First National Bank recently presented Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences with $10,000 for the Bank’s sponsorship of the Keller BLOOM Program.

“First National Bank is honored to support Bigelow Laboratory and their Keller BLOOM Program which gives junior high school students across Maine an opportunity to explore ocean sciences. We are proud supporters of Bigelow Laboratory for over 33 years,” said Tony C. McKim, president and CEO of First National Bank.

The Keller BLOOM (Bigelow Laboratory Orders Of Magnitude) Program was founded by Bigelow scientist Maureen Keller and Trustee Emeritus James McLoughlin to provide students a hands-on ocean science research experience. BLOOM offers Maine students interested in science the opportunity work alongside professional researchers, exploring the biological, chemical and geological characteristics of the local marine environment through field and laboratory work. Program participants are immersed in a research environment and, through engagement in field sampling and laboratory activities, including data collection, synthesis and analysis, learn what a career as a scientist involves.

Students who are interested in participating in the BLOOM program should visit https://www.bigelow.org/education/bloom.html to complete an application before April 15, 2018. For more information, email kellerbloom@bigelow.org.

First National Bank is an independent community bank with 16 offices in Lincoln, Knox, Hancock, Washington and Penobscot counties. For more information about First National Bank, please call 1-800-564-3195 or visit www.thefirst.com. Find us on Facebook.