Red Cross chapter merger

BANGOR – The Pine Tree and Eastern Maine chapters of the America Red Cross have merged, which officials say will save money for the organization while combining resources and staff.

The new entity, called the Pine Tree Chapter, was approved in a March joint board meeting and began functioning July 1. The merger joins administrations and finances. The new chapter is fully funded through donations. All five locations are remaining open, and nine full-time and two part-time staffers are staying in place, said Suzan Bell, executive director.

The services are expected to include more first aid and CPR education courses.

Disabilities support group

BANGOR – Bangor Police Chief Don Winslow and city code enforcement officer Dan Wellington will be featured speakers at the next meeting of the physical disabilities support group meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, at Alpha One, 1048 Union St., Bangor.

Winslow will outline Maine law as it pertains to handicapped accessibility such as parking in a handicapped zone and what the public can do to help enforce the law.

Wellington will speak about building and public property compliance to grant and sustain handicapped areas.

The support group welcomes those with all levels of physical disability. Spouses, parents and other relatives and friends of those with disabilities and health care professionals are invited to participate in meetings.

The group meets the first Thursday of each month, hears guest speakers and discusses varying topics of interest.

For information, call Gaelen at 942-6720 or Fred at 827-7367.

Diabetes research study

BANGOR – Acadia Clinical Research is seeking volunteers for a research study of a medicine that may help control blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Physicians at ACR have been chosen to participate in this national study. To qualify, candidates must be managing their diabetes through diet and exercise and not taking oral medication for diabetes.

Participants will receive free study-related care, including exams, lab services and medication. Financial compensation also is provided.

For information, contact Dr. Elmer Lommler at 941-9965.