by Dustyn Bailey and Bryan Roche
Here at Maine Icons we are excited to keep up with the various leaders, entrepreneurs and rising stars that we spotlight in the world of Maine business. As the summer heats up, there’s plenty of news to report. Let’s take a peek at what some of these individuals have been up to…
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Coastal Enterprises, Inc (CEI), led by Maine Icon Betsy Biemann, has received $1.8 million from a Wells Fargo-backed business innovation fund to support the company’s ongoing mission. The same fund is also providing a $1.5 million grant for a solar subsidiary of CEI. The Brunswick-based company received the grants from the NEXT Fund due to its commitment to promote job growth and economic prosperity in Maine. It already has been a big month for Biemann as CEI is celebrating its 40th anniversary. In an article published by Mainebiz, Biemann stated that “our work is not yet done … it’s more important that ever.”
Last month we reported that Emerging Maine Icon Kelly Brewer has been named a top young professional by Engineering News-Record New England (ENR). ENR has recently published the piece that highlights Brewer’s accomplishments and representation of the industry in Maine. The young director of engineering for Tilson Technology Management was recognized for her contributions to the company’s telecom engineering division.
Maine Icon Fred Forsley, CEO of Shipyard Brewing Company, has announced plans for the ambitious creation of Maine’s first “brewtel”. A concept that is still fresh across the microbrew world, Forsley’s vision combines a hotel, a tasting room and to top it all off, a television station dedicated to the craft. Forsley hopes to capitalize on the downtown space and deliver an unparalleled brewing experience. Portland’s East End renovations are ongoing, but Forsley’s determined to keep the brewing art one of Portland’s staples in big and creative ways.
Emerging Maine Icon Spencer Thibodeau is running for re-election for his seat on the Portland City Council. The incumbent lawyer has had a three year term, serving District 2, and is now on the campaign trail in advance of the November election.
Emerging Maine Icon Ned Swain was back on 207 to educate viewers on the art of making wine. The head of Devenish Wines continues to show his passion for the craft as he describes in detail the hard work it takes to make a good natural wine, and why it’s worth the additional cost. As a recurring guest on 207, Swain uses his expertise to reach out to Mainers as the state’s wine business continues to expand.