Bank vice president leads local movement aimed at improving heart and brain health for all

YOUNGSTOWN, OH, March 19, 2026 — The American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, invites Mahoning Valley companies, communities and individuals to stop the cycle of cardiovascular disease and stroke by raising critical funds to further research and education through its Northeast Ohio Golf Classic.

As the 2026 chairman of the Northeast Ohio Golf Classic, Joseph Salman Jr., emeritus board member for the American Heart Association of Northeast Ohio and vice president, manager of card services at First National Bank, will lead a team of top Youngstown executives that will work to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the golf outing. The efforts will culminate on Monday, June 1, at the Youngstown Country Club, where teams of four will play as they raise awareness and funds to further the work of the American Heart Association. 

“Chairing the Northeast Ohio Golf Outing means being part of something bigger than one event—it’s about protecting the people we love,” Salman said. “I’m grateful for the chance to lead a day that helps create more memories, more moments and more time for families everywhere.”

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, while stroke is the fourth leading cause. Each year approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke. [1] While approximately 80% of those who have a stroke will survive, the majority will remain with some degree of physical impairment or disability. Research shows that up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression. [2]

For more information about the 2026 Northeast Ohio Golf Classic or to get your company involved, visit heart.org/neohiogolf or contact Jennifer Coleman at Jennifer.Coleman@heart.org. 

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About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For media inquiries:
Chelsea Caldwell: chelsea.caldwell@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org