Hearts of Gold

According to the American Heart Association, Penobscot Community Healthcare and Bangor Savings Bank both have hearts of gold. At the 11th annual Northeastern Heart Ball, an annual fundraising event for the American Heart Association (AHA), both local organizations were honored with Gold Heart Awards for continuous work in the community and dedication to promoting a healthy Maine population. Penobscot Community Healthcare is a nonprofit organization that provides quality healthcare services, clinics, and outreach programs like Miles for Smiles to those who struggle financially. Bangor Savings Bank and its foundation invest more than $1 million a year into the community with nonprofit sponsorships, grants, and partnership initiatives.

The award ceremony was not the only exciting event at the Heart Ball. As the night drew to a close, president of Webber Energy Fuels and 2008 Heart Ball chair Michael Shea revealed that $102,000 had been raised by over 250 guests to help save lives. The money will be used to develop educational and research methods necessary to help fight cardiovascular disease and stroke. Several sponsors that night included Diamond Sponsor Bangor Savings Bank and Platinum Sponsors Bangor Daily News, InSight Health, Machias Savings Bank, Merrill Bank, Northeast Cardiology Associates, and Webber Energy Fuels.