Mainebiz

W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 15 J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 2 3 offering training in self-defense and non-lethal firearms as well as a laser range. Called 24/7 Defense Training, the business bills itself as western Maine's premier defense center. "is is self-defense training, but it's not like martial arts," says Fitzsimmons, who also advises churches all over New England on safety and secu- rity. "We're teaching people skills to protect them- selves. Most of the time I'm focusing on what we call disengaging or de-escalation skills to slow everything down, so it doesn't become a problem." As for firearms training, Fitzsimmons says it's in response to demand from local gun store owners. "ey've been selling literally thousands of firearms to people with no training at all, so they're [the owners] actually in my corner on this one," he says. "is is about how to be safe so that you don't get hurt or hurt someone else." He opened the business on March 3 and employs three instructors, soon to be joined by a fourth. On the road a lot for his church consulting work, Fitzsimmons says, "One side of the business sup- ports the other. e classes help me fund the train- ing and protection of all these congregations all over New England. It's a symbiotic kind of thing." Fitzsimmons, who grew up in Connecticut, moved with his family to Auburn in 1989. e 67-year-old hopes to keep working for a long time, possibly open- ing other training centers later on. "I'm not in this to get rich," he says, "but to help other people." Congratulations to the Recent Funding Recipients in the Lewiston/Auburn Area The following are examples of Maine businesses in the Lewiston/Auburn area that have received funding from Efficiency Maine: • Lewiston High School • Lowe's of Auburn • Blais Flowers and Garden Center • Shaw's Auburn • Rowe & Son Refrigeration • Auburn Chiropractic Congratulations to the recipients! Through funding from Efficiency Maine, these businesses have installed new heat pumps and/or LED lighting, and are now increasing comfort and reducing energy costs for years to come. For more information, visit efficiencymaine.com/at-work If your town or business is interested in upgrading to energy efficient technology, visit the URL below to learn about our enhanced incentives. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » F O C U S Dan Fitzsimmons in the laser range at 24/7 Defense Training in Turner. He also advises churches throughout New England on security. P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY

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