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. <