Chamber Business After Hours Mixer at Freedom House B&B
DOVER-FOXCROFT — More and more, it seems business owners from out of state are moving to central Maine to begin new business ventures here in Piscataquis County. Some credit the affordability of real-estate in the region, while others gush about the welcoming communities and quality of life they experienced here while visiting. Mike and Betsey Loomis are a perfect example of this.
The Loomises have lived all over the United States but were drawn to return to New England to be closer to family. During a nationwide search for the perfect property, a visit to Maine in January of 2019 led them to the Freedom House Bed and Breakfast of Dover- Foxcroft, which had been on the market for some time. Just a couple of months later, they closed on the B&B and dove right into the process of updating rooms and putting their own touches on the house.
Photo courtesy of Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce
MEET THE NEW OWNERS — Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce members and others can meet Mike and Betsey Loomis, new owners of the Freedom House Bed and Breakfast in Dover-Foxcroft at a Chamber Business After Hours Mixer from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 18.
“It was obvious upon my first meeting with Mike and Betsy that they brought with them a contagious excitement about this new adventure, and about our area,” said Denise Buzzelli, executive director of the Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce. “They have the perfect temperaments for this business, and are committed to its success.”
Mike holds a bachelor’s degree from Gordon College, a master’s from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and a doctorate from Azusa Pacific University. He has served in higher education administration for over 25 years and is great with people. This background, paired with administrative and management experience, will be a great asset to the success of the business moving forward. During his free time, Mike enjoys cycling, hiking, gardening, camping and kayaking.
Betsy holds a bachelor’s degree from Gordon College and also attended the Rhode Island School of Design. She is an accomplished artist in a variety of mediums, such as paints, ceramics, knitting, interior and exterior design. She has also worked in finance, medical, retail, and educational environments. Betsy’s new role as innkeeper of the Freedom House affords her the opportunity to combine her diverse artistic abilities with her business and finance knowledge, along with her gifts of hospitality and compassion, to serve others.
The Loomises have three children, Emily, 25, who married David Ritsema last fall, Rachel, 23, who works in floral design in Chicago and Jacob, 18, who will be attending George Fox University in the fall.
Mike and Betsy will be hosting a Chamber Business After Hours Mixer, which is open to both Chamber and community members from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 18. This evening of networking in a casual setting will give attendees an opportunity to see the establishment and meet the new innkeepers. Finger foods and refreshments will be provided. There is no admission charge.
Please RSVP at 564-7533 or on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
“We are excited about becoming members of the community and look forward to meeting everyone on Thursday, July 18,” Loomis said.