by the Maine Associ- Nationally, single-family home sales in August ation of Realtors show total sales volume of existing increased by 2.9 % from a year earlier, while the single-family homes in Maine through Aug. 31 is less median sales price was up by 4.7 % to $280,700, than 1 % below the first eight months of 2018 – the according to the National Association of Realtors. state’s best sales year ever. Sales in the Northeast region were up by 1.4 %, The association reported a 3.2 % bump in August while the regional median price eased by 0.3 % to home sales compared with a year earlier, while the $303,500, it said. statewide median home sales price increased by 4.6 For the three-month period ending Aug. 31, Maine AUGUST HOME SALES % to $230,000. The median indicates that half of home sales were down by about 1.2 % from the Number sold Median sale price homes sold for more money and half sold for less. same period of 2018, while the median sales price 2018: 2,072 2018: $220,000 “It has been a strong real estate year for much of was up by nearly 3.6 % to $233,000, according to 2019: 2,138 2019: $230,000 Maine, and good quality for-sale inventory is moving the Maine association. Source: Maine Listings

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ost business owners know the importance of planning ahead, M but many don’t have a solid succession plan for their business. A well-designed succession plan maps out the process for you to sell or transfer your business, with an eye towards the tax implications and your personal financial security. Succession planning is a complex, multi-faceted business process that for JOSEPH M. PRATT many business owners is an afterthought SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT as they wind down their careers. A well AND WEALTH MANAGER thought out succession plan can be used BAR HARBOR TRUST SERVICES as a guiding document for your company as you grow and expand your business. It should address what will happen if something unforeseen occurs and you and estate needs. This is especially important if you plan to and attorney to discuss the tax impli- are suddenly unable to lead the compa- If the business has value as a going keep the business in the family. cations of selling your business. Here ny, and also how you plan to turn over concern or is in the process of develop- If you own a family business, and plan are some important tax questions to ownership when you retire. ing value, you need to carefully navigate to have one or more family members consider: In the event of a crisis, the plan could the options for an exit strategy that will take over, make sure they are a good • What are the tax implications to my be used to outline steps employees will help increase or preserve the value of fit for the business you’ve built. Do they personal estate when I sell my business? take if you, or members of your manage- the company. understand the business? Do they have • How do those tax responsibilities ment team, are incapacitated or leave Whatever path you take in the valuation the aptitude to run the business? Do they change if I transfer ownership to a family the company unexpectedly. process, the value of the business will want to run the business? member? To plan for the future, you must have a most likely play a major role in planning Changes to your family could drastically • Can I give shares in the company to deep understanding of your current busi- your income levels in retirement, and you affect the best-laid succession plan if not my children or to a charity? ness and know where the value lies. need to account for it. evaluated and adjusted over time. Family • Can I use a trust to hold the assets of Determining the business value is at Financial planning and succession changes that affect your estate plan may the estate? the top of the list when creating a busi- planning go hand-in-hand and both will also affect your succession plan. Those Succession planning and retirement ness succession plan. A valuation expert be key components of the ongoing fi- changes include things like marriage, planning do not happen quickly. And should be used at this point to appraise nancial security of you and your family. If divorce, children, grandchildren and the while you may have been planning your the business, but as a general rule, most you’re like most business owners, a sig- marriage/divorce of grown children. All of retirement for years, have you given businesses can be valued in one of two nificant portion of your personal wealth these circumstances need to be consid- the same thought to how your business ways. The “Going Concern Value” or the is tied to your business assets. As those ered in the planning process. will continue after you are gone? Many “Liquidation Value.” assets grow, they become an increasingly Layers of complexity will be added if you business owners will put the needs of The liquidation value of the company is important part of your estate plan, and have a partner in the business. They may the business ahead of their own needs, the sum of all current inventory, buildings may be used to fund your retirement. have different priorities or see a different but at some point, you need to focus on and tangible assets. The going concern Examining your personal financial plan path for the future and steps should be preserving and enjoying the rewards you value assumes that without you involved during the succession planning process taken to have legal documents reviewed spent a career earning. in the business, it will continue to operate will help ensure that: and updated. Planning for your business transition and be profitable. This value is based • You have the income needed in re- Every business sale is different, but the can be complicated, and it requires a on the liquidation value and adds the tirement to support your desired lifestyle. one constant is taxes. The Taxman is al- team of trusted professionals, including goodwill of the company. Goodwill is an • You are well prepared for the tax ways there lurking in the background and a financial advisor who understands intangible asset and can include things implications of selling your business. you want to have a solid plan to limit your your personal and professional goals. like the value of the company’s brand/ • You have the necessary cash flow tax liability. While strategies to minimize A professional team of advisors that reputation, any patents, propriety tech- available to cover any anticipated future your taxes should not drive the succes- include a financial advisor, accountant nology, purchase contracts and a number expenses. sion process, they should be incorporat- and attorney will help ensure a smooth of other factors. • In the event of disability or premature ed into your overall plan. When you sell and equitable business transition that In the valuation process, if it’s deter- death, the financial needs for you and your business to a third party or transfer will result in optimized financial results mined that the business has little or no your family are met. to a family member, the way taxes affect for you and your family. value as a going concern without you, • You have an estate plan in place to the transaction can significantly change The views and opinions expressed then a liquidation plan needs to be de- ensure that taxes are minimized and how much values endures. herein are those of the author and do not veloped that addresses your personal tax your assets are distributed as you wish. Make sure you talk with an accountant necessarily reflect those of the Bank. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 43 5 signs it’s time to ask for a raise or U.S. workers, living expenses use any of these points to make the continue to generally outpace case for a raise with your boss. Instead, F pay increases, according to focus on your achievements and the the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, value you bring to your company. a recent study by Randstad US and Here are a few tips to help you get a Apartment Guide found that 44 % of fair rate based on your level of experi- employed Americans say their annual ence: residential expenses (rent, mortgage, • Quantify your value. Think of “val- utilities, household maintenance, etc.) ue” not only in terms of tasks complet- increase more than their salary does ed or sales made but also things like each year — and 37 % of house, room effective management, team building and apartment renters claim the cost and timeliness. of their home is too high when com- • Know your worth. To learn more pared to their income. This has resulted about your earning power, check out in long commutes, as well as a need to Randstad’s online salary center, availa- supplement expenses by taking on side ble at randstadusa.com/salary. gigs and seeking out roommates. • Build (and present) your case. Don’t “The general rule of thumb is to Based on the research, here are five job to supplement their living expenses. forget to share your vision on how you’ll spend less than 30 % of your gross clear signs that it could be time to ask 4. You have multiple roommates. continue contributing to the company’s income on rent. Depending on your for a raise: Twenty-one % say they need more than future success. income level, this might not be possible 1. You can’t afford a home with your one roommate to afford their current “When it comes to salary negotiation, in some desirable urban neighbor- current income. Twenty-six % of work- rent or mortgage. you need a strategy. Prepare ahead, hoods without making other lifestyle ers currently rent, but plan to purchase 5. You’re willing to relocate for a think through tough questions your sacrifices. Be realistic in your housing a home when they get a raise at work. better opportunity. Fifty-six % say they boss may have for you, and, most selection and your salary will go much 2. You have a long commute to save would move out of state for a better job importantly, come with a number that further,” said Emily Williams, senior on living costs. Twenty-four % say they opportunity. you’re happy to walk away with,” said data analyst for Apartment Guide. live far from their jobs because they Of course, needing a raise and de- Jodi Chavez, group president of Rand- On the other hand, if all this sounds can’t afford to live nearby. serving a raise are two very different stad Professionals, Life Sciences and familiar, it may be time to ask for a 3. You have more than one job. Twen- things. In fact, the experts at Randstad Tatum. raise. ty-eight % say they have more than one US don’t actually recommend that you StatePoint WE’VE BEEN TAKING CARE OF THE WE’VE BEEN TAKING CARE OF THE IMPORTANT THINGS SINCE 1901. IMPORTANT THINGS SINCE 1901.

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needs.partnerships We firmly are believepowerful. that Let’s all work together to keep Maine neighborhoods partnerships are powerful. Let’s all work 800-244-9046 togethersafe — forto keeptoday Maine and for neighborhoods the next ghmagency.com generation. 800-244-9046 safe — for today and for the next ghmagency.com generation. 44 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Waterville software startup accesses two funding sources to help promote product ariously, a software startup based of these key components.” in Waterville, Maine, has been Rimsa said is equally excited about his E awarded a $10,000 grant from relationship with Turtle. the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) to “I first met (Turtle’s co-founder and CEO) continue working with software design Vlad (Lokshin) about four years ago when and development specialists to bring its Turtle was just an idea that he shared with product to market. me. They just crossed $1M in revenue, The award comes on the heels of a which is an exciting testament to his $2,500 design and development prize commitment to making software develop- from Turtle’s Founder Lab, a remote-first ment for accessible and reimagining the company that connects startups and standard work week,” Rimsa said. “As soon entrepreneurial teams with top software as we saw Turtle was accepting candidates engineers. for its first Founder Lab, we stopped what Eariously’s software turns any digital text we were doing and applied.” (e.g. websites, emails, articles, PDFs, imag- Eariously will share that prize with Bon- es) into audio that can be listened to on a mo, a New York City-based startup founded phone or laptop. Founders Nick Rimsa and by Stephanie Houng. Bonmo is a platform Brendan Barr were motivated to create the that matches brands and comedians in innovative software in 2018 because they order to create more compelling content were sharing so many articles with each marketing, video production and brand other that they didn’t have time to read all communication for customers. of them, but had plenty of time to listen “I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to during commutes. participate in Turtle’s Founder Lab,” Houng With the MTI funding opportunity, Ear- said. “As a non-technical founder, there are iously plans to continue working with its Contributed photo times where I feel less confident about my diverse software design and development Eariously’s software turns any digital text (e.g. websites, emails, articles, PDFs, ability to communicate with or understand specialists (contracted from Houston, images) into audio that can be listened to on a phone or laptop. Co-founders the position of developers. Founder Lab Madrid, Missouri and San Francisco) and Nick Rimsa, center, and Brendan Barr, right, were motivated to create the inno- taught key concepts that I can apply imme- testing its software with hundreds of listen- vative software in 2018 because they were sharing so many articles with each diately to all my interactions with develop- ers; they aim to begin selling the software other that they didn’t have time to read all of them, but had plenty of time to listen ers building, Houng said. “Sharing the prize publicly later this year. during commutes. At left is Kia Jones, Eariously’s Junior UX/UI Designer. with Eariously is an outcome that’s better “We believe the most important part of than I could’ve imagined.” making anything is doing it with the right in January at Colby College, Rimsa and his support for Waterville’s emerging entre- Eariously, Bonmo, and eight other teams people. We’ve found some exceptionally teammates were drawn to the prospect preneurs and startups,” Anzelc said. “This from around the world participated in talented folks from around the world of building Eariously in central Maine grant is a testament to their hard work Turtle’s first-ever Founder Lab, a six-week who we’re humbled to have the privilege because of the strong relationships they thus far, while also the tip of the iceberg for accelerator for product founders. At the of working together with,” said Rimsa, had begun to forge. The Eariously team what we hope the region will bring in the end of the accelerator, founders pitched co-creator. has capitalized on Waterville and Maine’s coming years. Eariously is helping to lead development-ready product specs and Throughout the past year, the Eariously burgeoning startup ecosystem. the way.” plans, which were voted upon by Turtle’s team has worked closely with students at In addition to working closely with MTI, “I always love seeing founders helping developers. Eariously and Bonmo tied to colleges around the country, most notably Eariously also has relied upon SCORE for founders,” Anzelc said of the Turtle prize. win the prize and agreed to share it. Colby College, Thomas College and North- its free mentorship and workshops, the “It’s awesome to see these programs that, “We launched Founder Lab this year west Missouri State University, in order to Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce and the while giving tremendous training and visi- after realizing how many companies are design their listening software. Continuous Central Maine Growth Council for its net- bility, also help to create a digital communi- only focusing on selling software services research has guided Eariously’s progress working assistance and business develop- ty of founders to help support each other.” to founders, when actually teaching those as they interact with listeners as both ment, and students and faculty from Colby The partnership between Bricks and the founders how to manage software devel- designers and instructors. College and Thomas College. tech startup is emblematic of downtown opment design, development and budgets “In order to design for the best possible “When we design, we start with the end Waterville’s growing innovation and knowl- themselves ultimately leads them to be outcomes, it’s essential to become an first. What outcomes do we need to design edge-based economy. more successful companies and happier expert on the problems at hand,” said Kia for?” Rimsa said. “Maine’s entrepreneur- “We are excited about the strength of clients in the long run,” said Lokshin, Jones, a UX/UI Designer who has worked ship leaders are ensuring that software the founders and the inventive software Turtle’s co-founder and CEO, “During the closely with Eariously for the past year. startups see success by designing for our that is being developed by Eariously in our accelerator, Turtle invited experts in prod- “Our team has tirelessly researched and success. We’re very happy to be making region,” said Garvan Donegan, director of uct development, design, development, tested both reading and listening habits in Eariously here.” planning and economic development for budgeting, and management, including order to fully understand what we need to The startup is located in the heart of Central Maine Growth Council. Sid Sijbrandij, the CEO of GitLab (now make. I’m certain that our focus on learn- downtown Waterville at Bricks Coworking & “Businesses, and in particular tech start- valued over $1B), as well as other top-flight ing through perpetual investigation is what Innovation Space owned by RJ Anzelc. ups, thrive where there is a community of CEOs from around the world to share their will allow Eariously to become the ideal “Beyond the amazing product the Eari- capital, mentors and innovation,” Done- listening solution available.” ously team has been developing, they’ve gan said. “Bricks Coworking & Innovation After teaching a product design course provided tremendous mentorship and Space in downtown Waterville is illustrative More EARIOUSLY, PAGE 45 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 45

As the Eariously team begins to sell subscriptions, it plans to continue growing Eariously in Waterville and formalizing partnerships CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44 with institutions in the city and throughout Maine that will help distribute its software to more listeners. Readers interested in perspectives and advice with the group of listening to Eariously can sign up for the CA HOLIC founders.” waiting list on Eariously.com.

About Eariously: Eariously is a software startup based in Waterville, Maine that turns any digital text (e.g. websites, emails, articles, PDFs, images) into audio SCHOOLS that can be listened to on a phone or laptop. Eariously has focused on developing software for two groups of listeners: busy college students who want to listen In partnership with families, Catholic schools to their reading assignments and busy commuters who want to consume more information but don’t have the time. Eariously was founded and is operated by are committed to providing students the Nick Rimsa, CEO and Colby ’13 graduate, and Brendan Barr, CTO. The company is located in Bricks Coworking & Innovation Space in Waterville. opportunity to learn in a creative, Christian, Eariously Contact: Nick Rimsa, [email protected], (860) 597-6428 caring and safe environment. About Bonmo: NYC-based Bonmo is a creative platform helping brands and agencies connect with professional comedians to create more entertaining and fun marketing campaigns that can cut through the clutter and grab the audi- ence’s attention. A Harvard study shows humor is the most effective ad message The only URSULINE school in Maine, type, but 92% of marketers struggle to find the right creative talents. Bonmo’s Mount Merici Academy nurtures the whole child - mind, body clients include Scentbird, Philips and AWS. and spirit, providing true holistic education in the Bonmo Contact: Stephanie Houng, [email protected], 607-280-0871 Ursuline traditions of academic excellence and service.

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St. John Catholic School Preschool through Grade 6 207-872-7115 15 South Garand Street Winslow, Maine Learning Today...Leading Tomorrow 46 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers For those who want their own business, Maine offers lots of free help BY VALERIE TUCKER “Donna LaBreux and everyone at Correspondent SCORE made sure I understood or those contemplating starting their own business, Maine offers an abundance of that I personally had to knock on F advice, financial resources and mentoring to lots and lots of doors if I wanted help entrepreneurs grow successfully. Martha Bent- ley, Manager of Small Business and Entrepreneurial to get stores interested in car- Development at the Maine Department of Econom- rying my product. They taught ic and Community Development (DECD) suggests starting with its Business Answers program (maine. me how to run my business so I gov/online/businessanswers). “This resource can connect individuals with the could expand it steadily but man- departments and agencies responsible for specific ageably.” licenses, permits, rules and regulations,” she said. CHRISTINA CHARETTE, OWNER “It is a good start for those planning to start a busi- ness in Maine.” LA CEBOLLA ROJA (THE RED ONION) The site offers a helpful “How Do I...?” link with answers to dozens of questions about local regu- lations, including licenses, building permits and zoning clearances. Business Answers also has a number to call, with a real person who answers the phone. Contributed photo She also serves as DECD’s Small Business Om- New businesses can find an abundance of budsman, helping Maine small businesses navigate advice, financial resources and mentoring within the state’s regulatory system. Small busi- to help entrepreneurs grow and succeed. nesses face the task of understanding and com- Maine’s state government offers guidance, plying with regulatory requirements, and the Small information and resources. Another state- Business Administration offers guidance in access wide resource is the Service Corp of Retired to capital, counseling and government contracting. Executives, most commonly known as Other resources are available for international SCORE. This volunteer network of entre- trade and government contracts or for specific preneurs, business leaders and executives populations or sectors such as military veterans, mentor entrepreneurs. One of SCORE’s lower income business owners and outdoor brands. many success stories is La Cebolla Roja The Maine Small Business Development Center (The Red Onion) in Scarborough. Own- can provide one-on-one counseling and information er Christina Charette started pickling red on financial basics, such as taxes, cash flow and onions and decided she wanted to sell them. marketing. She didn’t have a business background. She “Sole proprietors don’t need to be tax experts, but partnered with a SCORE mentor and learned they do need some tax basics,” Bentley said. “While how to market her product, how to pace we are here to help, we do not replace the advice of herself and stay focused. She may even get an attorney or accountant.” that big break that could put her pickles on The Women’s Business Centers provide business the shelves at a major supermarket chain. training, coaching and mentoring, as well as wom- en-focused programming. The Maine Small Business Advocate serves Maine small businesses within tor Donna LaBreux. LaBreux’s business background “Donna LaBreux and everyone at SCORE made the state’s regulatory system, representing small was in the fashion industry and she helped Charette sure I understood that I personally had to knock on businesses that face the challenging task of under- with the label and package designs. She also taught lots and lots of doors if I wanted to get stores inter- standing and complying with extensive regulatory the essentials of goal setting and marketing, two ested in carrying my product,” she said. “But they requirements. skills critical to successful and manageable growth. taught me how to run my business so I could expand The Service Corp of Retired Executives, most “She also made sure I got all the expertise that it steadily but manageably.” commonly known as SCORE, is a volunteer network other SCORE volunteers could offer,” Charette For more information on any of the agencies that of entrepreneurs, business leaders and executives said. “I got so much advice from people who have can help entrepreneurs, visit these websites: Small who mentor entrepreneurs. One of SCORE’s many run businesses, and it was all free, which is pretty Business Administration, sba.gov; SCORE, augus- success stories is La Cebolla Roja (The Red Onion) amazing.” tame.score.org; Women’s Business Development in Scarborough. Christina Charette started pickling Today, Charette sells her La Cebolla Roja pickled Center, wbdc.org; Small Business Development red onions and decided she wanted to sell them. onions online and through small retail outlets. Soon, Center, mainesbdc.org; Her attorney recommended she contact the SCORE she hopes to add her product on a test basis for a Maine Business Answers, maine.gov/online/busi- office in Portland, where she was paired with men- large grocery store chain. nessanswers. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 47 New opportunities beckon a new kind of worker BY VALERIE TUCKER “In Franklin County, there is a tremendous need for skilled said. “Once students complete our programs Correspondent successfully, they can go directly into the work- laborers. Once students complete our programs successful- force and continue to acquire more training.” aine’s tight labor market doesn’t ly, they can go directly into the workforce and continue to Students also can be paid as they work in have a single cause or solution, acquire more training.” apprenticeships. To accelerate that exposure according to those who study to non-traditional careers, FCTEC has teamed M MARY REDMOND-LUCE, STUDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR employment trends. Older employers born up with Janet Smith, manager of the New after WWII and before 1965 might expect their FOSTER CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER Ventures regional office in western Maine, to younger employees to have the same work host the annual Totally Trades conference on styles and ethics. Those employers often sac- “They want to be self-sufficient and provide for vices, the death rate over the past five years Nov. 8. rificed their personal lives, because they were their families, but they want to be fully engaged has been higher than the birth rate. More peo- Female students in grades 8 and 9 from busy working. They may have missed family in their work and have the opportunity to be ple are retiring than entering the workforce. the region’s school districts will participate holidays, birthdays and vacations. That Baby part of something bigger than themselves.” High school and college graduates leave the in hands-on workshops led by women who Boomer generation’s willingness to sacrifice Every generation has a different work ethic, state for better job opportunities. Fewer grad- are working in these fields. Last year, 200 had consequences for the next generation, she said. Employers who don’t adapt to the uates have gone on to trade schools, which students tried their hand at operating heavy who haven’t been as willing to devote their changes in today’s workforce will find recruit- has created a shortage of plumbers, masons, equipment, welding, information technology, lives to work. ing and retaining employees more difficult. mechanics, electricians and carpenters. building construction, engineering, plumbing “We defined ourselves by our work,” said Gone are the days when an employer can hire That trend is changing in western Maine. and automotive diagnosis and repair. This Mary Kozicki LaFontaine, Regional Director – an employee to do a single repetitive task. In- Mary Redmond-Luce, Student Services Co- introduction paves the way for those younger Southern CareerCenters. “But working those stead, companies like The Jackson Laboratory ordinator for the Foster Career and Technical students to enroll later in full technical pro- 60-hour weeks took a toll, with an increase in in Bar Harbor are offering creative presenta- Education Center in Farmington, said that grams at FCTEC, said Redmond-Luce. the divorce rate, mental health and alcohol- tions to illustrate the company’s vision, values this year, almost half of the students enrolled Career opportunities in the trades pay well ism.” and an employee’s opportunity to make a in the plumbing, building construction and and are varied, exciting and challenging. The millennial generation, born between difference. The biomedical research institution forestry programs are females. Employers Young people just need to know they exist, 1980 and 2000, she said, wants to have shares its mission to improve human health recognize that students, regardless of gender, she said. For example, students who complete more of a team approach and more flexibility and cure diseases through entertaining who have earned industrial credentials are a the Forestry and Wood Harvesting program to adapt their employment to their personal one-minute YouTube-style presentations. valuable resource for filling their employment can go on to more specialized training as a goals. Other factors are influencing today’s labor needs. forestry technician or biologist, a procurement This generation wants to work, but they want market. According to data provided by the “In Franklin County, there is a tremendous forester, log buyer, wild-lands firefighter or to have meaningful employment, too, she said. Maine Department of Health and Human Ser- need for skilled laborers, Redmond-Luce licensed arborist.

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INVEST and its affiliated insurance agencies offer securities, advisory services, and certain insurance products and are not affiliated with Prime Financial Inc. 207-877-9450 48 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers Mid-Maine Technical Center seeing early success in Outdoor Leadership program The program gives students an opportunity to learn skills that will prepare them both for the workforce and a four-year college program BY TAYLOR ABBOTT Morning Sentinel “Part of our responsibility is to stay current with what rent Thompson, a junior at Messa- lonskee High School in Oakland, students are interested in. T has always loved the outdoors. He We need to look at business- wants to be a Maine game warden. “I want to learn more on how to guide es and the current industry because I think it will help me a lot,” Thompson said. “I will probably end up and see what the needs are.” going to college to be a game warden and PETER HALLEN, work on the side.” DIRECTOR OF THE Thompson is among those enrolled at the Mid-Maine Technical Center’s newest MID-MAINE TECHNICAL CENTER program that is teaching students the im- portance of hands-on learning and com- munication while being immersed in the years, where it is expected that 25 to 30 outdoors. The Outdoor Leadership and wardens will retire around the same time, Natural Resource Management program according to Cyr. Because of this, the kicked off in late August and has seen a program advisory committee that Cyr has steady trickle of student enrollment in the worked with to develop the program has days following. It is replacing the Automo- Morning Sentinel photo by Michael G. Seamans continued to grow with industry mem- tive Collision Program after the instructor Students in the new Outdoor Leadership and Natural Resource Management pro- bers, local businesses and other involved left the tech center and the position could gram at Mid Maine Technical Center at Waterville Senior High School haul their parties. not be filled. raft back to school after floating the Messalonskee Stream on a late summer trip. Annabelle Emery, a senior at Lawrence The class is designed to be a hands-on High School in Fairfield, said that she learning environment and went on its first chose the course because she believes trip on Aug. 30, where students went out degree program in multiple disciplines in,” said Peter Hallen, director of the Mid- the skills learned in the program can on rafts to complete a confidence and that have to do with the outdoors.” Maine Technical Center. “We need to look apply to any career field. cooperation lesson. Each student had One project had students down at Mes- at businesses and the current industry “I joined because I like to do outdoor the opportunity to lead the group and salonskee Stream near the high school and see what the needs are.” things anyway,” she said. “It’s a nice way direct each other through the two-hour installing a dock that was purchased with The Outdoor Leadership and Natural to get more experience and help me in excursion. money from a grant. Resource Management program is being whatever field I go into. We’re learning “When we went rafting, everyone was “I chose this program because I hunt, taught by Cyr, who previously taught biolo- how to multitask and how to keep cool kind of shy,” Thompson said. “As we got to fish and whitewater raft and thought this gy at Waterville Junior High School. In the in certain situations, which is something know each other, communication became would be a great way for me to get more days that the program has been alive, he that can be applied anywhere. (Cyr) is much easier and we work like a nice oiled knowledge on these topics,” Jon Roy, a says that students have expressed inter- amazing because he explains everything machine.” senior at Lawrence High School, said. est in several of the different career paths in detail and pays attention to what our Interest in having an Outdoor Leader- “This gives you a break out of school and that can be tailored into the curriculum. needs are.” ship program came from Jason Cyr, who (Cyr) has a lot of knowledge on these “It was great to see the kids meet- “I’m most excited to have my kids help previously had a similar, smaller-scale subjects. He is one of the best teachers ing the cooperative goal and working me come up with and prepare for Skills program at Waterville Junior High School I’ve ever had.” together,” Cyr said. “This year, we will USA,” said Cyr, whose son participated in that went away due to a loss in funding. Mid-Maine Technical Center is located be learning everything from whitewater the Criminal Justice program. Skills USA “We have seen a lot of interest in the at Waterville Senior High School and rafting, canoeing, hunter safety (as well is a workforce partnership competition program because there is a lot of need enrolls around 450 students from Law- as) working with dogs and training dogs that allows students to show what they in the industry,” said Cyr, the Outdoor rence, Messalonskee and Winslow high to hunt and retrieve. They will also learn have learned through their education Leadership instructor. “The program is schools, Temple Academy, Snow Pond a little bit about forestry and wildlife spe- in a competition, on both regional and designed to get the kids the skill set to Arts Academy and Maine Academy of Nat- cies management.” national levels. go out into the workforce as guides. I’ve ural Sciences, as well as home-schooled According to Hallen, a partnership with “Last year, we showed up for skills night got a few students that want to be game students. Each of the 13 programs offer Unity College is in the works to allow stu- and watched what was going on. Seeing wardens and some that want to be forest a specific licensing opportunity following dents to receive dual-enrollment credits. the aura that surrounded the kids when rangers, so it’s a pretty wide spectrum. completion and are catered to work as a The need for this program has in- they were being awarded was so excit- The benefit of this program is that stu- one- to two-year program. creased as certain industries, including ing. I can’t wait to be a proud Papa Bear dents (that complete the program) can go “Part of our responsibility is to stay the Maine Warden Service, are expecting sitting there and watching them show off right into the workforce or into a four-year current with what students are interested a “retirement bubble” in the coming what they have learned.” Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 49 ANTIQUES DIRECTORY

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Companies are can be devastating to small and required under Maine law to notify indi- C mid-sized companies: about 60% viduals within seven days if there is cause of organizations go out of business within to believe their personal information has six months of an attack, according to the been acquired by an external party as the U.S. National Cyber Security Alliance. result of a cybersecurity breach. Belgrade resident Scott MacDonald, 45, “What happens when I’m an accountant said that’s part of what drives his work and I have a thousand clients out there at the Maine Technology Group, which who I (do taxes for) and I have to send an protects small- and mid-sized businesses email out that says, ‘We’ve been hacked. from online threats — and helps them We don’t think they got anything, but recover in the aftermath. we have to let you know.’?” MacDonald It’s not just businesses that are pointed out. “How many people are going affected, though, MacDonald said. His to come back to you in April to get their company serves more than 80 clients taxes done? And that’s why (small busi- throughout the state, several of which nesses) can’t survive (after a breach). It’s are municipalities and nonprofits. The very serious.” issue hits close to home in central Maine, MacDonald said he makes an effort to where the city of Augusta was recently recruit students from the state’s techni- the victim of a cyberattack that shut cal centers and colleges. He noted that down the municipality’s network, includ- Morning Sentinel photo by Michael G. Seamans all but two technicians are graduates of ing its public safety computers. Scott MacDonald, left, CEO and Founder of the Maine Tech Group, is seen with Kennebec Valley Community College in “With all of the different companies his business development director, Sean Conerly, at their new office Monday in Fairfield, which offers a degree in health that you see in the news that suffer a Oakland. information management. MacDonald is breach, we wind up hearing from them also the vice chair of the advisory board 24, 48 hours after that,” MacDonald for Maine is IT!, a partnership between said. “So our challenge is how do we get “It’s very refreshing to hear, as we get sense of place and keeping and retaining 16 colleges that aims to bridge the gap out there prior to there being the breach, into these bigger companies, for them to talent.” between the sharp decline of manufactur- prior to the disaster.” say, ‘We didn’t realize there was a com- According to research from IBM and the ing jobs in the state and the increase in As more organizations look to take pany like you here in Maine,’” MacDonald Ponemon Institute in 2018, the financial demand for skilled information technology steps to protect themselves, the Maine noted. “In fact, (Conerly) was just talking impacts of cyberattacks are increasing. workers. Technology Group has been inundated to someone last week, and they said they The average cost of each record lost or Public outreach and education have with work. were looking at two other companies, stolen in a 2018 breach was $148, up been important components of Maine The company expanded from its Win- both which were out of the state. It’s good 4.8% from 2017. MacDonald said that Technology Group’s work as well, accord- slow home base into a 6,000-square-foot to have it here. This is not just a viable equated to an average cost of $150,000 ing to MacDonald. In the fall, it will launch satellite property on Kennedy Memorial option. We feel we are the best option, for small businesses last year. a seminar series called “Hack the Hack- Drive in Oakland earlier in June. The move and we happen to be local.” Clients pay about $35 per user per er,” geared toward small- and mid-sized brings with it four new jobs, MacDonald Garvan Donegan, senior economic month for complete cyber coverage businesses. These companies are among said, which raises its total workforce to 13 development specialist for the Central through Maine Technology Group, the most vulnerable, with a Verizon people, including Business Development Maine Growth Council, said that Maine according to MacDonald, who called the Breach Investigation Report published Manager Sean Conerly. The Oakland Technology Group is an asset to not just fee “quite affordable compared to the al- last month noting that 43% of all cyber- space will house the sales and marketing the central Maine area but to the entire ternatives.” Coverage involves technicians attacks last year struck small businesses wing of the business as well as MacDon- state. setting up “a virtual dome over the entity” specifically. Most of these attacks go ald’s office. “Within the context of technology being and monitoring activity. Some of the top undetected for at least six months. “This is a growing industry; (it’s) not in every business, it is important that we indicators technicians look for in order to “Most people seem to think, ‘Well, I dying,” MacDonald said. have providers and managers of those secure a business are WiFi logins from don’t lock my front door; why should I Maine Technology Group, founded in systems, and right now with the risk of unknown devices and any account infor- worry about locking down anything at the 2011, is one of a handful of data security cyberattacks and how that can affect a mation that is visible on the the dark web. company?” said MacDonald. “But cyber and information technology service pro- business or a government or economy, The dark web is an encrypted network (threats) are here. They’re here, and they viders in the state. Others are concentrat- having proper protections in place is ab- that cannot be accessed through search are very active within the state.” ed mostly in the greater Portland area. solutely key,” Donegan noted. “And then engines and is frequently associated with In addition to providing cybersecurity MacDonald said the company pivoted to think about the emerging technology criminal activity. protection, Maine Technology Group also from document management software and knowledge based hub within our “Everyone has something out there,” serves as a contracted IT service provider sales to cybersecurity a year and a half region — to have young technologists MacDonald said, though it can be difficult for businesses that do not have their own ago in order to be at the forefront of the living and working in the community has, to conceptualize. If account information IT departments or for companies looking industry in Maine. frankly, a profound effect on creating a — such as a username and password — is for additional IT support. Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 51 DINING and CATERING EVENT SPACE Guide

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HOME OF THE Life Is Short. Eat Dessert! TRY OUR NEW Our delicious baked goods are made fresh daily with BIG quality ingredients and care you can taste in every bite. DAVE CROWD PLEASERS Lobster Roll! Breakfast Tray - A selection of full-size muffins, baked doughnuts and scones 244 Western Avenue, Augusta • 622-0051 Cookie Tray - An assortment of our delicious cookies, just like Grandma’s. www.damonspizzaanditalians.com Dessert Tray - A sampling of cookies, bars and brownies - something for everyone! A full selection of quality baked goods, including pies, cookies, bars, and more! 10% OFF Tuesday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m. SINCE 1950 A PARTY PLATTER Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 244 Western Ave., Augusta WITH THIS COUPON 140 Western Avenue | Waterville 207-622-0551 Expires 12/31/19. One Coupon Per Customer. 207-616-3772 | www.engine5bakehouse.com 52 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers How new tech could help you manage your money rom fitness apps monitoring daily answers won’t necessarily help. Find an activity to calendar apps that app that’s already monitoring your per- F send appointment reminders, sonal finance and is equipped to answer having high-quality, real-time informa- specific-to-you questions like “Would a tion in the palm of your hand can be personal loan work better for that pur- an effective way to stay accountable to chase?” and “Do I have enough equity in your goals. So if you’re looking to better my home to borrow against it?” manage your money, it may be time to • Set an example: Kids are naturally consider how an app can help. attracted to tech. So by using an app First, think about what your financial that’s helping you save money, pay off goals are and then find a solutions-based debts and plan for the future, you’ll be app that can help you achieve them. setting an example that your kids will Keep in mind that like other lifestyle notice, helping pave the way for their own apps, the most effective financial apps go healthy financial futures. beyond tracking behaviors to proactively • Lean on it during big moments: Life’s notify users when something is amiss big moments are often when people and offer tangible strategies for changing are most in need of financial guidance. course. Use tools that can help you make better One such example is the free Lend- decisions. For example, rather than ingTree app, which not only monitors worrying over interest rates or trying to your holistic financial status, but is also time your loan based on the market, the a smart money guide offering tailored LendingTree app taps into its nationwide advice. For example, with the app, you recommendations for ways to make room ways to get the most out of it: network of lenders to find immediate and can not only check your credit score, but in your budget based on your habits, a • Get quick overviews: With a stream- long-term savings opportunities for users. also receive tips on how to improve it and library of free financial wellness cours- lined app, you can quickly get the big Remember, the goal of using a personal get notified when your score gets you in es, as well as savings alerts when you picture regarding your financial health, finance app isn’t to give you one more range for a better credit card or loan rate. could be saving money on your monthly so you don’t have to log into numerous reason to look at your phone, but to gain The app, available at the Apple App Store expenses. accounts to assess your standing. confidence and reduce financial anxiety. and Google Play, also offers such tools as After finding the personal finance app • Get personal: When it comes to The right tools will help you do just that. cash flow management, which includes that’s right for you, here are just a few certain questions you may have, generic - StatePoint Welcome to Farmington

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House Plants • Fresh Flowers • Gift and Decorating Ideas SEPTIC TANK SERVICE Call or stop in to see our wide selection of A 4th Generation Company Since 1954 flowers, plants and gifts! 24 7 A STANLEY FAMILY MEMBER DAYS A HOURS WEEK! 144 Madison Ave., Skowhegan • 207-474-2892 A DAY! ON EVERY SERVICE WE PERFORM! www.boyntonsgreenhouses.com • Open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. SEPTIC TANK CLEANING CLEANING • PIPES - TANKS - HOLDING TANKS • MODERN EQUIPMENT Maine Roofing OVER 100’ OF SUCTION HOSE • ODORLESS • NO MESS • SLUDGE REMOVED Service EARTHWORK SERVICES Est. 1976 TANKS AND SYSTEMS INSTALLED • TANK REPAIR • SITEWORK Double-Locked Standing Seam Metal WATER AND SEWER LINES INSTALLED • BACKHOE WORK • BULLDOZER Copper Standing Seam COMPLETE SEWER SERVICE Aluminum Standing Seam ELECTRIC SNAKE • VIDEO INSPECTION Asphalt Shingles SEWER LINE REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION EPDM (Rubber) Membrane Built-Up Fully Insured! Modified Bitumen 187 NORRIDGEWOCK ROAD | FAIRFIELD ME, 04937 117 Rice Rips Road Oakland | (207) 873-6353 | (800) 924-6353 | dhpinnette.com Call Us At: (207) 453-9819 If No Answer: (207) 465-2741 54 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers How to prep financially when changing jobs he average American will hold one place, and can help you determine 11.7 jobs between the ages of 18 where to direct extra funds. If you’re T and 48, according to The Bureau making less money, you might need to of Labor Statistics. If a job change is on see where to make cuts. your horizon, remember that a new salary • Review Your Insurance: Take a and benefits package bring new financial breath before moving forward with health considerations. coverage decisions. If you’re married, “Changing jobs brings with it a myri- evaluate both partner’s plans, not only ad of financial decisions. Take time to for the more affordable option, but also assess your financial situation and make for each plan’s restrictions. For instance, any necessary adjustments so you can if one plan allows you to see doctors start the new job focused and ready,” without referrals while the other doesn’t, says Valerie Radford, a vice president you’ll have to decide whether that’s worth of Strategic Initiatives at Prudential the extra cost. Finally, take a look at the Financial. amount your new employer is offering As you’re making the switch, Radford for life insurance. It’s often not enough. says there are a few things to keep in Consulting a financial advisor can help mind: and benefits in one place that’s designed visit prudential.com/link you determine how much additional • Don’t Leave Money on the Table: to rebalance your goals as circumstanc- • Consider Your Bonus: If you’re insurance to take out. Keep track of your 401(k) if you had one es change. For example, when you set receiving a sign-on bonus or have an Don’t let your financial goals get lost in at your previous job. You can simplify up an account with LINK by Prudential, old bonus saved, determine whether the shuffle of a job transition. A few strat- your financial picture by bringing together you’ll be prompted to answer questions this money belongs in a short-term, no- egies and tools can keep you on track. any orphan plans you’ve left in the in- about what financial goals are impor- risk account or whether a longer-term LINK by Prudential is an umbrella vesting universe. Also, make sure to take tant to you and, in turn, will be offered approach with exposure to financial marketing name for Prudential Cus- advantage of your new employer’s 401(k) personalized solutions to help you reach markets makes sense. tomer Solutions LLC, an SEC-registered match feature, if offered, and continue them. LINK combines the convenience of • Budgets are Fundamental: If you’re investment adviser, Prudential Annuities momentum by increasing your contribu- a digital experience with the knowledge making more money, calculate if addi- Distributors, Inc. and various subsidiaries tion, if possible. of a professional advisor who can walk tional funds can be put into savings. This of The Prudential Insurance Company of • Don’t Go It Alone: Consider using a you through this important transition by is a great place to use a tool like LINK America. third-party platform to manage finances phone, video or in-person. To learn more, that allows you to see all your money in -StatePoint

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Justin Merrill YOUR WORKPLACE! of Merrill’s Justin MerrillGarage of with FSB Merrill’s GarageCommercial with Lender Safety footwear FSB CommercialRaeAnn Pike Lender RaeAnn Pike Sizes up to 16 6E • Flexible schedule Justin Merrill has three good reasons to Bank with Frank:I BANK Justin Merrill has three good reasons to Bank with Frank: FRANK With Serving all of Maine! “Localness,“Localness, Community Community Involvement Involvement and Responsiveness.” and Responsiveness.” AsAs the the new new co-owner co-owner of of Merrill’s Merrill’s GarageGarage with his father, George, quickquick reresponse- to tight timelines helped them get the deal done and make a business dream a reality.Justin As Merrill a of INDUSTRIAL • MANUFACTURING sponse to tight timelines helped them get the deal done and make a businessMerrill’s Garage with dream a reality.lifelong As resident a lifelong of theresident Jay area, of the Merrill Jay area, loves Merrill that theloves bank that and the itsbank FSBemployees Commercial CONSTRUCTION give back to the community. “I like it when people know my name,”Lender he RaeAnn says. Pike and its employees give back to the community.Justin Merrill “I like has threeit when good reasonspeople to Bank know with myFrank: name,” he says. “I’m very happy“I’m very“Localness, with happy FSB Community and with r ecommendInvolvement FSB and and recommend Responsiveness.”it very it very highly to my friends and businesshighlyAs theto associates.”new my co-owner friends of Merrill’s and Garage business with his father, associates.” George, quick re- sponse to tight timelines helped them get the deal done and make a business dream a reality. As a lifelong resident of the Jay area, Merrill loves that the bank and its employees give back to the community. “I like it when people know my Stop Stopby any name,” by location heany says. “I’m location very and happy find with and FSB andout find recommend out it very how howeasy highlyiteasy is to to my it friendsBank is to and with businessBank Frank!associates.” with Frank! Stop by any location and find out how easy it is to Bank with Frank! Farmington • Skowhegan • Jay • River Valley • Rangeley • Ellsworth • Wilton Farmington  Skowhegan  Jay  River Valley  Rangeley  Ellsworth  Wilton www.FranklinSavings.BankFarmington  Skowhegan  Jay  River Valley  Rangeley  Ellsworth  Wilton www.FranklinSavings.Bank www.FranklinSavings.Bank 175 Park Street | Livermore Falls, ME 04254 207.897.5558 Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 55 Funeral and Cremation Why Is Pre-Planning So Valuable? · Pre-planning provides time to make the Planning best decisions · Pre-planning ensures your wishes are Aable Cremation honored · Pre-planning can help control costs Service, LLC · Pre-planning protects families faced with Affordable Direct Cremation Starting $ .00 sudden death at 995 Serving the Central Maine area from Waterville For advice and help with pre-planning decisions, reach out to one of these local funeral service 207-616-0352 providers. A Locally-Owned and Operated Service www.aablecremationservice.com Affordable services in your time of need Affordable Family Service for all of Maine Dan & Scott’s COMPLETE CREMATION Cremation & Funeral Services $995 445 Waterville Rd. 448 Farmington Falls Rd. Direct Cremation of Maine Skowhegan Farmington Family-Owned and Serving Maine for Over 30 Years 474-0000 779-9008 1-800-479-1433 • www.directcremationofmaine.com

Dana R. McInnis, Owner/Director • John O. Gallant, Director Craig A. McInnis, Director When you have experienced the loss of a loved one, you can trust Family 10 Elm Street, Waterville • PHONE: 873-3393 First Funeral Homes & Cremation Care to guide you through the process of EMAIL: [email protected] • WEB: www.gallantfh.com honoring their life. Our staff is experienced in a variety of funeral services and can help you Waterville’s Only Locally-Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home celebrate your loved one no matter your religion, culture, or budget. Wheeler Lawry Brothers Jeffrey S. Sproul 26 Church Street 107 Main Street Funeral Director Oakland, ME 04963 Staples Fairfield, ME 04937 (207) 465-3011 53 Brunswick Avenue (207) 453-6049 Gardiner, ME 04345 Roberts (207) 582-3102 Knowlton-Hewins GIBERSON FUNERAL HOME LLC 62 Bowdoin Street 1 Church Street Winthrop, ME 04364 Augusta, ME 04330 “Offering compassionate service and advice (207) 377-8696 (207) 623-8722 during the most difficult of times.” River Street | Bingham, ME 04920 40 Maple Street | Madison, ME 04950 www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com 207-672-5563 207-696-8081 56 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers 4 tips to dress for success at work n today’s workplace, many employ- the (office) runway atrandstadusa.com/ ers have abandoned strict dress jobs/career-resources/personal-brand. I code policies, providing employees • Leave the weekend wardrobe at with more flexibility to dress casually. home. According to many U.S. employees, In fact, 59 % of American workers de- some things are still considered a bit too scribed their current employer’s policy as casual for the office. In fact, the survey “business casual” or “casual,” according found that the majority of Americans to a recent study from Randstad US. think ripped jeans and leggings are Although a more relaxed dress code gives not appropriate, even in a casual office you the creative freedom to express your- environment. Therefore, if you show up self, not everything may be appropriate to work in ripped jeans, there’s a good for a work setting. chance (statistically speaking) that you Here is the fashion 411 on workplace won’t be making a great impression. The attire today. same goes for leggings -- sorry athleisure • Understand your company’s dress lovers! policy. If you’re unclear of your employ- For more tips on how you can make er’s dress code policy, just ask your a good impression at work, visit www. manager or HR. Thirty-eight ercent of 25 randstadusa.com. to 35-year-olds say they’ve been asked job you have! • Don’t break the bank. Fifty-five “It’s great to show your personality and to dress more professionally by their • Dress for comfort and performance. percent of managers agree they care wear what you feel most confident in, manager or HR, and 45 % say they know Don’t be afraid to embrace your person- more about performance than what their though it’s always a best practice to be someone who has been sent home from al style, as long as it stays within your employees wear, so don’t feel pressured mindful of today’s cultural norms and work for breaking dress code policies. company’s guidelines. Sixty-three ercent to break the bank in order to keep up what most people -- according to our Unclear policies may be the culprit, and of younger workers (aged 18 to 35) say with the workplace Joneses. Your exper- survey -- feel is appropriate for the work- no outfit is worth the risk -- or embar- they actually prefer dressing up for work, tise is more valuable than any sparkly place,” says Traci Fiatte, CEO of non-tech- rassment -- of being sent home. Another as it boosts their confidence and perfor- set of cufflinks or a pair of heels will ever nical staffing, Randstad US. “You want to tip is to simply take note of what people mance. The definition of “dressing up” be. However, you can look great for less be evaluated on your performance and around you are wearing, especially those can vary from person to person, ranging with a few smart strategies. Visit the what value you bring to your company, in senior-level positions. As the saying from casual to conservative, depending Randstad US career resources portal for not just on your clothes.” goes, dress for the job you want, not the on one’s taste. workplace fashion tips to “casually” rip - StatePoint AutomotiveAutomotive ServiceService DirectoryDirectory Now Doing Rust & Collision Repair! RANDY’S Full Service OUR LOCAL Auto Repair, LLC AUTO REPAIR SERVICE 474-7580 or 1-800-474-7580 PROFESSIONALS Voted BEST AUTO REPAIR in Greater Skowhegan 20 Years Running! HAVE WHAT YOU NEED Transmission - Tires - Towing - Engine Rebuilding and Installation TO DRIVE SAFELY! Air Conditioning Service and Repair - Complete Under Car Care and Service Computerized 2 and 4-Wheel Alignment - Computer Diagnostics - State Inspections ACROSS FROM MOTOR SUPPLY - 204 MADISON AVE., SKOWHEGAN

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SELF-STORAGE DIRECTORY

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Free Truck with Move In 24 Hour Kiosk 24 HOUR ACCESS – FULL SECURITY in Lobby Unit sizes starting at 5x5 for $50 Up to 10x30 for $220 including climate controlled units and outside storage Storage Unit Sizes Cooks Corner Self Storage 6’ x 10’ 10’ x 15’ 24 HOUR GATED ACCESS 10’ x 10’ 10’ x 18’ 207-319-7600 10’ x 12’ 10’ x 20’ 70 Old Bath Road, Brunswick • www.cookscornerselfstorage.com 292 NECK ROAD, BENTON, ME 649-7222 58 Saturday, October 26, 2019 Business Journal 2019 Special Supplement • Central Maine Newspapers How companies are supporting employees’ financial goals any businesses -- and almost all employees debt. Employees get welcome help paying off student -- would like it if there was a way for compa- loans while making full use of their employer’s matching M nies to help members of their workforce save program, and companies can offer this benefit without for financial goals or pay off student loans. While most making substantial increases to their benefits budget. employers would like to offer such benefits, many have This voluntary, Non-ERISA benefit (403(b) plans that limited budget flexibility. But now, new options are help- involve voluntary plan participation only, i.e., an em- ing them offer more meaningful perks without making ployer is not contributing) is separate from a retirement substantial increases to their benefits budget. program, meaning employers don’t have to change their One such benefit utilizes an employers’ 401(k) match retirement plans or get approval from other entities. budget to allow employees to choose which financial Programs like this are also helping businesses finan- need they want to support: student loans, retirement, or cially. Research shows that one-fourth of today’s work- both. Such perks are enticing employees to stay in their force is looking for a different job, and in 2018, 27 % of current jobs, or accept positions with new companies private-sector employees switched companies. Because that provide these enhanced benefits. employers spend over $4,000 on average to hire a new Interestingly, while many employers today already (c) opolja / stock.Adobe.com employee, it’s no surprise that employers say turnover is offer matching contributions to retirement funds, this their no. 1 challenge. In short, great benefits can lower money often goes unused. Actually, Bloomberg reports a family or purchasing a car or house, due to their costly turnover, and ultimately be a differentiator for two-thirds of Americans aren’t saving money in a 401(k) student loan debt. And at a time when over 44 million employers looking to recruit top talent. at all. Why? Many people cite more pressing financial Americans collectively have $1.5 trillion in student loans To learn more about how employers can support future concerns, such as student loans and credit card debt, (according to The Federal Reserve), many job seekers and current employee financial needs, visit youbenefit- as the primary reasons they aren’t putting money away are on the lookout for benefits designed to help pay off ed.com/products/employee-choice. for retirement, and studies show that employees leave student debt. When benefit choices provide a path to greater $24 billion in 401(k) matches on the table each year. Enter programs such as Employee Choice, offered financial freedom, employees will be more likely to join Unfortunately, debt doesn’t just prevent people from exclusively from BenefitEd, which allows employees the team, stay focused on their jobs, and stick around saving for a comfortable retirement -- individuals are to redirect or split their employer-matched retirement long-term. also putting off big life experiences, such as starting funds to make payments toward their student loan - StatePoint Looking for the Perfect Place Welcome to oakland for Your Next Business Meeting

CALL US FOR A QUOTE TODAY! or Family Gathering? 56 Main Street, Oakland, ME 04963 207-465-2531 www.higginsandbolduc.com Our Deck is Available. Automobile • Homeowners • Flood Call us for Watercraft • Life • Health • Business details. Buddies Meats Voted Best Steakhouse in the Waterville and Augusta Area Central There Is Always & Groceries Great Food, COMPLETE GROCERY STORE Maine’s Deli • Bakery • Fresh Meat and Produce Great Snacks Finest and Great Ice • Stamps • Greeting Cards Service ...and best of all FRIENDLY SERVICE! Steakhouse 43 MAIN STREET, OAKLAND, MAINE • 465-2621 • FAX: 465-7298 Mon. - Thurs. 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. • Fri. - Sat. 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. • Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon. - Sat. 7:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. • Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. 99 West River Road, Waterville • 877-8325 • 207-87 STEAK • www.jfs.me Central Maine Newspapers • Special Supplement Business Journal 2019 Saturday, October 26, 2019 59

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