Area student exhibits his photography at Windham Public Library

By Masha Yurkevich

The interest in photography for Matteo Sandora, a Windham High School senior, began during the COVID pandemic.

An exhibit of photos taken by Windham
High School student Matteo Sandora is
now on display at the Windham Public
Library. He became interested in
photography in school and plans to
become a professional photographer
as a career after graduation.
PHOTO BY ALISSA JAMES  

“On social media, I saw how people used their phones for beautiful photography and thought I would give it a try,” said Sandora. “We have a trail behind our house, and I decided to talk a walk and snap some photos with my phone.”

From there, his interest in photography has grown into a passion and has given him the opportunity to display his work at the Windham Public Library, which can be seen on the second floor throughout the month of April. He is selling his photography at the library and all funds will be going towards Sandora’s photographic uses.

At WHS, Sandora found a photography class, led by Alissa James, who taught Sandora how to use a camera and many other tips and tricks, elevating his photography.

“I have known Matteo since he started at the high school during the fall of 2021 when he took my photography class,” said James. “One of the first things I noticed about Matteo was his excitement about photography. He immediately took to the art form. He was unique as a student because of how much he enjoyed practicing photography outside of the classroom. He began checking out the equipment I have available for students – Digital SLR Camera and tripods – and really took what he was learning in class to a place of personal interest and fulfillment. As a teacher, I strive to help students see and celebrate the areas of their learning and life, where they feel successful. I have continued providing Matteo guidance on his photography throughout his time as a student.”

Through an Extended Learning Opportunity working with Lorraine Glowczak at WHS, Sandora had the chance to display his photography at the Windham Public Library. Glowczak helped organize the plan, reaching out to the library and requesting an exhibit of Sandora’s photographs.

“This year, Matteo began an ELO to investigate the profession of being a photographer,” said James. “I have worked closely with Lorraine Glowczak to create a professional experience for Matteo; finalizing, printing, framing and pricing an art show, as well as learning to correspond with likely display locations, is a necessary step on the journey to being a professional artist and I really wanted Matteo to gain that experience before he graduates.”

Sandora prefers to photograph nature and cars and chose some of his best nature photography for his public display. For the exhibition, he decided to show black and white photos and eight colored photos, which he then color-coordinated with each other.

All of Sandora’s displayed photos were captured locally in the beautiful state of Maine.

“If someone would have told me at the beginning of my senior year that I would be having my photography displayed at the Public Library, I would have thought that you are crazy,” said Sandora. “Having this opportunity is absolutely amazing; I post a lot on social media, but I think it is much cooler to have your work displayed in a real setting.”

For Sandora, photography is very therapeutic. He often goes for a walk on a trail, taking photos along the way.

“If I am not feeling too well mentally, I will grab my camera and go for a walk to calm myself down,” he said.

Sandora considers art a very important part of his life.

“Through photos, you can show many different types of emotions without having to speak to someone,” he said. “You can convey so much emotion through art that you cannot necessarily convey through words.”

He hopes to pursue photography later in life, turning it from a hobby into a career. He would like to get into street photography and automotive photography.

“A dream of mine is to work for National Geographic,’ said Sandora.

After his Windham Public Library exhibition, Sandora hopes to do more art shows in local shops, hoping to sell his work and be able to improve his equipment, enhancing his photography.

Sandora’s work can be found on Instagram at doggosgg.media and can also be viewed on Facebook at Matteo Sandora. <

WMS and Manchester School musicians to team up to perform spring concerts in Windham

By Jolene Bailey

There’s an old saying that when you create an orchestra you are building better citizens for the community. In RSU 14, music educators believe that when students play music, it allows a part of their artistic mind to express itself, key to helping provide balance to students intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally.

Windham Middle School's Eighth Grade Orchestra rehearses
a musical composition while preparing for its upcoming 
annual Spring Concerts with student musicians from
Manchester School at Windham High School's
Performing Arts Center. PHOTO BY MORGAN RILEY

This spring, Windham Middle School musicians will team up with younger Manchester School musicians to perform two concerts together at the Windham High School Performing Arts Center next month. One concert will be performed with band students and the other with orchestra students.

According to Morgan Riley, WMS Band, Orchestra and Music teacher, this year’s concert will be a combined effort with fifth- through eighth-grade students performing so that students and parents from younger grade levels can be recognized for the dedication that all student-musicians put in throughout the years.

“They like sharing all the hard work they've put into perfecting the concert songs,” Riley said. “It's great to see so much support for student-musicians. Sometimes their whole extended families attend to hear the students.”

Riley says that in school music classes, the option of playing a musical instrument becomes available as early as in fifth grade at Manchester School. To showcase the student-musicians work before they enter high school courses, RSU 14 offers spring concerts to showcase student knowledge, talent and the musical skills that they learned over the course of one school year.

Granted the students in older grade levels have more years of experience and perform at a greater level, but Riley said all of the grade levels team up to collaborate and perform on the final song of this year’s concert.

Music teachers at WMS and Manchester School have been having students rehearse for this concert since January. During the rehearsals, students learn the music selections and prepare to give the best possible performances.

“We play for part of the class individually, but most of the class plays together as an ensemble,” Riley said. “In every class we move forward on our concert music and Method Book, where students learn new notes, rhythms, scales and musical markings.”

Among selections to be performed for this year’s concert are "Banana Boat Song," a Jamaican folk song made famous by Harry Bellafonte in the movie "Beetlejuice," two spring-themed songs called "Spring" by Randall Standridge, and "After the Rain" by Matt Neufeld, which is a song with audience participation.

The student-musicians will also perform "Handclap," a pop song made famous by Fitz and the Tantrums, and WMS eighth graders will perform "Blinding Lights," a popular song originally performed by The Weeknd.

The WMS Sixth Grade Orchestra will perform songs ranging from the Beethoven tune, "Ode to Joy," to an exciting piece by Richard Meyer called "Dragonhunter."

Riley says that the older WMS orchestra students will perform an upbeat song by Soon Hee Newbold called "Storm," and they will also perform a beautiful slow piece that stretches their ability to play differing dynamics called “Colorful Sunrise” by Jukiko Nishimura, as well as Lady Gaga's hit "Poker Face." The WMS Eighth Grade Orchestra will present the theme song from the Disney Movie "Beauty and the Beast" during the concerts.

“I like making audio recordings of the ensembles and playing them back to the students,” Riley said. “They listen critically for things they are doing well and what we need to improve, and we work on those things. That self-assessment skill is essential for musicians. In the end, they always improve and feel proud of their accomplishments.”

She said that the middle school students are excited to perform with their younger counterparts from Manchester School and encouraging and inspiring the next generation of musicians in the school district.

“Young people often look up to older people due to the accumulated wisdom, life experiences, and established social roles that older individuals possess, offering guidance and perspective,” Riley said. “The magic of music can bring a community together and spark untold passions.”

The WMS/Manchester Spring Band Concert will be held on Tuesday, May 20 and the WMS/Manchester Spring Orchestra Concert is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21 with both concerts beginning at 6:30 p.m. each night in the Windham High School Performing Arts Center. <

Windham PTA supports school culture through fundraisers

By Elle Curtis

The Windham PTA continues to strive to create an environment where students can thrive, with a goal of enhancing the educational experience for all students. Through the PTA, connections can be built among families, teachers, and local businesses leading to community engagement.

Members of the Windham Parent Teacher
Association work the concessions stand
at a recent Maine Mainers hockey game
as a fundraiser for the organization.
Proceeds from PTA fundraisers are
used to purchase classroom supplies,
provide educational resources, and fund
extracurricular programs for students.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Throughout the year, Windham PTA members organize a variety of fundraisers and community events such as Spirit Nights and events with the Maine Mariners professional hockey team. Community events include the Family Fun and Fitness Festival and the Windham Primary School Fall Festival.

They focus on building a strong relationship between families and schools, offering programs and events that encourage parent involvement and community engagement.

“These events create opportunities for everyone to engage in the school community, whether it's through family-friendly activities, learning about future career paths, or simply enjoying time together. By working together to organize and participate in these events, we strengthen the bond between the schools and the community, showing how vital it is to support our students and their education,” said Windham PTA President, Tiffany Sinclair.

Exciting events like Glow Night and the K-8 Career Fair provide opportunities for students to explore potential careers and build connections with local professionals.

Funds raised at these events play an instrumental role in supporting our schools, Sinclair said. Funds go toward purchasing classroom supplies, providing educational resources, and funding extracurricular programs in addition to providing enriching opportunities for students to grow both academically and personally in a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Windham PTA aims to create an environment where every student excels, and they work to provide teachers and staff with the resources they need to succeed.

“We’ve been working hard to revitalize our efforts post-COVID and ensure we remain visible in the community. However, continued involvement from parents and community members is essential to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Sinclair.

Strong participation goes toward ensuring students have the support they need when striving to reach their full potential, she said.

“The PTA is powered by volunteers, and the more people we have involved, the more we can do for our schools and students,” Sinclair said. “When community members volunteer, they not only contribute to the success of the PTA but also help create a more vibrant, supportive school culture. Volunteering is a great way to connect with other parents, teachers, and staff, while also showing our students the importance of giving back.”

Volunteer support assists Windham PTA in providing grants to classrooms, teams, specialists, and grade levels to help support their needs. It additionally goes toward extracurricular activities and awards two $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors looking to further their education. Staff Appreciation Days and conference dinners are organized as well for teachers across all schools by Windham PTA, helping to recognize and support local educators. Sinclair says more than 2,700 students and 400 staff members are impacted by these efforts.

For more information about Windham PTA, a list of upcoming events, and ways to get involved, visit the PTA website at www.windhammainepta.org or check the official Facebook page at Windham Maine PTA. Updates are shared through Windham Parks and Rec's Community Announcements on Thursdays and RSU 14 Parent Square on Fridays. <

In the public eye: Director of School Nutrition positively impacts student health and lives

Editor’s Note: This is another in an ongoing series of Windham and Raymond town employee profiles.

By Ed Pierce

It’s no secret that good nutrition creates improved health in all areas of our existence and all parts are interconnected. It’s a philosophy that Jeanne Reilly has taken to heart.

Director of School Nutrition Jeanne Reilly
has been a full-time employee of RSU 14
since 2012 and oversees schools kitchens 
in Windham and Raymond which serve
65,000 breakfasts and 78,000 lunches
every month. SUBMITTED PHOTO   

Reilly serves as RSU 14’s Director of School Nutrition and her duties are crucial to student success and well-being.

She plans school breakfast and lunch menus in compliance with all state and federal regulations for RSU 14 and provides oversight over all aspects of the district’s school nutrition program. Reilly ensures compliance, manages RSU 14’s procurement of food and supplies, staffs school kitchens, trains kitchen staff, manages the district’s school nutrition budget and markets the school meals program.

“The best part of the job is ensuring that all children in RSU 14 have access to healthy and delicious breakfast and lunch every school day,” Reilly said. “Hungry kids can't learn, but because Maine has Healthy School Meals for All legislation, we have the opportunity to fuel every child for success. We love that we are not only feeding students breakfast and lunch but that we also have opportunities to use the ‘Cafeteria as a Classroom’ teaching kids lessons about cooking, healthy eating, farm to school and nutrition.”

Starting her job during the 2009 school year, Reilly’s position was originally shared between Westbrook and Windham, but in 2012, she became a full-time employee of RSU 14.

According to Reilly, the most challenging part of her duties is to keep RSU 14 school kitchens fully staffed at all times.

In looking at her work, Reilly said she thinks the biggest misconception people may have about her role is that school meals haven't changed over the years.

“In fact, we are preparing nearly 70 percent of our menu items from scratch, offering students choices, fresh fruits and vegetables and Maine milk,” she said. “We are focused on partnering with local farmers and producers to bring local food to school meals, and we have a full-time chef on staff to support our team in creating fresh and delicious menu options that are in compliance with federal school nutrition guidelines.”

The other thing that has changed in the last few years is that all students can get breakfast and lunch at school at no cost,” Reilly said.

“This has greatly reduced the stigma previously associated with school meals,” she said. “Now, it is not uncommon for almost every child in the school to be eating a school lunch. And in today's economy, why not? School meals can save families time and money.”

Growing up in New Jersey, Reilly moved to Maine when she was in middle school. She earned a degree in Dietetics from Southern Maine Community College and then another in Food Systems Management from the University of New Hampshire. She’s been working in the food service industry for her entire life, serving with the Women Infants and Children program, hospital dietetics departments, and in long-term care as a Director of Food and Nutrition. She began her career working for schools in Westbrook and her passion for nutrition expanded in her job with RSU 14.

One thing that the public may not know about her job as RSU 14 Director of School Nutrition is that the school district serves between 65,000 and 78,000 meals, total breakfasts and lunches, each month depending on how many school days they are in session.

It’s difficult for Reilly to pinpoint one moment that stands out from all the rest in her career with RSU 14.

“The best moments are when I hear from students and families about how the school meals that we serve have positively impacted their lives,” she said. “Parents often ask us for the recipes that we make because their child loves the _________ (fill in the blank) that we serve at school, and they would like to recreate the same menu item at home. Often, parents comment that their child tried something for the first time as part of school lunch and now they love it. I recently had the pleasure of meeting with a young professional who is a Food Corp Member working in Westbrook. This young woman attended Windham Primary School the first few years we celebrated National Nutrition Month by Eating Our Way Through The Alphabet – Fruits and Vegetables A - Z. She remembered trying both kiwi and jicama for the very first time and loving them. Hearing her reminisce on how it impacted her life really helped our team feel that all of the hard work is worthwhile.” <

Nangle bills aim to protect Maine consumers, mobile park residents

Two recent bills introduced by State Senator Tim Nangle, D-Windham, look to protect consumers and discourage predatory practices by out-of-state corporations.

In late March, Nangle introduced legislation to protect Maine consumers from hidden fees and ensure transparent pricing when booking short-term lodging or purchasing live event tickets.

His bill LD 992, “An Act to Protect Consumers from Hidden Fees and Ensure Transparent Pricing for Live Event Tickets and Short-term Lodging,” received a public hearing in the Legislature’s Housing and Economic Development Committee.

“Too often, what starts as a seemingly fair price ends as a frustrating surprise,” Nangle said. “A $100 advertised room becomes $160 by the time you reach the final screen. A $50 ticket jumps to $75 – not because the product changed but because the price wasn’t honest to begin with. This bill is about restoring trust. It’s about fairness, plain and simple. Mainers work hard for their money. They deserve straight answers, not fine print and hidden fees.”

The LD 992 legislation would require that the full cost, including any mandatory fees, be clearly disclosed whenever a price is advertised or displayed. It applies to two rapidly growing sectors where deceptive fees are particularly common: short-term rentals and live event ticketing. The bill empowers the Attorney General to enforce the new standards and allows consumers to take legal action if they’re harmed by noncompliance.

While the Federal Trade Commission has finalized a similar national rule, Nangle said during the bill’s public hearing that LD 992 reflects Maine’s core value of fairness and creates a state-level standard that is resilient against future federal policy shifts.

It now faces further action in committee.

Nangle also introduced legislation earlier this month to protect residents of mobile home parks from predatory practices by out-of-state corporate investors and ensure fair treatment during park sales or land-use changes.

His bill LD 1145, “An Act to Protect Residents Living in Mobile Home Parks,” received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Housing and Economic Development Committee.

“For many Mainers, mobile home parks are critical sources of affordable, stable housing,” Nangle said. “Too often, private equity firms swoop in solely for profit, drastically raising rents and destabilizing communities. This bill ensures residents are treated fairly and have a meaningful opportunity to preserve their homes and communities — it’s a step toward a Maine where stability, dignity and community well-being are valued over corporate profit.”

The LD 1145 bill addresses key issues faced by residents of mobile home parks by:

** Requiring mobile park owners to provide written notice to residents when they intend to sell.

** Extending the waiting period from 60 to 90 days, giving residents more time to respond.

** Establishing a clear "right of first refusal," enabling residents to match and purchase their park if they choose.

** Clarifying that park owners are not required to complete a sale if residents cannot secure financing within 90 days.

** Introducing protections when park owners intend to discontinue park use entirely, including mandatory relocation assistance funded by the owner and restrictions preventing eviction until residents are safely relocated.

During LD 1145’s public hearing, Nangle shared his family's personal experience managing a mobile home park in Massachusetts for over 70 years, emphasizing the value of community-focused ownership versus the detrimental impacts of profit-driven corporate acquisitions. He highlighted that Massachusetts law allowed residents of his family’s park to successfully purchase the community themselves, preserving affordability and stability.

Speaking in support of LD 1145, Nora Gosselin, the Director of Resident Acquisitions at the Cooperative Development Institute, shared similar insights drawn from her extensive experience assisting resident communities:

“The Opportunity to Purchase statute has been an essential stepping stone, a proof of concept,” Gosselin said. “Under this statute, two cooperatives successfully purchased their properties within the last year for $26.3M and $8M respectively, showing that residents can indeed pull off these transactions on competitive timelines and at competitive price tags. The law needs to be strengthened into a Right of First Refusal to build upon an effective model, in an environment with so many aggressive, deep-pocketed, out-of-state corporations, amid an affordable housing crisis.”

LD 1145 will now undergo further review and discussion in the committee.

Nangle represents Maine State Senate District 26, which includes Windham, Raymond, Casco, Frye Island, and part of Westbrook. <

Gracie Gym Maine soars in New England Jiu-Jitsu Championships

By Ed Pierce

Gracie Gym Maine, a premier martial arts academy in Windham specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, made a striking impression at the recent Jiu-Jitsu New England Championships, claiming second place overall among 120 other distinguished academies last weekend.

Gracie Gym Maine's Head Coach Vincius
Garca shows the banner that members of
the Windham facility won by finishing
in second place at the New England
Jiu-Jitsu Championships held at
Agganis Arena in Boston.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Participants from Gracie Gym Maine displayed immense dedication, skill, and discipline, bringing home the silver medal from the event. These victories were achieved by competitors ranging in age from 6 to 50 and spanning across various expertise levels from white belt to black belt rank.

During the New England Championships held at Agganis Arena in Boston on March 28, Gracie Gym Maine members showcased their extensive training and commitment to martial arts, reflecting the high-quality instruction and supportive community found at their Windham facility.

Located at 770 Roosevelt Trail Suite 6 in Windham, Gracie Gym Maine stands as a beacon of excellence in martial arts training. The academy offers an inclusive and welcoming environment, coupled with world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gym prides itself on fostering a community where individuals of all ages and skill levels can learn, grow, and thrive.

Gracie Gym Maine is excited to welcome new students to become part of their thriving community. Whether you are new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner looking to refine your skills, Gracie Gym offers a range of classes and programs to suit every individual's needs and goals. Participants embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and mastery of the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Having opened in March 2023, Gracie Gym Maine is owned by Michael Smith, who said that he extends hearty congratulations to all the Gracie Gym Maine participants for their outstanding performance and dedication at the New England Championships.

“The academy also expresses sincere gratitude to the organizers of the New England Championships and the supportive family and friends who have made this achievement possible,” Smith said.

The Windham program’s head coach, Vinicius Garcia, joined Gracie Gym Maine participants at the event and said local participants performed remarkably.

“We are so proud of what these members achieved,” Smith said. “They worked hard in the gym training prior to the championships and showed grit, determination, and a dedication to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.”

Originating in Brazil in the early 20th century, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on using leverage and submission holds to defeat opponents, making it an effective form of self-defense for people of all sizes and abilities. It is an effective form of self-defense because it teaches practitioners how to stay calm and composed in high-pressure situations.

Along with teaching physical techniques, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also emphasizes the development of mental toughness and a strong, positive mindset. Its practitioners learn to be confident and mentally prepared for any situation, and its intense, full-body workout will help participants get in great shape and improve their overall physical fitness.

The Gracie Gym Maine academy draws students from all over the state and offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons to everyone ages 4 and up.

Garcia is widely considered one of the most elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors in the world. Garcia has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since the age of 16 and he has competed in many of Brazil’s top events under renowned coach Rodrigo Castro, who promoted him to black belt in 2015.

The Gracie Gym Maine academy in Windham offers an inclusive and welcoming environment, coupled with world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the gym prides itself on fostering a community where individuals of all ages and skill levels can learn, grow, and thrive.

Smith said that no matter if you are new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner looking to refine your skills, Gracie Gym Maine offers a range of classes and programs to suit every individual's needs and goals.

For further details about Gracie Gym Maine and enrollment information, call 207-383-2228 or visit https://www.graciegymmaine.com/ <

New water main to be installed on Chute Road in Windham

The Portland Water District will begin a significant infrastructure project this summer in Windham, installing a new 16-inch ductile iron water transmission main along Chute Road.

A new 16-inch ductile iron water transmission main will be
installed along Chute Road in Windham by the Portland
Water District this summer. COURTESY PHOTO

Water district engineers estimate that the project will take about one year to complete.

The new water main will connect the Wards Hill Pump Station to a newly constructed tank on Falmouth Road with 1-million gallons of storage capacity adjacent to the East Windham Conservation Area. Engineers say that in addition to improving overall system reliability, fire hydrants will be installed along the route to provide enhanced fire protection for the area.

The water district will install roughly 13,500 feet of new 16-inch ductile iron water main in Chute Road from River Road to Pope Road.

Residential properties located along the construction route are being offered the opportunity to connect to the new public water system at their own expense. While homeowners on Chute Road may also choose to remain on their private wells, those opting to connect will benefit from a reliable and high-quality water source provided by Portland Water District, which currently serves more than 20 percent of Maine’s population.

The Portland Water District invests more than $7 million each year in water main renewals. Since 1985, reported leaks have been reduced due to the effectiveness of this program, even with the continued aging of existing water mains.

According to PWD engineers, the district’s goal with the Water Main Replacement Program is to provide a reliable distribution system designed and maintained to enhance public health and safety. Water main replacement involves replacing existing water mains with new ones to improve water flow characteristics and to improve service to our customers.

Ductile iron pipe is made from ductile cast iron and is commonly used by municipalities and water distribution agencies across America for water transmission. It has an estimated life span of 110 years and is preferred over strictly cast iron pipe because of its resistance to corrosion.

Mains are identified for replacement according to numerous criteria, including:

** Partnering opportunities with municipal and MDOT road reconstruction and combined sewer overflow (CSO) projects

** Opportunities to improve water quality or address water quality concerns

** Leak frequency

** Aging infrastructure and/or outdated water main material

** Critical loop feeds (eliminating dead ends based on flow characteristics)

Service line installation costs are as follows:

** Even-numbered addresses: $4,500

** Odd-numbered addresses: $4,000

- New meter and installation fee: $500. The costs include a 5/8-inch residential meter, inspection, and waived engineering and inspection fees.

Service lines will be extended to the lot line as part of the project, with final in-home connections to be completed by a contractor of the homeowner's choice.

Interested property owners are encouraged to express their intent to connect, or with questions by contacting Kyle Jacobson, Senior Project Engineer, no later than May 15. He can be reached at 207-523-5242 or by email at kjacobson@pwd.org

For more details about the Portland Water District and this project, visit www.pwd.org <

Hidden chemicals in plastics present danger to Mainers

By Dennis Brown

In a world increasingly dependent on plastics, it’s easy to overlook the invisible danger lurking in many everyday items.

As plastic waste continues to accumulate in landfills and
oceans, exposure to chemicals from plastics breaking
down is expected to worsen. COURTESY PHOTO  

Yes, we all see the plastic waste along our roadsides, and the more responsible of us carefully sort out our plastics for recycling, not realizing that less than 9 percent of plastics are actually recycled (https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/plastics-material-specific-data - PlasticsOverview).

From food packaging and personal care products to medical devices and household goods, plastics have become an essential part of modern life.

However, scientists are sounding the alarm over the harmful chemicals that these plastics often contain, particularly endocrine disruptors, which have been linked to a range of health problems, from reproductive issues to chronic diseases like cancer.

The Silent Disruptors

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances that can interfere with the body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormones essential for growth, metabolism, and reproduction. These chemicals can mimic, block, or alter the natural hormones in the body, leading to a variety of health issues.

While the effects of EDCs may not be immediately noticeable, their long-term consequences can be severe. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/endocrine_disruptors_508.pdf

Plastics are one of the primary sources of exposure to endocrine disruptors. Chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and polystyrene, which are commonly found in plastic products, have been shown to disrupt hormone function. (https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.0900979 )

BPA, for example, is frequently used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which are often found in food and drink containers, as well as thermal receipt paper. Phthalates, another group of chemicals, are used to soften plastics and are found in products such as toys, vinyl flooring, and even personal care items like lotions and perfumes.

The Growing Evidence of Harm

A growing body of research has shown that exposure to endocrine disruptors can have serious health consequences, particularly during critical periods of development, such as pregnancy and early childhood.

Studies (https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/10910) have linked BPA and phthalates to developmental and behavioral problems, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Other research has found associations between these chemicals and an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, infertility, and certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer.

Just one example is from Dr. Shanna Swan, author of Count Down, who has tracked human sperm count since the 1970’s, and she has documented a drop in over 50 percent since the beginning of her studies (6). Chemicals in plastics are linked as a major contributor. (https://academic.oup.com/humupd/article/23/6/646/4035689?login=false).

In addition, scientists are concerned about the cumulative effects of exposure. While individual doses of these chemicals may be low, people are exposed to a wide variety of plastics throughout their lives—from the food they eat to the air they breathe – leading to a constant stream of endocrine-disrupting substances into the body. As plastic waste continues to accumulate in landfills and oceans, the problem is only expected to worsen.

Vulnerable Populations at Risk

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the effects of endocrine disruptors. Pregnant women, infants, and children are at the greatest risk because their endocrine systems are still developing and can be more easily altered by exposure to harmful chemicals. For instance, research has shown that prenatal exposure to BPA can affect fetal brain development, leading to long-term neurological and behavioral issues.

Additionally, women of childbearing age may face fertility challenges due to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Both BPA and phthalates have been linked to reduced fertility in both men and women, and some studies suggest that these chemicals may contribute to early onset puberty in girls.

Industry Response and Regulatory Gaps

Despite growing evidence of harm, the regulation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals remains insufficient in many countries. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not banned BPA or phthalates outright, though some restrictions have been placed on their use in certain products like baby bottles.

In the European Union, some of these chemicals have been banned from certain consumer products, but many still remain in use.

The problem lies in the fact that endocrine disruptors are not always clearly labeled on plastic products, making it difficult for consumers to avoid exposure. The plastics industry, while aware of the concerns, has been slow to phase out harmful chemicals, and in many cases, substitutes may still carry similar risks.

Alternatives to BPA, such as bisphenol S (BPS), are sometimes used, but early studies suggest that these substitutes may be just as harmful.

What Can Be Done?

Consumers can take steps to reduce their exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals by making more informed choices. Opting for glass, stainless steel, or other non-plastic alternatives for food and drink storage is one way to reduce the risk. Avoiding plastic products labeled with the recycling codes 3 (polyvinyl chloride, or PVC), 6 (polystyrene), and 7 (other, which can include BPA-based plastics) is another precaution.

Choosing natural personal care products that are free from phthalates and other harmful chemicals can also reduce exposure. ( https://www.edf.org/health/chemicals/getting-toxics-out-what-we-buy )

At the policy level, experts are calling for stronger regulation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including more rigorous testing and better labeling of products that may contain them. Public health advocates are urging governments to take a more proactive approach to reduce the use of toxic plastics and encourage the development of safer alternatives.

A Call to Action

Maine has been ahead of most states by enacting laws starting in the 1980’s with the bottle bill, and accelerating the cause with more regulation, much at the hand of Defend Our Health, a Maine based organization that advocates for toxic free health. They have led the charge in enacting some of Maine’s laws relative to phthalates, bis Phenol a (BPA) and PFAS (all of which are known EDCs). There’s so much more to do.

The dangers of endocrine-disrupting chemicals are clear, and their widespread presence in plastics poses a significant threat to public health. As consumers, we must demand safer products, and as a society, we must push for stronger regulations to protect future generations from the long-term consequences of plastic pollution.

The time to act is now. The hidden chemicals in plastic may seem invisible, but their effects are anything but. It’s up to all of us – individuals, industries, and governments – to create a safer, healthier future for people and the planet.

Dennis Brown is the Chair of the Town of Windham’s Natural Resources Advisory Committee. Reach him by email at lakesideme@yahoo.com <

Red Cross, American Legion partner for Windham blood drive

By Ashlynn Cuthbert

Blood is one of the most valuable resources most people can give. One in seven people who enter a hospital will need a donation of blood to survive. This means that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a transfusion to live.

American Legion Post 148 members Leon Davies and
Maryann Johnson staff the canteen and talk to donor Al
Stafford during an American Red Cross Blood Drive at
the Windham Veterans Center in March. The event yielded
27 units of whole blood collected for area hospitals. 

Unfortunately, the number of current blood donors has hit a 20-year low, with only 3 percent of the eligible population donating.

“More blood donors are needed to save lives,” says Steve Thomas, executive director, Red Cross Southern Maine Chapter.

Members of the American Legion Post 148 here in Windham are helping to lessen this donor deficit by hosting Red Cross sanctioned blood drives every month. These drives are held on the third Wednesday of every month from noon to 5 p.m. at the Windham Veteran’s Center, 35 Veterans Memorial Drive in Windham.

The next blood drive at the Windham Veterans Center will be held on Wednesday, April 16.

Most people with all blood types can give blood, but there are a few restrictions. People who are under 17-years-old, under 110 pounds, physically limited, and had past conditions like cancer cannot give blood. There are other, rarer restrictions that you can find at https://www.redcrossblood.org/faq.html#eligibility.

Giving blood seems like a daunting task, but Thomas said that the Red Cross ensures that the process is quick, confidential, and safe.

The first step to donating blood is making an appointment by calling 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or by going to www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive. Go to the link, enter your ZIP code, and choose a donation site.

After this, select a time to donate. If you have an account with the Red Cross, you can sign in at this time, but if you don’t have an account, you need to make one to donate. Once you are signed in, then you’ll be asked to confirm your appointment. Once completed, you are officially signed up to give.

When the day arrives to donate, you go to your appointment, provide your name, address, phone number, and identification will be collected to sign you in. After this, you will be taken into a private room and a staff member will conduct a confidential interview about your medical and travel history, and a mini-physical will be conducted. From there, the blood donation will begin.

Thomas says that the donation itself is only about 8 to 10 minutes on average and is performed by Red Cross-trained phlebotomists, people who draw blood professionally.

When the donation is complete, you will be offered cookies, water, and juice while you sit in the refreshment area. This step is to ensure you are healthy and hydrated before you leave. After waiting about 10 to 15 minutes, you are good to go and enjoy the rest of your day. This entire prosses takes only about an hour and a half.

After you leave, a sample of your blood is put into a test tube and the rest stays in the collection bag. Both are then put on ice. The test tube is brought to a testing location to confirm blood type and to make sure it is safe to use. The donation blood is transported to a Red Cross processing center.

“At our processing center, whole blood donations are spun in centrifuges to separate it into transfusable components: red cells, platelets, and plasma,” Thomas said. “Each component is packaged as a unit, a standardized amount that doctors will use when transfusing a patient.”

Upon processing, some of the blood that was deemed safe to use by the testing location is sent to hospitals to have on hand, and some is kept at the Red Cross facility.

Hospitals can request blood from the Red Cross around the clock as needed. The hospitals then take that blood and transfuse it into patients who need it. Because your whole blood donation is divided into components, your single donation can help more than one person.

American Legion Post 148 is not the only organization to host regular blood drives in the area. There is a Red Cross donation center at 524 Forest Ave. in Portland that is open seven days a week, eight hours a day.

The Red Cross organizes about 500 blood drives a day to supply hospitals with the blood they need. The Red Cross began collecting blood for the U.S. military in 1941 but then expanded their efforts to a nationwide program in 1948. They opened their first blood donation center in Rochester, N.Y. and more spread across the nation.

According to Thomas, the Red Cross knows what they are doing and will ensure that all donors are safe and comfortable during the entire process. <

Raymond Scout Troop 800’s open house nearing

By Kendra Raymond

Do you have a young person in your life who is interested in adventures, learning new skills, making friends, and spending time outdoors? Scouts BSA might just be the answer. With a newly implemented program which includes both boys and girls, there are opportunities for all young people to grow and learn, while upholding the core beliefs of Scouts BSA.

Scouts from Troop 800 in Raymond participate
in various camping and outdoor activities 
throughout the year. The troop will host an
Open House for interested youth and parents
at 6:30 p.m. April 14 at the Raymond Fire and
Rescue Department, 1443 Roosevelt Trail in
Raymond. COURTESY PHOTO

Scout Troop 800 in Raymond will be holding an Open House for all interested parents and youth at the Raymond Fire & Rescue Department, 1443 Roosevelt Trail in Raymond, at 6:30 p.m. April 14.

Assistant Scoutmaster Mike Case says the troop is expecting a lot of interest in the upcoming Open House.

“We invite you and your family to our Scout Troop Open House to explore what Scouting is all about! Whether you are interested in joining a boy troop, learning more about forming a girl troop, or starting a Pack for younger youth, this event is for you,” Case said.

He outlined what the evening will be about:

What to expect

• Introduction to Scouting: Learn about the rich history and purpose of Scouting, and how it helps youth develop character, leadership, and life skills.

• Activity examples: Experience some of the exciting activities our Scouts participate in, from outdoor adventures like camping and hiking to hands-on skills such as first aid and orienteering.

• Scout-led activity: Watch or join in as our current Scouts lead an interactive activity, showcasing teamwork and leadership in action!

Interested in a Girl Troop or Cub Scouts?

Case said that while Scout Troop 800 is currently a boy scout troop, they are excited to collaborate and share information, experiences, and resources to help get a girl troop or Cub Scout Pack off the ground.

“Our Troop committee is eager to support the development of these programs, ensuring that all young people can experience the benefits of Scouting,” he said.

Who Can Join?

• Boys or girls ages 11 to 17 for Troops

• Younger youth ages 5 to 10 for Cub Scouts

• A desire to have fun, learn, and grow through teamwork and challenges.

Jason Moreau is the Scoutmaster for Troop 800 and says that he is excited to invite families who are interesting in learning more about the troop to join us.

“Aside from the Scout-themed games and activities, we will be providing an opportunity for questions and answers,” he said. “While Troop 800 is Boys Troop serving 11- to 18-year-olds, we encourage families who are interested in the Scouts BSA program for girls and younger Cub Scouts to attend as well to learn more about how we might bring those programs to Raymond.”

Moreau says he hopes to see the program continue to gain momentum in the community and that the troop keeps the adventures going year-round and have the group lead community service projects throughout Raymond.

“We have had some conversations with the Crescent Lake Watershed Association about assisting with erosion site projects this summer,” he said. “We’ve also been asked to help retire a collection of U.S. flags which is a great opportunity for our Scouts to engage in civic duty and learn proper protocol.”

The Troop has nine registered Scouts presently and Moreau hopes to add several more. He emphasized the importance of leadership and community, especially during a recent Eagle Scout project.

“We have one Scout who just completed their Eagle Project and is preparing for their board of review,” he said. "It was great to have the younger Scouts help with the process building park benches so they can get a sense of what is involved to reach that highest rank of the Scouts BSA program.”

While working their way through the ranks, the Scouts find a way to fill their progress with plenty of fun and skill building. Moreau says that the Troop has a lot of upcoming events for the spring and summer season.

“We always have a bunch of great outings planned. We try to schedule one per month. In April we’ll be honing our archery skills at Camp Hinds. In May, we’ll be camping at Spectacle Pond in Osborn Maine for a weekend and heading into Acadia National Park for the day. In June we’ll be heading to Baxter state park for weekend.” said Moreau. “During July we will be camping for a week session at Camp Hinds where the Scouts will swim, canoe, earn merit badges, and all kinds of activities with other troops from across Maine and beyond.”

Moreau is proud of the extensive resume that Troop 800 has under their belt. The enthusiasm and sense of adventure are palpable within the Troop.

“We’re always looking ahead to new and exciting outings. To give a sense of the type of activities we pursue, within the 12 months we’ve taken an overnight canoeing trip, backpacked via the light of a full moon to a rustic cabin in Camden State Park, hiked the Rumford Whitecap, and competed at a snowy Klondike derby, an ice fishing derby and a Star Wars themed camporee,” he said, “We just got back from an overnight trip at EVO Rock + Fitness in Portland where the boys scaled all kinds of climbing walls for hours before camping out on the mats for the night.”

Moreau says that he finds his time spent volunteering with Troop 800 very rewarding.

“As leaders and parents, it’s humbling watching the boys grow and mature, become a more cohesive team, and discovering new talents and interests they didn’t realize they had,” he said “Our Scouts really enjoy planning and going on regular trips, seeing various parts of our state and country, and connecting with the outdoors and our community. Our Troop is really dedicated to providing these opportunities for the youth in Raymond, and surrounding communities.”

Case and Moreau are anxious to share the benefits of Scouting with prospective members.

For further details about Raymond Troop 800’s Open House, send an email to troop800me@gmail.com or call or text 207-370-2896. <

In the public eye: WPS instructional interventionist gives students confidence to succeed

Editor’s note: This is another in an ongoing series of Windham and Raymond town employee profiles.

By Ed Pierce

To say that Debbie Greenlaw is important to student success at Windham Primary School would be an understatement.

Debbie Greenlaw is the Literacy Instructional
Interventionist for first grade students at
Windham Primary School and she also
leads the school's Summer Technology
Programs and After school Clubs.
PHOTO BY ED PIERCE 

As the Literacy Instructional Interventionist for first grade students at WPS, Greenlaw provides targeted support and individual or small group instruction to students who are struggling in literacy. She focuses on skills such as phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and writing, all while collaborating with teachers and monitoring a student’s progress.

Her work involves directly working with students who need extra support; designing and implementing targeted interventions based upon student needs and data; and delivering instruction to individual students or small groups, focusing on specific skills or areas of difficulty that students may encounter. While she tracks student progress, Greenlaw can make adjustments as needed, coordinate other school staff members for support and inventions, and keep parents informed about their child's progress and intervention strategies.

“I found my passion helping littles with their academic success,” she said.

It’s a huge responsibility but that’s not all Greenlaw does at the school.

She also leads the WPS Summer Technology Programs and coordinates the school’s After School Clubs.

“The online Summer Technology Programs are free to any student in our school,” Greenlaw said. “The programs are engaging and motivating for our learners. The programs help the students keep up with their learning through the summer.”

The WPS After School Clubs give students an opportunity to pursue their interests along with being involved with at least one club each session.

“We have two sessions starting at the end of January through May,” Greenlaw said. “All these clubs are free for our students to attend.

Usually there are 10 to 12 clubs offered each session, and each club has grade levels from K to 3, giving students more opportunities to participate in clubs.

“The teachers are wonderful with thinking of engaging fun clubs for the students to choose,” she said. "There is a lot of participation in the clubs, and we have the lottery system in place for choosing clubs. The lottery is the first choice of selections for the clubs. When possible, my goal is to have the students get their first choice, but sometimes certain circumstances prevent students from having their first choice. Then the students get their second or third choice. We have been able to have every student that signs up for a club participate in the sessions.”

She says that WPS teachers are the reason the school can keep having clubs for its students.

“They take their extra time to plan clubs that are motivating and promote social skills for the students,” Greenlaw said.

After-school clubs offer many benefits, including developing cognitive skills such as problem solving, teamwork, exploring interests, fostering friendships, and making learning fun, she said.

“I would not be able to lead or coordinate either the Summer Technology Programs, or the After School Clubs, without Dr. Kyle Rhoads, WPS principal,” Greenlaw said. “He is the person who initiated the Summer Technology Programs and After School Clubs for our students.”

Greenlaw has lived in Windham her entire life. When her children went off to college, she decided to go to college too.

“I went to Andover College with my daughter,” she said. “We graduated together. I have two associate of science degrees in Office Management and Paralegal Studies. Law was not for me. I knew I wanted to help children in some way.”

“I contacted the DOE and was told that I could apply for an educational technician certification with my college credits,” Greenlaw said. “I went back to college and got six more credits to become an Educational Technician III. It was the best decision I have ever made. Every day I am thankful for the Windham Primary School Community and the students.”

She started working at WPS as an Academic Support technician for grade K to 3 and that is close to what she does now as an instructional interventionist.

For Greenlaw, she says that her most memorable moments at WPS are when a student understands a strategy that she is teaching them as well as when the students then use that strategy to become a successful reader.

“In my opinion, the best thing about my job is the Windham Primary School Community and all the smiles on the students' faces every day,” she said. <

Windham resident uses poems to give back to community

By Elle Curtis

Windham resident and poetry author Bob Clark, driven by a sense of giving back to society in a permanent manner, is preparing for the release of his newest book, “Sleigh Bells,” as a part of his annual poetry display at the Windham Public Library for National Poetry Month during April.

Bob Clark grew up in Windham and became
fascinated with writing after reading National
Geographic magazine. He is now a poet who
has written a new book and a new poem
about Babbs Bridge which is on display at
the Windham Public Library in April.
PHOTO BY ELLE CURTIS   

“Sleigh Bells will be his seventh published book of an impressive collection. The book will contain roughly 12 poems, including a poem by Clark focused on the restoration of Babbs Bridge, Windham’s historical covered bridge.

Growing up in Windham, Clark lived in a farm home, which included a horse barn from 1825. When he was young, Clark had growing interests in writing and reading, inspired by some 1930s National Geographic magazines that he kept in the attic of the horse barn.

“National Geographic really opened the world,” said Clark.

Through images found in both magazines and online, Clark found inspiration.

“Can you imagine? The opportunity I have to make another new book with a new cover,” he said. “That alone is interesting to me since I can find inspiration from photos online.”

Apart from photos found online and nature, Clark is also inspired by authors such as Longfellow and Robert Frost. In viewing other people’s work, Clark says he has found his niche.

What’s behind the image is the impulse of emotion. Emotion is the key to the product he’s laying out in words. His poems “Our Candle Vigil” and his newer poem, “Babb’s Bridge,” speak about a commonality between the towns of Lewiston and Windham that Clark believes should be continued. With his work and library display, Clark wants to reach the public.

“Our Candle Vigil,” which was presented to Lewiston city councilor following the tragic mass shooting there, conveys a message of support.

Through poetry, Clark sees his poems as a way of giving back to the community.

“The tragedy is the tragedy, but the humanity of it is that we somehow manage to get through it and pull together, and recognize each other, kind of lean on each other,” said Clark.

It is as he writes that he asks himself what influence his poems can have. He’ll rewrite a poem 40 to 50 times. Each poem is roughly 2 to 4 pages. They mean a lot to Clark. He strives to capture the image and word selection is an important part of that. Words can carry a little image, he says.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to be thousands of words. It might only be six words and then boom, it grabs you and captures your imagination,” says Clark.

Poetry is one way Clark has reached the public and left a lasting mark. For years, he was unsure how to put his work out there until he thought of framing his work for displays.

“Nobody else was doing that,” he said. “Libraries didn’t have a local poet that would just come in and frame his work to be put up and displayed. They would have a book here and maybe a book there.”

Windham Public Library has been a place where Clark is able to display his poetry. His focus is on providing lyrical respites in a busy world.

“There’s time to become aware, and there’s this time to decide, well I like these things in life,” said Clark.

With that in mind he wrote his poem “Those We Never Knew.” Clark presented the poem to the Maine State Senate earlier this year as a part of delivering the opening invocation at the Maine State House in recognition of and gratitude to those who sacrificed for our nation.

His words prompt reflection on the origins of America’s independence and he learned the power of words by taking college courses at the University of Southern Maine in the late 1960’s.

More ambitious projects are in the works as Clark prepares for “The New Poetry Workshop’ with the Maine Coast Men group.

“I’m very excited. I’m not writing a new poem for it, but I’m explaining how to ‘cook the cookies,’ and how the work is done,” he said. The themed workshop will focus on ‘Lyrical Respites in a Busy World.”

Clark’s newest book “Sleigh Bells” will be on display along with some of his other works at the Windham Public Library throughout the month of April for National Poetry Month. Free copies of his “Babb’s Bridge” poem will be offered. <

Maine Audubon offers new way to be part of Annual Loon Count

Mainers might not be thinking about summer just yet, but Common Loons will start to appear on lakes and ponds shortly after the ice melts, so Maine Audubon is already getting set for its 42nd Annual Loon Count.

Maine Audubon is adding a new twist to its Annual Loon
Count for volunteers this year. Community scientists
who volunteer to survey specified lakes will have seven
days, from July 19 to July 26 to scout out, access, and
conduct a one-hour survey of their assigned lake.
COURTESY PHOTO 

The organization has added an exciting addition to the annual count this year and is looking for volunteers.

Come spring, Common Loons will start reclaiming their territories and engaging in courtship rituals with prospective breeding partners and filling the air with their distinctive and beloved calls.

Once the breeding season is underway, thousands of volunteers will be taking to the water on July 19 across the state to count all the adult loons and chicks that they see in a designated half hour period. This long-running dataset has tracked the changes and trends in the population for more than four decades.

The valuable count information allows Maine Audubon to assess the impacts of conservation efforts over time, and to flag any significant changes in the population to aid better loon management in the future.

Last year Maine Audubon had the greatest amount of participation ever in the annual count with 1,624 volunteers surveying and counting loons on 407 different lakes in the state.

Thanks to this tremendous effort by community scientists the organization was able to estimate a Common Loon population of 3,146 adults, south of the 45th parallel. Unfortunately, there are not enough lakes surveyed north of this line to estimate the population for the entire state.

“The data volunteers collect is used to track population trends over time,” says Maine Audubon Director of Conservation Sally Stockwell. “We expect some fluctuations year to year, but the numbers indicate a healthy loon population, with a slowly increasing adult population and relatively stable chick numbers.”

Overall, Maine has the largest population of loons in the eastern United States, which makes the breeding success of loons here critical to the regional population at large.

The Common Loon in Maine faces all kinds of threats from boat strikes, nest flooding and lead tackle, to eagle predators, and despite that, with the help of an ever-growing volunteer base, the loon population remains robust.

“There are so many people looking out for loons,” says Maine Audubon Loon Count Data Coordinator Ethan Daly. “Loons are something Mainers can appreciate and unite behind. More people are educating their neighbors, more people are involved in our loon restoration program, more people are getting rid of lead tackle, and more people are considering how shoreline management can impact freshwater ecosystems.”

All these steps can help ensure that Maine lakes are clean and clear, which loons depend on to find and catch their prey. These efforts also help increase loon nesting success and survival.

This year, in a new effort to expand the reach, involve more people in the count, and gain a better understanding of where loons are and what they’re doing in the northern part of the state, Maine Audubon is introducing Extended Duration Surveys this summer.

This is a pilot program for selected remote lakes and many lakes which are often not surveyed.

Community scientists who volunteer to survey these lakes will have seven days, from July 19 to July 26, to scout out, access, and conduct a one-hour survey of their assigned lake. Many of these lakes lack boat launches or easy cartop access, and some range far from the beaten path.

These lakes will take a greater time and travel commitment than the standard loon count survey.

Volunteers may have to hike in and survey from shore, or carry a kayak or canoe in, and in some cases, it may be easiest to turn a survey into a camping trip. Many Maine lakes and ponds are only accessible through private land, so the volunteers may be asked to help in securing landowner permission to conduct a survey.

If traveling and hiking into remote lakes and ponds to find unrecorded loons sounds like an activity that you might be interested in, please contact Maine Audubon Community Science Manager Phil Keefe at pkeefe@maineaudubon.org and he can help you find a lake to survey that is of interest.

For more about the Maine Audubon Annual Loon Count, visit maineaudubon.org/looncount <

RSU 14 expands early childhood education services for preschool students

By Lorraine Glowczak

According to the Learning Policy Institute, students who attend preschool programs are more prepared for school and are less likely to be identified as having special needs or to be held back in elementary school than children who did not attend preschool.

Teacher Caitlyn Cashman gives a lesson to Pre-K students
during a class at Raymond Elementary School earlier
this week. PHOTO BY BETH PEAVEY

Studies also indicate clear positive effects on children’s early literacy and mathematics skills. To support early learning opportunities for children in Windham and Raymond, RSU 14 is expanding its early childhood education services to reach more young families.

This expansion includes increasing Pre-K offerings in elementary schools in Windham and Raymond and strengthening partnerships with community organizations.

At this time the district currently serves 66 Pre-K students, providing them with essential early learning opportunities. Yet as the school district continues to grow, school officials say that its early childhood programs must also grow to provide more families with access to high-quality preschool education, helping set a strong foundation for future academic success.

“The district currently provides Pre-K services at Raymond Elementary School and Tu Casa Childcare in Raymond, as well as A Child’s World Preschool Center in Windham,” said Christine Frost-Bertinet, RSU 14 Assistant Superintendent. “For the 2025-2026 school year, we are hoping to expand these services to accommodate 59 more children from Raymond and Windham with a funding gap of just $1,604 per student for the entire school year.”

She said that in total, RSU 14 would need to invest about $102,700 beyond what state funding provides, what she calls “a modest investment in our youngest learners' futures.”

To support this growth, the district will introduce new Pre-K spaces at Windham Primary School and partner with A Space to Thrive, a newly established childcare center that broke ground last month at 184 Pope Road in Windham.

By working with community partners such as A Space To Thrive, Tu Casa, and A Child’s World, this school and community mixed delivery system can better provide high-quality, affordable Pre-K options for local families.

“This system allows us to offer a variety of program models to meet the diverse needs of our youngest learners,” Frost-Bertinet said. “By partnering with local providers, we can strengthen the entire community’s focus on early childhood education.”

Frost-Bertinet says that this collaboration also creates opportunities for shared professional development among educators and enhances support for children’s academic and social-emotional growth.

The benefits of early childhood education extend far beyond preschool. Studies show that the first five years of life are critical for brain development, with one million neural connections forming every second.

These early experiences lay the foundation for brain development, influencing how neural connections form and function, and determining whether a child builds a strong or fragile foundation for learning, health, and behavior.

According to Frost-Bertinet, 90 percent of brain development occurs before the age of 5, making early education crucial in preparing children for success, not just in school, but also for life.

Emotional and physical well-being, social skills, and cognitive development in these formative years all serve as key indicators for future academics, the workplace, and the community.

Hannah Marshall, the Executive Director of A Space to Thrive, emphasized that the importance of reliable early childhood education during a recent interview with WGME 13 television.

“It’s crucial that parents have somewhere they can rely on and trust for their children,” Marshall said. “And we know that the more investment that goes into those early years, the better the outcomes, whether it’s academic success or social development.”

With RSU 14’s expansion of early childhood education services, more families in Windham and Raymond will soon have access to the resources needed to give their children the best possible start in life. <

RSU 14 Odyssey of the Mind teams prep for upcoming tournament

By Jolene Bailey

Odyssey of the Mind (OM) is an extracurricular opportunity typically designed for students ranging in elementary and middle school that allows them to use their creativity, ingenuity and energy to contribute to something bigger and outside of the classroom environment.

Students of all abilities become problem solvers while demonstrating their skills and perseverance they bring to the table throughout the season.

Odyssey of the Mind advisor Linda Berry oversees the Kindergarten through Grade 5 students participating in the RSU 14 district. This year, the program has 60 students, gaining seven more participants at Windham Middle School than last year.

Berry said that this program typically has between 50 and 80 student participants.

“Sometimes we have students who are reluctant at the beginning of the season to participate on a team with others they don't know yet,” Berry said. “That feeling typically fades quickly as students bond and develop relationships over a common goal. With OM, all students ‘shine’ and contribute towards something meaningful. As well, seeing the confidence that grows within a child throughout the season is rewarding.”

Odyssey of the Mind’s purpose is to educate all students how to use and develop their pure creativity to solve problems of any kind without fear or high confusion. When competing, the team’s goal is to fit all the required pieces into a performance skit. From making props to coming up with lines, teams do it all by themselves.

During practice, students learn and work on their teamwork and being quick thinkers. The strategy of being fast helps them in the long run with verbal and hands-on spontaneous problem solving.

RSU 14 students may sign up to participate in OM early in the school year.

OM tournaments challenge teams of students with a given problem and then they create a solution to present in a tournament open to all ages, Berry said. It is a family-driven program where adult family members typically serve as coaches.

“Once we know how many adults are interested in coaching, we begin to assign students to teams,” Berry said.

“Teams are composed of five to seven students and are grouped by grade divisions, K to 2, 3 to 5, and 6 to 8. Teams begin meeting weekly after school hours in December and January and continue until the tournament in early April,” said Berry.

At the tournament, the teams will choose from five different long term problems to solve out and include technical, classics, structure, and performance questions.

The teams then perform their solution in an eight-minute skit in front of a panel of judges. Students are also judged on a spontaneous problem, so practicing how to solve that type of issue is something that teams work on throughout the OM season.

“It is always a busy and exciting season. WPS and Manchester have been supporting OM teams for many years now and each year we try to make it the best experience for our students,” Berry said. “It's wonderful to see the relationships that flourish and grow through the program, children or adults. Some of our coaches are former OM student participants so it's nice to see them supporting the next generation in this program. The relational side of OM makes me appreciate being able to do my part with the organization of it all.”

RSU 14 teams have a proven track record of success in Odyssey of the Mind competition. In 2023, a team of seven members consisting of third graders from Windham Primary School and fourth and fifth graders from Manchester School ranging in age from 8 to 11 traveled to East Lansing, Michigan on the campus of Michigan State University for the world championship. Windham finished 23rd overall of the 67 teams vying for the title and posted the highest score in the spontaneous category among any of the 10 Maine schools represented in the championships.

This year the OM tournament will be held at Edward Little High School on Saturday, April 5. It is open to anyone if interested in seeing what it's about and watching students from across the state showcase their talent. <

Lakes Region resident helps raise $10K for fire victims’ food bank

Supermodels Unlimited Magazine celebrated its 25th anniversary in January in Hartford, Connecticut alongside artists, models, designers, photographers, and celebrities from across the United States.

The event honored SU’s dedication to empowering aspiring models and talent worldwide.

Misty Coolidge of New Gloucester was named
Supermodel Unlimited Magazine's 'Women of 
the Year' for 2024 in recognition of her
extraordinary efforts to combat hunger
locally, nationally and globally.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Among the distinguished guests was Misty Coolidge of New Gloucester, who was named SU’s Woman of the Year 2024 in recognition of her extraordinary efforts to combat hunger – locally, nationally, and globally.

"My hope was to bring the donation back to Mainers in need, but with all the horrific fires raging across Los Angeles, Supermodels Unlimited Magazine and I felt that donating to those families just makes much more of an impact right now – as they need it more than we do," said Coolidge.

As Mrs. USA Worldwide 2021, Coolidge set a personal mission to crush hunger across America. Over the past three years, she has volunteered at 32 of the 50 Feeding America food banks across the country while also traveling to 17 countries, working with FEBA and the Global Food Banking Network.

During her reign as Mrs. Worldwide, she authored her first children's book, We All Stir the Pot to End Hunger, and she visited Manchester School in Windham to lead a presentation about hunger to students and read her book to children there.

Rather than collecting royalties from her book, Coolidge committed 100 percent of the proceeds to Feeding America, furthering her impact upon the fight against food insecurity.

At her wedding venue, Coolidge Family Farm in Maine, Misty hosts two major charity events each year: Flowers that Feed, a floral runway show, and the Running of the Brides 5K for Hunger.

Proceeds from both events support her local Good Shepherd Food Bank, part of the Feeding America network. These initiatives are just a glimpse of Misty’s dedication to combating food insecurity in her community and beyond.

Coolidge was born in Waterville, grew up in Norridgewock and went to Skowhegan Area High School. After graduation, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Law and was planning to attend law school after college but became a paralegal instead, working as an intellectual property paralegal at Preti Flaherty for seven years and then as a real estate paralegal for Dead River Company for 15 years.

In 2022, the Good Shepherd Food Bank created an Ambassadorship program and made Coolidge their very first Ambassador to speak to communities across Maine about food insecurity and hunger.

“I was so honored and touched that such a huge organization would recognize my efforts and hard work,” she said. “My life for the past five years since moving to New Gloucester has been spreading the good word and mission of the Good Shepherd Food Bank. After all, we share the same goal.”

Even before she was involved in pageantry, Coolidge’s passion for fighting hunger has been evident for more than two decades in every community that she’s lived in, from Bangor to Portland, and through her volunteer efforts on behalf of the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

Her mission is personal, having grown up in a household in Maine with a single mom who worked three jobs to put food on the table and relied upon food stamps and the WIC program to survive. She told students that food insecurity is greater now than when she grew up.

“So many families are feeling the results of losing jobs, the cost of gas and groceries, and struggling to pay their utility bills. The numbers I’ve seen across the country in my travels are astounding and heart breaking,” Coolidge said. “Having little ones at home myself, I cannot imagine not being able to give them the food they need. There are people visiting food banks now that have never needed to use their services before. People need to know that help is available and it's OK to get help."

It was only fitting, then, that the $10,000 raised from the Supermodel Unlimited Magazine Anniversary Gala was donated to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, also part of Feeding America. This generous contribution will have a profound impact on families who have lost everything.

Supermodels Unlimited Magazine

Supermodels Unlimited Magazine is a premier publication and the only magazine in the women's market dedicated to the modeling and beauty industry, with each issue filled with the latest fashion trends, celebrity features, emerging talent, and more! The magazine just celebrated 25 years in the industry and is now focused on spotlighting the industry’s most beautiful powerhouses, trailblazers, and philanthropists; along with those who have broken boundaries and made a positive impact in beauty, fashion and entertainment. <