American Red Cross of RI

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ROBIN ERICKSON
Director of Communications

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(401) 831-7700 x101
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Monday, March 15, 2004
BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND AND THE AMERICAN RED CROSS OF RHODE ISLAND ANNOUNCE MARCH COMMUNITY HEROES

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) and the American Red Cross of Rhode Island are proud to announce that James McLoughlin of Jamestown and Christine Provencal of Cumberland are the March Community Heroes Award recipients. Nominated by the public, the award acknowledges the good works of "everyday people" who have made significant, positive impacts on individuals, families, organizations or entire communities in Rhode Island.

James McLoughlin, 80 years old, is no ordinary senior. He regularly volunteers his free time and considers his activities everyday contributions. Over time, he has donated more than 200 blood donations to the RI Blood Center in Middletown and annually coordinates blood drives in Jamestown. As a member of the American Legion Hall in Jamestown, he cares for all the flags in Memorial Square, on veterans' graves and those brought to him by local citizens. He also volunteers as a driver for the Jamestown Ambulance Association, ensure hot meals for Jamestown Meals on Wheels, is a park ranger at Fort Getty and works for the Department of Weights and Measures. McLoughlin is an inspiration to all.

Christine Provencal, 40 years old, is recognized for her heroic efforts that saved the life of a drowning stranger. During December 2003, a car and its driver accidentally plunged into the icy waters of the Providence River. Returning home from her nursing position at Women and Infants Hospital, Provencal spotted the accident and dove into the river rescuing Marie Lamour. A nearby Department of Transportation crew pulled them to safety. Provencal had the courage to risk her life to save another.

The Community Heroes program is a collaborative effort between BCBSRI and the American Red Cross of Rhode Island. Community Heroes can be everyday citizens, local firefighters, police, or emergency responders. They can be honored for acts of heroism (such as saving someone from drowning) or for an effort over time (such as reading to an elderly neighbor on a regular basis). To nominate someone for a community hero award, call 459-1304, or go to www.riredcross.org or www.bcbsri.org and click on "In the Community."

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, has been the state's leading health insurer for 64 years and now covers more than 650,000 customers. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. American Red Cross of Rhode Island volunteers provide emergency food, clothing and shelter each year to more than 1,200 Rhode Islanders who suffer a house fire or other disaster. All Red Cross assistance is provided free of charge. The American Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations to fund its work.

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American Red Cross of Rhode Island • 105 Gano Street :: PO Box 2496 • Providence, RI 02906
(401) 831-7700 • TOLL FREE 1-800-842-1122

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