Owners of Weekend Anime & Games in Westbrook, Maine Scammed Out of $125k and Are Asking For Help
Weekend Anime & Games
Weekend Anime & Games has been a go-to spot for many in the greater Portland area since owner Julie York opened it in 2003.
Specializing in "geek culture" this family and community-focused hobby shop features tons of games from various tabletop card games to board games, along with game expansion packs, and accessories. There is truly something for everyone.
In addition to the games, of course, as the name implies they have anime galore as well as fun Japanese toys and treats, Manga, and graphic novels.
Pre-pandemic they also hosted various events.
Sadly, this "contractor" ended up taking advantage of the couple who didn't realize he was scamming them until it was too late and $125k was already given to him.
Expansion
Weekend Anime & Games had big plans to expand their space after making changes to survive through the pandemic. They fully embraced online sales and started saving. The goal was to offer the community a bigger playing space. They ever got a grant from the city to make this dream come true.
Worst Nightmare
After putting in a ton of work and planning into the new space, Julie and her husband Ryan were ready to break ground. They contacted an architect who came up with plans and they hired a contractor to get started.
Sadly, this "contractor" ended up taking advantage of the couple who didn't realize he was scamming them until it was too late and $125k was already given to him. $125k which was a loan taken out against their home.
At this point, they likely cannot get the funds back. They have contacted a lawyer, the police, the bank, the attorney general office, and more with no luck so they are asking the community for help.
How to Help
There is a Go Fund Me set up for those who can donate. For those who can't, they simply ask to share their story. If you're doing holiday shopping consider shopping with Weekend Anime & Games. Visit their online shop here. Or if you have cards they can sell contact them so they can make you an offer.
This is the type of situation where the community thrives by teaming up and helping to remedy a horrible situation.
If you can donate or at least share find their Go Fund Me here.
See the video below for their latest update and plans for the money raised so far: