Calvin Rinck, Marketing Director

Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council

Office: (207) 784-0161

Press Release

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 17, 2012

Congressman Michael Michaud to Briefly Speak at LAEGC Annual Dinner and Business Forum

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is pleased to announce Congressman Michael Michaud will serve as a guest at the LAEGC’s 31st Annual Dinner and Business Forum Tuesday, May 22 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston. Congressman Michaud will briefly share his experiences about working in Washington while providing insights on domestic and world issues currently facing Congress.

Michael Michaud was sworn in as a United States Congressman in January 2003 to represent the Second Congressional District of Maine in Congress. He is the first recognized Franco-American from Maine to be elected to federal office.

Congressman Michaud will address the audience in a Tonight Show format about his ongoing initiatives and projects in federal office while highlighting his priorities for the state and Lewiston-Auburn community. Highlights will include the recent $1.7 million investment on the Auburn Business Park and a $20 million federal investment at the new Veterans Clinic in Lewiston. He will also address multiple issues directly related to the everyday life of Maine residents.

Doors open for the networking social at 4:30 p.m. and will be followed by the program at 5:30 p.m. Registration is due by Friday, May 18. Reserve your table of 8 for $315.00 or purchase tickets individually for $45.00 a piece by going online and downloading the forms. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at no extra cost, but please specify your selection.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council at www.economicgrowth.org or call 784-0161.

To download a registration form, please click here: Registration Form

To download a brochure, please click here: 2012.LAEGC.Annual.Dinner.Brochure

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For IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 09, 2012

Comedian Michael Miclon to headline LAEGC Annual Dinner and Business Forum

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is pleased to announce professional comedian Michael Miclon, with co-hosts Jason and Matthew Tardy of the group AudioBody, will headline the LAEGC’s 31st Annual Dinner and Business Forum Tuesday, May 22 at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston, with the return of the “Tonight Show” format.

Back for their third straight year, organizers point to the positive feedback and success of previous performances.

“Late-night talk show hosts have been successful for so long for a reason,” said LAEGC board chair Dan Thayer. “The trick is to keep it fresh and engaging, and nobody does it better than these guys.”

Traditionally attended by business leaders and political figures throughout the state, the dinner is open to the public as well as anyone interested in networking.

Highlighting the performance segment of the show, Thayer stressed the importance of having meaningful guests take to the stage.

“This year we are proud to welcome Richard Surace, Senior Vice President of Customer Relations for Carbonite to the stage as well as Sandy Marquis, Molly McGill, Paul Roy and organizers of the Lewiston Auburn Film Festival,” added Thayer. “The audience can expect to learn something new and get a sneak peak of what to expect in the future.”

Anticipated to draw nearly 300 attendees, city officials from Lewiston and Auburn will recognize area business owners by presenting their Economic Achievement Awards. These awards are presented each year to businesses, organizations or individuals that stand out in their commitment to invest in the community.

Doors will open for the networking social at 4:30 p.m. and will be followed by the program at 5:30 p.m. Registration is due by Thursday, May 17 and tickets are selling fast. Reserve your table of 8 for $315.00 or purchase tickets individually for $45.00 a piece by going online and downloading the forms. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at no extra cost, but please specify your selection.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council at www.economicgrowth.org or call 784-0161.

To download the brochure, please click 2012.LAEGC.Annual.Dinner.Brochure.

To download a registration form, please click Registration Form

-Save the Date-

Mark your calendar, clear your schedule and register now because the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council’s 31^st Annual Dinner and Business Forum is right around the corner on Tuesday, May 22^nd at the Ramada Conference Center in Lewiston. Tickets are on sale now for this exciting show and we expect to be sold out again. Back by popular demand will be professional host and entertainer Mike Miclon with co-hosts Jason and Matthew Tardy.

Expect fun, laughter, celebration and more as we welcome over 300 high profile business and community leaders from throughout the state into one room. Needless to say, this is a great networking event, one that you can’t afford to miss!

Expect a fun filled night of dinner and laughs for only $45 dollars per person or $315 for an exclusive table of 8. To reserve your tickets today call 784-0161, download the Registration Form (pdf) or Registration Form (word) or send an e-mail to laegc@economicgrowth.org.

For more information or to download additional materials, please visit our website at www.economicgrowth.org and search for Annual Dinner. And remember, we always we a surprise in store. Can’t wait to see you there!

If you have already registered, thank you for your support!!

Having recently branched off from L/A Arts, the former Gallery 5 space will now be known as Lyceum Gallery, named after the building the studio resides.

“Opening the studio with Michael’s work is so appropriate,” said Tammie Grieshaber, owner and curator. “Michael represents the incredible local talent that Lewiston and Auburn has to show the world. I don’t anticipate an international turnout for this event, but we will have an international audience by utilizing all of the internet’s potential to showcase the creativity and talent that has strong roots in our community.”

Michael Ranucci has been painting for more than 25 years and his representational style is inspired by Rembrandt’s use of light and shadow. “Often, I see everyday objects made beautiful just in the way light washes over them,” Ranucci explains. ”Interpreting and explaining this beauty in my paintings is the source of endless variety, and subject matter.”

Located at 49 Lisbon Street in downtown Lewiston, the new exhibit highlights a variety of subject matters in everyday life. Common objects from stuffed animals, books and bean pots to nuts, sprigs of flowers and dishes take on a new excitement in Ranucci’s still life paintings. His newest work shows a wonderful sense of whimsy with stuffed monkeys, kangaroos and puppies carefully posed in imagined group conversations. These paintings have the same strength and beauty that collectors of Ranucci’s work find in his more traditional still life oils.

More than 40 oil paintings will be on exhibit at Lyceum Gallery through April 27th. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. or by appointment. For more information about Lyceum Gallery, please visit www.lyceumgallery.com or call (207) 576-4805.

About: Lyceum Gallery:

Opened in April 2006, Lyceum Gallery, formerly known as L/A Arts Gallery 5, has developed a statewide reputation for creative exhibits of the work of Maine contemporary artists and spawned two additional art galleries on Lisbon Street. Lyceum Gallery provides a warm gathering space to experience art through a variety of gallery events as well as a place to enjoy the viewing and purchasing of works of art. Lyceum Gallery is located at 49 Lisbon Street in Lewiston, Maine. For more information, please visit www.lyceumgallery.com, email lyceumgallery@me.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lyceumgallery or call (207) 576-4805.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owner of Lyceum Gallery to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 07, 2012

Auburn-Lewiston Airport to Celebrate Grand Opening of Renovated Restaurant

(Auburn, Maine) – It’s not everyday a passenger can share a burger or coffee with the pilot of a multi-million dollar corporate jet, but come Saturday that will be the norm again at the Auburn-Lewiston Airport. Celebrating their grand opening this weekend, The Landing Strip Café will again provide the opportunity for citizens, passengers and aviation enthusiasts to enjoy quality food while overlooking the 5,001 foot runway.

As airport executives finalized their decision to renovate the entire terminal building, discussions as to what to do with the restaurant continued to bubble up during conversations. Requiring an aesthetic upgrade after nearly 10 years of continued use, the airport decided to incorporate the café into their work plans. Finished ahead of schedule and fully renovated, The Landing Strip Café expects to provide services to handle the approximately 68,000 aircraft operations that occur at the airport every year.

“Having the restaurant back is a fantastic addition to the airport,” said Airport Manager Rick Cloutier. “Pilots from around the country have been asking when we expected it to open again because they loved the convenience of the menu so much.”

The restaurant will provide a quality dining experience with hot sandwiches, burgers, homemade soups and chowders, salads and dinner entrees as well as a full breakfast selection for early risers.

Located at 80 Airport Drive in Auburn, the refurbished café will also feature home cooked food and fresh baked goods with some of the best views and story tellers around.

“Everyone’s got a story to tell,” said Cloutier. “Every time I walk in to grab a coffee I learn something new, especially from some of the veteran pilots.”

Offering their signature breakfast meals including the Loaded Omelet ($7.50), Breakfast Burrito ($5.50) and Eggs Benedict ($5.75), The Landing Strip Café also features an extensive children’s menu.

“We may not have some of the larger airlines but what we do have is heavy traffic from business executives and families traveling the country,” said Cloutier. “The airplane is a necessary tool for businesses and industry leaders and has become the family’s modern day version of the RV motorhome.”

Closed on Monday’s, the restaurant will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 6:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and again from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Other signature dishes at The Landing Strip Café include the Red Baron Burger ($5.25), Homemade Salmon Patty ($6.25), Loaded Steak & Cheese Sub ($6.00) and Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad ($7.00). With a wide variety of side offerings, even the most demanding patron will find something to their liking.

“Good food and airports don’t typically go hand in hand,” added Cloutier. “The café’s goal is to provide quality meals at a reasonable cost to passengers, pilots and the curious. You just never know who’s going to walk through these doors. That’s part of the excitement of working at an airport.”

About: The Landing Strip Cafe:

Located at 80 Airport Drive at the Auburn-Lewiston Airport (LEW), The Landing Strip Café offers good food at reasonable prices. Open six days a week, the recently renovated restaurant overlooks the runway and provides unparalleled views of aircraft operations. For more information about eat in, takeout, custom orders and catering opportunities, contact The Landing Strip Café at (207) 784-7881 or visit the Auburn-Lewiston Airport online at www.flytome.com.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owners of The Landing Strip Café to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

Photo courtesy of the LAEGC: Tagli officially celebrated the grand opening of their hair and nail salon located at 984 Sabattus Street on Wednesday, February 29. From left-right: Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea; City of Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald; Owner Ashley Edwards; Manager Allison Whalen; Employee Jenny Poland; Employee Riley Dumont; Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce Board Member Patti Gagne.

(Lewiston, Maine) – Tagli, the newest Lewiston-Auburn salon, has taken up residency at 984 Sabattus Street at Ben’s Plaza next to Greco’s Pizza.

Owned by husband and wife team Brad and Ashley Edwards, the day to day operation will be run by Ashley’s sister, Allison Whalen, a thriving cosmetologist in Lewiston.

“Brad and Ashley have always had aspirations of becoming entrepreneurs and business owners,” said Whalen. “They were at a time in their life where they wanted to take a chance, make the investment, and create a difference without giving up their full time careers which is why they hired me to run the salon.”

Tagli offers hair cuts and chemical services, manicures and pedicures that range from mini to deluxe, hand and foot paraffin, facial waxing, and bridal packages. Princess parties will also be available for those ages 16 and under looking to enjoy those services they see their moms indulging in. This will include mini manicures, mini pedicures, and a mini hair style.

“When we created Tagli, it was our goal to create a salon that would stand out from the competition,” said Whalen. “At Tagli, you will find high end equipment including styling stations with mahogany finish and marble countertops, pedicure chairs with full shiatsu massage and many small details throughout the salon that give it a warm and welcoming feel.”

Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald, state representatives, the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council, Androscoggin Chamber of Commerce, city councilors, friends, family, and employees gathered Wednesday as Tagli officially celebrated their grand opening in Lewiston.

“We pride ourselves on providing excellent quality as well as a personalized service for every customer at an affordable price,” said Whalen. Having already hired three cosmetologists with room to hire two additional members, Tagli’s staff have a combined nine years of experience.

In the age of advanced technology and social media, online booking will be available for clients looking to schedule appointments.

“Our team has created an intentional, high end salon without passing on the cost to our clients,” said Whalen. “Although our name means ‘cuts’ in Italian, we certainly didn’t skimp when we decided to give our customers the most client friendly hair salon in the Lewiston and Auburn area.”

Tagli will be open Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

“Small business owners with the attitude and ambition like Brad and Ashley are encouraging,” said City of Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald. “They took a chance, invested in Lewiston and have created three new jobs in our community.”

For more information about Tagli, please visit www.taglisalon.com, email taglisalon@gmail.com, call (207) 376-4530 or visit their new location at 984 Sabattus Street, Unit 3 in Lewiston.

About: Tagli:

Tagli is a full service hair salon in Lewiston that offers hair cuts and chemical services, manicures and pedicures, hand and foot paraffin, facial waxing, and bridal packages. Princess parties which include mini manicures, mini pedicures and hair styling will be available for those ages 16 and under. Owned by Brad and Ashley Edwards, Tagli’s day to day operations will be run by Allison Whalen. For more information about Tagli, please visit www.taglisalon.com, email taglisalon@gmail.com, call (207) 376-4530 or visit their new location at 984 Sabattus Street, Unit 3 in Lewiston.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owner of Tagli to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

Photo courtesy of Molly McGill: 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante officially celebrated the grand opening of their restaurant located at 84 Court Street in Auburn on Tuesday, February 28. From left-right: Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea; Owner Genti Suli; Owner Enka Suli; Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison.

(Auburn, Maine) A new pizzeria has opened in downtown Auburn. 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante, located at 84 Court Street, celebrated their grand opening Tuesday among friends, family, customers and officials.

“Downtown Auburn is experiencing a renaissance of restaurant growth,” said Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea. “This restaurant is part of the city’s ongoing focus to create new jobs, enhance the downtown experience and offer more fine dining opportunities to the citizens of this community.”

The restaurant will feature artisan pizzas, craft beers, appetizers and a wide selection of lunch and dinner options.

The ribbon cutting ceremony included remarks by pizzeria owner Genti Suli, Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte, LAEGC Board of Directors Chair Dan Thayer, and Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison. Also in attendance were representatives from the state’s congressional delegation and City of Auburn officials.

Having already hired seven new employees, owner Genti Suli anticipates having to hire more once the patio opens up in the spring.

Customers can design their own pizzas, order the classics like Pepperoni or choose from one of the signature pies such as the Peloponnesian ($13.75) or Athina ($13.75). Offering two large one topping pizzas for $15.99, Suli hopes the Mediterranean and Greek themed dinners bring a new flavor to the downtown district.

“We are fine tuning our menu,” said Suli. “We are constantly adapting the menu to what our customers want. We’ve got a full bar, flat-screen televisions, an outdoor patio and good food at a price that won’t break the bank.”

84 Court Pizza and Restaurante will also serve calzones, items from the grill, burgers, grinders, wraps, salads and a kids menu.

Open seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., Suli renovated the second floor for a fine dining experience.

“The ground floor looks like a pizza place,” said Suli. “We renovated the upstairs by painting, adding new lighting and enhancing the fireplace that looks out over the summer patio to look like you have entered a restaurant in the Mediterranean. It’s part of the experience, something you won’t typically get at most pizzerias.”

Seating 42 people inside, the 2,000 square foot restaurant contains a bar and multiple large flat screen televisions for entertainment.

“The downtown district has the population base for this restaurant to work,” said Lucien Gosselin president of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council. “The owners are creative and have found an opportunity within the market to offer good food at a reasonable price.”

Suli describes the restaurant as “high energy” and hopes it will be a place where people will want to hang out. He said the second floor will be a convenient location for a range of people, including families, business professionals and those looking for a good meal.

“We designed the environment to be casual but at the same time comfortable for families to enjoy their dinner. We didn’t add booths for a reason. The tables offer more of a fine dining experience.”

Other signature dishes at 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante include the Spanakopita ($9.25), Souvlaki ($8.50), Spaghetti Dinner ($8.25) and house specialty salad the “84” with homemade dressing.

Offering catering for large events, customers will be able to eat their pizza in, order carryout and for large purchases, receive delivery.

For more information about 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante call (207) 376-4940 or fax (207) 376-4941.

About: 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante:

Owned by husband and wife team Enka and Genti Suli, 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante specializes in fresh food and dining at a reasonable price. 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante sits up to 42 people, contains a bar, an outdoor patio for summer and can be reserved for special events. Located at 84 Court Street in downtown Auburn, Maine. For more information call (207) 376-4940 or fax (207) 376-4941.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owners of 84 Court Pizza and Restaurante to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 23, 2012

Trade Show Marks 17^th Anniversary of State’s Largest Business Networking Event

(Lewiston, Maine) – The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council has announced the date and theme of the 17^th annual Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show.

With the theme, “Networking Locally, Connecting Socially- Get Connected,” this year’s show will be held Thursday, June 14, at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston.

Considered by many businesses to be the most significant networking event in the state for its ability to draw nearly 200 exhibitors and an estimated 2,500 attendees, this year’s show will focus on how businesses have used social media to enhance their brand, while at the same time maintaining important relationships by networking and meeting face to face.

“Whether you use social media or you don’t, it’s here,” said Business to Business Trade Show planning committee member Stephanie Lewis of the LAEGC. “Nothing should replace meeting people and shaking hands. However, what we are interested in is how businesses have used social media to interact with customers to enhance their brand.”

Organizers have unveiled a new, dedicated website that allows exhibitors to register online while also taking advantage of social media mediums including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and RSS feeds in order to connect with exhibitors, attendees, and sponsors.

“With the recession and the related sobering changes of the last few years, companies have had to rethink their business models and marketing strategy,” says Lewis. “Naturally, we would all like to have a 365 day presence in television, print and radio, but few of us can afford that.”

Organizers will also host some of the mainstays that have made the show successful year after year, including a giant Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce breakfast at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston, and a Business After Hours featuring local restaurants.

“Ultimately, this show is about networking and shaking hands,” added Lewis. “As we move forward into another year, the Business to Business Trade Show gives us all an opportunity to network, talk and open up new opportunities.”

As has been the case for the past six years, booth exhibits are expected to sell out but attendance will remain free for those presenting a business card at the doors. For more information about exhibiting, please visit www.b2bMaineTradeShow.com, call Calvin Rinck at 784-0161, or e-mail crinck@economicgrowth.org. Sponsorship opportunities also remain.

About: The Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show:

Started in 1995, the Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show has grown to nearly 200 exhibitors and nearly 2,500 attendees over the previous 16 years. The one day show is free of charge for those attending and remains the premier networking event in the state. For more information, please visit www.b2bMaineTradeShow.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MaineTradeShow.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has organized the Business to Business Trade Show since 1995 with the help of a volunteer committee. For more information about the LAEGC, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

Photo courtesy of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council: Kimball Street Studios celebrated the grand opening of their new retail space located at 191 Lisbon Street in Lewiston on Wednesday, February 22. From left-right: Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; Owner Fred Hatch; Owner Kevin Callahan; Owner Mary Callahan; City of Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald; Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea; Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison.

Photo courtesy of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

Kimball Street Studios celebrated the grand opening of their new retail space located at 191 Lisbon Street in Lewiston on Wednesday, February 22. From left-right: Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; Owner Fred Hatch; Owner Kevin Callahan; Owner Mary Callahan; City of Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald; Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea; Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison.

Downtown Lewiston Welcomes Kimball Street Studios

(Lewiston, Maine) – Lisbon Street has seen a resurgence of businesses moving into the downtown area in recent months. On Wednesday, representatives from both Lewiston and Auburn welcomed the newest addition, Kimball Street Studios, and their full time art gallery to the Twin Cities.

“We wanted to create an environment for artists and art lovers to meet, talk and share ideas,” said Mary Callahan, president and administrator for Kimball Street Studios.

In addition to framing services, Kimball Street Studios specializes in archival displays, decorative and custom archival pieces, handling of collections, gallery and museum presentation and installation, preparation, and support.

The three full time staff of fine art preparators has worked with museums, colleges, universities, galleries, and artists from Eastport, Maine to the Finnish Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Opening the business downtown and taking advantage of their available space only made sense for the business owners.

Husband and wife team Fred Hatch and Mary Callahan partnered with Mary’s brother Kevin to open their new business in an area that has not only seen a resurgence in the arts scene, but located close to their clientele.

Preparatory staff for most of the show installations for the Olin Arts Center at Bates College and the Art Gallery at the University of New England and located a few buildings over from L/A Arts, Captive Elements Art House, Lyceum Gallery and the highly popular Lewiston Auburn Art Walk, the time was right to take a chance.

“Originally we were going to renovate our home in Richmond which just so happens to be on Kimball Street,” said Callahan. “But when we decided that we wanted to be closer to where our customers were, it was an easy decision to set up shop in the downtown area. We chose to keep the name under which we incorporated. It’s a marker for our rapid evolution and a conversation starter.”

Local officials pointed to the continued efforts highlighting opportunities in Lewiston and Auburn as a business destination.

“Here we have a world class frame shop specializing in museum quality pieces opening their business in the heart of the City,” said Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald. “It takes all types of businesses to make a community, large and small businesses alike. This is a great example of creative entrepreneurs investing into the downtown, making a difference and bringing people back to Lisbon Street.”

Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald, Auburn City Councilor Joshua Shea, state representatives, the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council, Androscoggin Chamber of Commerce, city councilors and Callahan’s family and friends gathered Wednesday as Kimball Street Studios officially celebrated their grand opening and relocation from Richmond to Lewiston.

“We expect high quality local artists as well as artists from surrounding communities to showcase their pieces at the gallery,” said Callahan. “We want our gallery accessible and engaging; a place that is welcoming to all and supportive of the community.”

Kevin Callahan, an artist and metalsmith, is an alumnus of Portland School of Art (now Maine College of Art) and has over 25 years of experience in custom archival framing and museum presentation.

Chief Financial Officer and finish carpenter, Fred Hatch, has over 30 years of experience in fine woodworking and also specializes in antique maps and charts.

President and administrator, Mary Callahan, has a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish and Anthropology with a focus on the arts and world cultures.  Having worked with her brother Kevin for the last nine years as a framer and preparer, Callahan has recently begun to function as Kimball Street’s graphic designer.

“This business has found success by finding unique opportunities in the marketplace,” said Lucien Gosselin, president of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council. “Targeting historical and high end art pieces by providing museum quality services is a healthy concept and one poised for growth.”

Providing services from beginning to end, the three regular staff and over five private contractors handle the most menial task to the most delicate, having been exposed to a wide range of historical preservation pieces.

“This staff has encountered a variety of experience over the years,” said Callahan. “Our preparatory work has contributed tremendously to the uniqueness of our framing services and made us determined problem solvers. We are rarely stumped by what we see.”

Kimball Street Studios will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with evenings and weekends by appointment. They will also have frame moldings, mat boards, foam cores, ready made maps and frames, framed art, maps and charts, photographs, prints, cards, and quality hand-wrought items in the store.

For more information about Kimball Street Studios, please visit www.kimballstreetstudios.com, email mary@kimballstreetstudios.com, call (207) 333-3342 or visit their new location at 191 Lisbon Street in Lewiston.

About: Kimball Street Studios:

Incorporated in March, 2011 Kimball Street Studios is committed to observing best current practices in the provision of fine art framing, consulting, and preparatory services.  We are proud to help preserve and display the collections of museums, galleries, and artists throughout New England and beyond.  Providing individualized, professional support to our clients we celebrate their vocation and their legacies to the Arts as the cornerstone of cultural enrichment. Kimball Street Studios is located at 191 Lisbon Street in Lewiston, Maine. For more information, please visit www.kimballstreetstudios.com, email mary@kimballstreetstudios.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kimballstreetstudios or call (207) 333-3342.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owners of Kimball Street Studios to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.

Narals Experience Arabia officially celebrated the grand opening of their restaurant located at 34 Court Street in Auburn on Tuesday, February 21. From left-right: Owner Nabin Naral, Office of Senator Olympia J. Snowe State Office Representative Diane Jackson; Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; City of Lewiston Mayor Robert MacDonald; City of Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte; Owner Pramod Shrestha; Office of Congressman Michael H. Michaud State Office Representative Andrea Quaid; Office of Senator Susan M. Collins State Office Representative Chiara Ferrante.

Photo courtesy of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

Narals Experience Arabia officially celebrated the grand opening of their restaurant located at 34 Court Street in Auburn on Tuesday, February 21. From left-right: Owner Nabin Naral, Office of Senator Olympia J. Snowe State Office Representative Diane Jackson; Chair of the LAEGC Board of Directors Dan Thayer; City of Lewiston Mayor Robert MacDonald; City of Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte; Owner Pramod Shrestha; Office of Congressman Michael H. Michaud State Office Representative Andrea Quaid; Office of Senator Susan M. Collins State Office Representative Chiara Ferrante.

Downtown Auburn Welcomes International Restaurant

(Auburn, Maine)- International restaurant owner, entrepreneur and founder Nabin Naral could have started a business anywhere in the world. Having already opened multiple restaurants in Singapore and seeking to expand into new markets in Indonesia and Australia, Nabin couldn’t be more pleased with his first location in the United States and corner spot in downtown Auburn, Maine.

“Opening a restaurant in America has been difficult, but will be worth it,” said Nabin. “Restaurants take time, but they succeed if done right.”

With thousands of followers on Facebook and throughout the globe, Nabin has the credibility with his client base.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held today at Narals Experience Arabia, welcoming the newest restaurant to Auburn on the corner of Main and Court Street.

Located at the former location of No Tomatoes and most recently home to O’Shea’s Irish Restaurant, Narals Experience Arabia has seating capacity for 90 and a second space that will soon be made into a gift shop and entertainment area.

“The support for this restaurant has been growing every day,” said Naral. “Between our Facebook page and our customer recommendations, the community wide support has been encouraging.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony included remarks by restaurant owner Nabin Naral, co-owner Pramod Shrestha, City of Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte, LAEGC Board of Directors Chair Dan Thayer, City of Auburn Economic Development Director Roland Miller and Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison. The ceremony was also attended by City of Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald, representatives from Maine’s congressional delegation and Auburn City Councilors.

Peppering the walls, Nabin has added a multitude of colors to brighten up the former location. “The restaurant is a work in progress,” said Nabin. “It takes time to remove the tint on the windows, add new paint, bring in the custom fabrics, add lighting, train staff, and make sure everything works.”

“This new restaurant echoes what we’ve been saying for a long time,” said City of Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte. “People see an opportunity in downtown Lewiston-Auburn and will invest. It is critical for the city to support these investors to ensure they are successful. This restaurant will be a welcomed addition to the Auburn business community.”

With an attention to detail, Nabin knows that it’s the small pieces that add up to create not just an atmosphere but an experience. “When you step into our establishment, one of the first things you will notice are the colors,” said Nabin. “In Arabic culture, colors have significance. It’s not just the food that is sold here, but the memory you take home.”

“The restaurant business is certainly tough,” said Lucien Gosselin president of the Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council. “Nothing is given to you in this business, you have to earn it. But you don’t get the type of following Narals Experience Arabia has received internationally if you aren’t doing something right.”

From 11:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., Narals Experience Arabia will showcase their daily sizable lunch portion specials priced at $7.90 which include an entrée, daily soup, dessert, tea or coffee. Open Monday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 a.m., Naral hopes to capitalize on those looking for a taste of foreign culture and cuisine.

“We are a family friendly restaurant and at the same time I understand that belly dancers are not for everyone. But our customers must realize this is an art form that has existed for hundreds of years overseas. That is why our artists perform Friday and Saturday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.”

With 17 new employees and a significant investment into the 4,800 square-foot location, Naral wants his downtown location to serve as a message. “Restaurants take time to develop. This is an investment into the community because I see the opportunity and the momentum. Good things are happening downtown and this restaurant is proof.”

About: Narals Experience Arabia:

Owned and operated by Nabin Naral, Narals Experience Arabia specializes in fine dining at a reasonable price. Bringing to you the quintessence of Arabic delights by immersing their customers with the taste, smell, sights, and  sounds of foreign lands, their goal is to have you will walk away at the end of the night feeling the diverse aspects of Arabic life and culture from ancient Arabia. Narals Experience Arabia sits up to 90 and can be reserved for special events. Located at 34 Court Street in downtown Auburn, Maine for more information please visit www.narals.com, call (207) 344-3201 or email info@narals.com.

About: The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council:

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council is the central economic development agency for Lewiston-Auburn. The Growth Council works closely with clients on a fully confidential basis offering services including technical assistance, commercial financing, site searches, public relations and marketing. The Growth Council has worked with the owner of Narals Experience Arabia to provide public relations and marketing services. For more information, please visit www.economicgrowth.org, www.laitshappeninghere.com, call (207) 784-0161 or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/economicgrowth.